The Souls of Black Folk

By: W.E.B. Du Bois

Narrated by: Walter Covell

Length: 8 hrs

Publisher's summary

W.E.B. Du Bois said, on the launch of his groundbreaking 1903 treatise, The Souls of Black Folk, "for the problem of the 20th century is the problem of the color-line", a prescient statement. Setting out to show to the audience "the strange meaning of being black here in the dawning of the 20th century", Du Bois explains the meaning of the emancipation, and its effect, and his views on the roles of the leaders of his race.

©1993 Jimcin Recordings (P)2004 Brian J. Killavey

Critic reviews

"The audio version of the classic work is also a stunning achievement. It is a moving experience to listen to Covell's interpretation. He reads as if he is Dubois. His bass voice matches the text so perfectly." (Kliatt)

Beautifully told

Information told that relates to now society but with literature so strong hard not to want to continue for each passing chapter.

Required Reading for Every American

I read this book as required reading in college, but did not fully appreciate the writing of its author until I listened to it on audible. The existence of the slave, negro and black people have evolved, but the essentials of America that nourishes the soul of our people is still lacking. This book captures all that has not evolved for our people, along with all that makes us strong, creative, and envied by others. No wonder they don’t want people to learn of our history…it brings shame upon them and fills them with fear that we rise against all odds each time.

Living History

This book was difficult to read as an African American, not because it was poorly written, but rather it is told from the aspect of one who was living with the tumultuous activity at the time. The reading was exceptional and the informative useful, but as it is history is sometimes a hard thing to listen to.

very enlightening for this white listener

However much I thought I understood about black experience, the stories and essays in this book have shown it to me in so much more depth. And now that another 100 years have passed, so much and so little has changed.

A Thin Line Between Then & Now

This book was magnificent it gives you a vivid detail of our ancestors who dealt with many chain of events. It's refreshing to see that even in their darkest times they remain hopeful.

19th century relevance for the 21st century!

I am greatful for this work that gives witness of a time many want to disclaim, discount and disillusion. Well done, j3

educational

the book told a good story and the narrator made it story interesting. it was not what I expected but surprisingly informative.

A very important work

Powerful words, beautifully crafted. Make no mistake - as relevant today as when it was written. Read this and Caste, to begin to understand the source and pain of racism and castism.

An eloquent & educational history

This is an amazing book - informing and inspiring. DuBois masterfully combines history, sociology, music, and poetry. His descriptions of the lives of Black (and White) people in the nineteenth-century U.S. are poignant and compassionate, his critiques are brilliant and courageous. His predictions of social injustice unrest arising from the failures of Reconstruction and continuing racial prejudice, were particularly wrenching. My only complaint is that Walter Covell read a little too fast - DuBois' prose is complex, as is the subject matter, and I got lost several times.

This epic book should not have a white narrator.

I have read this book before and decided to hear it recently on Audible. I googled the narrator and realized that he was a deceased white male. I think as we continue to say we want change, this is a good place to start.

Audible is it possible to re-record this book with a black voice?