African American Religion: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

The African American Religion: A Very Short Introduction by Eddie S.

Glaude Jr.

is a thought-provoking exploration of the history and significance of African American religion.

This book delves into the complexities of African American religious experiences, challenging the common tendency to racialize these experiences as an inherent proclivity towards religiousness.

Instead, Glaude focuses on how religious communities and experiences have developed in the African American community, providing a nuanced understanding of their historical context.

Through three compelling examples - conjure, African American Christianity, and African American Islam - Glaude argues that African American religion is not just a spiritual guide but also a civic institution, space for education, and site for individuality and identity formation in the face of oppression.

This insightful book will appeal to anyone interested in understanding the rich cultural heritage of African American religious experiences.