Ragtime is a novel by E.L. Doctorow, published in 1975. It tells the story of three families in the early 20th century in New Rochelle, New York. The novel follows the lives of the white upper-class family, the African-American family, and the Eastern European immigrant family as they intersect and intertwine.
The novel begins with the introduction of the white upper-class family, the Father, Mother, Grandfather, and their son, Edgar. The Father is a successful businessman who is trying to make a name for himself in the world. The Mother is a former concert pianist who is struggling to find her place in the world. The Grandfather is a retired businessman who is trying to find meaning in his life. Edgar is a young boy who is trying to find his place in the world.
The African-American family is introduced next. Coalhouse Walker Jr. is a ragtime musician who is trying to make a name for himself in the music world. Sarah is his love interest and the mother of his child. They are trying to make a life for themselves in a world that is not always welcoming to them.
The Eastern European immigrant family is introduced next. Tateh is a Jewish immigrant who is trying to make a living as a ragtime artist. He is accompanied by his daughter, the Little Girl. They are trying to make a life for themselves in a world that is not always welcoming to them.
The novel follows the lives of these three families as they intersect and intertwine. The Father and Coalhouse Walker Jr. become embroiled in a conflict that leads to tragedy. Tateh and the Little Girl find success in the ragtime business. The Mother finds her place in the world as a concert pianist. The Grandfather finds meaning in his life through his relationship with the Little Girl.
The novel is a powerful exploration of the themes of race, class, and identity in early 20th century America. It is a story of hope and despair, of love and loss, and of the power of music to bring people together. It is a story of the human spirit and its ability to overcome adversity.