The Souls of Black Folk

By: W. E. B. Du Bois

Narrated by: Mirron Willis

Length: 8 hrs and 33 mins

Publisher's summary

“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)

Artistry!!!

I listened to this book after listening to Booker T Washington's "Up from Slavery" because I wanted to know more about these great men. My eyes were opened W.E.B. DuBois let us peek at the soul crushing ways poverty and racism change people. In addition I have discovered he was a real artist, unlike Booker T Washington a pragmatist. I loved DuBois used language in his prose. I now understand his more radical at that time attitude toward black people obtaining political and human rights because the artist soul can't be contained. I encourage readers to read both books and discover the genius of both these different men.

a Harlem renaissance take on America 1903.

it was a little cryptic at times. very poetic. but dubois was far ahead of his time in insight and prophesy. to think he knew all of this over 100 years ago and people are all trying to discover this today.

words of now

the prophetic words can be transferred to the time now, it give you something consider

Very powerful

it is a very empowering book that deserves to be read or heard by everyone. Mr. Du Bois painted and very clear picture and in a very open and intelligent way the soul of black folks.

Great Book. Dont give up on the read

Would you consider the audio edition of The Souls of Black Folk to be better than the print version?

I think that this book in particular was difficult to read via audio. The complex vocabulary had me pausing alot and finding definitions of the words used. In all however the book was very good and informative.

What was the most compelling aspect of this narrative?

The most compelling aspect of this narrative was the stark relation to issues that African Americans are facing today. It is a little sad that after how far we have come as a people, we are STILL dealing with intense prejudice, discrimination, and racism. This aspect has shown me that African - American people have alot longer to go in this fight for equality and respect in America

What do you think the narrator could have done better?

I think the narrator could have been a little less monotone, and could have given the book a little more personality

a must read, great American book.

I love the truth no matter how harsh. Therefore I didn't struggle to finish it. we must hold ourselves and others accountable if we strive to improve as a people and nation. W. E. B. DuBois was an ellaquint learned man and knew that he spoke to generations to come.

amazing beyond words

some if the best written word I've experienced. unique and groundbreaking writing. highly recommend! *****

Exceptional listening experience

I should have read this book ages ago. I feel more awakened as many of the issues raised in this book are still occurring in 2019

Great way to read

Great voice. This was an awesome way to reread this book. Beautiful and still relevant especially now

Must read for anyone interested in understanding America at its core

The Souls of Black Folk is the most insightful reading I have completed thus far on my quest to better understand my own history and the story of how we ended here in 2021. Dubois fills in the gaps between the civil war and 1898 masterfully. Reconstruction is the most impactful failure this country has ever experienced, especially for black America. There is a direct line between modern human suffering in black communities and the abject failure of this era. At times, other than Dubois’ writing style, you could believe his words are describing a much more recent history. Give this title a read, you won’t regret it.