Great! Dated but fab slice of late 50's life
Really racist (I expected that) but interesting, white author in 50's UK writes a novel set in "Black London" from the perspective of a Nigerian Immigrant.
Quite atypical of its time.
The 50's period stuff was evocative - the nightlife, reefer peddlers - reminded me of Iceburg Slim, Chester Himes and Autobigraphy of Malcolm X.

In a way it reminded me of Andrea Levy "small island" similar time period (although Levy can REALLY write)

The problems with this book, are problems with books of this era, inauthentic dialogue,sketchy characters etc

Dated, of its time. Thoroughly enjoyable.

A fast-moving, well-told caricature of racial relations in 1950's London. McInnes uses broad strokes in dissecting the characters, who all have a curious habit of making dubious decisions. The story and the style have not dated well. McInnes tried to encase his commentary on the races in the words of his protagonists, and although the intent was most likely pure (he was a journalist), it sometimes causes uncomfortably stilted and shady burlesques. But it's not boring.

City of Spades (1957) by Colin MacInnes is Excellent! It's the first book of MacInnes London Trilogy...It's a slice of time kind of novel...London in the 1050's with a look at black immigrants making a home for themselves in London. The Story follows two guys newly arrived to London from Lagos, Nigeria, one white, Pew, 29 years old, a college counselor, and Johnny, black, a nineteen year old college student. As you follow the path of the two (each p.o.v. on alternating chapters) you get a real feel of London at that period. Without giving any spoilers you'll fine the reasons both Pew & Johnny traveled to London for unravels very quickly with both finding themselves facing the criminal underworld and the corrupt law. Violence is always just around the corner but so is compassion...An easy read but well written, City of Spades is very entertaining and will definitely take you of to another place and time...I'd have to say this book is a Classic...

Interesting novel for a glimpse into the culture of the period in "underground" London

Hard call whether 3 or 4 stars. It’s a very entertaining read with engaging characters and dramatic arcs but it’s ultimately a kitchen sink drama about human nature, built around the theme of race.

It’s easy to simply write it off as “dated,” and some of it is, but it’s also interesting to see how little has changed. Race is treated engagingly and sympathetically. The transactions are awkward and tenuous but at least reasonably realistic. I think the minor letdown comes from Macinnes’ belief that his insight is more valid or original than it really is, and the 2021 reader’s uncertainty of the authenticity of his black characters. Maybe at the time it was, but I suspect not. There’s no big shock ending or big revelation, but still, it’s fun and absolutely worth reading, with the right perspective.