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Read Until You Understand

The Profound Wisdom of Black Life and Literature

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About this listen

Farah Jasmine Griffin’s beloved father died when she was nine, bequeathing her an unparalleled inheritance in closets full of remarkable books and other records of Black genius. In Read Until You Understand - a line from a note he wrote to her - she shares a lifetime of discoveries: the ideas that framed the US Constitution and that inspired Malcolm X’s fervent speeches, the soulful music of Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder, the daring literature of Phillis Wheatley and Toni Morrison, the artistry of Romare Bearden, and many others.

Having taught a popular Columbia University survey course of Black literature, she explores themes such as grace, justice, rage, self-determination, beauty, and mercy to help listeners grapple with the ongoing project that is American democracy. Joining her experiences in Black communities with her immersion in the glorious works of Black artists, Read Until You Understand is a powerful testament to the enduring wisdom of Black culture and history.

©2021 Farah Jasmine Griffin (P)2021 Recorded Books, Inc. African American Literary History & Criticism Women Social justice African American Wisdom
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Beautiful story telling; felt like going back to English seminars in college in the best possible way. I grew up in Philadelphia and attended the same high school as Ms Griffin. It was wonderful to reflect on so much of my own childhood in the city as well as many of the books I was lucky to read in school. Ms Griffin has a beautiful voice, making this a joy to listen to. I am so inspired to go back to reread (or read for the first time) many of the books highlighted here.

An Inspiring Listen

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