Most Popular Books by charles johnson

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One night in the antebellum South, a slaveowner and his African-American butler stay up to all hours drinking Madeira and playing cards. Finally, too besotted to face their respective wives, they drunkenly decide to switch places in each other''s beds. The result is a hilarious imbroglio and an offspring, Andrew Hawkins, whose life becomes the Oxherding Tale, a deliciously funny, bitterly ironic account of slavery, racism, oppression - and the African-American spirit - in the Old South. Through sexual escapades, picaresque adventures, and philosophical inquiry, young Hawkins walks the line between white and black worlds and comments wryly on marriage, human nature, slave catchers, and culture along the way.

This is a print of the 1927 reissued 4th edition of A General History of the Pirates - enhanced by the Arthur L. Hayward''s editorial touches.

"Were it not for the Buddhadharma, says Charles Johnson in his preface to Turning the Wheel, "I''m convinced that, as a black American and an artist, I would not have been able to successfully negotiate my last half century of life in this country. Or at least not with a high level of creative productivity." In this collection of provocative and intimate essays, Johnson writes of the profound connection between Buddhism and creativity, and of the role of Eastern philosophy in the quest for a free and thoughtful life. In 1926, W. E. B. Du Bois asked African-Americans what they would most want were the color line miraculously forgotten. In Turning the Wheel, Johnson sets out to explore this question by examining his experiences both as a writer and as a practitioner of Buddhism. He looks at basic Buddhist principles and practices, demonstrating how Buddhism is both the most revolutionary and most civilized of possible human choices. He discusses fundamental Buddhist practices such as the Eightfold Path, Taming the Mind, and Sangha and illuminates their place in the American Civil Rights movement. Johnson moves from spiritual guides to spiritual nourishment: writing. In essays touching on the role of the black intellectual, Uncle Tom''s Cabin, and Ralph Ellison, Johnson uses tools of Buddhist thinking to clarify difficult ideas. Powerful and revelatory, these essays confirm that writing and reading, along with Buddhism, are the basic components that make up a thoughtful life.

Short stories inspired by the history of slavery in America, by the National Book Award–winning author of Middle Passage. Nothing has had as profound an effect on American life as slavery. For blacks and whites alike, the experience has left us with a conflicted and contradictory history. Now, famed novelist Charles Johnson, whose Middle Passage won the National Book Award, presents a dozen tales of the effects and experience of slavery, each based on historical fact, and each about those Africans who arrived on our shores in shackles. From Martha Washington’s management of her slaves, bequeathed to her at the death of the first president, to a boy chained in the bowels of a ship plying the infamous passage from Africa to the South laden with human cargo, from a lynching in Indiana to a hunter of escaped slaves searching the Boston market for his quarry, from an early Quaker meeting exploring resettlement in Africa to the day after Emancipation—the voices, terrors, and savagery of slavery come vividly and unforgettably to life. “[These] highly detailed short historical fictions bring to life this most shameful period in our nation’s history.” —The New York Times Book Review

From National Book Award winner Charles Johnson, “the celebrated novelist, short story writer, screenwriter, and essayist…comes a small treasure, one to be read and considered and reread” (The New York Times Book Review), showcasing his incredible range and resonant voice. Charles Johnson’s Night Hawks presents an eclectic, masterful collection of stories tied together by Buddhist themes and displaying all the grace, heart, and insight for which he has long been known. Spanning genres from science fiction to realism, “Johnson’s writing, filled with the sort of long, layered sentences you can get happily lost in, conveys a kindness; a sense that all of us…have our own stories” (The Seattle Times). In “The Weave,” Ieesha and her boyfriend carry out a heist at the salon from which she has just been fired—coming away with thousands of dollars of merchandise in the form of hair extensions. “Night Hawks,” the titular story, draws on Johnson’s friendship with the late playwright August Wilson to construct a narrative about two writers who meet at night to talk. In “Kamadhatu,” a lonely Japanese abbot has his quiet world upended by a visit from a black American Buddhist whose presence pushes him toward the awakening he has long found elusive. “Occupying Arthur Whitfield,” about a cab driver who decides to rob the home of a wealthy passenger, reminds readers to be grateful for what they have. And “The Night Belongs to Phoenix Jones” combines the real-life story of a “superhero” in the city of Seattle with an invented narrative about an aging English professor who decides to join him. With precise, elegant, and moving language, Johnson creates an “arresting” array of “indelible moments that show Johnson to be a master of the short form” (Library Journal, starred review). Night Hawks is “a masterpiece…[that] ultimately offers a message of empowerment and hope” (Oprah.com).

