First published in 2023

1363 pages

Dystopian, LGBTQ+, Literary

​Chain-Gang All-Stars takes place in a world of mass incarceration, unchecked capitalism, and systemic racism. But even though that sounds like a direct reflection of our world, prisoners get the chance to fight (to the death) for their freedom in gladiator matches. Loretta Thurwar and Hamara "Hurricane Staxxx" Stacker are on the same chain, moving through the ranks as a team, with Loretta as their leader. The poignant and vivid image this novel paints is essential reading. The exploitation and dehumanization of these incarcerated people shines a spotlight on just how far the prison-industrial complex could go. Prisoners must enact violence on themselves and each other for the morbid entertainment of the masses. Public executions are back and better than ever; you can buy merchandise.

This novel is deeply complex and multifaceted. There are perspectives of the incarcerated people, the telecasters, the protesters outside the stadiums, and fans who are screaming themselves hoarse in the stands. Adjei-Brenyah captures language in such a unique way in this novel. The incarcerated are humanized but not excused from their past actions; they are complicated and nuanced people. This book is deeply disturbing in an important and impactful way.