MIX IT UP, FOLKS!

Since I launched this website, with particular emphasis on my writing related to film and books, I have been committed to highlighting diversity. Although my personal reads are not exclusive to women and minorities, it does take up the majority of my reading time and it is those groups I choose to review and promote. In an industry with a history of being dominated by white men, it's refreshing to discover new voices and often under-represented stories. Along the way just recently, I have encountered an impressive array of wonderful writers, some new, some seasoned professionals, but all enlightening and inspiring (not to mention envy evoking, with several twenty-something year olds who can boast stunning debut novels).

It is great to know I am not alone in this thirst for the diverse.  It’s no secret that representation is a big topic in the bookish community. As it should be.

"From hashtags like #WeNeedDiverseBooks, founded by Ellen Oh, to #OwnVoices, founded by Corinne Duyvis, writers, agents, and publishers alike have been spreading awareness of how important it is to not only see an accurate depiction of yourself reflected in books, but to read about marginalized characters WRITTEN BY marginalized people. Books written for us, by us, can help eliminate misconceptions and stereotypes in stories." (Teen Vogue)

Please refer to my Book Reviews section to peruse existing titles reviewed. More will soon be added, including books by Ariel Levy ("Rules Do Not Apply"), "What We Lose" by Zinzi Clemmons, and "Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi, just to name a few.