Airing Dirty Laundry

by Ishmael Reed

A collection of essays by the founder of the Before Columbus Foundation takes on the major news networks and National Public Radio and makes clear his views on such names in the news as Clarence Thomas and Mike Tyson.

Genres: Nonfiction, Essays

284 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1993

About the author

Ishmael Scott Reed is an American poet, essayist, and novelist. A prominent African-American literary figure, Reed is known for his satirical works challenging American political culture, and highlighting political and cultural oppression.

Reed has been described as one of the most controversial writers. While his work has often sought to represent neglected African and African-American perspectives, his energy and advocacy have centered more broadly on neglected peoples and perspectives irrespective of their cultural origins.

Reviews

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written over twenty years ago after the Rodney King trial, "Airing Dirty Laundry" still has relevance today. I didn't read the individual biography section, but I did read the other essays and Reed does provide an alternative viewpoint. Interesting essays were "Drug 'Experts' Don't Live with Gunfire," "Reading, Writing, and Racism," "Distant Cousins," and "Airing Dirty Laundry."

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know I read this but I don't remember a lot about it. I think that's because it's a collection of nonfiction essays so there wasn't any central theme tying them together as a story. I remember enjoying them though, and finding Reed's writing quite humorous.

[Seven · Rating 5 out of 5]

i love this author's work...

[Lawrence Daniel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really only read Reed's chapter on playwright/director/writer/actor Bill Gunn. So little biographical info on him.

[Kathy Chung]

reviewed at : Mama Kucing Meow : Airing Dirty Laundry by Ishmael Reed

I dont understand