The Book Page

By kam

February 21, 2008 7:51 AM | Link to this

anything by bebe moore campbell or j.california cooper. i’m continually amazed at the lack of admiration j.california cooper’s writing gets. in my humble…, she is a far superior storytller than mcmillan, morrison or walker - whose works i love but just don’t do for me what j.cali’s works do. and i love bebe’s contemporary novels that have wonderful twists and turns without being full of sex with a little plot thrown in as some contemporary writing is.

By sharon

February 21, 2008 8:01 AM | Link to this

I love the Bluest Eye and the Coldest Winter Ever

By love2read

February 21, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

I absolutely love Alice Walker’s, “The Temple of My Familiar”. I think that Mr. Hal and Ms. Lizzie are two of the greatest characters in African-American literature. I also love Ralph Ellison’s, “Invisible Man”. He is brilliant storyteller. Currently I am reading “Jazz” by Toni Morrison. Ms. Chloe Anthony is no joke either, the manner in which she brings life to the words that she writes is simply amazing.

By Tisch

February 21, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

My all-time favorite novel is not considered a mainstream classic or even one among African Americans. James Baldwin’s Another Country is the best novel I’ve ever read, hands down. The characters are deliciously complex—one miniute, I’m rooting for them, and the next minute I loathe them. The interracial couples and subversive climate in the novel’s setting in 1960’s New York City are portrayed so convincingly and beautifully. In the second half of the novel, the setting is changed to France and you get to know a different set of characters in Baldwin’s very rich, very human storytelling. I only wish the novel could be made into a feature film so that my eyes may feast upon a rebirth of the characters.

I would have to say that my favorite contemporary author is Diane McKinney-Whetstone, author of the novels Tumbling, Tempest Rising, Blues Dancing, and Leaving Cecil Street. I love her voice. She brings complexity and depth to her characters with a sharpness and unpretentiousness that you rarely see in writers today. I can see McKinney’s vision of Philadelphia as it was for her growing up in the 60s, just as I can feel and taste Baldwin’s New York City.

By Corey

February 21, 2008 8:35 AM | Link to this

This is tough. Zora Neal Hurston’s “Their Eyes Were Watching God”

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 8:36 AM | Link to this

McMillan was the only one on that list that I’d ever heard of.

NONE sounded interesting.

Since when is a book good based on the color of its author’s skin??????

African-Americans are the single most racist group in this country, and for them to deny that fact speaks VOLUMES about how they REALLY feel about ‘all races being equal’.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Aside from the above, my favorite novel dealing with African Americans was written by the King of Legal Thrillers - John Grisham.

A Time to Kill is simply an OUTSTANDING book that happens to have an African-American as one of its main characters.

By Avid Reader

February 21, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

I love anything by Zora Neale Hurston. But my favorite is “Their Eyes Were Watching God”

By sp

February 21, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, very enlightening novel.

By BlackGirl

February 21, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

Jeff to fully understand why blacks are so proud of their heritage, you would literally have to walk in our shoes. Have you read how the media describes Obama? He’s an African American, as if his biological white mother doesn’t exist. You are wrong, white America has always dictated what is Black and what is acceptable. Within our culture, we try to uplift and support each other. Plus, how many movies do you watch or books do you read with all black characters? The reason you don’t know these authors is because they are Black. And I ask, how do you describe Obama?

Now back on topic, I just finished reading Tananarive Due’s My Soul to Keep and The Living Blood. Awesome books that rival Stephen King novels. I also enjoy Mary Monroe, Victoria Christopher Murray and Brandon Massey. The only novel I’ve really enjoyed by Eric Jerome Dickey is Drive Me Crazy. It’s unlike any of his other novels and I enjoyed that.

By Tisch

February 21, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Jeff, give me a break. In case you haven’t noticed, February is Black History Month, so why wouldn’t a blog be created or viewers to discuss novels written by African Americans that have really touched us? Stop trying to cause dissention by claiming racism when it’s obviously not the case here. And who cares if you don’t find any of the novels mention interesting? If you don’t like the subject matter of a blog, then keep it moving ———> that way.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

BlackGirl:

Get off your friggin high horse. Blacks aren’t persecuted in America anymore than any other group. Obama himself self-identifies as black, so the media isn’t trying to stereotype him anymore than he already does himself.

There is FAR more black on white racism in America RIGHT NOW than there EVER was white on black, and that INCLUDES the slavery and Jim Crow eras.

Don’t believe me? Be a white person in a majority black area. I’ve been there, done that, got the Mutha Friggin T-shirt AND the physical scars on my body from black students that the black administration did nothing about.

99.99999999% of whites that think that Blacks are worse than Osama Bin Laden himself would never THINK to actually physically assault one just because he was black. In my experience, a white person in a majority black area has about a 90% chance of being physically assaulted simply because he is white.

Yet all you hear from your ‘leaders’ is ‘Whitey is EVIL!’. How about you remove the friggin SEQUOIA TREE from you own eye before you try to remove the speck of sawdust from mine?

By Malichi

February 21, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

I have to say J California Cooper. She tells stories not just relationship drama stories. I would like to responed to Jeff though, who does not understand why we even have these conversations. The truth is black people for so long were never regognized for anything we tried to do in participation of American culture. So we have had to make a distinction to show each other our abilities. White people could care less about our accomplishments in the arts. So we are left to applaud ourselves. Unless it’s something like sports, singing or dancing they have always had a lock on all other forms of expression. So when we try to include ourselves in that, we are cast aside as not up to par with there contributions. We were taught racism (cause racism is taught)by white people.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

Tisch:

‘Black History Month’ it and of itself is racist.

