Description:
The essays in this volume offer access to some of the most innovative contemporary black fiction in America and address important issues in current African American literary studies. Distinguished scholars join writers and younger scholars to explore the work of Toni Morrison, Edward P. Jones, Trey Ellis, Paul Beatty, Mat Johnson, Kyle Baker, Danzy Senna, Nikki Turner, and many others. Together these essays make the case that diversity, innovation, and canon expansion are essential to maintaining the vitality of African American literary studies.
Review Quotes:
"A compelling collection of essays on the ongoing relevance of African American literature to our collective understanding of American history, society, and culture. Featuring a wide array of writers from all corners of the literary academy, the book will have national appeal and offer strategies for teaching African American literature in colleges and universities across the country."--Gene Jarrett, Boston University
"Highly recommended."--Choice
"[This book describes] a fruitful tension that brings scholars of major reputation together with newly emerging critics to explore the full range of literary activities that have flourished in the post-Civil Rights era. Notable are such popular influences as hip-hop music and Oprah Winfrey's Book Club . . ."--AMERICAN LITERARY SCHOLARSHIP 2013