Talkin and Testifyin: The Language of Black America

by Geneva Smitherman

In her book, Geneva Smitherman makes a substantial contribution to an understanding of Black English by setting it in the larger context of Black culture and life style. In addition to defining Black English, by its distinctive structure and special lexicon, Smitherman argues that the Black dialect is set apart from traditional English by a rhetorical style which reflects its African origins. Smitherman also tackles the issue of Black and White attitudes toward Black English, particularly as they affect educational policy.

Documenting her insights with quotes from notable Black historical, literary and popular figures, Smitherman makes clear that Black English is as legitimate a form of speech as British, American, or Australian English.

Genres: Linguistics, Nonfiction, Education, African American, Sociology, Research, Language

298 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

A classic that's certainly still worth the read. The first five chapters explore Black English itself, not only grammar and pronunciation but also discourse patterns and aspects of the oral tradition. The final two chapters explored the ideology around "standard" English, particularly within education. Though written 35 years ago, the recommendations for our schools and our society are still relevant (and badly needed) today.

[sologdin · Rating 3 out of 5]

very cool. in contesting, implicitly, the existence of a 'standard English,' perhaps sets up rival & antithetical standard black englishes, which may not be persuasive.

[Nice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seminal text on understanding the beauty and richness of the language of African-Americans. this was another book I leaned heavily on for my Senior Thesis. Just reread it a couple of months ago.

[Kyrstin Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting and easy to read.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Many people listen to African Americans talk and they claim to not understand what they are saying. This is particularly true for older Caucasians listening to younger African Americans talking.

However, Talkin and Testifyin breaks the language patterns down and traces the history of why some people talk differently from us.

Great examples, awesome organization of material and highly informative reading.

[Leigh · Rating 2 out of 5]

So far, the only interesting thing I've read this semester. Grad school FTF.

[Kevin Risner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I guess I should add a few things I'm reading for my thesis... (Note to self: do more thesis research this summer!)

[Shana · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book that made me think about differences in language that I have never thought of before.