Having its origins in the slave narratives and the folktales transmitted orally during that period, the literature of the African American has been rich and varied. Beginning with the first published work of fiction (Clotel; Or, the President's Daughter) in 1853, continuing under the influence of W E B Du Bois during the first part of this century, and reaching a flowering during the Harlem Renaissance, major contributions have been made to American literature. Today African American writers , such as Toni Morrison, Alex Haley, and Maya Angelou are recognised as among the most significant and popular authors in this country. This new book presents an important overview of African-American literature as well as a comprehensive bibliography with easy access provided by title, subject, and author indexes.