The White Boy Shuffle: A Novel

Look, you have five minutes. I know you do. You're goofing off at work right now. If you have five minutes, open this book up to page 12 and read the main character's recitation of his family history, a deleriously self-loathing parade of misunderstanding and Uncle-Tomism throughout the entirity of American history, starting with his great-grandfather pushing Crispus Attucks in front of a bullet. If you can make it through that entire section without laughing, you probably shouldn't buy this book. But only because you don't have a soul.

"White Boy Shuffle" was outstanding! It wasn't just about a young black kid growing up in a predominately black neighborhood and trying to survive the "hood". The main character, Gunnar Kaufman, illustrates a world of pure fiction but mixes it in with real life situations that makes it seem that much more real. The book had its twist that made it more intriguing such as Gunnar's status as a world class poet before even graduating from high school or his best friend having an extraordinary gift when it came to basketball. The book flowed smoothly through all of the different scenarios and kept me laughing and interested from beginning to end. It is definitely a book that should be read by all races and both genders.

this is one of the best books I have ever read. Buy it, read it, then give it to your friends. Then have a party. At the party you should all talk about it, but not too much. Really you should have a good time at the party, you know, laugh, talk, tell stories. But the book is good.

Paul Beatty's mastery of the English language is incredible! As is his mastery of current urban culture. He captures so perfectly the angst and struggles of being a young African-American today - without sounding preachy or racist. This novel made me laugh out loud. The satire and wit are biting, and accurate. Beatty pokes fun at whites, blacks and society in general. He addresses stereotypes held by all participants of the race war in a humorous and surreal manner.