Usually, I start the year striving for 100 books. Eventually, life happens, and I fail to read quite that much.

Considering that we are already well into May. I think 50 might be a reasonable goal to chase.

Feel free to leave comments!




1. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao - Fiction: Novel
2. Willing - Fiction: Novel
3. Sweet Life 2 - Fiction: Short Stories: Erotica
4. Interpreter of Maladies - Fiction: Short Stories
5. Touched With Fire - Nonfiction: Psychology
6. The White Tiger - Fiction: Novel
7. Can You Hear Me Now - Nonfiction: African American: Quotations
8. The Prisoner's Wife - Nonfiction: African American: Memoir
9. Race Matters - Nonfiction: African American
10. On Becoming a Novelist - Nonfiction: On Writing
11. First We Read, Then We Write - Nonfition: On Writing
12. The Myth of Sisyphus - Nonfiction: Essays: Philosophy
13. Essays and Aphorisms - Nonfiction: Essays: Philosophy
14. Other Colors - Nonfiction: Essays
15. Unholy Ghost - Nonfiction: Essays
16. Shaking the Tree - Nonfiction: Essays: African American: On Women
17. Woman Thou Art Loosed - Nonfiction: Spirituality: Christian
18. I Am Your Sister - Nonfiction: Essays: African American: On Women
19. Letters to a Young Artist - Nonfiction: On Writing
20. A Woman's Worth - Nonfiction: Spirituality: New Age: On Women
21. Letter to My Daughter - Nonfiction: African American: On Women
22. Keep it Real - Nonfiction: On Writing
23. Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man - Nonfiction: On Women
24. Behind My Eyes - Poetry
25. Transforming a Rape Culture - Nonfiction: Essays: On Women
26. The Courage to Write - Nonfiction: On Writing
27. Spiritual Liberation - Nonfiction: Spirituality: New Age
28. The Unauthorized Biography of Mulatto Cracker Black Poetry: Spoken Word
29. Empire of Illusion - Nonfiction -Cultural Studies?
30. Best African American Fiction 2009 - Fiction: Short Stories
31. Thing Thing Around Your Neck - Fiction: Short Stories
32. Ignore Everybody - Nonfiction: Psychology?
33. The Beautiful Struggle - Nonfiction: African American: Memoir
34. Some Writers Deserve to Starve! - Nonfiction: On Writing
35. I Say a Little Prayer: Fiction: Novel
36. When Everything Changes, Change Everything - Nonfiction: Spirituality
37. Between Barack and a Hard Place - Nonfiction: Cultural Studies
38. Skinny Bitch - Nonfiction: On Health
39. All the Rage - Comics
40. Slumberland - Novel
41. The War of Art - Nonfiction: On Writing
42. Getting Started as a Freelance Writer - Nonfiction: On Writing
43. What Moves At the Margin - Nonfiction: Essays
44. Bird by Bird - Nonfiction: On Writing
45. Unreliable Truth - Nonfiction: On Writing
46. It's Bigger than Hip Hop - Nonfiction: African American
47. Black Genius - Nonfiction: African American
48. Macnolia - Poetry
49. Radical Evolution - Nonfiction: Science

I've read:

1 Comics
3 Poetry
9 Fiction
37 Nonfiction

4 Novels
4 Short Story Collections
1 Erotica

2 Memoir
8 Essays
2 Philosophy
2 Psychology
1 Science
2 Cultural Studies
4 Spirituality
1 Christianity
2 New Age
1 On Health

8 African American
6 On Women

10 On Writing
1 Quotations

Message edited by its author, Nov 23, 2009, 9:06pm.

1. The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz

I read this book due to a recommendation from my brother. My bro fell in love with the novel last year when he read it. My brother and I have similar artistic tastes but often for different reasons. We tend to like the same Writers, Singers and Hip Hop Artists but our allegience is due to different books, songs and lines.

I did enjoy reading the book. Mainly because I was introduced to the concept of "fuku" which seems to be such an fitting term for many of life's situations. And secondly, I loved the footnotes. Is that silly? I hope not.

2. Willing by Scott Spencer

I selected this book because I fell in love with A Ship Made of Paper last year.

I must admit I loved A Ship Made of Paper much, much more. But, I love the way Spencer holds words together on the printed page... so I enjoyed the novel nonetheless...

This is one book I have not read and hope to read soon :)
I am glad you liked it :)

My last message was a reply to "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz". :)

3. Sweet Life 2 by Violet Blue

I love erotica. It is the perfect way to explore the ideas which most are afraid to live out. While I have never read a romance novel in my entire life, I find erotic short stories to be the perfect punctuation at the end of a long week.

The problem is simple: as with love poems, most erotica is poorly written.

I enjoyed the selections in Sweet Life 2 as stories first, and later for their erotic stimulation. It is the best erotic anthology I've purchased since Best Black Women's Erotica 2

Message edited by its author, May 26, 2009, 10:43pm.

4. Interpreter of Maladies by Jhumpa Lahiri

I'll admit it -- I bought Interpreter of Maladies for the sole reason that I wanted to see what all the fuss was about.

And come-to-find-out, this collection was one of the best purchases I've made this year.

One day I'll eat these words; I don't enjoy short stories. Or at least, I assumed I didn't like short stories until I read Lahiri. Most of the times when I've attempted to read a short story it felt like an unfinished novella instead of a complete work in itself.

So now I have The Namesake but, I haven't touched it yet...

5. Touched with Fire by Kay Redfield Jamison

This book is reference often in other works regarding "how to write", "the life of a writer" or "artists" in general. And while I bumped into the title again and again... I never sought this book out until this year.

I learned so much about people who I have grown to admire. I found most intriguing portion of the book to be Chapter 6: Genealogies of these High Mortal Miseries. I was astonished at the amount of depression and suicide that can run rampid in a single family.

I would recommend the book to any artist who has been diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder. If nothing else, you won't feel so bad.

6. The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga

There is a simplistic perfection surrounding Adiga's first novel. (Note: emphasis on perfection, not on simplistic.)

I reckon this is technically an epistolary novel. Yet, the narrative moves seamlessly and avoids the choppiness and discontinuity often found in storylines composed as a series of letters.

I can not think of a single thing that I did not love about this novel.

And I must disagree with all of the reviewers/ critics who viewed the main character Balram as a sociopath. His progression seemed certainly reasonable, rational and sane to me. (Who am I to judge what is sane, ha!) Perhaps it is the Fanon, Les-Damnes-de-la-Terre, within me.

Please read, and enjoy.

Message edited by its author, May 26, 2009, 10:53pm.

7. Can You Hear Me Now? by Michael Eric Dyson

If Dyson ever comes to a town near you to speak, attend. It is a blessing and a motivation to hear wisdom wrapped in the gift of powerful oratory.

However, if your ears can not reach the extent of his voice, purchase Can You Hear Me Now?... it's the next best thing.

Message edited by its author, May 26, 2009, 11:12pm.

8. The Prisoner's Wife by asha bandele

As a Black Poet, or at least one who pretends to be, I know asha's name. I have even seen her grace the stage. And yet somehow, I missed The Prisoner's Wife for years.

It was not that I had not seen the book. I distinctively remember passing the cover as it stood face out in Shaman Drum Bookstore.

Not reading The Prisoner's Wife would have been a literary mistake.

I remember the first book I read of Edwidge Danticat. My professor assigned The Farming of Bones for her African American History seminar. I remember re-reading the italicized sections over and over and over... attempting to recapture the overwhelming rushing emotions that acompany great prose.

I hadn't felt that rush in years. But after reading bandele, I began to believe that love does exist. And it can be illustrated with clarity, passion and skill on the written page.

9. Race Matters by Cornel West

I had the pleasure of hearing West speak twice in a two month period in New York City. At Critchley's signing, I sat on the floor in the back of the room, hiding, scribbling furiously into a small journal.

A few years have passed, but there is once concept that remained emblazoned within my memory: Black Nihilism.

Growing up in Detroit -- I think I have always been searching for that term to describe what I experience and what I witness in my beloved city.

Now that I have returned to Detroit, now that I have read Race Matters, I am developing the vocabulary to explain a condition of a people: black nihilism, black existential angst.

I've read West's book coauthored with Gates. I know, I know... I have a lot of catching up to do.

Message edited by its author, May 26, 2009, 11:38pm.

10. On Becoming a Novelist by John Gardner

Gardner explains that, "No one can really tell the beginning writer whether or not he has what it takes."

And as much truth can befound in that statement alone, and in the book, I am still inclined to ask. Can I develop the discipline to write a novel? A decent novel?

Gardner warns, "the writer who cares more about words than about story...is unlikely to create a vivid and continuous dream." And, I wonder if I would fall into that category.

Honestly, I read novels as if they are poetry. Falling more in love with the way a particular author has formed each sentence, than I ever care about what is going on in the plot. If a writer has enough style and enough control -- why, I'd read a novel on just about any subject.

Am I a keen observer? Keen enough? Sure, I tend to hear every single word spoken around me... but I've never been a visual person.

I found this book to be quite helpful in leading me to ask the necessary questions, even if I haven't found the answer yet.

Message edited by its author, May 26, 2009, 11:37pm.

I agree with your comments about Balram in The White Tiger. I think he was somewhat trapped by his poor upbringing and did what he felt he had to do the only way he knew how. That doesn't make it right, of course, but I think Balram felt that his actions were justified.

