Mat Johnson
Mat Johnson is an American writer best known for his work in literature and comics, including novels such as 'Pym' and graphic novels like 'Incognegro.'
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Pym
This novel is a satirical adventure that delves into themes of race, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream, all while paying homage to Edgar Allan Poe's "The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket." The story follows an African American professor who, after losing his job, becomes obsessed with Poe's only novel. Convinced that the story might be more fact than fiction, he assembles an all-Black crew and sets out on an expedition to the Antarctic. There, they encounter a bizarre landscape filled with strange creatures, a lost civilization, and the ultimate realization of America's racial dynamics. Through a blend of humor, social commentary, and surreal adventure, the narrative explores the complexities of racial identity and cultural heritage.
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2. Incognegro
A Graphic Mystery
Set in the racially charged atmosphere of early 20th-century America, this gripping graphic novel follows a light-skinned African American journalist who uses his ability to "pass" as white to investigate lynchings in the South. When his own brother is accused of murder, he embarks on a dangerous mission to uncover the truth, confronting the harsh realities of racial identity and justice. The narrative weaves a suspenseful tale of courage and deception, highlighting the complexities of race and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice.
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3. John Constantine, Hellblazer
All His Engines
In this gripping tale, the infamous occult detective finds himself entangled in a web of supernatural intrigue and moral ambiguity. As he navigates the dark underbelly of the mystical world, he confronts malevolent forces and personal demons, all while grappling with his own flawed humanity. The narrative weaves a complex tapestry of horror, wit, and existential reflection, challenging the protagonist to balance his cynical outlook with the hope of redemption. With a blend of dark humor and gritty realism, the story delves into the complexities of good and evil, leaving readers questioning the very nature of morality.
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4. Invisible Things
A sociologist on a billionaire’s mission to Jupiter survives a catastrophe and discovers a hidden human colony on a Jovian moon, where unseen forces subtly manipulate beliefs and social order. Drawn into clashing factions, conspiracies, and class tensions that mirror Earth’s, she fights to uncover the truth behind the invisible influence and to find a way home in a biting blend of sci‑fi adventure and social satire.
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