We Cast a Shadow: A Novel

Dive into the darkly satirical and profoundly moving world of Maurice Carlos Ruffin's debut novel, "We Cast a Shadow," a First Edition Hardcover published in 2019 by One World. This isn't just a book; it's a visceral exploration of race, family, and the desperate lengths we'll go to for the ones we love in a near-future America warped by prejudice. Imagine a Southern city riddled with inequality, where physical appearances are surgically altered to conform to white beauty standards. Dr. Nzinga's clinic offers a tantalizing, albeit horrifying, solution: complete demelanization. Lips thinned, skin bleached, noses narrowed a promise of escaping the perceived constraints of a black body. At the heart of this unsettling narrative is a father consumed by the desire to protect his biracial son, Nigel. Nigel's growing black birthmark becomes a symbol of his vulnerability in a society that devalues Blackness. The father's obsession with shielding Nigel propels him towards Dr. Nzinga's clinic, setting him on a treacherous path that threatens to dismantle his family and his own identity. Ruffin masterfully blends satire and social commentary, creating a narrative that is both disturbing and deeply resonant. He doesn't shy away from exploring the complex and often contradictory feelings surrounding race, class, and parenthood. The novel's brilliance lies in its ability to make us question our own biases and confront the uncomfortable truths about the world we inhabit. "We Cast a Shadow" has garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning comparisons to the works of Ralph Ellison, Franz Kafka, and Vladimir Nabokov. Roxane Gay hails it as "an incisive and necessary" read, while NPR describes it as "stunning and audacious...at once a pitch-black comedy, a chilling horror story and an endlessly perceptive novel about the possible future of race in America." The Washington Post also named it one of the best books of the year. It was also longlisted for the Center for Fiction First Novel Prize, the PEN/Open Book Award, and the PEN/Faulkner Award, cementing its place as a significant work of contemporary literature. More than just a satire, "We Cast a Shadow" is a poignant examination of a father's love, fear, and ultimately, his humanity. Maurice Carlos Ruffin's powerful prose and unflinching gaze make this a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of race and identity in America. Prepare to be captivated, challenged, and moved by this unforgettable literary experience. Weighing in at 535 grams and spanning 336 pages, this carefully crafted narrative, written in English (ISBN-13: 9780525509066), will leave an indelible mark long after you turn the final page. It fits perfectly within the Literature & Fiction, United States, Black & African American, Humor & Satire, Satire, and Literary categories, making it a perfect addition to any discerning reader's collection. This exceptional work showcases Ruffin's ability to weave together complex themes with sharp wit and emotional depth, establishing him as a vital voice in contemporary American literature.