The Free-Lance Pallbearers: A Novel

Ishmael Reed should be standard reading in college literature classes. His unique blend of poetry, prose, sound, satire and history make him one of the greatest writers of contemporary America. This novel will have laughing and crying with hysteria. It has stood the test of time and is just as relevant today as it was 45 years ago.

This book is a wonderful satire of race relations in the sixties. It is also extremely funny. I often found myself laughing out loud as I was reading it. It provides a nice contrast with much of the African-American literature from this time period. Its style is a bit intimidating at first, but after a few pages it becomes easy reading. I highly recommend checking it out.

I came across a reference to Ishmael Reed in Frankie Y. Bailey's "African American Mystery Writers", and decided to start with Mr. Reed's first published book. This book gave me much insight and entertainment simultaneously. I have bought another of his books and am looking forward to another captivating read.

After reading and thoroughly enjoying Mumbo Jumbo, I thought I would read more of Mr. Reed's work. I found it a struggle to get through this book -- though entertaining at times I had trouble finding and following the thread that held the story together. perhaps another reading will be required.

the quality of the book i received was brand new and speedy delivery, but don't read this book, its just awful and stupid.

I read this when first published and have re-read it periodically in part or whole over the years. A surrealist satire of race relations from the 1960s. Mr. Reed’s work has explored many areas, genres and literary forms since then but this, to me, remains his most complex and original project. A masterwork by a brilliant and still relatively unsung author. I’ve always thought that some African-American filmmaker should tackle this. But the work remains an essential read (Reed!) of a time of turmoil and emergence in American and African American history.

I really liked this one. It was a good read. I am sorry it has taken me so long to read his works. However, I think it is better late then never. His works are challenging, yet quick reads.

I read this book as a teenager in the 80's and never forgot it. I often end up telling everyone I know about it eventually. I decided to use a search engine to find the name of the author and was surprised to learn the name and a little about the writer Ishmael Reed. I plan to buy a second copy and donate it to the library. This book is hilarious. The main thing is that it introduced me to the satire genre. my own sense of humor is similar. I am encouraged as a wannabe writer.

ALLES SUPER