44 pages 1 hour read

Jonathan Lethem

Motherless Brooklyn

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1999

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Motherless Brooklyn by Jonathan Lethem, Lionel Essrog, a wannabe detective with Tourette's syndrome, seeks to avenge his mentor's murder. Navigating a complex web of false leads and betrayals in Brooklyn, he uncovers dark secrets about his mentor's past and criminal enterprises, ultimately facing moral ambiguities and profound realizations about loyalty and identity. The book includes scenes of violence and crime.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Motherless Brooklyn by Jonathan Lethem is lauded for its unique protagonist and innovative narrative style. Critics admire Lethem's blend of detective fiction and character study, particularly his portrayal of Tourette syndrome. However, some find the plot meandering and less engaging. Overall, it’s praised for its originality and captivating voice.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Motherless Brooklyn?

Fans of quirky, character-driven mysteries will relish Jonathan Lethem's Motherless Brooklyn. Readers who enjoyed the intricate plot twists and rich characterizations in Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep or the witty and melancholic detective archetypes in Paul Auster's City of Glass will find this novel equally captivating.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Modern Classic Fiction