Charles R. Johnson
Charles R. Johnson is an American author, scholar, and cartoonist known for his richly imaginative works and deep engagement with the Black American experience. He has received critical acclaim for his contributions to literature and philosophy, particularly for his novel 'Middle Passage,' which won the National Book Award for Fiction in 1990. Johnson's work often explores complex themes such as identity, history, and morality, and he is recognized for his unique narrative style and insightful storytelling.
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. Oxherding Tale
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.
-
2. Middle Passage
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.