Where is the ‘White History Month’?

Oh, that’s right. Blacks who say that they want ‘equality’ really mean that they want special priveliges for themselves based on their own skin color.

It is true that typically those who scream ‘diversity’, ‘tolerance’, and ‘equality’ the loudest typically want anything but.

By Beautiful

February 21, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

manchild in the promise land

By Corey

February 21, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Jeff, name one piece of legislation black politicians wrote that denies whites full citizenship. Don’t worry Jeff, there is always the far, right wing of the Republican party. I’m sire you feel right at home there.

By Corey

February 21, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

Typo, “sire” should have been sure.

By mamaj

February 21, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Thank you, BlackGirl and Tisch. Your words were so eloquent and to the point, putting Jeff in his place. If you noticed, his selection was not a Black author, but a White author that had a Black main character—not the same thing! It is really hard for some to keep to the point on these blogs because the racism won’t let them. Listen at me, hear I go responding to this mess. Thank you!!

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Corey:

I could name SEVERAL by any NUMBER of black politicians that attempts to grant special priveliges to blacks just because they are black.

Yet a white politician doing the same for whites would have a Rodney King level riot going on.

Speaking of Mr. King there, when was the last time you saw whites rioting when innocent men were released???

You didn’t see whites rioting when OJ got off, or did I miss that?

By Jeff - you're an idiot

February 21, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

trust me when i say, if we could ALL go back to africa, we would. and y’all will miss us when we’re gone. where would you get all of your commercial jingles from? stop posting ignorant shyt and go sit down somewhere!!!

By Kamieshaie'

February 21, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

My favorite? Oprah hasn’t told me what my favorite is yet.

By Belinda

February 21, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

every month is White History Month, Jeff. Please take your comments to another forum.

By BlackGirl

February 21, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Jeff now I see…you worked in a low income majority black school where you were mistreated and now you feel threatened by all blacks. Unfortunately, your experience is just that, yours. If you’d bother to read Obama’s autobiography you’d learn that he had identify issues growing up. “White” america told him he was black as a kid. Just like Halle Berry explained on Oprah years ago regarding her own childhood. Her mom told her that because of how she looked, she would always be perceived as “black”. What is the ratio that whites used to dictate who was black? Wasn”t it if you had an 1/8 of an ounce of black blood in you then you’re black?

For the record, I have no leader other than Jehovah. These supposed “black leaders” don’t lead me or anyone that I know. I am very capable of making my own decisions. So there, we agree. I live in a majority black neighborhood where a few whites reside. They don’t fear their life. Where have you been hangin’ out? I wouldn’t go into the projects at night or during the day? Are you? Nor would I visit your local trailer park.

My dear, it is you that needs to remove the friggin SEQUOIA TREE from your own eye. I see quite clearly.

By Hick from the Sticks

February 21, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Perhaps I’m missing something here.

If the concept of portraying black culture in literature is to develop understanding about the community, why is it, then, that Eric Jerome Dickey’s novels all seem to read like soft-core porn?

The way the community is portrayed is a copendium of one relationship laced with infidelity followed by another.

No one else seems to notice this?

Before you jump on me, yes. I am a ignorant little cracker.

Now that that retort is out of the way, if anyone has a answer to that question, and would like to discuss it logically, I’d love to hear the explanation.

Coincidentally:

A Gathering of Old Men—Ernest J. Gaines

Makes Me Wanna Holler—Nathan McCall

The Street—Ann Petry

Poems from Prison—Etheridge Knight.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Belinda:

If ‘every month is White History Month’, I urge you to write John Lewis and urge him to get a declaration through the US Congress that March shall now OFFICIALLY be designated as ‘White History Month’.

A) You’d get laughed out of his office - IFF he even actively considered the letter.

B) You’d have the Idiots Jackson, Sharpton, and all the rest of the racist ‘leaders’ villifying you in every forum where they could get a word in edge-wise.

C) I wouldn’t be surprised - IFF Mr. Lewis actually went through with trying to push the declaration - to see blacks rioting on every corner in America.

I can honestly say that until I worked in a majority black area and saw the black on white racism for myself - and got the aforementioned scars - I honestly tried to think that blacks were just like whites, and that MLK’s dream could be realized.

THEN I worked in a majority black area and saw the TRUTH of what blacks want and how they treat whites.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Where is the ‘White History Month’?

Jeff, the other 11 mos. are “White History Month[s]”. Except for the month of February, Black contributions to the building of this great country are basically ignored during the year. Also, there was no “Rodney King level riot” when OJ “got off” because there was not a video tape of OJ killing anybody. Sure, there may have been mountains of circumstantial evidence, but there was no actual footage. Duh. Besides, when OJ “got off”, it was somewhat of a vindication for the many lynchings of blacks that were never prosecuted. Remember Emmitt Till?

Anyway, my favorite novel by an African-American is “Your Blues Ain’t Like Mine” by the late Bebe Moore Campbell. It is a fictionalized account of the Emmitt Till story.

By HP

February 21, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

Guys,

To those this applies to: If Terry McMillian is the only black author you have heard of, you need to read more across the board, not just black authors. Maybe I am a literary snob, I don’t know. I have enjoyed some of her books, they are a good quick read on the beach somewhere, but you can do better. That being said, Song of Solomon tops them all. I need to read Another Country.

By Tom

February 21, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

To try to get back on point:

Edward P. Jones’s The Known World Samuel R. Delany: Dhalgren

By For Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

Jeff- Stormfront much?

By sharon

February 21, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

Kamieshaie that was funny. It’s obvious Jeff has some deep issues with African Americans, why else would he blog about “What’s Your Favorite African American Novel”? He has some shyt to get off his chest and this is the only way he can do it.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

BlackGirl:

One of the WORST offenders was a supposedly ‘educated’ - she went to an HBCU - black woman of my own age.

