The Intuitionist by Colson Whitehead is set in a city resembling 1940s New York, where elevator inspectors are divided into Empiricists, who use mechanical testing, and Intuitionists, who rely on intuition. The story follows Lila Mae Watson, the first Black woman in the Department of Elevator Inspectors, as she navigates a power struggle triggered by an elevator accident, leading her on a quest involving secret blueprints for a perfect elevator.

Colson Whitehead's The Intuitionist has been praised for its innovative narrative, blending mystery with social commentary on race and technology. Critics admire the novel's originality and thought-provoking themes. Some, however, find its complex plot and abstract style challenging. Overall, it offers a richly layered and compelling reading experience.

A reader who would enjoy The Intuitionist by Colson Whitehead is likely captivated by literary fiction that blends mystery with reflections on race and society. Fans of Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man or Paul Auster's The New York Trilogy will appreciate Whitehead's nuanced storytelling and thought-provoking themes.

Mysterious / Suspenseful / Contemplative / Emotional

Colson Whitehead

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

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The Intuitionist Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

“Down,” Part 1

The Intuitionist “Down,” Part 1 Summary & Analysis

“Down,” Part 2

The Intuitionist “Down,” Part 2 Summary & Analysis

“Up,” Part 1

The Intuitionist “Up,” Part 1 Summary & Analysis

“Up,” Part 2

The Intuitionist “Up,” Part 2 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Intuitionist Character Analysis

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Themes

The Intuitionist Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Intuitionist Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Intuitionist Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Intuitionist Essay Topics

The Intuitionist

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Who Should Read The Intuitionist?

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