Not Without Laughter

By: Langston Hughes

Narrated by: Jaime Lincoln Smith

Not Without Laughter is drawn in part from the author's own recollections of youth and early manhood.

This stirring coming-of-age tale unfolds in 1930s rural Kansas. A poignant portrait of African-American family life in the early twentieth century, it follows the story of young Sandy Rogers as he grows from a boy to a man. We meet Sandy's mother, Annjee, who works as a housekeeper for a wealthy white family; his strong-willed grandmother, Hager; Jimboy, Sandy's father, who travels the country looking for work; Aunt Tempy, the social climber; and Aunt Harriet, the blues singer who has turned away from her faith.

A fascinating chronicle of a family's joys and hardships, Not Without Laughter is a vivid exploration of growing up and growing strong in a racially divided society. A rich and important work, it masterfully echoes the black American experience.

Public Domain (P)2022 Tantor

American Classic, Wonderful narration

American Classic, Wonderful narration - Labgston Hughes is a must read for understanding American history and culture.

A Story of History, Hope, and Encouragement

For some, the authentic language spoken by some of the characters may be off putting. However, the languatge still conveys the reasons behind the emotions, the dreams, the behaviors, and the actions taken that are the fallout of the harsh social conditions imposed on some citizens in the early 20th Century. Mr Hughes portrays the dispair as well as the hopes, the tears as well as the laughter, and the determination plus personal growth fueled by the defiance of social cruelty and injustice.
This story offers a window into the hearts and minds and lives of a people who have learned the value of laughter as a healing balm.
I loved the story!

great story to read

not a predictable book, very entertaining. The narration was excellent. I recommend for all. well done Mr Hughes

One of my favorite writers

Langston Hughes is a renowned author who doesn’t disappoint. This book is no exception. My goal is to read all of his work.

Thank you Mr. Hughes!

Love the characters as I would expect and truly loved the journey we were taken on with Sandy. So much rich history woven in to absorb if you are a history geek. Blues journeys, Jazz journeys, rail road history bleed in, speakeasy’s across the South mixed in, and a nod to The Great Migration. I totally enjoyed the journeys and the reminder that we have a great and rich history way beyond the history text in schools that we need to revisit occasionally to just relish in and enjoy.