And the whole ‘HBCU’ concept is ANOTHER example of black racism. Wonder what would happen if a school suddenly proclaimed it was ‘Historically White’???

An concrete example of black on white racism (nonviolent):

I worked with my students very much in the same mold as Jaime Escalante and Joe Clark. In other words, no nonsense, no excuses, I’m going to demand excellence and you’re gonna give it to me. The black kids wouldn’t listen to a WORD I said, and in fact gave me the scars I mentioned. Administration (black) kept blaming ME for the problems in my class, saying my style was too agrressive for these poor little black kids.

Old black lady and I realize that our styles are essentially the same, and she begins helping me - after quite a few knock down drag out fights between the two of us. (Never physical, always more of a political-type battle.)

She comes to my class and does the EXACT same things I did.

Kids listened to her.

Because she was black.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

sharon:

Until I worked in a majority black area and saw what blacks think about ‘equality’ first hand, I honestly didn’t have a problem with them as a people, though I knew that they were more racist than most whites I knew. (And I’m including several HARDCORE rednecks in that bunch.) ‘Black History Month’ is itself racist, as is ‘HBCU’ and affirmative action. But most of those can be laid at the feet of black politicians in particular, and not really the black race as a whole.

What I experienced in the majority black area that I worked in can be laid at the feet of the race as a whole.

When the black race cleans itself up, it can join civilized society. Until then, continue on in your cess pools such as Clayton County and leave the rest of us the HADES alone.

By Phil Kloer

February 21, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

I am going to ask everyone to stay on the topic, please. Jeff, you are entitled to your opinion, but this blog is about books, not race in general or Black History Month. If you don’t have a book comment, then just chill. Same with everybody who’s responding.

By Debra

February 21, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Good people, why are you even responding to Jeff. Lesson: feed what you want to live, starve what you want to die. Stay on topic. IGNORE HIM.

By BlackGirl

February 21, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Jeff I give. Your experiences have blinded you. And your ignorance is so deep that it would take a lifetime to get through to you. It’s hard to believe that you don’t know why HBCU’s were created. This is a fight left for someone else that has the patience to deal with such ignorance. I have not the time, nor the desire to continue. Good luck in your little world. Good luck.

By The truth

February 21, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

I read a book on Booker T. Washington. Good guy. I also read Thomas Sowells’ Black Rednecks and White Liberals. Good book by an educated black guy. We need more upstanding people like that and less of the race baiting Jacksons and Sharptons. Also, I don’t read a book just because it’s about black people.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Phil:

My initial comment WAS about the books themselves:

Why do we even need to look at a ‘good African American book’??? If people were truly concerned about equality, wouldn’t it be a ‘good book’ where the author’s race and/ or the race of the subject matter didn’t matter????

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

truth:

Back in elemetary school, I read several biographies of blacks for pleasure. Including Malcom X and a general survey of 25 blacks in American history, covering Crispus Attics (killed at the Boston Massacre prior to the Revolution), WEB Dubois, Booker T Washington, and several others. I’ve learned more about prominent blacks in history on my own of my own volition than most blacks I know. It is sad that even well educated blacks know little about the very people they claim to hold in such high regard. After all, nearly ALL of the information I learned can be obtained in your local library.

By Rusty

February 21, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

Phil,do you read your newspaper? What did you think this blog was going to devolve into? You must be new.Btw, congratulations on your new job.

By The truth

February 21, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Jeff, I don’t really understand your point? Are you calling Thomas Sowell uneducated? He is a professor in California. He understands blacks a little more than you do. Is Bill Cosby uneducated? Your argument is a little asinine. Sounds like you feel guilty about being white. I don’t fall into that trap. I had nothing to do with slavery or racism in the 60’s.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Jeff,

If this topic is so disturbing to you, why are you even on here? Better yet, why don’t you move out of the country during the month of February so that you won’t have to be bomabarded by so much Black history.

All jokes aside, I’m sorry that you faced prejudice from Blacks. However, just like I’ve experienced prejudice from Whites, I’m not going to allow the stupidity of some to poison my mind against a whole race. There are stupid people of ALL races. I’d suggest you do the same.

The whole point to this blog was that during Black History Month, we hear about the same people over and over. I think Phil was trying to start a discussion about the literary works of more contemporary and lesser known African-American authors. Bebe Moore Campbell was a great author who wrote novels exploring race relations. She depicted all races very fairly. In addition to “Your Blues Ain’t Like Mine”, her “Brothers and Sisters” is definitely a page-turner.

By Sweet Tee

February 21, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

The current book that I am reading is by Kimberla Lawson Roby - Sin No More…. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of Kimberla’s books. She a talented and gifted writer.

By Peri

February 21, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Why is JEFF even on this message board??? What an effin’ troll. If you don’t like the topic, turn the station!

Geez.

By tom Robinson

February 21, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

“Gone with the Wind” Margaret Mitchell

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Peri:

Sorry, failed to see ya on any topic NOT involving blacks specifically.

Me, I’m on MOST topics here, and as you can clearly see for yourself, generally I have a pretty good handle on events and an even better analysis.

You’re just mad because I actually called out blacks on their overt racism that they would not HESITATE to riot over if a white person was doing the exact same thing they are doing. Again, a SPOT ON analysis.

By Kate

February 21, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Aunt Hagar’s Children” by Edward Jones was excellent. One of these days, I’ll read *The Known World. Edwidge Danticat’s *The Dew Breaker was great, too.

