The Essential Dick Gregory

”[A] standout anthology… Sharp, funny, and often inspiring, this is a must-read for Gregory’s fans, and a perfect entry point for the uninitiated.” — Publishers Weekly“A useful bookend to a public figure who wielded humor with vigor and an astuteness to the American condition perhaps matched only by Mark Twain.” — Washington Post”A satisfying encapsulation of the career of a seminal comedian and social justice warrior.” — Kirkus Reviews“The Essential Dick Gregory covers a lot of ground … Dick Gregory was one of a kind, the genuine article. If you never saw him, this collection of his thoughts and writings are a wonderful introduction … If you did see him, this book will bring back memories, and you will learn things about him you may not have known.”— New York Journal of Books

Richard “Dick” Claxton Gregory was an African American comedian, civil rights activist, and cultural icon who first performed in public in the 1950s. He was on Comedy Central’s list of “100 Greatest Stand-Ups” and was the author of fourteen books, most notably the bestselling classic Nigger: An Autobiography. A hilariously authentic wisecracker and passionate fighter for justice, Gregory is considered one of the most prized comedians of our time. He and his beloved wife, Lil, have ten kids.