Stirring and triumphant photographs taken by "LIFE" photographer Adelman evoke the heady days of the Civil Rights Movement when America faced its worst nightmare only a generation ago. Concluding on a note of celebration, the photographs reveal ever-increasing signs of racial reconciliation.

From the National Book Award-winning author of Middle Passage, a fearless fictional portrait of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his pivotal moment in American history. Set against the tensions of Civil Rights era America, Dreamer is a remarkable fictional excursion into the last two years of Martin Luther King Jr.''s life, when the political and personal pressures on this country''s most preeminent moral leader were the greatest. While in Chicago for his first northern campaign against poverty and inequality, King encounters Chaym Smith, whose startling physical resemblance to King wins him the job of official stand-in. Matthew Bishop, a civil rights worker and loyal follower of King, is given the task of training the smart and deeply cynical Smith for the job. In doing so, Bishop must face the issue of what makes one man great while another man can only stand in for greatness. Provocative, heartfelt, and masterfully rendered, Charles Johnson confirms yet again that he is one of the great treasures of modern American literature. Dr. Charles Johnson is a novelist, screenwriter, essayist, professional cartoonist and the Pollock Professor of English at the University of Washington. He is the author of more than sixteen books, including the PEN/Faulkner nominated story collection The Sorcerer''s Apprentice and the novel Middle Passage, for which he won the National Book Award.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. To ensure a quality reading experience, this work has been proofread and republished using a format that seamlessly blends the original graphical elements with text in an easy-to-read typeface. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

There is a fascination surrounding the subject of pirates and pirate lore that centers around the romanticized impression of lawless, brutal ruffians pillaging ships, hunting for gold and treasure, and traveling in massive ships waving the skull-and-bones flag. The golden age of piracy produced many grandiose and notorious characters whose incredible stories have found their way into this one-of-a-kind book. Originally published in 1735, The History and Lives of Notorious Pirates and Their Crews grippingly chronicles the adventures and misadventures of the most infamous pirates who ruled the high seas at the turn of the eighteenth century. From Captain Spriggs’ rampant use of torture on his victims, to Bartholomew Robert’s incredibly successful pirating career, Blackbeard’s legendary fearsome demeanor, and Captain Kidd’s tragic end, these truly enthralling stories of privateers turned bandits will leave readers on the edge of their seats. Though the author’s true identity is still debated, his book helped shape the very concept we hold of pirates today—influencing such writers as J. M. Barrie, Rafael Sabatini, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Skyhorse Publishing, as well as our Arcade imprint, are proud to publish a broad range of books for readers interested in history--books about World War II, the Third Reich, Hitler and his henchmen, the JFK assassination, conspiracies, the American Civil War, the American Revolution, gladiators, Vikings, ancient Rome, medieval times, the old West, and much more. While not every title we publish becomes a New York Times bestseller or a national bestseller, we are committed to books on subjects that are sometimes overlooked and to authors whose work might not otherwise find a home.

Manual of Taxidermy; A Complete Guide in Collecting and Preserving Birds and Mammals has been regarded as significant work throughout human history, and in order to ensure that this work is never lost, we have taken steps to ensure its preservation by republishing this book in a contemporary format for both current and future generations. This entire book has been retyped, redesigned, and reformatted. Since these books are not made from scanned copies, the text is readable and clear.

In these eight fables and allegorical tales, the author writes of the events of this world as influenced by spiritual or strongly cultural forces.

Dive into the turbulent waters of seafaring lore with ''Dead Men Tell No Tales - 60+ Pirate Novels, Treasure-Hunt Tales & Sea Adventure Classics,'' an anthology that navigates the thrilling high seas of pirate adventures, treasure hunts, and seafaring exploits. This collection is an eclectic compendium of stories, drawing on diverse narrative styles ranging from the gothic tales of the ominous and mysterious to the exhilarating accounts of nautical bravado. The anthology captures the timeless allure of the swashbuckling world, offering glimpses into the perilous voyages and lost treasure mysteries. Standout pieces push the boundaries of maritime imagination, evoking the endless horizon where adventure and danger intertwine. The anthology''s contributors are literary titans who have collectively shaped the genre, representing movements from Romanticism to Realism and even into Modernist reflections on adventure. Each author''s background adds a rich layer of historical and cultural nuance, from Verne''s speculative vision of exploration to Doyle''s meticulous detail in adventurous deduction, enriching the tapestry of tales that speak to the enduring human spirit and the call of the unknown. This anthology brings together voices from different epochs, uniting their explorations of universal themes of ambition, freedom, and the uncanny. Readers are invited to embark on an entrancing journey through this vast and varied collection that promises to educate the soul and ignite the imagination. With its wealth of perspectives and tales, ''Dead Men Tell No Tales'' is a treasure trove for those eager to explore the myriad dimensions of sea adventures. Through its pages, the anthology fosters a dialogue that resonates with the thrilling echoes of bygone eras, providing a rare opportunity to delve into the multifaceted world of classic pirate and maritime literature.

