Native Son

by Richard Wright
Native Son cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Historical Fiction
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Paperback • £10.99
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  • ID: 11131
  • Added: 2026-02-21
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780060809775
  • Publisher: HarpPeren
  • Published: 1989-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Richard Wright's Native Son is a powerful and bestselling masterpiece that delves into the poverty and hopelessness of life in the inner city. The novel reflects the social and economic struggles of African Americans during the 1930s, offering a stark and unflinching look at the systemic racism and inequality of the time. The story follows Bigger Thomas, a young black man living in Chicago, as he navigates a world that offers him few opportunities and even fewer chances for success. Through Bigger's experiences, Wright explores themes of identity, race, and the human condition, creating a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Reviews
Lit & Leisure · 2026-02-21
powerful 4.50

Wright's ability to articulate the thoughts of Bigger Thomas is amazing, capturing his panic and desperation. The novel's themes of poverty and hopelessness are as relevant today as they were in the 1930s.

The reviewer was deeply moved by Wright's portrayal of Bigger Thomas, highlighting the author's skill in conveying the character's complex emotions and struggles. They felt that the novel's exploration of poverty and systemic racism is timeless, resonating strongly with contemporary issues. The reviewer also appreciated the raw and unflinching look at the societal forces that shape Bigger's life, making the story both powerful and unsettling.

Quick quotes

    Wright's ability to articulate the thoughts of Bigger Thomas – with all its intricacies – was amazing.

    I could feel his panic at understanding he had committed a terrible crime.

    The novel's themes of poverty and hopelessness are as relevant today as they were in the 1930s.

The Reader's Room · 2015-08-10
compelling 4.50

The story of Bigger Thomas is gripping and deeply emotional, showcasing Wright's excellent writing. The novel's exploration of crime and its consequences is both powerful and thought-provoking.

The reviewer found the story of Bigger Thomas to be gripping and deeply emotional, highlighting Wright's excellent writing skills. They appreciated the novel's exploration of crime and its consequences, which is both powerful and thought-provoking. The reviewer also noted the well-paced narrative and the emotional depth of the characters, making the story both compelling and unforgettable. The raw and unfiltered portrayal of Bigger's life and struggles is seen as a testament to Wright's ability to capture the complexities of human nature.

Quick quotes

    Native Son is the story of Bigger Thomas, a young black man living in Chicago in the 1930s.

    When he commits a terrible crime, it throws him into a downward spiral.

    The novel's exploration of crime and its consequences is both powerful and thought-provoking.

The New Yorker · 1992-07-13
profound 4.00

The novel's impact is undeniable, but the reviews did not satisfy Wright, who felt it was accessible to a broad audience. The story's emotional depth is profound, evoking strong reactions from readers.

The reviewer notes that while the novel received admiring reviews, Wright himself was not pleased, feeling that it was too accessible. They highlight the emotional depth of the story, which evokes strong reactions from readers. The reviewer also reflects on the novel's enduring relevance and its ability to provoke thought and discussion about racial and social issues. The raw and unfiltered portrayal of Bigger Thomas's life and struggles is seen as both powerful and necessary.

Quick quotes

    The reviews were admiring, but they did not please Wright.

    I found that I had written a book which even bankers' daughters could read and weep over.

    The novel's emotional depth is profound, evoking strong reactions from readers.

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