47 : Book Review

"47" by Walter Mosley is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that takes us back to 1950s Los Angeles. Set in a society marked by racial tensions and corruption, the story follows Easy Rawlins, a black war veteran who becomes entangled in a dangerous web of secrets and murder.

One of the standout elements of "47" is Mosley's talent for creating an immersive and authentic atmosphere. Through his descriptive prose, the author skillfully transports readers to post-war Los Angeles, vividly depicting both the glamour and grit of the city during that time. The social and political dynamics of racial segregation are explored in depth, providing a rich backdrop for the story.

Easy Rawlins himself is a compelling and complex protagonist. As an African American man in a racially charged environment, he faces numerous challenges and prejudices. Mosley delves into Easy's psyche, offering readers a glimpse into his struggles and inner conflicts. This depiction adds depth to the character, as readers become invested in Easy's journey and the choices he must make to survive.

The plot of "47" is meticulously woven, filled with twists and turns that keep readers on their toes until the very end. Mosley expertly intertwines multiple storylines, creating a sense of urgency and building suspense throughout the narrative. The pacing is excellent, never allowing the story to drag and always leaving readers eager for what comes next.

Beyond its gripping narrative, "47" explores important themes such as race, power, and justice. Mosley's commentary on these issues adds depth and substance to the story, elevating it beyond a typical crime thriller. Through the struggles of his characters, the author offers profound insights into society and human nature.

What are readers saying?

Walter Mosley's novel '47' has received a mixed reception from readers. While some enjoyed the book's unique storyline and well-developed characters, others found the narrative confusing and disjointed.

Many readers praised the originality of the story in '47.' They found the concept of a protagonist navigating through different decades of history to be intriguing and engaging. The incorporation of elements of science fiction into a historical backdrop was particularly appreciated by several reviewers. Additionally, readers admired Mosley's ability to create complex characters who grapple with issues of identity and racism.

On the other hand, some readers struggled with the book's narrative structure. They found the transitions between different time periods to be unclear and confusing, making it difficult to follow the storyline. This lack of coherence led to frustration for these readers as they tried to piece together the various plotlines and character arcs.

The pacing of '47' also divided readers. While some found the pacing steady and enjoyed the gradual development of the story, others felt it was slow and lacked momentum. They found themselves losing interest, especially during the slower sections.

The writing style of '47' received mixed reviews as well. Some readers appreciated Mosley's lyrical prose and his vivid depiction of scenes. They praised the descriptive language and found it evocative. However, others found the writing dense and overly detailed, which made it more challenging to stay engaged with the story.

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