“Cracking Up is a timely and beautifully written book that boldly centers Black queer feminist subjectivity within the stand-up comedy tradition. By situating Black/queer feminist comedians as intellectuals, activists, and Black cultural producers in their own right, Katelyn Hale Wood captures a long-overdue chapter in Black women’s history and culture.”—La Donna L. Forsgren, author, Sistuhs in the Struggle: An Oral History of Black Arts Movement Theatre and Performance
“Wood expertly examines Black feminist comics who blend humor with resistance and rebellion in this important work. It deserves a place in all performing arts and women’s history sections.”—Library Journal starred review
“Cracking Up is a welcome shift toward a focused politics of joy that invites us to consider how Black comedians, and in particular Black women comedians, have always engendered spaces for community building and celebration, using stand-up comedy to 'crack up' historically oppressive constructs. . . . Wood does not attempt to rescue Black women; instead, she celebrates Black women, their talent, and their work. As part of the book’s method, Wood brings herself into the study, which further enriches it. . . . Scholars looking to laugh and learn will enjoy Cracking Up. . . . Wood’s book cracks us up, bringing us together and pushing us toward a more hopeful and joyful future.”—Studies in American Humor