Encyclopedia of Black Folklore and Humor Book

As J. Mason Brewer writes in his introduction, this classic volume is "a landmark contribution to Black Americana." From the hundreds of humorous tales, anecdotes, biographies, recipes, musical selections, and historical notations included in this well-rounded social history, a pattern revealing a new, socially-minded African-American unfolds.

Through the encyclopedia's seven sections--Long Night of Bondage, Plantation to Emancipation, Parables in Black, A People Sing, Poets' Corner, Turn of the Century, and The New Breed--the African American emerges from a once confined and submerged plantation-type into a new heroic figure marching forward with pride.