Fortunate Son (novel)
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Founder | Walter Mosley |
| Products | Fiction book |
Fortunate Son (2006) is a work of fiction authored by Walter Mosley.
Plot summary
Branwyn Beerman gives birth to Thomas after her partner, Elton Trueblood, leaves her following her decision against terminating the pregnancy. Thomas is born with a serious lung condition and a poor outlook. While Thomas remains hospitalized, Branwyn develops a connection with Dr. Minas Nolan, a white cardiac surgeon who has lost his wife due to childbirth complications related to their son Eric, described as a robust "Nordic Adonis." Despite medical warnings, Branwyn brings Thomas home, where he and Eric are raised together under the supervision of their Vietnamese caretaker, Ahn. The boys form a strong bond despite their contrasting backgrounds.
Their circumstances shift dramatically when Elton returns and Branwyn passes away, resulting in Thomas coming under Elton’s care. Thomas faces hardships in impoverished neighborhoods, becoming involved in drug trafficking and imprisonment, while Eric pursues higher education and encounters his own struggles. Ultimately, the two reconnect to address and overcome their individual obstacles.
Reception
Mosley’s storytelling in the novel was met with favorable critiques. Alan Cheuse of NPR commended Mosley’s innate narrative skill that captivates readers throughout the book. Kirkus Reviews highlighted the compelling straightforwardness of the story, though noting it lacks the intensity found in Mosley’s previous works. In contrast, Janet Maslin of The New York Times felt that the suspense was less impactful compared to Mosley’s mystery novels. Michael Moorcock from The Guardian praised Mosley’s vivid writing style and insightful social critique, likening his work to that of Dickens and Sinclair Lewis. Moorcock regarded Fortunate Son as Mosley’s finest novel so far, emphasizing its examination of social inequality and American life.
External links
- Polly Leider, "Profound Questions In 'Fortunate Son'", CBS, April 12, 2006.