The Wedding
- 240 pages
- 9 hours of reading
With a new introduction by DIANA EVANS, this work is described as "timelessly cinematic" with vivid visual descriptions and expertly crafted dialogue that spans various demographics. Set in the 1950s on Martha's Vineyard, it explores life in the Oval, an exclusive community of the East Coast's black bourgeoisie. The narrative centers on the prominent Coles family as they gather for the wedding of their daughter, Shelby, who defies expectations by choosing to marry Mead Wyler, a white jazz musician from New York. This decision sends shockwaves through the Oval, prompting its members to confront the evolving dynamics of their community. The story transcends a single wedding, delving into themes of race, prejudice, and identity while celebrating the redemptive power of love. Through a rich tapestry of past and present, and the interplay of different cultures, it expands from a specific moment to encompass five generations of an extraordinary American family. This work stands as a significant exploration of the emergence of a black middle class, crafted by an author who experienced it firsthand. It is a wise, heartfelt, and impactful narrative, marking a pinnacle in Dorothy West's literary achievements.




