2026 Reading Challenge
Native Son

Questions About Native Son

by Richard Wright

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Answered Questions (10)

I own both "Native Son" and his memoir, "Black Boy." Maybe this is a non-sequitur for a question due to the fact that it's all subjective, but I always appreciate an opinion or two. Should I read "Native Son" first, or should I go ahead and start the memoir? What do you guys and gals think?
Binta Anderson I'd start with Native Son, as it might give you insight of the author was going through in a fictional setting.…moreI'd start with Native Son, as it might give you insight of the author was going through in a fictional setting.(less)
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Claire It's an upsetting book. I must tell you that it doesn't get any less upsetting. It's not worth reading a book if it will send you into a depression sp…moreIt's an upsetting book. I must tell you that it doesn't get any less upsetting. It's not worth reading a book if it will send you into a depression spell - it's important to take care of yourself! The emotional heaviness just gets more intense as the book goes on, and <spoiler> there is a rape scene and an even more graphic murder later. The trial is also difficult to read and it goes into detail about the murders. </spoiler> This isn't the book to read if you're having a rough mental health spell, I don't think. It's undeniably a wonderful book, and an important one, but I would advise you to use caution if you decide to keep going. Hope this helps.(less)
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What age do you think is appropriate for this book, and do you if the sexual content is to high for a tween?
Lisa I first read this around age 14 - I recall quickening my reading pace around the gory parts and I would say I was haunted by this book but not as a re…moreI first read this around age 14 - I recall quickening my reading pace around the gory parts and I would say I was haunted by this book but not as a result of the violence - within this book/read was the first time I was truly aware of racial inequity and the fact that although this book was set in the '40's our society was not much far removed.(less)
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Who do you think was the intended audience for this book? Alternatively, what were the different takeaways for different audiences?
Lenni Jones
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Gary Ballard You should not look away from the horror of this book. It is unfortunately just as relevant today as when it was written and the time period and place…moreYou should not look away from the horror of this book. It is unfortunately just as relevant today as when it was written and the time period and place that it was set. In it, you can see the origins of many of the worst stereotypes used against black men to justify treating them as second class citizens or worse, less than human. (less)
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Unanswered Questions (2)

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