James McBride and Nathan McCall have both ventured into fiction, but I have only read their memoirs—Makes Me Wanna Holla chilled me more than any book I have read in ages.

Isn’t McBride in town this week? Or did I miss him?

By Vee

February 21, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

Sweet Tee, I read “Sin No More” a couple of weeks ago. I liked it, but the “Charlotte” character really got on my nerves with her hypocrisy.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

Sweet Tee, I read “Sin No More” a couple of weeks ago. I liked it, but the “Charlotte” character really got on my nerves with her hypocrisy.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

Sweet Tee, I read “Sin No More” a couple of weeks ago. I liked it, but the “Charlotte” character really got on my nerves with her hypocrisy.

By Kate

February 21, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Jeff, I have a can of Whoop Heiney and I’m not afraid to use it. Seriously, chill.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

Again, Jeff. There are stupid people in all races. Yeah, you are on most topics, which leaves me to wonder just why and how you have so much time to blog. Just curious.

So, how did you feel about Malcolm X’s autobiography?

By Corey

February 21, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Jeff, I said legislation written by black politicians that denies whites full citizenship. I never said an attempt to grant black privilege. Spin - that’s a dominant trait of far right wingers.

By SharonH

February 21, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

Jeff,

usually I don’t respond to self-righteous racist morons but I can’t resist the chance to show the city what an azz you are. You wanted to know about White history months? Well here ya go:

Italian-Americans: October German-Americans: October Irish-Americans: March Scottish-Americans: September Polish-Americans: October Greek-Americans: March

There, are you happy? Now buzz off, this blog is for discussion of books and literature and apparently you are too limited to participate fully.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

Vee:

At least Malcolm X was honest about his racism towards whites. And I never said I read the guy’s autobiography, I read a biography.

Today’s blacks have X’s attitude toward whites while proclaiming to be striving toward MLK’s ‘Dream’. Talk about hypocrisy!!! (And King’s kids are prime examples.)

By Becky

February 21, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Vee, loved your post @10:31..Racist are in all shapes, sizes & colors..I love to read, no matter what color the author. As someone else posted, Terry McNillian is great for beach reading..I’ve tired to read a couple of books by Eric Jerome Dickey & couldn’t quiet get into his style..P.G. County by Connie Briscoe sounds like a great book,I’ll have to look for it..Also, Your Blues Ain’t Like Mine. Black or white, hope all have a great day…

By SharonH

February 21, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

I hate to seem like a book snob but I can’t bring myself to enjoy Eric Jerome Dickey even as a guilty pleasure. There’s a reason the same writers are evoked all the time: they are the best. Zora Neale Hurston’s “Their Eyes Were Watching God” still makes me cry when I read it.

I will however admit to enjoying Terry McMillan’s books. When I read “Jubilee” by Margaret Walker a few years ago, it was an amazing story but since then 2 or 3 people have written essentially the same story. And if you are interested in the crime noir genre, then who could forget Walter Mosely?

By Corey

February 21, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Jeff, speaking of privilege - I’m a retired Air Force officer with a Buckhead address. How have you served this great nation? Pecking out venemous tirades don’t count. Peace!

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Becky:

I love to read, no matter what color the author.

My point exactly. Welcome to enlightenment.

The fact that blacks continually have to point out ‘that man doing that is black’ (whether the thing in question is good or bad) speaks FAR more to their racism than anything else.

By Phil Kloer

February 21, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Rusty and other: I know that blogs on racial topics on ajc.com sometimes turn into ugly mud-slinging. I’m not naive. But I have seen subjects like this stay relatively on-topic. I’m sad this one has had trouble. Again. People. Chill. Post discussions of books.

By SharonH

February 21, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Kate, I really enjoyed “Makes Me Wanna Holla” many years ago although I felt he was a little unfair towards Southerners. I also laughed out loud at his women troubles; typical man, a lot of his problems were of his own making.

By Jessalyn Anglin

February 21, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

I will cheat and pick three in one: Three Classic African American Novels: Clotel, Or The President’s Daughter by William Wells Brown, Iola Leroy, Or Shadows Uplifted by Frances E. W. Harper, and The Marrow of Tradition by Charles W. Chesnutt. Beyond being compelling stories, all three of these novels were written during times when blacks had little or no access to education. All three should definitely be required reading for all Americans.

By Hick from the Sticks

February 21, 2008 11:35 AM | Link to this

Anyone?

I’m still waiting for a discussion on Eric Jerome Dickey. Read the post I put up at…

oh…

9:32 am.

By BC

February 21, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

I absolutely LOOOOVE Edwidge Danticat, especially Breath, Eyes, Memory and Krik Krak. She is an excellent storyteller and her characters have such depth not seen in contemporary authors today. Eric Jerome Dickey is too much soft porn and not storytelling that I’ve never been able to finish any of his books.

By Kate

February 21, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Sharon, did I miss something? It has probably been about five years since I read Holla, but I can’t remember anything funny about it. The way women were portrayed in this book was chilling—profound disrespect, objectified to the n-th degree. He describes “pulling trains” which were, in fact, out and out rape.

His palpable anger was disturbing and there did not seem to be even a sliver of light or hope in his writing. I wonder what his new fiction book is like. Has anyone read it?

By SharonH

February 21, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

????? Hick? What would you like us to say? Several have written to say that we don’t enjoy Eric Jerome Dickey although none have elaborated. I imagine that the reasons are varied: from not liking the writing style to not liking the subject matter.

I don’t know that the concept of Black literateure is supposed to gain understanding of the Black community per se. The writers are storytellers. Period. Perhaps some have that goal in mind, others do not. EJD is fiction and as far as I know, his work is not intended to teach one about the Black community. Why would anyone attempt to use that author’s works in particular to gain an understanding?

