The Conjure-Man Dies

In the novel "The Conjure Man," Perry Dart, a Black police detective, investigates the murder of N Gana Frimbo, an African conjure-man, with the help of Dr. Archer and Bubber Brown and Jinx Jenkins, local boys who want to clear themselves of suspicion. This groundbreaking mystery is the first ever to feature a Black detective and all-Black characters, written by Black author Rudolph Fisher during the Harlem Renaissance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: Sourcebooks, Inc

An enthralling new classic mystery series, in an exclusive partnership with the esteemed Library of Congress, has been unveiled to celebrate the finest of American crime fiction. The body of N Gana Frimbo, the African conjure-man, is found in his consultation room, prompting Perry Dart, one of Harlem's ten Black police detectives, to be called in for an investigation. Alongside Dr. Archer, a physician from across the street, Dart embarks on a relentless quest to unravel the perplexing mystery, aided and hindered by Bubber Brown and Jinx Jenkins, two local boys determined to clear themselves of suspicion of murder and conduct their own investigations. This groundbreaking masterpiece marks the first-ever portrayal of a Black detective and an entirely Black cast, penned by the talented Black author Rudolph Fisher, who played a pivotal role in the Harlem Renaissance.

The story unfolds in the vibrant streets of Harlem, a bustling neighborhood in New York City. Dart, a seasoned detective with a reputation for his sharp wit and unwavering determination, is assigned to investigate the mysterious death of N Gana Frimbo. As he delves deeper into the case, he encounters a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own secrets and motivations.

One of the key players in the investigation is Dr. Archer, a physician who shares a neighboring office with Dart. Dr. Archer brings a unique perspective to the case, having studied the occult and supernatural phenomena extensively. He collaborates closely with Dart, providing medical expertise and analytical insights that help unravel the mystery.

Bubber Brown and Jinx Jenkins, two local boys, also become involved in the investigation. Bubber, a street-smart and resourceful young man, is determined to prove his innocence and clear his name. Jinx, on the other hand, is a mischievous and cunning character who is eager to uncover the truth behind the murder.

As the investigation progresses, Dart and his team encounter numerous obstacles and challenges. They face resistance from some members of the community who believe that the Black detective is not capable of handling the case. They also encounter supernatural elements, such as strange occurrences and eerie visions, that add to the complexity of the mystery.

Through their tireless efforts and unwavering determination, Dart and his team gradually piece together the clues and unravel the mystery behind N Gana Frimbo's death. They discover a web of lies, deceit, and corruption that extends far beyond the confines of Harlem.

In the end, Dart and his team are able to bring the culprits to justice and restore peace to the community. The case not only sheds light on the darker aspects of human nature but also highlights the resilience and determination of the Black community in the face of adversity.

The partnership between the Library of Congress and Rudolph Fisher for this groundbreaking mystery series is a testament to the power of literature and storytelling to transcend boundaries and promote inclusivity. It serves as a reminder that crime fiction can be a powerful tool for exploring social issues and promoting empathy and understanding.

In conclusion, "The Black Detective" is a captivating and groundbreaking classic mystery series that delves into the depths of human nature, explores the complexities of the Black community, and showcases the power of literature to inspire change. It is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and anyone who seeks to broaden their horizons and explore the rich tapestry of American culture.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781464215964