african americans in literature

Over "230 essays describe the works of 135 African-American authors from the eighteenth century to the present[1994]...including works by literary figures of the Harlem Renaissance"--Publisher's catalog.

An examination and study of the novel Native son and why it holds a singular position in American literature.

A collection of essays which analyze the life and works of author Langston Hughes, and the impact his writing had on history and society.

Traces the influences of traditional oral forms such as folktales, riddles, idiom, jazz rhythms, spirituals, and blues on the development of African American literature.

A biography of Virginia Hamilton, the African American writer whose children's literature received the highest possible awards during her lifetime, including the Newbery and the Hans Christian Andersen Award.

Provides detailed bibliographies of works by and about nine African-American authors, accompanied by brief biographical sketches.