The Great Disillusionment of Nick and Jay - by Ryan Douglass (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

From New York Times bestselling author Ryan Douglass comes a gripping and tender reimagining of The Great Gatsby about the pursuit of happiness--and love--in a society built on cruelty and secrets.

Seventeen-year-old Nick Carrington wants nothing more than to leave Greenwood, Oklahoma, behind and make a name for himself in the papers. But when tragedy strikes, dreams turn into a twisted reality. Forced to start anew in Harlem, only a letter of acceptance from the prestigious West Egg Academy is able to pull him back into the world.

But the supposedly integrated private boys' school is more of a catchy headline than a fact, with the same prejudices Nick left behind back home. And his secret but growing feelings for the founder's wickedly charismatic son, Jay Gatsby Jr.-- who dances past society's conventions with practiced ease--only add more complications.

When Nick's cutting pen exposes dangerous truths about West Egg and leads to perilous consequences, he and Jay must decide whether to spend a lifetime outrunning trouble or be the ones to light the match. Can they not only fight back but triumph? Or will the powers that be win yet again?

Review Quotes

"Douglass sets a classic on fire with an inspired recasting that strips away time and all expectations." -- Rita Williams-Garcia, New York Times bestselling author of A Sitting in St. James

"Ambitious, fluid, and remarkable! An enthralling story that inspects race, identity and queerness with the nuance and insight that is required." -- Amber McBride, National Book Award Finalist

"A big-hearted book that sings with desire and rage." -- Jas Hammonds, award-winning author of We Deserve Monuments

"A gorgeous ode to love, activism, and to the power of the written word." -- Abdi Nazemian, Stonewall Award Winning Author of Like a Love Story

"This layered reimagining illuminates our history while giving insight into our present and providing inspiration for our future." -- Aaron H. Aceves, author of This Is Why They Hate Us