Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Their Eyes Were Watching God

   

   This novel follows the life of Janie Crawford, a young African-American woman, in the early 20th century. She embarks on a journey through three marriages and self-discovery while challenging the societal norms of her time. The narrative explores her struggle for personal freedom, fulfillment, and identity against the backdrop of racism and gender expectations, ultimately emphasizing the importance of independence and personal growth.

   The 57th Greatest Book of All Time

2. 2. Moses, Man Of The Mountain

   

   In this novel, the iconic biblical tale of Moses is reimagined through a unique blend of folklore, cultural anthropology, and African American spirituality. The story follows Moses, a powerful and complex figure, as he leads his people out of Egypt and slavery, challenging both the Pharaoh's tyranny and the skepticism of his followers. The narrative weaves together themes of leadership, faith, and liberation, while exploring the intersections of race, religion, and power. The author infuses the ancient story with rich vernacular and a deep understanding of the African American experience, offering a fresh perspective on a timeless epic.

   The 2215th Greatest Book of All Time

3. 3. Dust Tracks on a Road

   An Autobiography

   

   "Dust Tracks on a Road" is an autobiography that delves into the life of a prominent African American woman who grew up in the rural South during the early 20th century. She discusses her struggles and triumphs as she navigates through racial discrimination, gender bias, and her rise to fame as a renowned writer and anthropologist. The book provides an insightful look into the author's perspective on race, gender, and identity, offering a unique and personal view of the African American experience during a time of significant social and cultural change.

   The 2686th Greatest Book of All Time

4. 4. Tell My Horse

   Voodoo and Life in Haiti and Jamaica

   

   The book is an anthropological exploration of the rich cultural tapestry of Jamaica and Haiti in the late 1920s and early 1930s, delving into the rituals, customs, and social structures of the islands with a particular focus on Voodoo and Obeah practices. The author, an African American folklorist and writer, immerses herself in the communities she studies, providing vivid descriptions and analyses of ceremonies, dances, and religious practices, while also examining the political and social issues of the time. Her work offers a unique blend of personal narrative and scholarly observation, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of Caribbean culture and spirituality.

   The 4662nd Greatest Book of All Time
5. 5. Barracoon

   The Story of the Last "Black Cargo

   

   The book presents the poignant and powerful account of Cudjo Lewis, one of the last known survivors of the Atlantic slave trade. Through a series of interviews conducted in the late 1920s, it captures his harrowing journey from his homeland in West Africa to his enslavement in America, and his subsequent life after emancipation. The narrative offers a deeply personal perspective on the brutal realities of slavery and the enduring strength of the human spirit, while also preserving a crucial piece of history that might otherwise have been forgotten.

   The 11535th Greatest Book of All Time

6. 6. The Complete Stories

   

   "The Complete Stories" is a collection of short stories that explore the complexities of African American life, particularly in the rural South. The author uses rich, vibrant language to create a tapestry of human emotion, delving into themes of love, loss, race, and gender. The stories range from humorous to tragic, and each one provides a unique perspective on the human experience. The author's profound understanding of African American culture and her ability to bring her characters to life make this collection a must-read.

   The 13983rd Greatest Book of All Time

7. 7. Jonah's Gourd Vine

   

   Set in the rural South, this novel follows the tumultuous life of John Pearson, a charismatic preacher whose personal flaws and desires often clash with his spiritual duties. As he navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and faith, John's journey is marked by his relationships with the women in his life, including his devoted wife Lucy and his numerous lovers. The narrative explores themes of identity, redemption, and the struggle between human frailty and divine calling, all against the backdrop of African American culture and folklore in the early 20th century.