Poet, author and playwright Langston Hughes was a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance in the late 1950s. His writings capture the spirit of black culture as it struggled for recognition and acceptance. Tambourines to Glory is a morality fable illustrating the perpetual fight between good and evil. Angelic Essie Belle Johnson and devilish Laura Reed both agree that they need to do something to spice up their lives-and earn more money. So, they start their own church on the street in front of their Harlem apartment. With Laura's gift for performing and Essie's melodious voice, the two quickly become a hit and must move their services into a renovated theatre. But as their congregation grows, a host of misfits enter the scene-some honest, and others who just want a piece of the pie. Featuring a stunning performance by Myra Lucretia Taylor, Tambourines to Glory is a classic of American literature and a must listen for anyone interested in the history of African-American culture.
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"Langston Hughes proves from this book, that was intended to be a play, that he is such a talented writer. Set in Harlem, Hughes introduces the reader to the two main characters Essie and Laura. Although this is a rather quick read, Hughes provides the reader with an enjoyable novel/playwright. "
— Babydoll (5 out of 5 stars)
" Sometimes the spirit dies before the flesh. "
— Efundunke, 10/22/2012" Really enjoyed this! Well written, interesting, great character development. "
— Jocelyn, 2/22/2012" I read the play and thoroughly enjoyed it but they don't have the play listed. I do know that the novel and play are slightly different. "
— Aziza, 5/16/2010" Langston Hughes proves from this book, that was intended to be a play, that he is such a talented writer. Set in Harlem, Hughes introduces the reader to the two main characters Essie and Laura. Although this is a rather quick read, Hughes provides the reader with an enjoyable novel/playwright. "
— Babydoll, 12/30/2009" I liked this book, but it was pretty strange. "
— Suz, 11/29/2009" This book gives a good insight into religion and old Harlem. A lot of the book still relates to today. I saw the play and it was great as well. Hard to believe the play came before the book. "
— To, 11/7/2009" Loved it, of course. it's langston Hughes. <br/> <br/>I learned that the more things change, the more people stay the same. "
— Msbossy, 10/15/2009" Sometimes the spirit dies before the flesh. "
— Efundunke, 12/9/2008" I read the play and thoroughly enjoyed it but they don't have the play listed. I do know that the novel and play are slightly different. "
— Aziza, 2/21/2008James Mercer Langston Hughes (1902–1967) was an American poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and columnist. He was one of the earliest innovators of the then-new literary art form jazz poetry. Hughes is the author of more than sixty books. He is best known for his work during the Harlem Renaissance.
Myra Lucretia Taylor is an award-winning actress who has appeared on Broadway, off Broadway, in many theaters across the country, and internationally. Her television and film credits include Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Atlanta, The Big Sick, Bushwick, and Catfight.