Mules and Men stands as the first major collection capturing the richness and depth of Black American folklore. In the 1930s, Zora Neale Hurston returned to her hometown of Eatonville, Florida, to gather the stories, songs, sermons, and oral histories she grew up hearing—traditions reaching back to the time of enslavement.

As Hurston listened to these tales once more, she rediscovered not only the voices of her community but also her own history woven through their metaphors, humor, and lyrical storytelling. This landmark collection preserves a vibrant cultural legacy, celebrating the artistry and wisdom found in folktales, “big old lies,” and the music of spoken language.

With Mules and Men, Hurston cemented her role as a pioneering folklorist and safeguarded an essential and beautiful part of America’s collective heritage.

Click here to listen to an audio excerpt

Praise for Mules and Men

“Simply the most exciting book on black folklore and culture I have ever read.” — Roger D. Abrahams