By SharonH

February 21, 2008 11:50 AM | Link to this

Kate, it’s been closer to 15 years since I read Nate McCall’s book and I confess I forgot about that part of it. I was referring to his relationship with his second wife, Debbie I think. He seemed to blame her for “trapping” him with a pregnancy and he viewed himself as a victim of her manipulation when he was clearly just as much to blame. I was laughing at him.

As for the anger, you’re right. At the time I was in a place when that spoke to me although I confess that I have moved past that stage in my life. I don’t remember it being so hopeless but then again it’s been a long time.

By Cece

February 21, 2008 11:52 AM | Link to this

Commenters: Please IGNORE Jeff

On topic: I’m amazed only one person mentions Walter Mosley. His books are fantastic. They are great reads and very intricate. You must pay attention to every word your’re reading because it will all come back to you in the end. No other writer does mystery like him.

By Hick from the Sticks

February 21, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Sharon—

Ultimately, that would be my argument, particularly with so many black teenage females reading his novels. While I am the last to call for censorship of any material, surely one novel about love traingles followed by another has gotten tiring by now, at best.

One of my ladies politely inquired as to what else she should read.

I pointed her in the neighborhood of Soulja’s “Coldest Winter Ever”.

By Corey

February 21, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

Sorry Phil, you’re right. I especially like Ms. Hurston’s works because she was a brilliant writer who wrote folk literature. She was a pioneer who paved the way, not only for the household names we hear today - Be Be Moore Campbell et. al., but women authors in general. Ms. Hurston’s accomplishments are commendable because she overcame great obstacles at a time when it was virtually impossible for any woman to make her mark in a man’s world. She gave much credit to the great anthropologist, Fran Boaz, whom she studied under at Amherst.

By ROL

February 21, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

WOW!!! Why are we so angry? What’s your favorite African-American author? Goodness.

It’s a toss up for me because I love to ready everything.

Hope everyone has a good day!

By Jeff HATER

February 21, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

JEFF SHUT THE HECK UP! GET A LIFE!!! Leave this blog alone! There always has to be one bad apple that tries to spoil the bunch… YOU ARE NOT WELCOME IN THIS BLOG!

By SharonH

February 21, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Hick, I wouldn’t worry too much about teenaged girls reading EJD. When I was a teen, I read Harlequin romances over and over again. The same unrealistic love story told with different names. Fortunately I read some classics in between both assigned in school and on my own. As we grow older and evolve, our tastes change.

Nw as for “Coldest Winter Ever”……talk about hopeless. What does one get from that story? I don’t know that I would even recommend it because I don’t believe there is really a lesson to be learned. It’s not about people making bad choices, it’s about the lives of deadbeats and sociopaths. It’s a glimpse into a violent, hopeless world but I’m not sure that there is anything to gain from reading it. Your view?

By Jeff HATER

February 21, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

In response to Jeff’s comment “At least Malcolm X was honest about his racism towards whites.” In the later part of his life Malcolm X denounced his recist views of white people. Before commenting on his beliefs READ the MAN’s autobiographhy! The actual words that came OUT of his mouth!!! Malcolm X matured and realized the error of his thinking…in the SIXTIES! When are you gonna mature!? GET OUT OF THIS BLOG PLEASE!

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

Hater:

I see you’ve been living in darkness for quite a while, maybe your whole life.

How do I know this? Your reaction gave you away.

Truth has a bad habit of being an ULTRA bright light. It can produce a physical pain sensation when you encounter it, very similar to the following scenario:

Go into a pitch black room. I mean so dark you can’t see your hand 3 inches in front of your face. Wait about 15 minutes so that your eyes have fully adjusted as much as possible to the darkness. Shine a 3 million candlepower flashlight behind your back, with the light going away from you. Even THAT sensation is painful. Now repeat the situation, but shine the flashlight directly into your eyes. The pain is EXCRUCIATING. Same thing happens on a mental/emotional/spiritual level when confronted with truth. Truth anywhere near you hurts. Truth directly in your eyeballs feels like it is about to kill you.

But your reaction is why I don’t get mad at people who ‘hate’ me. One day, they’ll either wake up and realize truth for what it is, or they will die in the darkness.

My job is to simply try to put your hand on the latch of the door to the truth.

By hotlanta

February 21, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

My favorites are: There Eyes Where Watching God Sugar (must read) Hot Johnny and the Women Who Love Him Demonic Genius (Story of Richard Wright) Black Boy Sula’s Bed Autobiography of Malcolm X Bad Blood BullWhip-Slave Narratives Joy A Women’s Place Iceberg Slim The Big Sea Linden Hills Black Voices (Volumes I & II) Coldest Winter Ever Wild Women Don’t Wear No Blues

By Ramona

February 21, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Hey y’all. I just visited dictionary.com to look up the definition of DOGMATIC. It says “tending to force one’s own opinions on other people”. Take the hint Jeff.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Jeff, huuuhh. (exasperated sigh)

Anyway, is there anyone whose going to admit that they like Zane’s novels? Hahaha! Just thought I would inject a little humor.

By hotlanta

February 21, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Yall leave Jeff alone. He is just p** because he couldn’t make the payments of $83.65 on his trailer home for 3 months.

By c mitchell

February 21, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

my favs: Native Son by Richard Wright and Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison.

By Brooke

February 21, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

This is message is for Corey—-relax my man—asking about favorite African American authors is no different than asking about favorite anything else. Most of those authors write for and about a specific culture of people…and we “racist” people as you called us look to read about content for-about-and by us. I take no issue with Jewish authors or anyone else who writes about their community. BTW—I also read books by white and asian authors.

