W.E.B. DU BOIS, AMERICAN PROPHET Politics and Culture in Modern America

Most scholars dismiss W.E.B. Du Bois as an agnostic, or even an atheist. But for a man whose writings are the foundation of black liberation theology and even aspects of feminist liberation theology, this is hard to fathom. This book seeks to address that shortcoming, showing how throughout his work Du Bois regularly draws on religious tradition in discussing issues. But his spirituality is personal, not corporal. He doesn't brook self-righteousness. Andrew Barnes offers an engaging reading. He varies his tone, pacing, and volume to suit the passage. When he quotes Du Bois's writings, he takes on the air of a preacher. The only weakness is that he occasionally uses that pulpit style for the author's comments, which can lead to confusion as to whether it's Du Bois speaking or the author. R.C.G. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2012]