(mild spoiler)
He seemed to believe that his father died because of the rich and their corruption so he may have felt that what he did was a sort of retribution.
(end spoiler)

Wow!

I appreciate the comments. Veens, Spacepotatoes... please feel free to visit again.

Yes, I want to go back and read Diaz's short stories... haven't gotten to them yet. Maybe this summer.

And yes, there is a huge difference between what is morally right(eous) and that which is consequentially justified.

If you have any suggestions on books I should read, let me know!

11. First We Read, Then We Write by Robert D. Richardson

I own quite a few books on "the writer's life", "the writer's temperment" and of course "writing" in general. Yet, I found reading Richardson's book to be a unique experience.

First We Read is less of an instruction manual on how to read deeply or write well; it is a series of observations not from the view point of the author, but perspective of Emerson.

I had a brief period in New York when I was seeking out the essays of Emerson. This text was a true reminder that it is time to revisit those works.

If you are looking for a set of guidelines, or a road map on how to proceed into literary territory... this might not be the most fufilling work. But, if you are curious about the honest insight of dedicated, well respected author... this book can function as an excellent introduction to Emerson for young or experienced writers.

Message edited by its author, May 28, 2009, 8:38pm.

12. The Myth of Sisyphus by Albert Camus

Reading this essay over the last few days has been a reminder of (1) just how old I am getting and (2) just how long I've been out of college.

Although, I am acquainted with Absurdism, I still found this to be a somewhat demanding read. Perhaps I should not go such long periods without reading philosophical texts...

I'm still confused about Camus' take on a few things: (1) the relationship between happiness and the absurd, (2) the reconciliation between Christianity and the absurd, (3) his differentiation between existentialism and absurdism (since he didn't consider himself as the former, though the world has..) (4) the relation between time and absurdism (5) the connection between love and absurdism (6) the difference between freedom from an existential point of view... and freedom in Camus absurdist point of view...

Yes, I have quite a few questions. I know you must be thinking... if you have that many questions at the conclusion of the essay, what- if anything- did you grasp?

Message edited by its author, May 28, 2009, 8:54pm.

13. Essays and Aphorisms by Arthur Schopenhauer

One of my favorite sermons mentions Schopenhauer. Adams calls him "a great pessimist... perhaps, the greatest that ever wrote about it."

I was intrigued enough to eventually (a few years later... I still listen to that sermon) pick up a collection of Schopenhauer's essays. I was curious to discover what he believed on life, death, meaning and suffering. And, I expected to fall in love with his work.

First, I read "On Books and Writing" and I was impressed. Next, I read "On the Suffering of the World". I felt as if I was warming up to Schopenhauer's theory...

Third, I read "On Women". Honestly, I should have read this piece last.

I was reminded of three instances upon reading "On Women". (1) The day I found out the author of my favorite poem, "If" was racist; (2) The day I read Nietzche for the first time; (3) The day I met Sam Greenlee at an annivarsary screening of his film.

I continued to read Schopenhauer in spite of what I had read. Fourth, I read "On Thinking for Yourself"... I will continue to read Schopenhauer until I complete all of the essays in the book.

But, I wonder how seriously can I take a philosophy that is not universal. A poem written only for whites. A book written only for men.

While I am developing my own theory of tresconsciousness as it applies to Blacks in America. It can be applied to the Dalit of India, the Jews worldwide, Afro-Arabs... amongst others...

I remember asking Greenlee, if he was to write the book today, what role would women play in the revolution. "Roles? Roles?" was the response I received. "Women don't got no role! Whenever a woman ask me about women's roles I tell her to get a man! Because the only women asking me about women's roles are the women who cannot get a man."

I reckon, I will never forget Greenlee's words, though they were spoken a few years ago.

If I thought Schopenhauer's stance carried no weight in the 21st century, I would not be somewhat concerned. But the memory of Greenlee's words reminds me that Schopenhauer's "On Women" is alive and well. (Even amongst men of oppressed races...)

And finally, I have come to the conclusion that if I am to read Philosophy, if I am to take Philosophy seriously... I must read philosophy as I listen to and critique Hip Hop: as if I am, indeed, a man.

I'm sure professional philosophers would be outraged at the comparison of the great minds of their cannon to the "lowly" lyrics of modern rap.

But, I see no separation.

When I listen to hip hop, I forget that I am a woman. I forget that "bitch", that "hoe" etc. refers to me. I judge hip hop only on the poetic skill (double entendres, alliteration, allusions) of the emcee.

And if I am to take philosophy seriously, I must forget that I am indeed a Black woman. Forget that I am of "the weaker sex", the lower race. And judge each theory only on the rational content (logic, validity, soundness) of the argument.

I usually don't review a book unless I have completed it. But, today I just had to write.

Message edited by its author, May 29, 2009, 1:08pm.

Very interesting! Those are some powerful words from Greenlee, I don't think I'd ever be able to forget being told something like that either.

14. Other Colors by Orhan Pamuk

The first time Pamuk's Nobel Lecture, it felt as if a quest had met it's close. I purchased the collection of Noble Prize Lectures, immediately. I was slightly disappointment when the other lectures did not rouse me as Pamuk's words had.

After revisiting that selection in Pamuk's Other Colors, I realize that I connected with "My Father's Suitcase" because I had been searching for reasonable justification all this time.

I won't discuss "My Father's Suitcase" in great detail, because I believe ever reader should have the pleasure of reading it for themselves...

Literature is a remarkable medium for establishing relationships. I read each short selection and I feel as if Pamuk could have lived my life. How powerful words are! How can this be when I am a woman? And he is Turkish? How can this be when I am 24? And he has written 11 books? How can we both be moved by many of the same works of literature, though we are worlds apart?

Pamuk actually explores some of the possible answers to these questions in his short essays/articles on reading.

When I read, I appreciate two characteristics in great writing. The first is clear, concise prose. (Yes, I consider clear and concise as one inseperable category...) And second is well developed style. I enjoy novelists and essays who write as if they read poetry every night.

I am a follower of the camp that says, "writers struggle, so that readers don't have to". When I read Pamuk, it is clear that he writes for 10 hours each day. I often forget that I am reading words on a printed page. Only thoughts, images, ideas exist.

Honestly, I think I could use a little more Pamuk in my life. I read Snow, once, about two years ago. This year, I look forward to reading My Name is Red. I'll be sure to let you know what I think...once I do...

I found this on a jbeast post... thought it might be fun.

Copy the questions into your own post and answer the questions.

1) What author do you own the most books by?
I own 8 books by Toni Morrison, 6 books by James Baldwin, 6 by Neal Donald Walsh,
5 books by Michael Eric Dyson, 4 books by Edwidge Danticat,5 by Alice Walker, 4 books by Dostoevsky, 4 by Walter Mosley, 4 by Nicholas Sparks,
2) What book do you own the most copies of?
I own a few books in German... Don't ask me why, I can't read them. Im Westen Nichts Neues (All Quiet on the Western Front), Sehr Blau Augen (The Bluest Eye), Die Klavierspielerin (The Piano Teacher)

3) Did it bother you that both those questions ended with prepositions?
It should... but, it doesn't.

4) What fictional character are you secretly in love with? Sebastian Onius from Farming of Bones

5) What book have you read the most times in your life (excluding picture books read to children; i.e., Goodnight Moon does not count)?
Write Down the Bones and Forest for the Trees

6) What was your favorite book when you were ten years old?
I read a lot of Christopher Pike and I loved Honey Have I Loved when I was younger

7) What is the worst book you've read in the past year?
I have a bad habit of not finishing books that I do not enjoy. Life is too short.

8) What is the best book you've read in the past year?
The White Tiger and The Prisoner's Wife

9) If you could force everyone you tagged to read one book, what would it be? Maybe James Baldwin's The Price of the Ticket

10) Who deserves to win the next Nobel Prize for Literature? James Baldwin, posthumously.

11) What book would you most like to see made into a movie? Sometimes, I think Half of a Yellow Sun could be well adapted... sometimes I have the urge to try to adapt it myself...

12) What book would you least like to see made into a movie?

13) Describe your weirdest dream involving a

14) What is the most lowbrow book you've read as an adult?
Probably my obsession with black erotica...

15) What is the most difficult book you've ever read?
Probably the books I read for my Philosophy of Physics class. Maybe The Philosophy of Space and Time by Reichenbach... I'm not sure if this is true, but it's best answer I can think of right now.

16) What is the most obscure Shakespeare play you've seen?

17) Do you prefer the French or the Russians?
Russians for Literature, French for Philosophy

18) Roth or Updike?
I have yet to read either. (Shameful, I know.)

19) David Sedaris or Dave Eggers?
Sedaris. (But, I need to read more Eggers...)

20) Shakespeare, Milton, or Chaucer?
Shakespeare.

21) Austen or Eliot?
Austen.

22) What is the biggest or most embarrassing gap in your reading?

23) What is your favorite novel?
Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison, Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison, Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Birds Without Wings by Louis de Bernieres.. and yes Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides (I'm not sure how I left that out the first time.

24) Play?
I haven't read/seen enough plays to answer this intelligently...

25) Poem?
If, Invictus, We Wear the Mask by Paul Laurence Dunbar
Anything by Emily Dickinson, T S Elliot,Francis Ellen Watkins Harper, jessica Care moore or Saul Williams

26) Essay?
Any one by James Baldwin

27) Short story?
I haven't found one. I'm looking, honestly, I am.