By Hick from the Sticks

February 21, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Sharon—

Forgive me for overlooking the Harlequin novels. My poor mother would be mortified at my forgetfulness. :)

Perhaps my willingess to share Winter with my young lady was that she was heading down for some of those similar errors. If nothing else, perhaps shades of the ghost of doomsday future.

For similar reasons, I had also suggested Nathan McCall.

I did lay off the Iceberg Slim novels, though. :)

Besides, when I taught in that now infamous county, (Don’t act. Y’all know exactly which one I’m referring to.) we didn’t have much more of a hopeless situation.

As a matter of fact, she had helped see the error of her ways, and has since graduated from Georgia State. Poor lamb. She actually wants to be a teacher as well. :)

Was it the novel? Probably not. Was it me? God, I hope not. I’m not a role model.

Was it EJD?

Highly doubtful. :)

By c mitchell

February 21, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

my favs: Native Son by Richard Wright and Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison.

By E

February 21, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

I don’t have one, I have several here are some of them:

Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

The Invsible Man by Ralph Ellison

Native Son by Richard Wright Black Boy, Richard Wright

The Souls of Black Folk by W.E.B DuBois

Cane by Jean Toomer

The MisEducation of the Negro by Carter G Woodson A MUST READ

The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley

I May Not Get There with You: The True Martin Luther King, Jr. by Michael Eric Dyson

Soul on Ice by Eldridge Cleaver

By Vee

February 21, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Anyway, is there anyone whose going to admit that they like Zane’s novels?

Oops. “Whose” should be “who’s”.

By Tisch

February 21, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

In reading these posts, I’ve been reminded of great books I read ages ago, like Their Eyes We’re Watching God and Manchild in the Promised Land, which is truly a precursor to Nathan McCall’s Makes Me Wanna Holler. Also by Ms. Hurston, I enjoyed Jonah’s Gourd Vine. I discovered Richard Wright when I was in the 9th grade, and Black Boy and its sequel American Hunger kept me up nights long after I’d read them. His writing, bred from his personal experiences as they were an autobiographical account, seared into my mind images and words that haunted me beyond measure. Now that is a sign of an incredible writer.

There are a few more contemporary authors I enjoy, but I cannot get into the urban sprawl novels that dabble in soft and hardcore porn when it comes to detailing affection among the characters. Eric Jerome Dickey, Omar Tyree, and Zane write, in my opinion, for their audiences rather than for love of the craft itself and the insane need to tell a story. That’s why I appreciate the literary fiction of folks like Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Bernice McFadden, Lawrence Hill, and Edward Jones. You can write a love scene that is not sexually graphic, and still be able to keep the interest of your reader all the same. That’s where skill comes in. The love scenes in Another Country and Baldwin’s other masterpiece, If Beale Street Could Talk, are simply amazing and lovely and touching. It’s the intent behind the writing that makes some writers sound like over eager teenagers dying to catch someone’s eye.

By Peri

February 21, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this

Man, is Jeff gonna be p** when Sen. Obama is elected POTUS. That should have your raggedy @ss moving North to Canada — right, Jeff?

LOL!

By Aurora

February 21, 2008 1:38 PM | Link to this

Well, I have to say that way back in junior high school (mid 70’s) that I read a book, that completely opened my eyes with regarding to blacks and other races.

AJC will probably * this out, but the name of the book was N****, written by Dick Gregory.

As a white girl at the time, living in a very white city, this book opened my eyes to other races. Best damn book I have EVER read.

Also, The Color Purple……

By Vee

February 21, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler and **Mama Day by Gloria Naylor are great reads.

By Aurora

February 21, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

Well, I have to say that way back in junior high school (mid 70’s) that I read a book, that completely opened my eyes with regarding to blacks and other races.

AJC will probably * this out, but the name of the book was N****, written by Dick Gregory.

As a white girl at the time, living in a very white city, this book opened my eyes to other races. Best damn book I have EVER read.

Also, The Color Purple……

By Aurora

February 21, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this

Well, I have to say that way back in junior high school (mid 70’s) that I read a book, that completely opened my eyes with regarding to blacks and other races.

AJC will probably * this out, but the name of the book was N****, written by Dick Gregory.

As a white girl at the time, living in a very white city, this book opened my eyes to other races. Best damn book I have EVER read.

Also, The Color Purple……

By Vee

February 21, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Parable of the Sower” by Octavia Butler and **Mama Day by Gloria Naylor are great reads.

By Jeff Jr

February 21, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

When Osama Hussein is elected by the liberal parasites yall gonna finally stop with “the man is keepin me down?”

By khaya

February 21, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

Jeff - I am not sure which US you live in! Give me a break, February is the shortest month of the year! You should really get it together! Look back in your geneology and I bet your slave owner great great grandfather had some children with one of his female slaves for which you are a product of. Now, just because you may have been mistreated by one black or a couple of black people does not mean we are all like this. Now, historically white schools could advertise their legacy becuase it is just that, their legacy! Just as when we as blacks were denied the right to learn as white americans were we built and began our own colleges, thus historically black. Now if you are angry because you see more blacks at these “historically white” colleges, don’t be! These students have the right to learn and be a part of the collegate experience also.

Now if you really want to get on racism, tell me why you see more races and nationalities involved in historically black sororities and fraternities than you do in the white soro’s and frats????

You really need a reality check!

Actually, I love Zane, Eric Jerome, E. Lynn Harris, Toni Morrison, and many others.

I think we all have to be well versed in different types of reading. Especially when we have children because we have to know what they are reading. Someone gave my mother in law “addicted” and did not know the context of the book. Boy were they embarrased and shocked when she called them to tell them what it was about!

