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A collection of essays that blend the personal and the social, from the celebrated literary critic and novelist

About the Author

Darryl Pinckney is the author of two novels, Black Deutschland and High Cotton, and two works of nonfiction, Blackballed: The Black Vote and US Democracy and Out There: Mavericks of Black Literature.

Reviews

"Busted in New York, which collects 25 of those essays from the last 25 years, is not that book. In fact, it is something perhaps even greater . . . Pinckney is a companionable guide to this difficult era . . . As a reporter, on the ground, he is brisk, and leads with his hometown wits . . . There wasn't a critic in America who could speak with equal measures of warmth and intelligence like Baldwin until Pinckney emerged in his full power in the 1990s." --John Freeman, The Boston Globe "Fiercely intelligent essays, reportage, and reviews from the award-winning novelist and nonfiction writer . . . A deeply satisfying, beautifully crafted collection of work by a writer of uncommon excellence and humanity." --Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review) "[Pinckney] reveals himself to be a skillful chronicler of black experience in literary criticism, reportage and biography." --Lauretta Charlton, The New York Times Book Review "This beautifully written collection of essays by fiction and nonfiction writer Pinckney, longtime contributor to the New York Review of Books, covers a wide range of topics while still creating a cohesive, thoughtful experience for readers. He reflects on experiences, struggles, and accomplishments of black Americans today and historically, exploring the many complex ways people have been impacted by and have responded to racism . . . Though the subject matter is vast, the author's voice is consistently engaging throughout." --Sarah Schroeder, Library Journal "Darryl Pinckney's latest literary compilation places a historical lens on the most pivotal moments in black America. From his examination of race relations during Barack Obama's presidency to his nuanced analysis of the Black Lives Matter movement, Mr. Pinckney's vast knowledge and critical dexterity make him one of the most vital intellectuals of our time." --Candace McDuffie, The Christian Science Monitor