Bartlett's Familiar Black Quotations

A comprehensive collection of the most thoughtful, inspiring, and wisest voices from the Black diaspora across history.

“It is not only the most comprehensive book of quotations from black thinkers over some five,zero years of recorded history, but it also possesses something no other book of quotations quite does: a potent and sweeping narrative arc. It is possible to consume this book avidly from end to end.” —Dwight Garner, New York Times

Bartlett’s Familiar Black Quotations paints a rich canvas of Black history through time. Five thousand quotes are culled from the time of Ancient Egypt through American slavery, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Era, Apartheid, to the present day. With a foreword by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. and passages from authors, artists, scientists, philosophers, theologians, activists, politicians, and many others, Bartlett’s Familiar Black Quotations will appeal not only to quote aficionados and researchers, but also to history buffs. Aesop’s Fables and the Holy Bible are in the same company as Nelson Mandela and President Obama; Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison; Bob Marley and Jay-Z.

A wonderful reference tool and gift, Bartlett's Familiar Black Quotations is sure to follow in the footsteps of Bartlett's Familiar Quotations, becoming a beloved authority.

“An impressively researched and documented collection of the finest thought produced by writers throughout the African Diaspora. A magnificent achievement.” —Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

“A meaty, motley collection… . . . The more time I spent with the book, the more deeply I was drawn.” —Gene Demby, NPR

“This useful and hefty source is recommended for all collections.” —Booklist