Harlem Shuffle Summary
Colson Whitehead

Harlem Shuffle Overview

Colson Whitehead's novel Harlem Shuffle is a third person narrative detailing the life and struggles of main character Ray Carney. Carney has lived in Harlem all his life. As a middle-aged man with a young family, he is determined not to become his father and to prove himself morally upright. However, when his used furniture business begins to struggle, Carney must decide whether or not criminality is the only way to save himself and his family. The novel explores themes including, ambition, loyalty, and change.