Charles R. Johnson

Charles Richard Johnson is an American scholar and the author of novels, short stories, and essays. He is known for his works exploring African American life and culture, and he won the National Book Award for his novel 'Middle Passage' in 1990.

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. Oxherding Tale

    Cover of 'Oxherding Tale' by Charles R. Johnson

    This novel is a captivating exploration of identity, freedom, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of the antebellum South. It follows the journey of a young biracial slave who escapes his plantation in search of freedom and enlightenment. Along the way, he encounters a diverse cast of characters who challenge his perceptions of race, class, and the very nature of existence. Drawing from both Eastern philosophies and the African American experience, the narrative weaves a rich tapestry of themes and stories, offering a profound meditation on the complexities of the human condition and the quest for spiritual liberation.

    The 3185th Greatest Book of All Time

  2. 2. Middle Passage

    Cover of 'Middle Passage' by Charles R. Johnson

    This novel follows the story of a freed slave and thief, who stows away on a ship to escape his debts and a forced marriage, only to find he has boarded a slave ship bound for Africa. The protagonist's journey takes a turn when the crew revolts, kills the captain, and the ship becomes lost at sea. The book explores themes of identity, freedom, and personal transformation, all set against the grim backdrop of the transatlantic slave trade.

    The 9567th Greatest Book of All Time