28) Work of nonfiction?
The Price of the Ticket by James Baldwin, Black Genius by Walter Mosley and others...

29) Who is your favorite writer?
Toni Morrison, Edwidge Danticat, Chimamanda Adichie (if she keeps writing...)

30) Who is the most overrated writer alive today? Um... me? LOL. I'm not sure.

31) What is your desert island book?
Maybe The Farming of Bones by Danticat. I could get lost on and island with that book...

32) And... what are you reading right now?
Atonement, The Color Purple,

Message edited by its author, Jun 21, 2009, 10:36pm.

15. Unholy Ghost by Nell Casey

I realized today that there were at least three books that I read at the beginning of the year which I have not yet mentioned on this post.

I thoroughly enjoyed each other the selections in this anthology. Yet, I am especially greatful to Casey for introducing me to Meri Nana-Ama Danquah.

I was shocked to find a selection on Depression and Black identity. But, after I got over the initial shock, I was at peace.

16. Shaking the Tree by Meri Nana-Ama Danquah

I love anthologies. A great anthology has a enough established writers to pique the interest of savy readers and a few budding artists who display promise.

Just as I was introduced to Danquah through Casey's anthology, I was introduced to asha bandele through Danquah's collection.

I enjoyed reading the work of women who I was already acquainted with: Edwidge Danticat, Debra J. Dickerson, ZZ Packer, Martha Southgate and Rebecca Walker... but the ultimate prize was the discovery of asha bandele's The Prisoner's Wife.

17. Woman Thou Art Loosed by T. D. Jakes

A friend once introduced me to T. D. Jakes' Maximize the Moment. Honestly, I was very reluctant to read it. I had heard Jakes' name spooken of with high regard, yet I didn't feel that I would ever be able to connect with him, his words, his work.

I was wrong.

After reading Maximize the Moment in college, I decided recently to check out a few of his books. Woman Thou Art Loosed could not have come at a better time. While I expected it to be the type of modern Christian text that thumps each sinning reader over the head with constant reminders of their worthlessness... I found it to be a redeeming text highlighting God's Grace for each individual.

It really delved into how to heal after rape and child absuse. It mentioned an intense section of the Bible which I had not previously read: 2 Samuel Chapter 13. Whew, that chapter alone would require a post all by itself.

I highlighted quite a bit in this book. And, I think I'm going to try to read it over within the next week.

I would recommend this text to any Christian woman who has ever been hurt -- by a man, by the world, or by herself.

EDIT

There are two things that I noticed in this book, and subsequently found to be peculiar.

First, while the book delves into sexual rape & violation... it doesn't talk much about nonsexual domestic violence. There is one instance when I recall Jakes saying - even a man who hits a woman, has a point when he is scared of facing her- and that is badly paraphrased by the way.

There are many Christian men (ministers included) who in 2009 still believe that hitting women is acceptable. From this particular book, I wasn't sure of Jake's stance. It is apparent that he is against rape, but not so clear if he is against non-sexual violence.

Second, there are a few blatant moments when Jakes goes on a writing spree against homosexuals. He mentions quite explicitly that to be an efeminite man is a sin. If this is Jake's interpretation of the bible, I have no problem with that... I just found it to be highly irrelevant considering the scope of the book.

Nonetheless, I still greatly enjoyed the book... and I plan on re-reading it this month!

That's all. Enjoy!

Message edited by its author, Jun 6, 2009, 9:35am.

18. I am Your Sister by Audre Lorde

I owe a lot of my literary/music interests to my brother. He introduced me to Junot Diaz, bell hooks, Patricial Hill Collins, Czeslaw Milosz, Octavio Paz, Pablo Neruda, Common, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Binary Star, and, most recently, Li-Young Lee.

Is it odd that my brother introduced me to feminism?

One of the many books that my brother gave me while I was in high school was Undersong.

I wish I could say that Lorde had a larger effect on me in my youth, than she actually did. But, I can't.

As a child, as a young adult, I thought nothing of my gender. Indeed, I barely thought of myself as a girl, a woman, a lady. I simply identified myself as black. My racial background encompassed everything: my perspective, my interests, my writing.

Now that I am growing older, I am beginning to realize all of the fortunes afforded to men to which I am not always privy. Respect, sometimes, is one of them.

As I begin to redefine myself and recognize what it means to be a woman, what it means to be a black woman, I am revisiting Lorde.

I have discovered that it is somewhat ironic to be a heterosexual Black feminist. As if Black men expect that if you love them, you won't vocally, explicitly love yourself.

Even before I purchased the book, I was most interested in Lorde's take on silence. "Your silence will not save you" rings oft in my head. It was no suprise that "The Transformation of Silence into Language and Action" was the first essay in the book.

In addition to Lorde's commentary on silence, this collection hold's reflections of Johnetta B. Cole, Alice Walker, bell hooks and others on Lorde's life and works. hooks notes, "Toni Cade Bambara, Audre Lode and June Jordan were all critical thinkers who dared to be militant, to speak when silence would have afforded them greater comfort."

Indeed I have been thinking about the relationship between silence and femininity- sometimes it is our silence which makes us women- and, the consequential relationship between silence and comfort.

Message edited by its author, Jun 6, 2009, 10:52am.

Good Answers :) This was fun :)

I have Atonemennt :) and I hope to really get to it this month :)

I hope to get 'The Color Purple', everyone is raving about it :)

I want to read Toni Morrison and I have Half of a Yellow Sun too... need to get to it as well :)

19. Letters to a Young Artist by Anna Deavere Smith

I love to read authors and artists when they write about their profession - their failures and shortcommings, their successes and lessons.

Perhaps aspiring artists read works such as Letters to a Young Artist and Letters to a Young Poet, because we are searching for an answer to the questions: How do we begin the pursuit of art - the lifestyle, career and calling of an artist? Do artist have to suffer for their art? How does one know if she is gifted or merely eccentric?

In many ways, no one can answer these questions for you, yet Smith addresses these topics, and gives the reader the foundation to address these questions for himself or herself.

I found a lot of similarities between this book and similar books that I have read. (Letters to a Young Artist:Building a Life in Art, Letters to a Young Poet) There was one section which made this collection unique... the chapter on "The Man". I was not expecting Smith to discuss situations where certain Black men are the 'gatekeepers' of her fate. Smith warned that in any situation, it is crucial to know who is 'the Man'. Ultimately, an artist at any stage of his career must know who holds the power. This is a lesson which I have not learned.

Smith states that alienation is not inevitable for an artist, while acknowledging that often art is born out of pain. And since most of my pain stems from alination, I am not certain how to divorce the two notions.

Smith also discusses West and the notion of suffering for one's art. I agree with Smith in the fact that he simple act of suffering will not make you an artist, let alone a great one. Suffering will not make you a hard or disciplined worker, it will not give you presence, wit or charm. And yet my experience is that the role of suffering in writing is different between the role of suffering in other arts, particularly the performing arts such as dance and music. I think the performer plays a different role than the creator. (And indeed many artists are both...)

All in all, I enjoyed reading this book. I am behind in my reviews... I completed this book on the 8th of June.

Message edited by its author, Aug 1, 2009, 11:23am.

20. A Woman's Worth by Marianne Williamson

Marianne is probably best known for her quote from A Return to Love that begins, "Our greatest fear is not that we are inadequate..." which has been quoted, and sometimes attributed to Nelson Mandela who stated it the following year.

In A Woman's Worth, I found the common theme, "Your playing small serves no one." And I begin to meditate on the many ways that women 'play small'. I think the most significant way that a woman diminishes her own impact and role in society is through her silence. And I have been thinking about how American society is held together by a woman's silence every since I read Audre Lorde's essays a few weeks ago.

And as an answer to my prayer Marianne states, "But never ever -- married or not -- allow your partnership with a man to silence your voice or keep you from supporting another woman in using hers, or you are helping to perpetuate a most vicous muffling of a beautiful sound... Be very clear. The silence is a sick one."

Be very clear. WOW. The silence is a sick one.

Marianne describes womanhood as "a mass pain of unspoken depth;" which once described we are accused, belittled, nagged, "there you go complaining again!"

My favorite Williamson works are still A Return to Love and Enchanted Love ... yet it was in divine order that I read this particular text at this moment in my life.

May we all, male and female, embrace the Goddess within ourselves and continue to nurture, support and admire the Goddess within others.

21. Letter to My Daughter by Maya Angelou

My To-Be-Read list appears to be infinitely long these days. There are books which I recognize and acknowledge once published that I must read. Angelou's offering Letter to My Daughter was a book which I could no longer pass up.

A few weeks ago, I ordered Meri Nana-Ama Danquah's anthology Shaking the Tree. The introduction to the first entry is one that I may never forget. bandele states, "People ask, 'How are you?' And I know they mean well, but they also mean, 'Don't tell me the real deal. Don't say what's honestly going on, what you're thinking, how you're feeling' If you do, when you do, so often they look at you like you're crazy, talk too much, are too emotional, wow, look at the time, bye..."

And I was reminded of bandele's words when I found Angelou's, "My mother, Vivian Baxter, warned me not to believe that people really want the truth when they ask, 'How are you?' ...most people knew that it was simply a conversation starter. No one really expects to be answered" Angelou discusses how we are reared and trained to give and receive social lies without a second thought.