By hotlanta

February 21, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

Naw Tisch the love scene in Sugar under the oak tree was so deep I had to close the book and catch my breath chile. I forgot about the Soul of Black Folks and also Kane. My daughter had me going around the world to find Kimmet. It is one book that I have about black comedy throughout the years signed by Melvin Walker that is definately a must read. The lives of Satchel Page,Marvin Gaye and Hattie McDaniel was very interesting. James Balwin books are very good reading also. But if you guys read about Hot Johnny you will just say whoa when you get to the end. Anybody read the N-Word by Dick Gregory and the Baraka reader.

By Travon'

February 21, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

Oh snap dog my fav is “Oprah Winfrey presents(fill in space).

By sillyoldjeff

February 21, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Jeff has issues…need a job Jeff? My African American Father that owns a car lot needs a salesman….

By Tia

February 21, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

“A Day Late and a Dollar Short” by McMillan is my favorite book!

But Pearl Cleage is a my favorite author. She’s BRILLIANT and I love how she tells a story.

I like Eric J. Dickey and have read all of his books. But I don’t consider him to be a great writer. Perhaps, he’s a good storyteller with an imagination but he’s not in the same league as McMillan or Cleage.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:09 PM | Link to this

So, Obama can count on your vote, Jeff?

Carl Webber has a few interesting novels for those who like don’t-stop-get-it-get-it type books.

By Lily Toad

February 21, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

A couple of my favorites have already been listed, but I’ll list mine any way:

Jubilee by Margaret Walker The Street by Ann Petrie Sassafrass, Cypress and Indigo by Ntozake Shange Sally Hemings by Barbara Chase-Riboud (currently reading) Queen by Alex Haley Douglass’s Women by Jewel Parker Rhodes Kindred by Octavia Butler Mama Day by Gloria Naylor My Soul to Keep by Tananarive Due

I really like historical fiction, as you can see from my list, but some of the above are also thrillers or science fiction. My Soul to Keep is one book I just couldn’t put down for the last 100 or so pages.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

So, Obama can count on your vote, Jeff?

Carl Webber has a few interesting novels for those who like don’t-stop-get-it-get-it type books.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

So, Obama can count on your vote, Jeff?

Carl Webber has a few interesting novels for those who like don’t-stop-get-it-get-it type books.

By Lily Toad

February 21, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this

A couple of my favorites have already been listed, but I’ll list mine any way:

Jubilee by Margaret Walker The Street by Ann Petrie Sassafrass, Cypress and Indigo by Ntozake Shange Sally Hemings by Barbara Chase-Riboud (currently reading) Queen by Alex Haley Douglass’s Women by Jewel Parker Rhodes Kindred by Octavia Butler Mama Day by Gloria Naylor My Soul to Keep by Tananarive Due

I really like historical fiction, as you can see from my list, but some of the above are also thrillers or science fiction. My Soul to Keep is one book I just couldn’t put down for the last 100 or so pages.

By marcus

February 21, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

howard thurman (anything)

By AvidReader

February 21, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

My favorite fiction book by an African American author is “Gonna Lay Down my Burdens” by Mary Monroe. Monroe is full of surprises. She’s one of only a few writers who can hold my suspense and doesn’t offer cookie-cutter endings or happily ever afters. Luv her!!!

By marcus

February 21, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

howard thurman (anything)

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Actually, while my vote is going to a man who believes in Limited Government, the Cosntitution, and Individual Liberty/ Personal Responsibility- in other words, a TRUE conservative, not the RINOs the Republican Party tries to tell us are ‘conservative’ - I am kinda hoping Hussein Osama wins. Four years of that man will be as close to HADES on earth as any sane person wants to get, and we will then be able to elect a true conservative to save us in the 11th hour.

Remember, the same trash that supports that man is also the originators of such fine pieces of culture as ‘Mutha Uf the Police’, ‘Crank Dat’, and ‘Lean Wit it Rock Wit it’. (DRIPPING sarcasm for those that can’t tell already…) Think the materialism and selfishness in this country is bad right now? Put a black at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Y’all aint seen NOTHIN yet.

By sunshine

February 21, 2008 2:23 PM | Link to this

My favorites are “The Coldest Winter Ever- Sister Souljah”; “Flyy Girl” Omar Tyree and all of Pearl Cledge’s books esp. What Looks like Crazy..”. I used to be a big fan of EJD , I like some of his earlier work, but I’ve stayed away from his stuff and a lot of contemporary fiction lately. Sometimes it just seems like contemporary AA fiction is all about drama, drama, drama or it glorifies hood life, so I broaden my reading scope. Recently I’ve enjoyed Them by Nathan McCall and White Lines by Tracy Brown.

By Denise

February 21, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

This “Jeff” guy just wants attention…please do not give it to him. I am happy to see some of my favorite writers listed in the reponses; My current favorite is J. California Cooper. Her stories are amazing..and I always want more. I can’t leave out Walter Mosley..love him, love him, love him!

By hotlanta

February 21, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this

Lily I am so glad you mentioned Anne Petrie I have several of her books. Anybody read the book Gal. That grandfather was a hot mess. One book that made me cry was Hottentaut Venus by Barbara Chase-Riboud. I have the book Brotherman, The Anthology on my nightstand. I can read it over and over again. Anybody remember Breaking Ice.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Thought provoking on slow days AND just controversial enough (only due to the PCing of America and he’s an independent thinker) to cause the occassional 100+ post day.

What more could you ask for in a regular contributor?

