Kyra Davis Lurie

The Great Mann, Kyra Davis Lurie’s poignant retelling of The Great Gatsby, set among L.A.’s Black elite, is the story of a young Black veteran pulled into a new world of tantalizing possibilities—and explosive tensions. In 1945, Charlie Trammell steps off a cross-country train into the vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles and the esteemed West Adams Heights. Charlie is immediately captivated by the opulence of L.A.’s newly rechristened “Sugar Hill.” The Great Mann weaves a compelling narrative of wealth and class, illuminating the complexities of Black identity and education in post-war America. Lurie is a New York Times best-selling novelist whose work spans multiple genres. Before turning to historical fiction, Lurie was known for the Sophie Katz mystery series and the Just One Night trilogy. Her novels have been published in nine languages across six continents. Lurie was born and raised in California and lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their perfect dog, Potus.

“[Davis Lurie’s] retelling adds profound depth through social commentary with its portrayal of an affluent Black L.A. community along with the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood.”  Booklist