Just Plain Folks

by Lorraine Johnson-Coleman

By returning to the cotton fields, tobacco barns, & humble dwellings of her ancestral home in the rural South, this author learned firsthand what is missing from the history books between the pages on slavery & present-day African-American culture. It is the experience of ordinary people who, on second glance, have led truly extraordinary lives. She developed an appreciation for their words, wit, & wisdom & has made it her life's work to pass along their experiences. In this collection of original short stories, she pays homage to these ordinary folks through lyrical tributes, many of which have aired or will air on National Public Radio. Beginning late this year, her own program, Just Plain Folks: Wisdom from the Front Porch, will air weekly on NPR. Like her radio segments, the stories in Just Plain Folks are meant both to entertain & to educate. Each story concludes with an author's note that places it in its proper cultural context.

Genres: Fiction, Short Stories

ebook

First published November 1, 1997

Reviews

[Karee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The stories made me feel like I was at home, with my relatives. The space felt real and familiar to me. Such a great read, especially for Black history month.

[Kimberly Westrope · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful group of short stories that reflects on black culture and its importance, particularly in the life of one young woman and her family. Well-written and thoroughly enjoyable, as well as eye-opening and thought provoking. Encourages the reader to take a deeper look at the world and the many different people (and cultures) who inhabit it.

[Kara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this collection really enjoyable.

[Carol Mann Agency]

From School Library Journal

YA-Folklorist Johnson-Coleman's theme of knowing and respecting one's ancestral roots is clearly recorded in these unforgettable short stories. Based on interviews the author conducted while traveling through her homeland of North Carolina, the selections celebrate the cultural heritage of rural blacks. The author introduces everyday people who lived during times of slavery, Reconstruction, the Depression, and the Civil Rights era. What they have in common is a sense of pride, loads of wisdom, and values that are still applicable and needed in today's world. Six chapters cover family members, neighbors, female/male relationships, young people, Jim Crow laws, the religious populace, and even a version of the folktale "Wiley and the Hairy Man." Each one ends with an "Afterthought" that puts the story in context. For example, in "Call Me by My Name, the author tells of her childhood dislike of her name until her grandfather explains its origins. In the conclusion, she explains the history of the African-American naming custom. The tales are hilarious and harsh, and the dialogue moves at a rapid pace. Young adults will find rousing music, love in all shapes and sizes, and genuine characters here.

--Connie Freeman, Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN

Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is set in my second home, Greene County, NC so I had a particular interest in the stories. The stories were interesting and I can tell that she really put effort into getting in the heads of our ancestors from that place.

[angrykitty · Rating 3 out of 5]

another bargin bin find. these stories are pretty good, and if you like zora neale hurston or a less poetic morrison, you might like these stories.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Delightful stories, artfully told!

[JoAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just LOVED it. It has a permanent place in my library.

[V.K. Sansone · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wonderful book and stayed great until the end! Worth the read! :)

[Honeycarmel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a nice collection of short stories that intertwine. Lots of self pride and respect for one's past. Very positive.

[Ig-88 · Rating 3 out of 5]

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[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disappointing