By Mary

February 21, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Jeff First of all, Barack Obama’s father was black and Muslim. His mother is white and christian. His father left the family when Barack was around 2 years old. He was raised by a white mother, in Hawaii, where he lived numerous years. He even attended the University of Hawaii.

His father was never really a part of his life, and he died before he ever got to really know him, so he was unable to teach the Muslim religion.

Now, one of the problems I have with Mr. Obama is he considers himself black, as does Halle Berry, both of whom have been raised by WHITE mothers. I have a mixed child, whose father is black, and she considers herself white. She is being raised by a white mother, with white relatives. Her black father (as is typical of black men) ran away when she was born. I’m certainly not complaining, as I love this child with all my heart. However, personally it bothers me when one is of mixed heritage, but only considers themselves of ONE heritage.

Remember, we all came from the same place, and we will all end up in the same place. Except I think there may be a “special” place for you somewhere.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

Posters:

Do NOT reply to the above. It is saturated with assininity.

Although “The Color Purple” is my all-time favorite movie, I just can’t get into the book as much. The book, however, does give the “Mister” character more depth.

By Marilyn

February 21, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

Tananarive Due’s My Soul to Keep and its sequel, The Living Blood, are my favorites. I think she’s among today’s most creative novelists. Her other books, The Good House and Joplin’s Ghost, are not to be missed either. My book club loved them all.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

Posters:

Do NOT reply to the above. It is saturated with assininity.

Although “The Color Purple” is my all-time favorite movie, I just can’t get into the book as much. The book, however, does give the “Mister” character more depth.

By Lily Toad

February 21, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

I loved Hottentot Venus also, and thought about adding it to my list. It was the first book I read by Ms. Chase-Riboud. I’ve been looking for, and recently found, in a used book store, Sally Hemings.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

*Do NOT reply to the above. It is saturated with assininity.”

This was meant for the 2:19 post.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

*Do NOT reply to the above. It is saturated with assininity.”

This was meant for the 2:19 post.

By Vee

February 21, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this

*Do NOT reply to the above. It is saturated with assininity.”

This was meant for the 2:19 post.

By Literature Lover

February 21, 2008 2:46 PM | Link to this

So in the spirit of actually staying on topic and not responding to ignorant comments clearly made to upset blogggers and bring attention to someone who is otherwise irrelevant, I will name some of my favorites. The Bluest eye (Morrison), Their Eyes Were Watching God (Neal Hurston), Quicksand & Passing (Larsen), The Street (Petry), Song of Solomon (Morrison). I was an English major in college and by far one of my favorite classes was African American female writers.

By khaya

February 21, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this

You are very sad Jeff….. I hope you get some help…. please don’t teach these things to your children because then they will turn out just like you….a hater

By Keepitreal

February 21, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

Hick - as with all things we have to take the good with the bad. Unfortunately in all genres, sex sells.

Jeff - If we didn’t toot our own horn who would????? You? I think not.

Others - My fav “African American” authors are Pearl Cleage; some Walter Mosley; TD Jakes; Alice Walter, Bebe Moore Campbell; Connie Briscoe, Langston Hughes…

By Cece

February 21, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

Her black father (as is typical of black men) ran away when she was born.

Mary, please do not lump all black men in that category. Just because you got burned (and I empathize), don’t think that all black men are the same. My father has been wonderful to me throughout my life. He never abandoned me and has always been there for me.

Also, your comment about your child identifying herself as white but personally it bothers me when one is of mixed heritage, but only considers themselves of ONE heritage is a contradiction. If you want your child to identify with both heritages, teach her that all black men aren’t deserters. Teach her that she comes from two races with rich histories and that there’s more to her than her skin tone.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Keepitreal:

As long as race is a factor FOR ANYTHING, there WILL be racism in this country.

You want racism to end? Start by making the black community stop bringing race up every 2 milliseconds.

As far as ‘tooting your own horn’: If you want to celebrate individuals as great individuals in their field, I am fully behind you. IF, however, you celebrate only those of a particular race, I will be against you.

An individual is great because of their work, not their race.

For example: Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson are two of the greatest actors I’ve ever had the privilege of watching a movie featuring. Notice I didn’t say that Morgan Freeman was a great black actor or that Jack Nicholson was a great white actor. They are simply great actors, and race has NOTHING to do with it.

On the same token, I think that Cowboy Troy and Big and Rich are two of the most entertaining musical acts out there right now. Again, I didn’t say that Cowboy Troy was a great black entertainer nor did I say that Big and Rich are great white entertainers. They are simply great entertainers and race has nothing to do with it.

Most whites I know would make similar statements, though they might not cite the particular individuals I did.

Most blacks I know would only list Morgan Freeman and Cowboy Troy, and then because they are BLACK entertainers.

To me, it cheapens the achievement if you have to throw race into it.

And the same goes for the topic of this blog re: black authors. An author is either great or not. Race has nothing to do with it.

By Cece

February 21, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Jeff, Are you going to make the same arguments next month for Women’s History Month or in September for Hispanic Heritage Month? I’d just like to know in advance so I’ll know when to ignore your tirades.

By Jeff

February 21, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Cece:

Here’s a hint:

SE Hinton was a GREAT author whose most famous work is The Outsiders.

What sex is this author? Does it matter?

By Hick from the Sticks

February 21, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Keepitreal:

Message recieved loud and clear.

I understand the adage, but do you understand where the assumptions (and outright stereotypes) from people outside of the black community would make upon the same community?

I’m no fan. I understand that he is one author out of many. I get that. It just seems his writing is intended to glorify his pocket. Nothing more, nothing less.

But hey, God bless this great nation for allowing him the freedom to do so, yes? :)

G’night from the trailer park, folks.