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Making Space for Everyone at the Table of Creativity

 

"If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." 




Lion Man, The First and Greatest Black Superhero by Demetrius Sherman, author & publisher 
nonfiction comics history 
February 2023 

Almost two decades before Marvel Comics introduced Black Panther in 1966, All-Negro Comics, Inc., created to "... give Negro artists an opportunity gainfully to use their talents... glorify Negro historical achievements..." introduced Lion Man in 1947. That's only one of a long list of intriguing facts shared in this compact history book about the evolution of comics after World War II. An introduction, six chapters including images from multiple comic strips and books of the era, and the conclusion peel back layers of sociopolitical context that likely will inspire readers to pursue additional books about Black journalists and news publications, particularly Orrin Cromwell Evans. Delving into the tropes and satire of the times makes it impossible for this text to avoid mentioning racial slurs (no n-word) and demeaning stereotypes, although those direct references are rare. The formal syntax is consistent with the generation being studied and the superlative declarations echo the author's contagious enthusiasm for the subject matter. It's an essential read for lovers of comics, superheroes, history, art, politics, and sociology that entertains as it educates. 


D.C./Maryland/Virginia-area Connections 

Zora Books Her Happy Ever After by Taj McCoy 
contemporary fiction, women's fiction, romance  
Mira, April 2023 

from chapter seven: 
Whether suited and professional or laid-back and casual, the swag of Black men in D.C. was beyond sexy to Zora... 

All. The. Feels. 

This love letter to booklovers, booksellers, authors, entrepreneurs, ancestors, mentors, families by blood and by choice, communities, and the multifaceted beauty and complexities of Blackness offers a celebration of nearly every type of female-centered relationship within the framework of a very modern love story as a journey. It also examines and celebrates intimate connections between all kinds of people. Emotionally layered, utterly charming, totally satisfying. 

Esme Cahill Fails Spectacularly by Marie Bostwick 
contemporary fiction, women's fiction w/romantic elements 
William Morrow Paperbacks, May 2023 

from the prologue: 
"You don't need to worry about me, mister. I'm a Baltimore girl..."  

Upcoming Weekly Reads 
(Thanks, National Book Fest 2023 panelists for adding 2 of these to my TBR list!) 


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