The Souls of Black Folk

By: W. E. B. Du Bois

Narrated by: Mirron Willis

“The problem of the twentieth century is the problem of the color line,” writes Du Bois, in one of the most prophetic works in all of American literature. First published in 1903, this collection of 15 essays dared to describe the racism that prevailed at that time in America—and to demand an end to it. Du Bois’ writing draws on his early experiences, from teaching in the hills of Tennessee, to the death of his infant son, to his historic break with the conciliatory position of Booker T. Washington.

Du Bois received a doctorate from Harvard in 1895 and became a professor of economics and history at Atlanta University. His dynamic leadership in the cause of social reform on behalf of his fellow blacks anticipated and inspired much of the black activism of the 1960s.

The Souls of Black Folk is a classic in the literature of civil rights.

William Edward Burghardt Du Bois (1868–1963) was one of the greatest African American intellectuals - a sociologist, historian, novelist, and activist whose astounding career spanned the nation’s history from Reconstruction to the civil rights movement. Born in Massachusetts and educated at Fisk, Harvard, and the University of Berlin, his masterpiece remains his most studied and popular work. Its insights into black life at still ring true today.

Public Domain (P)2010 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

“Thanks to W. E. B. Du Bois’ commitment and foresight—and the intellectual excellence expressed in this timeless literary gem—black Americans can today look in the mirror and rejoice in their beautiful black, brown, and beige reflections.” (Amazon.com review)

Amazing rendition

Mirron Willis' reading captures Du Bois' eloquence and simmering anger at injustice. Well worth a listen.

Enlightened!!!!

It made me think, after listening to it for the 2nd time. I deeply appreciated it!!! I hope others will consider this book. I plan on listening to it again.

Historical

A friend read this. I didn't realize it was from the time of reconstruction. It would help a historian. What the author said of Booker T Washington was insightful. The author mentioned how unscrupulous Jews swept in after the Civil War. It had some narrative/historical description and a bit of precepts about helping the negro population. The best quote was about knowing our fellow men.

Important historic sketch frames current problems

Wonderfully written, detailed narrative of the history that frames the absence of generational wealth, the current problems of racial bias in policing, and the problems of cultural racism.

should be required reading

Powerfully told historical reality....achingly sad that so little has changed. Read, learn, labor for justice.

Very touching

I sought after this book because Barack Obama had mentioned it in his memoir and I was not disappointed at all. The voice of this great man lifted me up and took me on a curious journey. A journey in time and space where I was able to stand back and look, listen and learn how my forebears lived their lives. How hope and prayer mingled with sorrow and tears carried them over to the river of their soul. It was a somber realization of the facts of life, the hopelessness and despair , the travesty of injustice and the evil of the human heart. I was touched and moved from deep within and I was overcome by a deep sorrow , that was lined with hope.

A MUST READ FOR ALL IN THE DIASPORA

The narrator at times seemed too affected causing the story to feel over dramatized. The thoughtfulness that went into writing this book displays the duality of being Black in America, perfectly. It's simple to understand why sometimes we don't know if we should stay or go elsewhere.

red Caesar

this book was not only well written but it also help me personally identify with people I at age 25 still face today in 2016

An Important Read!

W.E.B. Du Bois transported me back in time with The Souls of Black Folk. This book captures the lives of early Black America as an observer of all matters.

A Must Read For All Black People Living In America

Excellent narration which brings to life a rich history of an amazing people. Read and share!