Reviewed by Rahul Gaur
How many of you remember what happened on September 15, 2017? Jason Stockley, a white former police officer, was found not guilty of first-degree murder for the shooting of a black man, Anthony Lamar Smith. This decision led to protests in St. Louis, some of which became violent. Wm. Stage picked this incident and beautifully weaved a story about life in St. Louis and how people deal with tough situations like protests, poverty, homeless encampments, murder, and addiction. Purchase Here.
“The crowd outside the Civil Courts building surged with anger. Fists raised, voices echoed off the stone walls, and the tension felt like it could shatter the night.” This gripping opening scene from Down and Out in the River City throws readers into the middle of a protest, capturing the raw emotions of people demanding justice. The book follows the protagonist, Francis, a process server in St. Louis, as he navigates the aftermath of a controversial court verdict. He finds himself caught in the middle of the chaos when he exits the Civil Courts building and witnesses the escalating tension between protesters and police. As the story unfolds, Francis becomes entangled in the lives of various characters affected by the verdict and the ensuing turmoil. He encounters activists, militants, and opportunists, all driven by a sense of injustice and a desire for change. The story explores issues like racial tension, police violence, and the fight for fairness.
Wm. Stage has skillfully developed the characters in the book through a combination of detailed descriptions, authentic dialogue, and the exploration of their internal conflicts and motivations. For example, Francis represents a complex, morally ambiguous character. Or Jacob, despite his privileged upbringing, had to navigate the complexities of adolescence due to his speech challenge. Each character is given a distinct voice and personality. Readers would be able to visualize them and understand their backgrounds, and this background information helps them understand their motivations and the challenges they face.
The dialogue in the book is thoughtful and naturalistic. Through their conversations, characters accurately reveal their personalities, relationships, and conflicts. For instance, the interactions between Francis and Cleo are filled with tension and camaraderie, showcasing their complex friendship. Or a candid conversation between a couple who have been married for twenty-four years, highlighting their ability to communicate openly about their feelings and experiences.
Mr. Stage’s writing feels real and honest with documentary-like precision. He has successfully captured the essence of St. Louis, and the mix of reality with fantasy is flawless. One of the book’s strengths is its ability to balance action with introspection. The book doesn’t shy away from challenging perspectives. So, some readers might feel uncomfortable with its take on race and policing. But it’s powerful because it makes us think about things we usually try to ignore. For example, Judge Wilson’s inflammatory statement that “an urban heroin dealer not in possession of a firearm would be an anomaly” serves as a stark example of systemic racial stereotyping. He doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable realities, presenting a raw, unfiltered view of urban social dynamics.
As I closed the last page of Down and Out in the River City, I couldn’t stop thinking about its characters and their struggles. This book is more than a story. It’s a wake-up call about inequality and the systems that keep people trapped. It makes readers think about justice and fairness. It also shows the power of relationships to help people survive tough times. If you’re ready for a story that’s raw, emotional, and eye-opening, Down and Out in the River City is one you won’t forget.
