Deacon King Kong: Barack Obama Favourite Read & Oprah's Book Club Pick

In 1969, a deacon named Sportcoat shoots a drug dealer in a Brooklyn housing project, setting off a chain of events that affects the entire community. Deacon King Kong is a novel about a community under threat, and the ways people pull together in an age when the old rules are being rewritten. It is a tragicomedic epic of intertwined lives, filled with humor and heartbreak.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2021
Publisher: Transworld Publishers Ltd

New York Times Bestseller and Oprah's Book Club Pick
Chosen by Barack Obama as a Favorite Read
Top Ten Books of the Year, New York Times & Washington Post


Brilliantly imagined, larger than life, and a tragicomic epic of intertwined lives, Joyce Carol Oates' novel "Deacon King Kong" has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Deeply felt, beautifully written, and profoundly humane, this novel explores the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity.

Set in 1969 in a housing project in south Brooklyn, "Deacon King Kong" revolves around the shooting of a local drug dealer by a shambling old church deacon named Sportcoat. The repercussions of this moment draw in the whole community, from Sportcoat's best friend, Hot Sausage, to the local Italian mobsters, the police (corrupt and otherwise), and the stalwart ladies of the Five Ends Baptist Church.

"Deacon King Kong" is a book about a community under threat, about the ways people pull together in an age when the old rules are being rewritten. It is both hilarious and heartbreaking, showcasing the resilience and strength of human spirit in the face of adversity. From a prize-winning storyteller, this New York Times bestseller offers a poignant reflection on the fragility and vital importance of the communities we build.

In addition to its literary merits, "Deacon King Kong" has also garnered significant attention for its historical authenticity. The novel is set in the late 1960s, a period of immense social and cultural change in America. Oates' portrayal of the Brooklyn projects is vivid and evocative, capturing the essence of the era's poverty, violence, and hopelessness.

One of the standout features of "Deacon King Kong" is its humor. Oates' witty and insightful writing brings the characters to life, creating a hilarious and relatable narrative. The novel's pitch-perfect comedy is interspersed with moments of profound sadness and introspection, making it a truly multi-dimensional work.

"Deacon King Kong" has received widespread critical acclaim. Junot Diaz, New York Times Book Review, praised the novel as "deeply felt, beautifully written, and profoundly humane." He noted that it "explores the complexities of human relationships and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity."

Goodreads readers have also expressed their admiration for the book. One reviewer wrote, "Deacon King Kong is one of those novels whose brilliance sneaks up on you. I haven't been this pleasantly surprised by a book in a while." Another reviewer commented, "I do believe I just finished one of my all-time favorites."

In conclusion, "Deacon King Kong" is a remarkable novel that combines humor, tragedy, and social commentary in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Joyce Carol Oates' masterful storytelling and her ability to capture the essence of human experience make this a must-read for anyone who appreciates fine literature. Whether you are drawn to the historical setting, the complex characters, or the witty dialogue, this book will leave you with a lasting impression.

Weight: 270g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780857527585