The Jolly Roger Tales: 60+ Pirate Novels, Treasure-Hunt Tales & Sea Adventures is a fascinating anthology that navigates the thrilling waters of sea lore, maritime adventure, and buccaneering exploits. This collection offers a rich tapestry of narratives that captures the essence of high seas drama, blending classic adventure with timeless themes of exploration and conquest. The anthology''s diversity is reflected in the range of literary styles—from the suspenseful depth of Poe to the vivid realism of London—ensuring a captivating experience for readers. Each tale, though anchored in adventure, navigates the human condition''s complexities, reflecting themes of ambition, survival, and moral dilemma, making it a treasure trove of literary brilliance. The assembly of such a stellar lineup of authors brings together a wealth of historical and narrative expertise. The contributors, ranging from classic adventurers like Jules Verne to the intricate storytelling of F. Scott Fitzgerald, lend their unique voices to this nautical compilation. These authors, many of whom were pivotal in their literary eras, converge to create a symphony of stories that resonate with the traditions of maritime literature and the cultural allure of pirate mythology. Their diverse backgrounds provide a multifaceted look into the age-old appeal of the sea as a frontier for human endeavor and escapade. This anthology is highly recommended for those who seek to embark on a literary voyage through time and across oceans. The collection offers an enlightening and passionate exploration of seafaring life and the indomitable spirit of adventure. Readers will find themselves engaged in the dynamic interplay of perspectives and styles, relishing each tale''s historical context and thematic depth. The Jolly Roger Tales not only entertains but educates, fostering a dialogue that transcends the pages and lures readers into the vast, untamed seas of imagination.

From National Book Award–winning author Charles Johnson comes a sly, witty, and insightful collection of short stories exploring issues of race and identity. In “Sweet Dreams,” a Kafkaesque tale is set in a world where dreams are taxed—a reality that leads to a man and his dreamlife being audited. In “Cultural Relativity,” a young woman falls in love with the son of the president of an African nation—but is forbidden to ever kiss him. A deeply humane story, “Dr. King''s Refrigerator” offers a remarkable glimpse into Martin Luther King Jr.''s life and his refrigerator. “Kwoon” is a graceful and illuminating story about a martial arts teacher on Chicago''s South Side. Compassionate and amusing, thought-provoking and richly imagined, Dr. King''s Refrigerator and Other Bedtime Stories is a wonderful and compelling collection from one of America''s most beloved authors.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you will see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

This is the second volume of nine chronological histories covering the Marine Corps'' participation in the Vietnam War. This volume details the Marine activities during 1965, the year the war escalated and major American combat units were committed to the conflict. The narrative traces the landing of the nearly 5,000-man 9th Marine Expeditionary Brigade and its transformation into the III Marine Amphibious Force, which by the end of the year contained over 38,000 Marines.

Little is known about the many achievements of African American guardsmen in U.S. history from the late nineteenth to the mid-twentieth centuries. This detailed account thus fills an important gap in our knowledge about the establishment of African American militias in 1877 and their service in wartime and peacetime until the integration of the National Guard in 1950. This careful study of extensive primary and secondary sources is intended for military historians and for all who want to know more about African American contributions to the defense of our nation. Following a short introduction providing some historical background, the study launches into a description of the establishment of African American militia organizations in and about 1877 and their involvement in the Spanish American War and in quelling civil disturbances and disasters up to 1914. The history deals next with the service of African American guardsmen units in World War I, their work in the years between the wars, and their involvement in World War II. The story ends with a description of the initial reorganization of these units and their integration into the National Guard in 1949 and 1950. A lengthy bibliography of primary and secondary sources is useful as well in pointing to the role of African American militias and guardsmen in the history of this important period.

A General History of the Robberies and Murders of the most notorious Pyrates is a 1724 book published in Britain containing biographies of contemporary pirates, which was influential in shaping popular conceptions of pirates. Its author uses the name Captain Charles Johnson, generally considered a pseudonym for one of London''s writer-publishers. The prime source for the biographies of many well known pirates, the book gives an almost mythical status to the more colourful characters, and it is likely that the author used considerable licence in his accounts of pirate conversations. The book also contains the name of the pirate flag the Jolly Roger, and shows the skull and bones design.