Exploring Race, Identity, and Class in Nella Larsen’s Passing: A Compelling Novel

When it comes to books that explore the complexities of race, gender and social status, few do it better than Nella Larsen’s Passing. This classic novel follows Irene Redfield, a woman of mixed race who finds herself torn between two worlds. On one hand, she is part of an elite African-American community in Harlem; on the other, she is white-passing and finds herself increasingly drawn to the privileges and opportunities afforded to her by this status. With expertly crafted characters and a gripping plot, Passing is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersections of race, class and gender.