[.ca] 20th Century Gods Trombones (ISBN 0140184031)

very entertaining and spritually uplifting:
I really liked the poems in this book but just want to see if your copy of "The Crucifixion" is the complete version.

Inspirational:
I read this book two years ago as a freshman in college. The poems touched me so much that I still continue to read them. Through this book James Weldon Johnson has retold familar Bible stories in a new light. He has captured the spirit of an oral tradition and has preserved this great tradition for future generations. I would highly reccomend this book to people of all ages and all backgrounds!

A poetic tribute to African-American religious oratory:
James Weldon Johnson was one of the giants of African-American cultural history. A novelist, poet, songwriter, diplomat, educator, and activist, he left behind a towering legacy when he died in 1938. An essential part of that legacy is "God's Trombones," a book in which Johnson pays poetic tribute to the "old-time Negro preacher." "God's Trombones" contains seven poems, each of which is inspired by the art of the classic African-American sermon. Most of Johnson's poems retell Bible stories. "The Creation," "Noah Built the Ark," "Let My People Go," and more--each one carries the reader to the traditional Black churches of Johnson's era. In his preface Johnson discusses the cultural significance of the traditional African-American religious orator and also reflects on his own literary strategies in the construction of these poems. Johnson's poems beg to be read aloud. Whatever your own ethnic heritage or religious inclination, try giving voice to these masterworks: you'll be amazed at the effect. If you are a lover of Christian inspirational writing, a scholar of African-American culture, or a person who appreciates great poetry, "God's Trombones" would make a fine addition to your library.

A Classic:
Please expose young people to this work! It will bring the Scriptures and African-American culture alive for them. It wouldn't hurt adults either..I was thinking from a teaching standpoint..Love this work!

"The Creation" surely is one of the best poems ever!:
Many times I have used the poems from this book as dramatic readings and audiences have always responded in positive ways. The majesty of the words and the profound experiences that they describe bring peace to the soul. The first time I read this book was in 1960. It had a tremendous impact on me then and continues to minister to me even now. Real truth will do that. It never goes out of date.