Books matching: african american experiences
69 result(s)
- #1Caneby:
Save:Cane by Jean Toomer is a unique work that defies categorization, blending poetry with prose in a modernist style that captivates readers. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on the lives of black men and women in different settings, exploring themes of race, emotions, and landscapes. Part 1 is set in rural Georgia, painting a grim picture of religious obsession, fear, and bigotry, with a focus on women's experiences. Part 2 shifts to the north and the city, delving into the Jazz Age and the lives of men through dialogue and stream of consciousness. Part 3 takes the form of a play centered around the character of Ralph Kabnis, bringing the narrative back to its origins in Georgia.
Becky had one Negro son. Who gave it to her? Damn buck nigger, said the white folks’ mouths. She wouldnt tell. Common, God-forsaken, insane white shameless wench, said the white folks’ mouths. Her eye... - #2
Save:"Waiting to Exhale" by Terry McMillan revolves around the lives of four black women in their mid to late thirties, navigating friendships, relationships, and personal struggles in Phoenix, Arizona. The story delves into themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery, portraying the characters' experiences with men, romance, and the challenges they face in their respective lives. The writing style is characterized by a focus on female friendships, realistic storylines, and candid discussions about love, sex, and relationships.
- #3
Save:The Dark Thirty by Patricia C. McKissack is a collection of creepy and haunting tales set in the South, capturing African Americans' struggles against racism over the decades. The stories delve into supernatural elements intertwined with natural horrors faced by the characters, depicting themes of justice, revenge, and the impact of racism on individuals' lives. The writing style of the book is described as engaging, with a historical context that adds depth to the tales, making them both unique and thought-provoking for readers.
- #4
Save:'I Am Not Sidney Poitier' by Percival Everett is a humorous and thought-provoking novel that follows the life of a young man named Not Sidney Poitier. Not Sidney, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the actor Sidney Poitier, navigates through life with a mix of absurdity and existential profundity. From inheriting a fortune from his mother's investment to living in Ted Turner's mansion, Not Sidney's adventures take him on a journey of self-discovery and societal satire. The book cleverly explores themes of identity, race, and societal expectations through witty dialogue and surrealistic scenarios, all while maintaining a humorous tone.
The writing style of 'I Am Not Sidney Poitier' is praised for its sharp wit, clever wordplay, and humorous dialogue. The author, Percival Everett, skillfully weaves together comedy and depth, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The book's unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary makes it a compelling and enjoyable read for those looking for a novel that challenges conventions and delves into complex themes with a light-hearted approach.
- #5
Save:So Many Beginnings is a retelling of Little Women from a fresh perspective, portraying the March sisters as former slaves finding their place in a Freedpeople's Colony during and after the Civil War. The book delves into the lives of the sisters, each with their own unique experiences and paths, while still mirroring the arcs of the original characters. The author, Bethany C. Morrow, skillfully weaves historic commentary and information into the story, creating a vivid and realistic setting during a tumultuous period in history.
The novel provides a comprehensive look at the Black side of the Civil War era, offering insights and knowledge that may not have been covered in traditional history classes. Morrow's writing style is praised for its beauty and ability to engage readers, seamlessly blending historic elements with a heartwarming and eye-opening narrative that stands on its own while paying homage to the classic tale of Little Women.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Remixed Classics ) - #6
Save:'My 21 Years in the White House' by Alonzo Fields is a memoir that provides a unique insider perspective on the lives of American presidents and their families during the early to mid-20th century. Fields, as the Head Butler, shares anecdotes and details about the daily routines, events, and interactions that took place within the White House, offering readers a glimpse into the historical and personal moments he witnessed. The book is written in a straightforward manner, focusing on the experiences of a servant trusted with the responsibility of ensuring top-notch food preparation and service for the White House inhabitants and guests.
Fields' account not only sheds light on the behind-the-scenes workings of the White House but also delves into his personal journey and reflections on his unexpected career path. Through his recollections of notable events and encounters with prominent figures such as Presidents Roosevelt and Truman, Fields provides a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and rewards of his position, offering a blend of historical insights and personal growth narrative.
- #7
Save:'Lone Women' by Victor LaValle is a genre-defying novel that blends traditional historical literary fiction with elements of horror. Set in 1915, the story follows Adelaide Henry, a 31-year-old Black woman who flees her isolated community in California after her parents' brutal murder. She ventures to Montana, where lone women are allowed to own land through homesteading. As Adelaide starts a new life in Big Sandy, Montana, she faces challenges, makes friends, and uncovers dark secrets that threaten to unravel her newfound existence. The writing style of the book is described as excellent, well-researched, and riveting, with a twist that surprises readers and keeps them engaged till the end.
- #8
Save:The Piano Lesson by August Wilson is a Pulitzer Prize-winning play that delves into the complexities of family heritage, ownership, and the ghosts of the past. Set in the 1930s, the story revolves around a family heirloom piano that becomes the center of a dispute between siblings, Boy Willie and Berniece. The play explores themes of African American identity, the impact of historical oppression, and the struggle to preserve memory in a changing world. Wilson's writing style is praised for its vibrant characters, realistic dialogue, and poetic elements that bring the story to life.
(Also, see 39 recommendations for the series The Century Cycle ) - #9
Save:Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin is a powerful and emotionally intense novel that delves into the lives of the Grimes family in Harlem. The story follows 14-year-old John Grimes as he navigates his complex relationships with his strict preacher father, Gabriel, and his own spiritual journey. Through a series of flashbacks and prayer segments, the reader is taken on a journey through the family's past, struggles, and deep-rooted faith. Baldwin's writing style is poetic, raw, and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the characters' inner turmoil and the societal challenges they face.
EVERYONE had always said that John would be a preacher when he grew up, just like his father. It had been said so often that John, without ever thinking about it, had come to believe it himself. Not u... - #10
Save:"Drinking Coffee Elsewhere" by Z.Z. Packer is a collection of short stories that explore themes of race, gender, and societal expectations. The stories feature compelling characters facing challenging situations, often with bitter or sad endings. Packer's writing style is praised for its refined language, memorable characters, and the ability to capture the complexity of human experiences.
BY OUR SECOND DAY at Camp Crescendo, the girls in my Brownie troop had decided to kick the asses of each and every girl in Brownie Troop 909. Troop 909 was doomed from the first day of camp; they were...
