Centering the Black Experience in Christian Reflection

Pastor and teacher Claude Atcho demonstrates how Black experience, as shown in the literature of great African American writers, can guide us all toward sharper theological thinking and more faithful living.

"An exemplary work of literary criticism and Christian wisdom. In elevating and illuminating the important voices examined in these pages, Atcho brings a great and greatly needed gift to the world."
--Karen Swallow Prior, author of On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life through Great Books

"Brilliant and thought provoking. There are holes in the lived theology of many Christians that Atcho has used Wright, Ellison, Morrison, Hurston, and others to help fill. A must-read for anyone who loves reading literature and thinking deeply about God."
--Kathryn A. Freeman, writer and cohost of the Melanated Faith podcast

"Written with the passion of a book lover and the urgency of a preacher, Reading Black Books not only reminds us of the richness and vitality of classic works like Invisible Man, Passing, and Beloved; it also connects the form and themes of these writings to God's sovereign story of justice and righteousness. This is Christian literary criticism at its best."
--Josh Larsen, author of Movies Are Prayers; editor at ThinkChristian.net

"Atcho conducts a theological reading of popular Black novels and poetry to unearth the joys, sorrows, and longings that have often marked Black life, examining them through divine revelation. Reading Black Books answers the abiding questions from Black literature with theological insights and a pastoral heart that marks every page."
--Walter R. Strickland II, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary

"Atcho offers us one part riveting English class and one part soul-stirring theological groundwork. His work reminds us of the truth that Black voices are more than trendy. Atcho's words inspired me to revisit each and every work he profiled with fresh eyes and renewed appreciation."
--Jasmine Holmes, author of Carved in Ebony: Lessons from the Black Women Who Shape Us