The Sellout: A Novel by Paul Beatty

Paul Beatty’s novel “The Sellout” follows the story of a young African-American man living in present-day Los Angeles. He is living a pretty normal life, until his father is accused of a crime he did not commit and sentenced to death. After his father dies, the protagonist is left alone in the world - until he comes up with seemingly outrageous plan to reinstate segregation in his California neighbourhood.

The protagonist, referred to as only “B”, tries to bring the neighbourhood of Dickens back to its segregation-filled past, albeit in a new and improved format. He purchases a slave, to whom he renames Hominy Jenkins, with the plan to use him as a go-between for the formerly segregated races. Through this, B hopes to create a haven of cultural diversity in Dickens; and in turn, put himself on the map and gain the attention of the Supreme Court.

Optimistic about his plan, he starts a segregation academy for children of the neighbourhood, which gains submissions from all across the country. With his “voluntary segregation plan”, B and Hominy create a world that is safe and supports every race and culture. But as the media picks up on their story, and the Supreme Court begins to pay attention, it becomes clear that this is a controversial issue and B becomes a pariah.

He is faced with a court case determined to punish him for his defying government rules, and even more difficult: what to do with the auctioneer taking advantage of the Dickens segregation plan, who is exploiting the neighbourhood.

The novel takes the reader on an incredible, unexpected journey, one in which all of the cards are stacked against the protagonist. By using satire, dark humour, and unexpected plot turns, Beatty creates a captivating, heartfelt story of growing up as a young black man in an unjust society.

At its core, “The Sellout” is a story of defying the rules, of making sense of the past, and of finding a way to live in the world regardless of the oppressive norms set upon us by those in power. B is a complex character, who is trying to define for himself and others the definition of freedom and justice in the face of racism and adversity.

It is a novel of self-discovery and perseverance, of resilience and determination. Beatty has created a story of a young black man standing up for what is right and fighting for what he believes in. “The Sellout” is an uplifting and engaging story, and is sure to leave readers in awe of its unique and powerful message.