This vibrant first novel by Zora Neale Hurston, one of the most influential African-American writers, is reissued with a new introduction by Jesmyn Ward.

INTRODUCED BY JESMYN WARD

'One of the greatest writers of our time' Toni Morrison

Born on the wrong side of the creek, John Buddy Pearson, the son of a slave, strikes out alone. Gaining an education and the love of Lucy Potts, he seems to have left his shoeless days behind. But unable to resist the lure of women or a fight, he's forced to flee town or face life on the chain gang.

Finding himself in Sanford, Florida, John discovers a talent for preaching and becomes pastor of Zion Hope Church. He rouses his congregation's fervour with powerful sermons and people come from far to hear him. With John's charisma and Lucy's quiet wisdom, the family is respected and admired. Before long, though, John is praying for his own sins - for his powers of persuasion aren't limited to the pulpit, and the town won't tolerate his philandering ways.

Originally published in 1934, this is Zora Neale Hurston's first novel.

'A bold and beautiful book, many a page priceless and unforgettable' Carl Sandburg

'Zora Neale Hurston was a knockout in her life, a wonderful writer and a fabulous person. Devilishly funny and academically solid: delicious mixture' Maya Angelou

BY ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL WRITERS OF THE TWENTIETH CENTURY

With a new introduction by JESMYN WARD

'Fierce, insightful and often devilishly funny' COLIN GRANT, GUARDIAN

'One of the greatest writers of our time' TONI MORRISON

'A bold and beautiful book' CARL SANDBURG

Born on the wrong side of the creek, John Buddy Pearson, the son of a slave, has come a long way since his shoeless days. With some schooling, a job and marriage to clever Lucy Potts, his fortunes are looking up. But, unable to resist the lure of women or a fight, he's forced to flee town or face life on the chain gang.

John finds himself in Sanford, Florida, and sends for Lucy and the children. There, he discovers a talent for preaching, and, with the support of his wife, becomes pastor of Zion Hope Church, rousing his congregation with his fervent sermons. He is now a pillar of the community, respected and popular. Before long, though, he is praying for his own sins - for his powers of persuasion aren't limited to the pulpit and the town won't stand for his philandering ways.

Originally published in 1934, this is Zora Neale Hurston's first novel.