The Book of African Names [Paperback]

Molefi Kete Asante (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0865432554 | ISBN-13: 978-0865432550 | Publication Date: September 1991

The growing usage of African names in the United States makes this book appealing for those who want to understand the meaning, proper usage and significance of African names. Asante provides the historical rationale and the proper translations and usage of African names from the four corners of the continent.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Dr. Molefi K. Asante is a leading linguist and cultural historian. He is the chairperson of the African-American Studies Department at Temple University, and the author of over twenty books including Afrocentricity, African Culture and Kemet, Afrocentricity and Knowledge.

Product Details

• Paperback: 64 pages
• Publisher: Africa World Pr (September 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0865432554
• ISBN-13: 978-0865432550
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.3 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,067,578 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

14 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars An Average Standard Book of African Names, October 4, 2002

By A Customer

This review is from: The Book of African Names (Hardcover)

This book classifies and lists the African names by general region, other than by the specific African ethnic groups that use the names. Asante refers to this as as a 'Pan-Africanist' approach and an 'Afrocentric orientation' in classifying the names. The book does not go into detail, and does not address pronunciation of the names. The book would thus be welcomed by the general other than the sophisticated or inquisitive reader on Africa. The meanings that are alloted to the names are mainly brief, using only one or a couple more words. The names number about 1200. Asante admits that he has avoided listing names that have negative connotations. However, a thorough comprehension of African names requires the treatment of names of all kinds. African names that have negative connotations are, for the most part, intended for the good of children born under adverse circumstances. The African logic is that giving a 'bad' name to say a very sick child, will lure away the attention of the evil forces of death.