In Our Own Image: Treasured African-american Traditions, Journeys And Icons

by Patrik Henry Bass, Karen Pugh

The first visual document of black social and cultural history in America from World War II to the present, In Our Own Image is also a fascinating scrapbook that recounts simple, eloquent stories about home life, family reunions, worship, weddings, funerals, barbeques, barbershops, beauty parlors, nightclubs, civic organizations, and celebrations. The unique recollections of African-Americans from a variety of backgrounds and age groups accompany more than 160 images from personal and archival collections, with such poignant ephemera as programs from cotillions and fashion shows, restaurant menus, movie posters, even ticket stubs. The authors have woven material from university and museum collections in Detroit, New Orleans, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Atlanta into a narrative photo book that forms a warm, loving record of African-American community, traditions, and family life in the latter half of the twentieth century.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2001

Reviews

[Karen Lascaris · Rating 5 out of 5]

"In Our Own Image"defines the principles and mores of what it means to be an American, not just an African American. It is a book to keep forever - especially if you're into American history, or are African American or of the African diaspora around the world. But even if you're not, then here's the place to start to get to know Americans of African descent. This book, like the new museum in Washington, DC, depicts the truth about the African American journey. It is a must-have for any collection.