Chester Himes Books

The sudden death of Alberta Wright during a sermon sparks a chaotic scramble for her hidden cash, leading her partner to discover their apartment ransacked. As various individuals vie for Alberta's fortune, detectives Coffin Ed Johnson and Grave Digger Jones are drawn into the investigation, aware that more violence is on the horizon. This gripping narrative intertwines themes of greed and deception, set against the backdrop of a gritty urban landscape filled with suspense and intrigue.

With its bawdy humor and tough-talking characters, this book delivers a wickedly funny and sensuous narrative. The story intertwines sharp wit with a playful exploration of desire, creating a vibrant atmosphere that captivates readers. Expect a blend of humor and sensuality that challenges conventions, making it a bold and entertaining read.

Exploring themes of justice and redemption, this novel delves into the aftermath of a tragic death and the consequences of a wrongful conviction. The story unfolds through the eyes of compelling characters as they navigate the complexities of truth and morality. With a gripping narrative, the author, known for the Harlem Detectives series, crafts a poignant tale that highlights the flaws in the legal system and the impact of societal perceptions on individual lives.

Set against the backdrop of a Los Angeles shipyard, the story follows Bob Jones, a recently promoted supervisor grappling with the harsh realities of racism and disrespect from his white colleagues. Despite his relationship with the affluent Alice, he faces relentless baiting from Madge, a white woman. Over four tumultuous days, Bob's internal struggle intensifies as he confronts violent urges triggered by the pervasive bigotry surrounding him. This powerful narrative serves as a profound exploration of the destructive impact of racism, resonating with contemporary relevance.

Set against the backdrop of a brutal penitentiary, a young inmate grapples with the harsh realities of prison life while serving a twenty-year sentence for robbery. Amidst chaos and violence, a fire ignites turmoil, leading to a transformative bond with fellow convict Rico. This relationship fosters hope and inspires Jimmy to explore writing as a means of redemption. Drawing from Chester Himes's own experiences, the novel poignantly examines themes of suffering and love, showcasing the author's lyrical prose and the complexities of human connection.

Exploring the deep-seated issues of colorism within a black family, this autobiographical novel delves into their struggles to conform to the ideals of the Black middle class in a predominantly white, post-war America. The narrative highlights the emotional and societal challenges they face, providing a poignant commentary on identity, family dynamics, and the quest for acceptance in a divided society. Through rich storytelling, the author sheds light on the complexities of race and belonging.

A friend and contemporary of Richard Wright and James Baldwin - and every bit their equal - Chester Himes was the acclaimed author of literary novels, stories and essays, as well as the classic crime fiction series for which he is best known, featuring detectives Coffin Ed Johnson and Gravedigger Jones. Himes wrote nine novels in the Harlem Detectives series, and in these four popular, accomplished instalments, his cold, wise-cracking sleuths are thrown into a brutal, murderous world peopled with conniving con men, gut-toting gangsters and opium-smoking preachers. Himes's vision of Harlem's criminal underground, enriched by deft plotting and scintillating dialogue, is both riotous entertainment and penetrating enquiry into the fraught tensions of race in postwar America.

A white cop's violent outburst triggers a high-stakes pursuit to eliminate a witness, setting the stage for a gripping standalone crime thriller. The narrative delves into themes of justice and morality, exploring the consequences of unchecked power and racial tensions. As the tension escalates, readers are drawn into a world where survival hangs in the balance, showcasing the author's knack for creating intense, character-driven stories.