Erasure by Percival Everett
By Yasmin Coleman • Nov 15th, 2009 • Category: Book Review 2002 •
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From the 2002 Archives
I picked up this book because of the cover but it’s the storyline from page 1 through page 265 which kept me quickly turning the pages. Theo Monk is a college professor and a writer of intellectual, though-provoking and creatively crafted literary storylines. Unfortunately, even with several books under his belt/name very few people have heard of him and he has very few sales/dollars to show for his effort. After one rejection letter too many for his latest literary masterpiece, Monk decides to change his approach and jump on the contemporary “ghetto fabulous” bandwagon, under the pseudonym Stagg R. Leigh with a story called My Pafology which he later shortens to an offensive four letter word beginning with a F. Much to his chagrin, he becomes an overnight success, receives a six-figure book advance and a … million dollar movie deal. Soon Monk’s alter ego seems to take over his life as he tries to remain on the downlow and not expose his true identity. In addition to maintaining a secret identity, Monk must also deal with family issues such as a mother with Alzheimer’s, a brother who’s gay and a sister who runs an abortion clinic. Everett successfully pulls all the plots together and has one anxiously turning the pages to see what Monk is going to do next and what is going to be the outcome of his “scheme”.
Erasure is a riveting and poignant novel. It’s well-written, edgy and filled with colorful characters, humor and wit. It’s a provocative storyline that’s a parody and commentary on the current crop of “ghetto fabulous” fiction that continues to sell because it usually offers tons of entertainment rather than information or enlightenment. Erasure is a must read for anyone who wants a change of pace, insightful reading and a provocative storyline. While its a book filled with much substance and depth it’s written in a very understandable fashion and is a very compelling read. Pick it up today if you dare to read something that’s different from the norm.
Reviewed by Yasmin
APOOO BookClub
Visit amazon if you would like to order a copy of Erasure.
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Yasmin Coleman is a literary publicist and promoter, book reviewer and founder of APOOO Books and BookClub. In 2000, she founded APOOO, www.apooobooks.com, an online author and reader community dedicated to advancing African-American literature.
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