The Fortress of Solitude by Jonathan Lethem
The novel follows the lives of two boys growing up in Brooklyn, New York in the 1970s. Despite their racial differences, one being white and the other black, they form a deep friendship bonded by their shared interest in comic books, music and a magical ring that grants them superpowers. As they grow older, their paths diverge due to their racial and societal differences, with one becoming a successful music journalist and the other succumbing to a life of crime. The book is a profound exploration of race, identity, friendship and the impact of gentrification.
The 1420th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 2003
- Nationality
- American
- Type
- Fiction
- Pages
- 500-600
- Words
- 139,583
- Original Language
- English
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following lists:
- 4th on Quintessential American Fiction, According to the Rest of the World (Literary Hub)
- 17th on The Millions: The Best Fiction of the Millennium (The Millions)
- 19th on 50 Books to Read Before You Die (Complex)
- 78th on The 100 Greatest Novels (greatbooksguide.com)
- 868th on Our Users' Favorite Books of All Time (The Greatest Books Users)
- The Best Books of the 2000s (The Onion AV Club)