When I started writing books several years ago, it was important for me to display images of African American boys on the cover (especially since these books were difficult to find). I have two sons, and I wanted them (and others who looked like them) to know that they were (and are) worthy of a book cover.
In switching gears for my third book, My Soul/African American Spirituals: Embracing the Journey, my goal is for families to discuss the relevance and importance of African American History through the spirituals. Therefore, this book shows powerful collages of African American families in the past and in the present.
While researching and writing this book, I heard expressions from many who supported this idea, but there were also naysayers who thought the past was too painful to talk about. Even marketing experts suggested that I write what I know and continue with my multicultural children’s book series.
However, as a writer, my gut, soul, and creative spirit wouldn’t rest. I had to write this book. It was imperative for children to get a glimpse of the strength, fortitude, dignity, and contribution of the slave man, woman, and child under dire conditions and to learn their roots and journey through the slave songs also known as spirituals. Why? Because their stories are our stories...their songs are our songs. These magnificent individuals passed down these intricate and musical details from generation to generation for a reason. Not that we would forget, but so that we would remember.
In this modern day time, hold onto the brilliant teachings of our ancestors. Since history repeats itself, it is necessary that we read the biographies, the literature, the “good book”, the blueprint, the examples, and the signs! We must continue to learn from them, hold them in high regard, and implement their historical wonders with a modern day twist.
This is my purpose for this present age. Are you available to realizing what your purpose should be?
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
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