Overview
Hoodoo, voodoo, and conjure are part of a mysterious world of African American spirituality that has long captured the popular imagination. These magical beliefs and practices have figured in literary works by such authors as Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, and Ishmael Reed, and they have been central to numerous films, such as The Skeleton Key. Written for students and general readers, this book is a convenient introduction to hoodoo, voodoo, and conjure. The volume begins by defining and classifying elements of these spiritual traditions. It then provides a wide range of examples and texts, which illustrate the richness of these beliefs and practices. It also examines the scholarly response to hoodoo, voodoo, and conjure, and it explores the presence of hoodoo, voodoo, and conjure in popular culture. The volume closes with a glossary and bibliography. Students in social studies classes will use this book to learn more about African American magical beliefs, while literature students will enjoy its exploration of primary sources and literary works.
Full Product Details
Author: Jeffrey E. Anderson
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Imprint: Greenwood Press
Dimensions:
Width: 15.60cm
, Height: 2.00cm
, Length: 23.50cm
Weight: 0.454kg
ISBN: 9780313342219
ISBN 10: 0313342210
Pages: 200
Publication Date: 30 October 2008
Recommended Age: From 7 to 17 years
Audience:
General/trade
,
General
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
Availability: Manufactured on demand
We will order this item for you from a manufactured on demand supplier.
Reviews
<p> This is a good reference book for learning about the practice of these three nontraditional healing, helping, and harming techniques. . . . The work provides an in-depth look at the practices. It can serve as somewhat of a how-to guide for anyone interested in becoming involved with them. . . . The book serves as a teaching tool that explains which herbs or portions to use for various needs. . . . The volume is recommended for religious or medical collections focusing on nontraditional spiritual practices. Its accessible style makes it a good source for interested general adult readers as well. - <p>MultiCultural Review
<p>. .. a wonderful resource guide and historical survey of 'VoodooisM' and African American alternative spirituality. ... Anderson does an outstanding job of informing his readers about Voodooism ... very informative and an excellent resource for amateurs and experts seeking an understanding of Voodooism and African American supernaturalisms. - <p>Journal of African American History
Author Information
Jeffrey E. Anderson is Assistant Professor of History at the University of Louisiana, Monroe. His previous books include Conjure in African American Society (2005).