One of the social lies that Angelou discusses is rape. She is offended that we have turned rape into such an acceptably explainable occurrance.

Angelou shares glimpses of her life, her story and, ultimately, her strength throughout this book. I don't think any woman could read this book, unmoved. I don't think any girl would read this book, or any of Angelou's biographies, without knowing that they have the strength to overcome whatever life has in store for them.

22. Keep it Real by Lee Gutkind

The only creative writing course I completed in college, was a workshop on Creative Nonfiction. While I am too young of a writer to know in which genre I will find my home (poetry or fiction? essays or screenplays?), I have a sneaking suspicion that creative nonfiction will play a significant role in my life. Even if I never publish a single word, the personal essay, the memoir, have a special place in my heart.

Yet, I have not thought in very great detail about the mechanics of creative nonfiction. The consequences. Gutkind's book changed that. Now I am aware.

This book goes into great detail concerning things such as slander, and the repercussions that writers face when they write close to home.

I know, that every person who has ever appeared in my life displays character traits, habits, insecurities and short comings which I may possibly explore in my writing, if I have not already. Keep it Real let's writers know that there are consequences of that.

While, I am attempting to work on longer pieces, I am restarting a novel and doing research for a few biographies, I realize that right now I am most prepared to complete shorter works. I will probably begin with the essay.

I enjoyed Keep it Real and I realized that I have not read enough books concerning how to construct nonfiction. I am certain I will re-read this book 2 or 3 times more this summer.

23. Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man by Steve Harvey

Now, I always have loved Harvey, grew up watching him on television. But, I must admit, I have been procrastinating reading his book. I saw it every single time I went to the bookstore. And considering that I frequent shops at least twice per week, I've passed Harvey's book quite a lot.

I hesitated, mainly because I was not ready to be told about myself. I wasn't ready for the call out.

But, when Harvey visited Detroit, I figured it was time to push aside my ego, and read what he has to say.

I was not disappointed. I don't think Harvey has ever let me down. There wasn't a single line in the entire book which I disagreed with.

I have my own theories about Black men and Black women. I have a huge family with hundred and hundreds of people... And I have been snooping, watching and listening to Black folks all of my life. One theory that I have is the "Wifey-type" versus the expendables (one day, I'll think of a better word). Low and behold, Harvey agrees. Harvey has dedicated an entire chapter to, "Sports Fish vs. Keepers".

I cried like a baby in Boston Market, random I know, while reading this chapter. I realized that right now I'm not the wifey-type, not the keeper. And yet, I'm not a sports-fish neither. But men, being who they are, if you aren't a wifey-type, if you aren't a keeper... they automatically treat you and will atempt to make you into their sporting fish, their plaything, their expendable sex object.

I cried like a baby. I had to put the book down for a week. I finished the book this week, instead.

This book offered insite into the mind of a Black man (I think Black men are slightly different from other men... and I think Black women are significantly different form other women... Not better not, worse, but Black folk are different.)

I realized that I need to drastically re-write my first story. It is indeed a story of Black men, Black male youth, Black manhood. I cannot write a story about men ... and have them making decisions as a woman would make them. Nobody would read it. Nobody would see it. Because ultimately, nobody would believe it.

I loved Harvey's book. It is helping me currently in my life, figure out how in the hell I got into the trap that I am in. Harvey made a chapter just for me, "Strong, Independent-- and Lonely-- Women". And, Harvey is helping me re-write my first novel/screenplay.

I honestly think that all Black women should read this book, a few times. It doesn't matter how young or old we are at the time. This book could save a few heartaches.

And lord knows, Black women don't need any unnessary heartbreaks. Black women have a hard enough time as it is...

Just discovered your thread and really enjoying hearing you think out loud. Too much of my own thinking to try to share all at once, so will just comment on Steve Harvey's book--well, not his book. More on Steve Harvey talking about his ideas about men and women. I've heard him talking about his book on Oprah and various talk shows. He is hilarious, isn't he? I have mixed feelings, though. Having grown up Mormon (atheist now) it took me a long time to find my strength and voice as an independent woman. Sometimes his jokes feel a little 'retro' to me in terms of his expectations/advice to women, but then they also feel 'real.' I just don't know whether they sound real because I have those pre-60's 'shoulds/should nots' still lurking in my brain, or whether they're just truths we have to face/accept as women to be acceptable to men. I'm not Black, but I'm still interested in reading Harvey's book. Thanks for sharing your experiences reading it (i.e., crying in a public place). I've been there myself with many a book.

Hi Bonniebooks!

Yay! Thanks for the excellent response. Please come back and comment more often!

Wow! From Mormon to atheist? That's quite a leap... but we can talk about that more later.

And yes, he is absolutely hilarious... I love humor that stems from truth. Sometimes life itself is the funniest thing...

After thinking about your comment. This is what I will say.

As a woman, regardless of your race, you have to decide what kind of man you are attracted to... ultimately, what kind of man you are trying to attract. Are you trying to attract the dominate alpha-male? Are you trying to attract the stylish metrosexual? Are you trying to attract an intellectual? Are you trying to attract a sweet-loving momma's boy? Each man is different.

I've noticed that Black men are obssessed with this concept of a "Real Man". (Black folks in general are obsessed with notions of authenticity... who's really black... and who's a sell-out.) So Steve Harvey's book is talking about women who want... what black folk would consider a "Real Man". This is one who handles business and wears the pants.

The issues that Black women often run into is simply they want to call all the shots, wear the pants, and yet they want a "Real Man". It doesn't quite work like that. You can't treat you man as if he is your son, making all of his decisions, running the household and then be angry because he's not a "stand-up kind of guy".

So, I agree with Harvey actually. If you want a man that handles business, one that can make great decisions for the household... a woman has to let a man feel like a man. If she doesn't, eventually resentment forms... and he may find another woman that makes him feel like a man.

I'm all for feminism. Trust me I am. Letting a man "wear the pants" does not mean that he should hit you, force you, nor verbally abuse you.

Not all pre-60s ideas are bad. I look at my grandparents who were married for over 50 years... and I wonder, why isn't that working today? Half the folk who get married this year will be divorced before the end of either of their lifetimes.

So you have to take the good ideas and toss out all notions that are not serving you. I would love to have a life-long relationship like my grandparents had... But, not at the expense of a promising career.

That's my take on things... if you do pick it up and read it, let me know what you think. Or, if you have any suggestions on great books you've read... let me know!

Message edited by its author, Jun 21, 2009, 10:21pm.

24. Behind My Eyes by Li-Young Lee

Sadly enough, June is almost over, the year is half gone and I am just now tackling my first new poetry book for the year.

But, I couldn't think of a better way to begin reading poetry. I don't always agree with my brother when he gives me literary suggestions...but there are moments when he is right on the money. This is one of those times.

There are works that are perfect for escapism, that invite you into another world, and there are works which sweep you back into reality's grasp. And there are works which mirror reality but are so beautifully constructed you deny that they have anything to do with our imperfect world.

There are themes which are absent in my life, but present in my history as a person of color living in a colorless society... these themes visit Lee's works again and again. Refugees. Immigration. Assimilation.

I walked away from each poem feeling as if I understood myself more than before. Such power in naming the unspoken.

Lhea--is it Lhea? I had lots of visceral reactions to each one of your comments--many of which would make for some great discussions! Would it be all right if I share your thoughts with a couple of friends? That's the one thing I don't like about LT. Writing down my thoughts and feelings is so much more difficult for me than talking with a friend in person or on the phone. I like the give-and-take, and building on each other's emotions and reactions. Definitely going to have to read Harvey's book sooner than later.

There are quite a few poetry lovers on the threads. MusicMom comes to mind--you should go over and talk to her. Listen to me, only a few comments and already I'm bossing you around like a mom or a big sister. As Bonnie Hunt would say in her Chicago accent, "That aint right!" I may be older, but you already sound wiser.

Feel free to explore your reactions... I'm curious. Yes, you can share with friends... as long as I can reserve the right to change my mind. (I've learned that is a woman's greatest right.)

25. Transforming A Rape Culture by Emilie Buchwald

I wrote the longest response in the world, and as soon as I clicked 'Submit' my internet went out for 20 minutes. And so, I begin again. This time I'll copy and paste, just in case.

I love anthologies. Usually when purchasing a new collection, I make sure that I am familiar with the works of at least two of the contributors. I have found that reading anthologies is the best way to discover authentic, new voices.

Last summer, I watched a movie entitled "War". Towards the beginning of the film, there is a crystalized scene where a nearly nude woman runs through a crowded club in agony. She was beautiful, but you noticed not her beauty only her anguish. The most elegant part of this scene was the contrast between her blaring pain and the indifference of the bystanders. No one at the club missed a beat! This scene is the embodiment of "Rape Culture".

Being a part of Rape Culture does not mean that we endorse or sponser rape. Being a part of a rape culture does not mean that we promote or inspire rapists. Being a part of a rape culture means simply that we turn our heads while 900,000 women in the US are raped each year: by strangers and by fathers, by boyfriends and by uncles, by pedephiles and by those with no other crimes.

I was intrigued when I came across the title "Transforming a Rape Culture". The words "Rape" and "Culture" nestled next to each other is startling and brave. So I decided to give Buchwald, Fletcher and Roth a chance, to see what they selected.

