Great Expectations

In the highly anticipated debut novel from one of The New Yorker's rising stars, a historic presidential campaign changes the course of a young Black man's life. Great Expectations is a coming-of-age tale that explores politics, religion, family, and fatherhood, as well as the emotional resonance of a young Black man coming of age in America.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 09 May 2024
Publisher: Quercus Publishing

A remarkable and captivating work, Cunningham's writing is truly exceptional. With a unique and dazzling style, he has crafted a coming-of-age novel that is both intimate and revelatory. This is a rare debut, one that instantly announces the talent of its author.

The novel is a testament to the richness and expansiveness of the coming-of-age genre. It feels both personal and revelatory, offering a profound insight into the experiences of its young protagonist.

What sets this debut apart is its historical context. The novel takes place during a historic presidential campaign, which significantly impacts the life of its young Black man protagonist. The campaign's ideals and rhetoric ignite a sense of hope and possibility in David, while also raising questions about the compromises and challenges he will face in his quest to become the United States' first Black president.

Throughout his eighteen months working for the Senator's campaign, David meets a diverse range of people who challenge his perspectives and provoke him to reevaluate his own life. These characters raise a series of thought-provoking questions about history, art, race, religion, and fatherhood. Through their interactions, David is forced to confront his own identity as a young Black man and father in America, exploring the complexities and contradictions of his experiences.

Great Expectations is not only an emotionally resonant coming-of-age story but also a rich novel of ideas. Cunningham delves into themes of politics, politicians, religion, preachers, fathers, and family, offering insightful commentary on the social and cultural landscape of the time. His writing is characterized by a keen intellect and a poetic sensibility, making for a captivating and thought-provoking read.

With the arrival of Great Expectations, Cunningham has firmly established himself as a major new writer. This debut novel showcases his exceptional talent and promises to inspire and captivate readers for years to come. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to explore the human experience in all its complexity and richness.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529437768