The Forties

The Forties was a very transitional period for the United States and for African Americans. The Forties was marked by more African American enlisting in all branches of the military and the start of World War II. During this time period, African Americans were fighting for the right to enlist in combat roles in the armed forces. At this time, Blacks were primarily segregated and assigned only in noncombat roles. Whites responded to Black demands with lynchings, town burnings, and other forms of violence. The authors during this period continued the tradition of race and socially conscious writing. Literature with black themes of struggle, oppression, and daily life were often found in the works of the African American authors.

Davis, Allison, Burleigh B. Gardner, and Mary R. Gardner. "Deep South." The University of Chicago Press, 1941.

This book is a sociological study of African-Americans and whites in an area known as the "Deep South." This trio of authors take you on a social anthropological journey to learn about the Old City's economic and social structure. This book should be read because it provides a deeper look on the very nature of the South.

Franklin, John Hope. "The Free Negro In North Carolina (1790- 1860)." The University of North Carolina Press, 1943.

Join the author as he analyzes the free Negroes of North Carolina. Learn how the state was divided over the issue of equalization and gain some insight on how the state tried to make the free Negro a problem. This is a good book to read because it provides great historical background on the plight of early African-Americans. It is also an excellent addition to one's personal library.

Hurston, Zora Neale. "Seraph on the Suwanne." Scribner, 1948.

This novel is the story of a woman's quest to attain her self esteem and the love of her husband. Surprisingly, the main characters are poor whites. This book should be read because it an interesting look at a white family through the eyes of an African-American female writer.

Micheauz, Oscar. "The Masquerade." Book Supply Company Publishers, 1947.

This novel deals with the political arena that shaped the course of America. This novel deals with the situations that occurred around the time that the Dredd Scott decision was issued. This book goes deep into the minds of abolitionists and pro-slavery fighters. This novel should be read because it takes a thorough look at the American system of racism.

Motley, Willard. "Knock on any door." Appleton, 1947.

This is a realistic story of an Italian boy in Chicago whose early tendencies towards decency were beaten down by his contacts with life along Chicago's streets. He goes from an innocent man to a criminal who later died in the electric chair.This book should be read because it deals with the harsh realities of growing up on the streets.

Quarles, Benjamin. "Frederick Douglas." The Associated Publishers, Inc., 1948.

This reading is a perfect opportunity to learn about one of the greatest Negro slavery abolitioners of all times, Frederick Douglas. This book treats Frederick Douglas' career definitively. Come feast your eyes and your mind on what once was called "a splendid production" and learn more about the African-American plight for freedom and equality in an unchanging racist society.

Walker, Margaret. "For My People" Yale University Press, 1942.

This novel is a collection of three sections of poetry explaining the tension of the South. This collection of poetry speaks directly to blacks through folk ballads written in black dialect and draws heavily on folklore, and sonnets. This book should be read because it provides an African-American view of life in the South with comic relief and a touch of tragedy.

White, Walter Francis. "Rising Wing." Doubleday, 1945.

This collection of essays talks about the racism the Negro solider experienced overseas during the World War II. The essays reveals that race relations were better abroad than in the United States, and best in the front lines. In the essay, the author derives at the notion that American racism is similar to imperialistic domination. This work is painfully enlightening and would open the eyes of any narrow-minded individuals.

Wright, Richard. "Native Son." Harper and Row, 1940.

"Native Son" is the story of a young black male named Bigger Thomas. Bigger Thomas accidentally murders a white woman in Chicago and is sentenced to death. The protagonist doesn't come across as a sympathetic Negro which is why most critics that that this is a "classic novel." This book should be read because it addresses a lot of issues facing Blacks living in the ghetto such as hopelessness, rage and despair. If one feels the need to experience a powerful novel, "Native Son," would definitely suffice.

Yerby, Frank. "The Foxes of Harrow." Dial, 1946.

This novel tells the story of Stephen Fox's rise from the lower class to the upper class. It also deals with romance. This book should be read because it shows that there is hope and is an escape from the negative side of life. This book is packed with eye catchers and attention grabbers which is why it is definitely a must read book.

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