The first selection I chose to read was by Haki Madhubuti. My father introduced me to his work. The first time I ever saw him and shook his hand was when he visited Detroit after the Million Man March. My father brought me and my brother, Lee, to his book signing. After reading his book, I looked him up... found out about Don Lee and Third World Press... and I've been reading the books he promotes ever since from The Isis Papers to The Covenent with Black America.

I was suprised to find that Madhubuti lables himself as an Antirapist. Suprised, flattered and intrigued.

Madhubuti's essay was one of the most practicle that I read in this book. He did not simply discuss theories on why women are raped, though he does state that "Power always lurks behind the rape". He gives 12 explicit steps that men can take towards a rape-free world.

I enjoyed the poetry that he spread through out this peace including the the final lines...

don't let your little head
outthink your big head
No! means no!
even when her signals suggest yes.

The piece that I was most effected by was written by bell hooks. My brother gave me "All About Love" while I was in high school. And I heard her speak for the very first time at "Women, Love and Power: Healing the World in the 21st Century", a women's forum with Marianne Williamson, Oprah Winfrey, Anne Lamotte and others...

I was moved by her work as a woman and as a writer. I remember her discussing the criticisms she has received from others. She stated, something along the lines of, Blacks who publish frequently are sometimes criticized ... perhaps for lack of thoroughness or the like... While many conterparts publish annually and receive high praise. I still think about that, from time to time.

In this selection, "Seduced by Violence No More", hooks began with a powerful brief: "I was suprised by the number of young black women who repudiated the notion of male domination but who would then go on to insist that they could not desire a brother who could not take charge, take care of business, be in control."

I am guilty as charged. In fact, the day before I began reading this anthology, I typed a response (see above) to bonniebooks stating, "The issues that Black women often run into is simply they want to call all the shots, wear the pants, and yet they want a 'Real Man'. It doesn't quite work like that. You can't treat you man as if he is your son, making all of his decisions, running the household and then be angry because he's not a 'stand-up kind of guy'."

The young, black women that hooks was referring to were women like me. Later hooks states, "On college campuses all over the United States, I talk with these black males and hear their frustrations. THey are trying to oppose patriarchy and yet are rejected by black females for not being masculine enough."

Again, guilty, guilty, guilty.

And to this I would ask, isn't it possible to have a man who is in control who will not rape you when you decline? Or better yet, when you say yes and then change your mind... Isn't it possible to have man who is in control who will not hit you when you raise your voice, oppose his opinion or accidentally step on his manhood, his pride? Isn't it possible to have a man who won't verbally abuse you, who will respect your opinion, and who is still in control?

Is that a fairy tale?

I am not certain if this is possible. Too many of the women who I know who are in long term relationships are subject to at least one of the three forms of abuse: physical, sexual or verbal. And it's amazing that sometimes the verbal abuse is the strongest, with the longest lasting effects.

To the former questions, I have no answers.

One theme that flurried through most essays of this collection is that rape is associated with acquisition of power.

I was intrigued by each author that mentioned this from Madhubuti to Carol J. Adams ("Men who abuse and rape their partners are men who seek to control others."). I was intrigued because just earlier this month I completed Maya Angelou's newest book, in which she strongly protested the notion that rape is being asexualized in to a power struggle between the dominating and the dominated.

I would have to think about this in greater depth: is rape a sexual act? Is rape an act of control, power? To this, I do not yet have a theory.

This was an excellent book. However, without any statistics, I would assume that most of the people who have purchased this book are women. And honestly, I think this book and other's like it are probably preaching to the choir. One thing that I did not see addressed in the book, is how to get the words of anti-rapist men, and no-longer-having-it women into the hands of those who need to read it most.

Message edited by its author, Jun 24, 2009, 7:43pm.

26. The Courage to Write by Ralph Keyes

While my desire to be published is weaning, my desire to write is increasing.

I found Keyes' book to be a pleasurable encounter. Writing as a daring act of courage is a concept foreign to the world. I have found that most of the world sees writing as an act of solitary escapism, an act of cowardice as opposed to an act of courage. In that sense, it was refreshing to examine the act of writing, the act of creation as an act of fearlessness.

Here are some quotes that I took home:

"The best work that anyone writes, is the work that is on the that is on the verge of embarrassing him, always." --Arthur Miller

"Writers typically create fictional worlds because the find the real one unappealing." --Keyes

Annie Dillard said you should write as if you are dying. Nadine Gordimer went farther. She argued that you should write as if you are already dead and it no longer mattered what anyone said to you.

"One reason so many good writers have tattered personal lives is that they write as if they have no one to protect. Lucky for the readers; not so luck for the writers. Unluckiest of all is the writer's families." -Keyes

"Self-absorbtion is an occupational hazzard of writing. Or, should we say, a prerequisite." -Keyes

There were a few things that were discussed in the book which may be debatable, things which certainly I think some authors would disagree:

"Isn't disloyalty as much the writer's virtue as loyalty is the soldier's?" -Graham Greene

"Writers are always selling somebody out." - Joan Didion

"Successful writers rarely emerge from the ranks of the popular." -Keyes

"You cannot be both a good socializer and a good writer. You have to choose." -Erskine Caldwell

Though, lately I have been wondering if I spend too much time reading books about "how to write" or "the writer's life". I wonder how much these books have actually changed who I am, because I read them because for the last 13 years I have been reading books saying 'this is what a writer is like, this is how a writer must be.'

If for 13 years I read books that said all writers are socialites, would I have determined that I must not be a writer? Or, would I have striven to become a socialite?

It's really a chicken-n-egg sort of thing...

Message edited by its author, Jul 3, 2009, 10:49am.

27. Spiritual Liberation by Michael Bernard Beckwith

Recently, I had the pleasure of hearing Beckwith speak for the first time. His wife, Byars-Beckwith, performed beautiful original compositions.

"This is the best day of my life, and by the end of this day, I will have a deeper realization about the universe, about the Invisible, about myself and the true art of living." --Beckwith

I hope that the world adopts this affirmation. And, I must begin with myself.

There is much to be learned from Beckwith. I think that each person who reads this book will walk away with something different that they feel was the most important aspect. From my perspective, I believe that the concept that there is, "no separation between my personal and professional life" is the strongest thing that I could take from this work.

By disolving all separation one experienes all of the other spiritual teachings of this book. One experience that can be initiated by removing the separation is addressing 'identity-theft'.

Beckwith discusses our attachment to the ego.

Also, Beckwith has a unique version of existentialism, as "seeing the Christ within others." In this sense, our "existence" is determined by "where we place our attention and the inner response we experience to what we 'see'".

This is an interesting addition and I will have to take it into further consideration. The Philosophy of Existence does speak about the impact of our surroundings and our experiences on our life, our identity and our existence... But Beckwith is speaking about the impact of our perspective regarding our surroundings, our view of our experiences on our life, our identity and our existence.

I hope that as many people are moved by Spiritual Liberation as were moved by The Secret.

There is a DVD version as well... I haven't watched it just yet, but once I have the opportunity perhaps I will add it to this post.

28. the unauthorized biography of Mulatto Cracker Black by Roger Bonair-Agard

I have found that a lot of the greatest poetry doesn't meet the perfectly bound book. At least not initially. Some of the most moving poems I have ever read have been in chapbooks purchased at open-mics and poetry slams.

There is a prevailing though amongst "page-poets" that Slam Poets and Spoken Word Artists do not actually read. And, I'll admit there are some Performance Poets (like Hip Hop Artists) who proudly admit that they do not read.

And then there are the truly gifted who can survive in both poetic worlds with distinction. Roger Bonair-Agard is a man of words who can lift empty sounds from the darkness and transform it into a narrative so rich, so strong that anyone within ear-shot is moved. And if that weren't enough, a silent, lonely reader nestled with one of his books can feel his words reverberated from the printed page even when he isn't around.

It is truly a gift to control the stage and the page with equal mastery. Sure, Roger has won a few national poetry slams -- that speaks to his talent in spoken word. He is among the greatest. But also Roger's words deserve to be printed in renouned journals of world literature.

When Roger speaks about his life, his childhood it is the most clear vision of bildungsroman I have ever read or heard.

I reckon, I will never tire of his insight.

Enjoy.

Message edited by its author, Jul 4, 2009, 6:38pm.

29. Empire of Illusion by Chris Hedges

If I recall correctly, I jumped when I realized that Hedges had a new book on the shelves. I purchased the book without even turning to the first page to see what it entailed.

This must be the best non-fiction book I've read this year. While I don't always agree with Hedges, I appreciate the honesty, clarity and urgency of every printed line. In less than 200 pages, Hedges discusses more than most writers could tackle in a thousand.

In short, Empire of Illusion is a discussion of the "culture of dealth". This culture is a product of deliberate illiteracy, pornographic influence and celebrity obsession.

In the first chapter, Hedges outlines the results of a celebrity-obsessed culture - "the line between public and fictional personas blurs." Although I do think it is unfair to mention Jerry Springer and Oprah Winfrey in even the same breath, I find the vast majority of his observations to accurate to a fault.

The bottom line is the comodification of the human being. Recently, Kanye West has published a book with his philosophy on life. While I haven't spotted the book in stores yet, I've read articles concerning it's content. West has one particular philosophy which states that you want to be used, and if you aren't able to be used by someone else, you're useless. West, I think, diffrentiates between use and abuse, but the sentiment is still clear.

