John McWhorter – Liberal Panic over Trump

Set in Lorain, Ohio, during the Great Depression, 'The Bluest Eye' tells the story of Pecola Breedlove, an eleven-year-old African American girl who desperately wants blue eyes, believing they will make her more beautiful and accepted according to white cultural standards. The novel explores themes of race, class, and beauty standards, highlighting the destructive impact of internalized racism and societal pressures on Pecola and her family. Through a non-linear narrative and shifting perspectives, Morrison critiques the systemic racism and social stratification that contribute to Pecola's tragic downfall.

In 'Erasure', Thelonious 'Monk' Ellison, a professor of English literature and novelist, struggles with the publishing industry's expectations of what constitutes 'black enough' literature. Frustrated, Monk writes a parody of ghetto novels, titled 'My Pafology' or 'Fuck', which unexpectedly gains widespread acclaim and financial success under the pseudonym Stagg R. Leigh. The novel explores themes of identity, alienation, and the commodification of black experiences, while also delving into Monk's personal life, including his family's struggles and his own identity crisis.

In 'Babel', R.F. Kuang delves into the world of 19th-century Oxford, where the Royal Institute of Translation, known as Babel, harnesses the power of translation through a magical art called silver-working. This art manifests the meaning lost in translation into enchanted silver bars, which are used to support the British Empire's colonial expansion. The story follows Robin Swift, an orphaned Chinese boy brought to London by Professor Lovell, as he navigates his studies at Babel and grapples with the moral implications of serving the Empire versus his loyalty to his motherland. As Britain engages in an unjust war with China, Robin must decide whether to support the institution or join the shadowy Hermes Society in its efforts to sabotage the Empire's silver-working and colonial ambitions.

In 'Evelina', Frances Burney crafts a vivid and satirical account of late 18th-century London society through the eyes of its protagonist, Evelina Anville. The novel follows Evelina's journey as she navigates the complexities of high society, encountering various characters that reflect the social norms and excesses of the time. It is both a commentary on the societal pressures faced by women and a love story, with Evelina attracting the attention of the charming Lord Orville.

This novel tells the story of Lucy Marsden, who married a much older Confederate veteran at the age of fifteen. The book explores themes of race, personal relationships, and Southern history through Lucy's narrative. It was a bestseller and won several awards, including the Sue Kaufman Prize.

Percival Everett's "James" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that reimagines the classic tale of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of Jim. Everett's writing is both sharp and witty, blending humor and pathos to create a compelling narrative. The novel explores themes of race, freedom, and identity in a way that is both timely and timeless. Everett's unique voice and perspective offer a fresh take on a familiar story, challenging readers to reconsider their assumptions about race and American history. The novel's unexpected twists and turns keep readers engaged until the very end, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.