Mumbo Jumbo

novel by Reed

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July 15, 2026

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"Mumbo Jumbo" is a novel by Ishmael Reed, published in 1972. The novel is known for its surrealism, satire, and commentary on political and racial issues. It depicts a conflict between proponents of rationalism and militarism and those who believe in the magical and intuitive.

The term "mumbo jumbo" itself has origins in West Africa, specifically from the Mandinka word "maamajomboo," referring to a masked dancer in religious ceremonies. Early accounts describe it as an idol or a cunning mystery. Over time, the term evolved to describe complicated, often ritualistic, activities or language that are intended to obscure or confuse, or simply as gibberish and superstitious beliefs.12

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Ishmael Reed
Mumbo Jumbo (1972), Reed’s most-celebrated novel, pits proponents of rationalism and militarism against believers in the magical and the intuitive. The Last Days of Louisiana Red (1974) is a detective story set amid the racial violence of Berkeley in the 1960s. Flight to Canada (1976)…
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Mumbo Jumbo (1972), Reed’s most-celebrated novel, pits proponents of rationalism and militarism against believers in the magical and the intuitive. The Last Days of Louisiana Red (1974) is a detective story set amid the racial violence of Berkeley in the 1960s. Flight to Canada (1976)…
Read More