I reckon this mentality is what Hedges is speaking about, "Human beings become a comodity in celebrity culture. They are objects, like consumer products. They have no intrinsic value. They must look fabulous and live on fabulous sets. Those who fail to meet the ideal are belittled and mocked. Celebrity culture plunges us into a moral void. No one has any worth beyond his or her appearance, usefulness, or ability to 'succeed'"

The second chapter, includes the most vivid discussion on pornography and it's effect on our culture that I have read in an extremely long time. I was physically sickened and had to put the book down for a night to recover.

The third and fourth chapters were particularly harsh on America's elite universities and America's current obsession with positive-psychology. Even after reading Hedges' chapter "The Illusion of Wisdom" I am not certain that I am against elitism. Perhaps I am an elitist. If so, I must be an elitist of the worst kind, the poor-elitist.

I am a supporter of positive-psychology. I am certain that the positive psychology of The Secret has brought many Americans out of the sea of despair and into space of hope. There were periods of my life where I watched The Secret DVD daily, and there were many areas of my life which it did help. However, there is a space where I would draw the line. I do not think anyone should be delusional for the sake of happiness. I've been thinking about happiness in an essay that I'm writing, and it is clear that Hedges has some of the same concerns that I have.

I am huge fan of new-age religion and new-thought movements. Yet, the one fault that I do find is that it does force the believer to take responsibility for things that may very well be out of their control. I always wondered if centuries ago Africans attracted the middle passage into their lives. Have developing countries attracted the AIDS epidemic? or colonialism or post-colonialism or imperialism or neo-imperialism? Do the battered attract the batterer? Or the raped attract the rapist? Does the Law of Attraction only work on an individual basis and not on a collective one? If so, what does an individual do when he or she experiences the negative results that a collective have attracted?

Of all of the things that Hedges discussed, the one which I have to disagree with the most is the concept of "Old America". Hedges states that, "the old America is not coming back," as if it would be desirable to do so. While Hedges acknowledges that America was not a perfect country "especially if you were African or Native American or of Japanese descent in the Second World War... poor, gay, a woman, or an immigrant", he still writes as if we would want America to go back to what it used to be. Perhaps it's just me, but the list that Hedges gave seems to be the vast majority of Americans. It is indeed all Americans who aren't a white male. So, even in all America's faults, I do not think that we would want the "old America" back.

Finally, Hedges blames a lot of things on corporate structure and corporate America. While I agree with all of the problems that Hedges outlines, I don't think those problems exist because of corporations. I think if all corporations were dissolved tomorrow, the same toils of poverty, crime, illiteracy, and the proliferation of curable and preventable disease amongst other modern day problems would continue to run rampant if people do not think for themselves.

I have never been against capitalism or corporations. But, I think corporations would only effectively work in a Randian objectivist sense. Capitalism cannot work without individualism. And what mascarades as individualism in America is a reinteration and regurgidtation of mass conditioning. I think many Americans live their entire lives without many original thoughts. Perhaps even if thoughts aren't original, they should be at least derived on your own accord.

The fact that many issues exist in America because people fail to think for themselves should not be solely blamed on corporations.

In all, it was an excellent book! I would love to read it again before the summer is out...

Message edited by its author, Jul 4, 2009, 6:38pm.

Very nice overview and review--I'll be on the lookout for this one. Thanks!

i think you are crazy, i have white friends, black friends, asian friends, europeon friends, and all of us WOMEN need to read this book and share it with ALL women, the white men are the same players as the black players, or husbands, etc, i lLOVED this book and facebooked and emailed all my girlfriends and a lot of us are already rereading it and discussing it and saying how true it is and how we wish we had this book 20 years ago

i tried it out on a new guy who i met at a fundraiser, followed steve's advice to the t, 8 weeks later, i kicked him to the curb, as i knew he was a player and he was thinking of me as a throw back, good riddance, i can move on, i have wasted yEARS on men you believe are telling you we will get married some day, etc etc

I don't like name-calling, so I flagged you anncran70, and I don't understand, because you sound like you are agreeing with LheahJlove re: Steve Harvey's book.

Anncran70--

Maybe I would take your comment more seriously if you had more than one book in your library. Did you join LibraryThing just to post that comment?

Well, now that you are here... add more books to your library and join other conversations.

30. Best African American Fiction 2009

What a fine collection! I think E. Lynn Harris did an excellent job selecting various works. And come to think of it, I could probably use a little more E. Lynn Harris in my life.

I focused primarily on the short stories. And, I'll admit, the form in itself is growing on me. I especially loved "Pita Delicious" by ZZ Packer and "This Kind of Red" by Helen Elaine Lee. I've never read Lee before, perhaps this will be a portal into another great set of literature. Yes, this is why I love anthologies the opportunity to remember why you love your favorites so much as well as the chance to discover someone new (who usually, isn't new at all just someone you haven't been introduced to...)

I also have Best African American Essays as well... but I haven't finished reading enough entries to report on it.

31. The Thing Around Your Neck

I always say that Adichie will become my favorite writer... if she just keeps on writing. Well, it is aparent that she has no intention of stoping anytime soon.

The Thing Around Your Neck was a great read. I think I enjoyed Half of a Yellow Sun and Purple Hibiscus more.... but I think that is my bias towards novels as opposed to short stories, as opposed to any indication of the nature of her writing.

I find that Adichie writes about a very specific sort of experience, often the educated experience of a Nigerian in Nigeria or in the United States; yet, even in the specificity of her subject matter, the reader can find universal themes and stories. Womanhood. Homosexuality. Betrayal. Religion. Violence.

I especially loved "Imitation" and "The Thing Around Your Neck". And at the risk of sounding foolish or American (or both), I'll admit, I absolutely love the names of her characters. They are absolutely beautiful. Perhaps I just love Nigerian names...

Message edited by its author, Jul 24, 2009, 7:17pm.

32. Ignore Everybody by Hugh MacLeod

Sometimes, I stuble upon a text by happenstance and it almost seems to be fate. I can't bring myself to believe in fate, but sometimes the sychronicity of life amazes and perhaps baffles me.

It was completely by chance that I found this book. It wasn't on a store front display or even face out on the shelf. After reading it, I think, perhaps it should be.

I absolutely love this book. In the last week, I've read it twice. I don't know if there is a single line in this book which I disagree with. The writing is clear, the message is straight forward. Ignore Everybody could benefit artists, entrepreneurs and executives alike.

And on top of that, it's pretty hilarious. Humor helps. Always.

Here are a few of my favorites:
"We all spend a lot of time being impressed by folks we've never met. Somebody featured in the media who's got a big company, a big product, a big movie, a big bestseller. Whatever."

"The most important thing a creative person can learn professionally is where to draw the red line that separates what you are willing to do from what you are not... When I see somebody 'suffering for their art,' it's usually a case of their not knowing where that red line is..."

"Everybody is too busy with their own lives to give a damn about your book, painting, screenplay, etc., especially if you haven't finished it yet. And the ones who aren't too busy, you don't want in your life anyway."

Perhaps, someone will read this book and say, "Lhea, this is just common sense." Yes. That's the point. Have you ever noticed that common sense is the main thing that people fail to implement in their own lives? (Myself included...)

Message edited by its author, Aug 1, 2009, 12:11pm.

I really like and agree with all the comments you've included from Ignore Everybody so I'll have to check it out.

I just read Half a Yellow Sun last week and have yet to write any comments on my own thread about it. I was just out of high school and planning on getting married when Biafra was happening. Before reading the book, my memories were primarily of people starving (the image of emaciated babies with bloated bellies is what immediately comes to mind on hearing the word "Biafra") and I thought it was due to famine caused by drought. I didn't remember that there had been a war in/with Nigeria. It's discouraging to see all the similarities between those events forty years ago and what's going on in Darfur and Sudan, isn't it?

This is the kind of book I most enjoy reading, though the word "enjoying" maybe isn't the right word for how I feel when I read a book like that. Maybe just reading the truth about what's going on in other parts of the world, or what has gone on--and trying to understand why--isn't enough, but at least it's a start.

I should re-read Half of a Yellow Sun, but I have so many books on my To Be Read list...

I wouldn't call it discouraging. Now, I'm not the most political person. So I am not very well versed in Nigerian politics. But, from my limited understanding Nigeria currently is night and day different from what Adichie described during the Biafran war. So, I think inspite of the atrocities that have occurred in Sudan... one must remember that a nation can reinvent itself in time. And who knows, maybe it won't take 40 years.

Feel free to let me know whatelse you are reading...

33. The Beautiful Struggle by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Yesterday, I read The Beautiful Struggle. Another book, that has been in my To Be Read pile since it came out.

A few days ago, someone posted an article by Ta-Nehisi Coates... and, upon reading it, I was intrigued. Last night, I dedicated a few hours to honor a story of Black men in America.

Any story of a 20th century Black man's life, regardless of who it is, will be immersed in the scenery of dual consciousness. In addition to the struggle between Americaness and Blackness, any black who strives to live a "conscious" life will always confront the dialectic between the public and private life.

I was moved by Coates story, both his and the intertwined relationships with his father and older brother. I must admit that I saw parallels between his father and my own, similarities between his life and mine, and memories of my brother Lee in his brother William (ironically, not in my brother William).

