Cover of The Harlem book of the dead

The Harlem book of the dead

James Van Der Zee was an African-American photographer who specialized in funerals. This book includes many of his photographs, with his comments. The text, by Camille Billops, is primarily an interview with the artist at the age of 91. Includes poetry, by Owen Dodson, inspired by some of the photos.

Audience
adult
Length
short · 85 pages

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Liked The Harlem book of the dead? Here’s where I’d start.

These suit anyone who liked The Harlem book of the dead. Sign in and mark a few books for picks shaped around your own taste.

  1. Death in Black and White Shares funeral rites and ceremonies, African American
  2. To serve the living Shares funeral rites and ceremonies, African American, history
  3. The Sweetest Remedy Shares funeral rites and ceremonies
  4. The Reformation of the Dead Shares funeral rites and ceremonies, history

“If you want more of the same (history about african american), start with these.”

  1. Anarcha Speaks
  2. Black Chant: Languages of African-American Postmodernism
  3. Make a joyful sound
  4. Spin a Soft Black Song

“If it was the funeral rites and ceremonies that hooked you, try one of these.”

  1. Mummification and death rituals of ancient Egypt
  2. Cultural anthropology
  3. Preserving the Dead
  4. Philosophy of African American Studies

“These start from a similar idea, even if they go somewhere else with it.”

  1. Japanese-American relocation reviewed
  2. Take a Picture of Me, James Van Der Zee!
  3. The Invisible Ladder
  4. Suburbia