Passing

by Nella Larsen, Carla Kaplan, Thadious M. Davis

Part of the Norton Library series

The Norton Library edition of Nella Larsen’s Passing —a novel of the Harlem Renaissance exploring the cultural significance of racial boundaries, community, and identity—includes an introduction by Erica Richardson that provides essential context on the text and prepares readers to delve into this powerful story. Explanatory notes by Richardson clarify historical terminology and allusions to promote deeper engagement with the novel.

The Norton Library is a growing collection of high-quality texts and translations—influential works of literature and philosophy—introduced and edited by leading scholars. Norton Library editions prepare readers for their first encounter with the works that they’ll re-read over a lifetime.

Inviting introductions highlight the work’s significance and influence, providing the historical and literary context students need to dive in with confidence.Endnotes and an easy-to-read design deliver an uninterrupted reading experience, encouraging students to read the text first and refer to endnotes for more information as needed.An affordable price (most $10 or less) encourages students to buy the book and to come to class with the assigned edition.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication August 15, 2027

About the author

Nellallitea 'Nella' Larsen (first called Nellie Walker) was an American novelist of the Harlem Renaissance who wrote two novels and a few short stories. Though her literary output was scant, what she wrote earned her recognition by her contemporaries and by present-day critics.