I didn't always understand the order in which some of the stories were told, and some of the things were repeated which I think were made very clear the first time. A lot of english (language) writers have become fans of the dissolution of quotation marks. I'm not sure I am ready to jump on that bandwagon. Nonetheless, I enjoyed reading his story which of course isn't his alone.

Most of the references, I had read or at least were familiar with. However, there were a few which perhaps I have been sleeping on.

So, I think I'll take a look at more of Coates' articles... and wait for his next book to come out.

Message edited by its author, Aug 3, 2009, 5:35pm.

I went to check out more about Ta-Nehisis and came across a Fresh Air interview by Teri Gross. It was fabulous. I'm definitely reading this book! Thanks for bringing it to my attention, Lhea.

Edited to try to fix link.

Message edited by its author, Aug 3, 2009, 11:38am.

Hi Lhea,

I'm a fan of Coates' blog on the Atlantic Monthly site: http://ta-nehisicoates.theatlantic.com/ You might enjoy it. I've been meaning to read his book for awhile now. Good to read your thoughts on it.

Oh, and I'm reading Chris Hedges War is a Force That Give Us Meaning. Quite thought provoking. I'll certainly have to give Empire of Illusion a look!

Teresa

Yes, I think the first article that I read of his was published by The Atlantic. So, I'll probably visit again to read the older entries.

And, I absolutely loved War is a Force That Gives Us Meaning. I haven't read it in a little while. I should probably check out more of Hedges work as well...

(Yes, and I apologize for initially mispelling the author's name. My typos are unforgivable, sometimes...)

Message edited by its author, Aug 3, 2009, 5:37pm.

34. Some Writers Deserve to Starve! by Elaura Niles

Alright, this one was a quick re-read. I enjoyed it when I first bought it in 2005 or 2006... After rediscovering in a box of books, I decided to take another look.

Some books focus on the craft of writing, and others on the route to publication. This book focuses exclusively on the latter.

Honestly, all of the books on writing say pretty much the same thing. And, all the books on publishing say pretty much the same thing. This one, did add a bit of humor which I enjoyed. I think, it is a great idea to read them from time to time as a reminder especially if you aren't in a weekly writer's group where you have companions as reminders.

This book did focus equally on book-writing as it did screenwriting, which is rare to find in a book on writing. Most books on writing don't venture into both territories.

Anyhoo, I enjoyed the physical layout of the actual book, along with the quotations that were selected. Perhaps, this book won't help you become a greater writer... but it will help remind you of things that should remain in the forefront of your mind.

Love the title! :-)

35. I Say a Little Prayer by E. Lynn Harris

The plan was to finish it in a day. Somehow, life kept getting in the way. The first night I was too sleepy, the second and third too busy. Eventually, I pulled it out in the middle of a lounge to the dismay of my company. And, I finished it this morning.

Now, I have the urge to go back and read more Harris books. I really enjoyed the read. The prose was very clear and the story moved effortlessly along. And, I probably should admit that I enjoyed the subject matter as well...

I was introduced to Harris by a close friend of mine. Come to think of it, he let me borrow the book Invisible Life. Since the book is still sitting on my shelf in the same spot I placed it when I was reading it in high school, one can note that I am horrible at borrowing books. Horrible. In the past, I've lent books (usually only to men that I am attracted to...), and I years later I know I'll never see those books again. I can't fault them, because a few of the books on my shelves are unreturned borrows.

I haven't been reading nearly as many novels as I expected too... perhaps Invisible Life will be the next one I read.

36. When Everything Changes, Change Everything

Neale Donald Walsch states "Nothing changes for the worse, everything only changes for the better."

This is a concept which sounds great, reads great... and yet I am not sure if I am willing to accept this as a personal agreement. Walsch stated this a few times throughout the second half of the book. Each time, I was reminded of Ruiz's The Four Agreements. And which each line I read of Walsch, I began to ponder, which of these statements am I willing to make into my personal agreements. Which statements am I willing to live?

I read the second half of the book entirely too fast, I will have to go back, just as I will T. D. Jakes' book, and read it again for the first time.

I have always been a huge Walsch supporter. There have been experiences which have established my religious beliefs, primarily my experiences in the baptist church. And, there have been events which have nurtured my spiritual identity in ways which have impacted my perspective on life, love, God and death. Of three communities which had a huge impact: Youth of Unity, Unity on Campus, and a Hare Krishna group (which wasn't the name, actually) on campus, one of the most influential experiences was reading Conversations with God as a group.

As a group, and as individuals, we began to have Conversations with God. It was one of the strongest spiritual experiences that I have had in my lifetime.

When Everything Changes, Change Everything is a personal journey into one's true nature an exploration of what change is and how to encourage it in one's life.

"Changing your life means changing your life; it does not mean deciding to change your life; it does not mean talking about changing your life or reading about changing your life."

That being said, Walsch has created an interactive book where one can study the text on ones own and then discuss within an online community. I think that was a marvelous idea -- perhaps, I should join the conversation.

37. Between Barack and a Hard Place

I am thoroughly convinced that we have reached a point in American history where racism can only be addressed and, eventually, abolished though the conscious action of White America. Just as women who speak against sexism are labeled weak and accused of whining; blacks who speak against racism are destined to be accused of 'playing the race card'.

Tim Wise constructs two pithy arguments pertaining the "Call for White Responsibility". First, Wise discusses the denial of racism in the current age. Second, Wise discusses the need for white Americans to confront, attack and reverse the impact of white privilege.

People of all races must be wary of the concept of "transcending Blackness". This is the tendency to accept a select segment of the Black population because the defy the current stigmatism of negative stereotypes. Wise examines this phenomenon in detail.

Second, people of all races must admit that the vast majority of white Americans currently living are not to blame for current systems of racism which are in place. However, Wise is calling for Caucasians to acknowledge any benefits that they may receive from the inherited system and work towards truly equalizing the American experience through the abolition of racism.

If I could suggest that every American read a selection of Tim Wise before they attend an American University, I would. Perhaps the world would be a different place.

Message edited by its author, Aug 12, 2009, 1:22am.

Very nice review of Between Barack and a Hard Place--I took a class on race theory last semester that put me off of reading on race for a while, but I may have to pick this up once a few more months have gone by--thanks!

38. Skinny Bitch

Two summers ago, a friend recommended this book to me. I'll admit it, I was skeptical. I thought it was just another diet book. At the time I was happy with my vegetarian lifestyle and happy with my weight, size and overall appearance.

Well, life happens. And when it does, life has a certain way of making a person take a long, honest look at one's self.

Skinny Bitch is the perfect book to help you take a look at your choices: your eating habits, your physical lifestyle. You are what you eat, and you are what you think.

Unfortunately, vegetarianism (or veganism) does not equate to a healthy lifestyle. It is very easy to be vegetarian and live primarily off of junk food. Vegetarians and Vegans alike must be wary of sugar addictions. For years, I have fallen into the trap of sugar and simple-carbohydrate addictions.

At the end of the day, one cannot change anything until one actually wants to change. Actually, it is not enough to desire change one must continuously convince oneself day in and day out that change is worth it.

Skinny Bitch is actually a damned good place to start. It breaks down the true nature and ultimate results of the decisions you are making when you choose to eat sugar, simple carbohydrates, dairy and meat.

I think if I would have read Skinny Bitch a few years ago, I would have agreed that it is a resourceful book; yet, I don't think I would have done anything differently.

I think, finally, I'm ready to adopt a vegan lifestyle. Ready to be a Skinny Bitch. Any takers?

39. All the Rage

I'm trying to remember the first time I was introduced to The Boondocks. Though I am not certain, it must been early in my collegiate career.

Every time I read The Boondocks, I exhale. "Thank God someone had the nerve to say it."

McGruder has the audacity of courage. More than I'll ever have. And above all, a sense of humor that is unparalleled.

I've been thinking about criticism within the Black Community. I wonder if the community could bear such criticism from a non-black artist? Probably not. So, we need the criticism from within to keep us on our toes. Towards progress. And humor helps. Always.

40. Slumberland by Paul Beatty

"Way back when, and probably tomorrow, in the exact place where you now stand, something happened. Whatever happened, at least one person gave a fuck, and at least one person didn't. Which one would you have been? Which one will you be?"

And this is my introduction to Slumberland; land of candid prose, and blatant opinions. This novel is not for the easily-offended. And while I fall into the afore mentioned category, I greatly enjoyed the book.

The plot took a back seat, to the author's lyrical prose and witty content. But, the reader will not tire of Beatty's words. Slumberland is a laugh-out-loud, literally, novel.

The narrator's voice was distinct and well developed. I wonder if Beatty enjoyed The White Tiger if he has read it. I think I took a lot from this book. Namely, a man's mind is different from a woman's. While Ferguson, my have been a hilarious extreme. Beatty reminds me that I have a little bit more learning to do before I construct a book of all male characters.

Slumberland was a fine read. Humor helps. Always.

41. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

This is another re-read. I initially read The War of Art in 2006; both my brother and I were impressed. For the past four weeks, this book has been on my mind. But, I couldn't exactly put my finger on 'why'.

After picking this book back up, I remember.

Resistance.

In recent years I have a new understanding of the word 'Resistance'. I thought I experienced resistance in college! Times change, people change and resistance adjusts to block our current needs.

