59 pages • 1 hour read
Zadie SmithSwing Time
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Swing Time by Zadie Smith explores the complex lives of two mixed-race girls, narrated by an unnamed protagonist, and their evolving friendship from childhood to adulthood, shaped by their passion for dance, their differing family dynamics, and their encounters with racial and social issues. The novel addresses sensitive topics including sexual harassment, sexual assault, and the usage of racial slurs.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Zadie Smith’s novel, Swing Time, has garnered both praise and criticism from reviewers. Positives include compelling themes of race, identity, and friendship, as well as Smith’s lyrical prose. However, some find the narrative structure disjointed and the characters underdeveloped. Overall, it’s acknowledged as an ambitious but polarizing work.
Who Should Read Swing Time?
Readers who enjoyed White Teeth or Beloved will find Swing Time engaging. The novel appeals to those interested in complex female friendships, cultural identity, and the vibrant tapestry of London life. Fans of rich, character-driven narratives and insightful social commentary will appreciate Zadie Smith's intricate storytelling.