144 pages • 4 hours read
Colson WhiteheadThe Underground Railroad
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead follows Cora, an enslaved woman in 19th-century Georgia, as she escapes the brutal Randall plantation with Caesar through a literal underground railroad. They journey through various states and encounter both aid and danger, as relentless slave catcher Ridgeway pursues Cora. Along the way, Cora experiences physical, emotional, and psychological trials in her quest for freedom. The novel contains graphic depictions of violence and addresses issues of slavery, racism, and systemic oppression.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Colson Whitehead's The Underground Railroad has garnered acclaim for its inventive reimagining of history and powerful narrative. Critics praise its compelling characters and brutal yet honest portrayal of slavery. However, some find the magical realism disjointed and the pacing uneven. Overall, it's lauded as a significant and thought-provoking work.
Who Should Read The Underground Railroad?
Readers who enjoy The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead are likely captivated by historical fiction that blends harrowing narratives with surreal elements, much like fans of Toni Morrison’s Beloved or Octavia Butler’s Kindred. They appreciate profound storytelling that tackles themes of slavery, resilience, and freedom.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
890L