Pressfield notes that many industries would crumble if more people faced their own Resistance. "Prisons would stand emptyt. The alcohol and tabacco industries would collapse along with the junk food, cosmetic surgery, and infotainment business, not to mention pharmacuetical companies, hospitals and the medical profession from top to bottom. Domestic abuse would become extinct, as would addiction, obesity, migraine headaces, road rage and dandruff."

Pressfield was the first author that brought to my attention the fact that Hitler was an artist. The knowledge of that single fact, literally opened my eyes. A year or so later when the Virgina Tech tragedy occurred, I was reminded of Pressfield and how important it is for artists to face their own Resistance, overcome, and create art.

Some people, Julia Cameron included, believe in the possibility of 'The Happy Artist' or 'The Happy Creative'. Pressfield reminds us that we must face resistance even when we are not happy, "Because this is war, baby. And war is hell."

Sometimes it is a great pleasure to re-read books at different points in your life. When one reads any text their consciousness will always focus on the ideas, characters and situations that resonate with their life and their situation. Even reading a book two to five years after the initial encounter can have a bold effect. One concept which I remember from the first read, but never walked away with was the relationship between Resistance and trouble. Pressfield asserts that artist get themselves in trouble because its a cheap way to get attention.

Even creating a soap opera of our life is just an excuse not to do what we are here to do. Create art.

In 2006, I thought that there were three books on writing that every would-could-should-will-be writer should read. Natalie Goldberg's Writing Down the Bones, Betsy Lerner's Forest for the Trees and Steven Pressfield's The War of Art.

Three years later, and heaps of books later, I'd say the exact same thing.

42. Getting Started as a Freelance Writer by Robert W. Bly

In any give year, I will read a handful of books on writing. I am extremely interested in how artists create art. What is their lifestyle like? Are they a visiting professor at a University? Do they work a 9-5 in Corporate America? Or, are they a freelance writer?

I have many books that examine the art of writing, others that explore the craft of writing; Bly presents one of the clearest books I've read on the business of writing. Thank you, Mr. Bly. Someone had to talk dollars and cents.

I read the book twice before I bought it, and a third time today after I made the purchase. And, I am convinced that if I am diligent this book might yeild the highest return on a $19.95 investment I've ever made.

Sure, many people want to write The Great American novel. The way things are going, my generation sure could use one. But, the reality is, if it takes you 10 years to generate your masterpiece, it sounds like you are going to have to find a way to pay the bills in the interim.

I would strongly recommend this text to anyone interested in freelance writing, copywriting, ghostwriting, or corporate communications. Perhaps this book may change your life, perhaps it may change mine.

Please complete using only books you've read this year... Try to use titles only once!

Describe Yourself: All the Rage Aaron McGruder

How do you feel: Ignore Everybody Hugh MacLeod

Describe where you currently live: Slumberland Paul Beatty

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: Sweet Life 2 Violet Blue

Your favorite form of transportation: Willing Scott Spencer

Your best friend is: Unholy Ghost Nell Casey

You and your friends are: Skinny Bitch Rory Freedman

What’s the weather like: Empire of Illusion Chris Hedges

Favorite time of day: Keep it Real Lee Gutkind

If your life was a(n): Spiritual Liberation Michael Beckwith

What is life to you: The Myth of Sisyphus Albert Camus

Your fear: Touched With Fire Kay Redfield Jamison

What is the best advice you have to give: First We Read, Then We Write Robert D. Richardson

Thought for the Day: Race Matters Cornel West

How I would like to die: I Say a Little Prayer E. Lynn Harris

My soul’s present condition: The Beautiful Struggle Ta-Nehisi Coates

This quiz seems more doable! :-) Hope you don't mind, I copied the first few questions and posted them on Belva's thread. Thought she'd be interested in doing the quiz too. I'm considering it...

This is neat! I guess it's proof that "you are what you read" in a way :) I'm not sure my titles would fit this, or if I have enough to choose from, but I'm tempted to try it!

I love your last one, The Beautiful Struggle for your soul's present condition.

43. What Moves at the Margin by Toni Morrison

I must have finished reading this selection a month or two ago. Somehow I am just now getting around to offering a response.

Just flipping through the book, rereading my highlighted notations, I have an overwhelming desire to read the entire book again. Perhaps I will.

I love reading Morrison because I am reminded that I am not alone. Though content and style she has found a way to say what others think, believe and understand; through talent she has found an audience to receive the collective truth in a way many other writers, black, female or otherwise, have not.

Yes, "there is the miraculous walk of trees". Not only must we ask whether it is progress or movement, we must also ask whether we are rescinding into a backwards foolishness.

I do not have an answer. I watch the walk of trees. I take notes.

And so I meditate on the things which Morrison raises, which I myself have not found the words to express:

1. What is the sentiments of black women in women's lib?
2. Why do many black women find it impossible to respect white women?
3. What does it mean for black women to be seen as emasculating or masculine?
4. How do we deal with privilege? White male privilege? White female privilege? Even light-skin privilege? So much on the surface effects the outcome of our lives.
5. What is a heroic writers' movement? And why is it impossible for a black writer to be a solitary individual? Another privilege not afforded to black skin.

I will re-read each entry in greater detail... perhaps I will have more questions, or more things to say.

44. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

I read entirely too many books on writing. It is a method of procrastination and a means of justification.

If the procrastination is limited and used to mull over creative ideas, if the justification is used to give you the confidence to get more work done, then the books of writing may be of great help.

I have had this book for years and years, it was refreshing to reopen it and discover a forgotten world.

Message edited by its author, Nov 5, 2009, 9:29am.

45. Unreliable Truth by Maureen Murdock

The importance of memoir is the first person perspective. It is not an absolute truth, but a reconstructed truth -- for memories are limited, but not necessarily false.

46. It's Bigger than Hip Hop by M. K. Asante Jr.

I usually hate to include books on the Black Bookshelf before I have finished the last page, occassionally I do. Usually, if I am so moved by the beginning of the book that I can not wait to share it with the world.

This is a book that I wish I would have read and reviewed as soon as the book hit the shelves. Sometimes in publishing, it seems that so many decisions are made off of initial sales. This is a book that I would not want to go out of print.

When I come across books like this --that is, books that I am sure my generation would enjoy and learn from -- I always wonder how to actually get the books in the hands of the people.

I absolutely loved Kitwana's Hip Hop Generation, but many years have passed; it is time for an update. Hip Hop is not simply a musical genre, it is a culture. This culture encompasses, music, film, education, fashion, politics, crime, activism, laws and many, many, many other entities. Asante does an excellent job at exploring various facets of Hip Hop culture and it's impact on everyday people.

I loved the book, and if I can figure out a way to get into the hands of more young people, I'll definitely take action. I hope that young Asante continues on the journey he has begun, continuing to teach and write.

47. Black Genius by Walter Mosley, Manthia Diawara, Clyde Taylor and Regina Austin

A friend of mine often told me how this book impacted her life. She carried it with her where ever she went. Her aim was to hear each of the authors speak in person, understand their vision out of their own mouths, and have the book signed in rememberance of the person and the ideas. One day she lost the book and all the signatures she once accumulated. Each time she recounted the story to me, I understood her distress.

I hope she has obtained another copy of the book, and begun again. Because it's not about the signatures, it's about the ideas. And the ideas are not lofty words printed on unread pages... but guidelines for action, for life. If there is anyone who embodies this collective Black Genius, it is her. I hope she knows this, and I hope she has begun again.

I reread the book with her in mind and with hope for "African American Solutions to African American Problems".

With love.

Message edited by its author, Nov 5, 2009, 10:04am.

48. Macnolia by A. Van Jordan

My experience rereading this book, is quite different than the first. A lot of time has past. A lot of things have taken place. But, my respect for Jordan as a poet, writer has only grown.

49. Radical Evolution by Joel Garreau

"The future is already here. It's just not evenly distributed." This quote, found in the early pages of this book is a much greater description of Radical Evolution than I can muster.

I absolutely loved this book. It has been at least three years since the first time I read it, and I enjoyed it as if reading it for the first time.

I am convinced that every American, and actually every citizen of the world, has a responsibility to understand advances in science and technology. This is most important for those whose work has no relation to a technical field. The work that is being done every day is remarkable... and it is up to us whether it's application will be positive or disastrous. We are marching towards what Garreau would call the Heaven Scenario, the Hell Scenario or the Prevail Scenario.

This book was published in 2005, and I am sure that much of what has been discussed within these bound pages has already been expounded upon by recent technological advances. But, for the lay reader and the expert alike, Radical Evolution is an excellent introduction to the future which has already begun to arrive.

I absolutely loved this book, and I look forward to reading others like it.

I am convinced that every American, and actually every citizen of the world, has a responsibility to understand advances in science and technology. This is most important for those whose work has no relation to a technical field. The work that is being done every day is remarkable... and it is up to us whether it's application will be positive or disastrous.

Very well put! I agree...though I will admit I am biased, coming from a science background. I try to include some form of "science in the news" or "math in the news" as part of the classes that I teach now, hopefully it inspires at least a few of them to care!

Einstein's Dream by Alan Lightman

I absolutely enjoyed re-reading this book. I liked both the stories as well as the underlying ideas behind each narrative. I have been thinking much about time and it's very nature (or multiple natures as it may be)... I'll probably re-read this short book a few more times before I move on to another.