Black and White Books

This well-researched book includes the a "Cultural Poisoning" self-test. The idea is that with the help of the book, one can move from a state of being Culturally Poisoned and onward to a state of Cultural Literacy and even to a Zone of Optimal Development.

This book is very useful for people of all races and backgrounds.

I must commend brothah Aunk for his scholarship. "DoubleSpeak in Black and White", a book which has been obviously put together with much thought, and investigation/research, in those areas concerning some of the particulars in providing specific tools for those of us who have not had much success in articulating concerns relative to understanding much of what has been passed down to us here in the western civilizations. Yes, I said "tool". 'Doublespeak" can certainly be considered a "tool" or a handy guide of the present and future. For those of you who have not had time to read "doublespeak", I would highly recommend that you do.

"DoubleSpeak" addresses areas of concern pertinent to what our understanding of not only the culture we live in, but also, how we view ourselves as "Africans" in a world colonized by "antihumanist". [An American who is in favor of life liberty and the pursuit of happiness for some] as written by brothah Aunk.

Brothah Aunk cleverly coins the term "AIDS" [Acquired Information Deficiency Syndrome] as a descriptive diagnosis of some of the ills or dis-ease we manifest [unknowingly most times] due to programming and conditioning via the various institutions set up here in the west and other parts of the world. [educational, political, religious, ect.] For example Aunk refers to some of the strains of AIDS as WorldView AIDS, Medical AIDS, Image AIDS, Geography AIDS, American History AIDS, Melanin AIDS, ect.

As you will notice these phrases have been sectioned into small groups of information assisting you in your understanding of Cultural Illiteracy and Cultural Poisoning. [See Aunk's "DoubleSpeak in Black and White" for further details on cultural literacy...cultural poisoning] "DoubleSpeak in Black and White" is a tool, which is able to provide us with concise terms and information relative to each of the strains of AIDS, which in some cases may have affected our ability to communicate information, and to be able to recognize the "mis-information in each of the strains of cultural AIDS. I would also like to point out, that in the context of the book, you'll also find very interesting models and illustrations, which provides you with a visual of important points in the book. Aunk provides several models of the Aunk illustrating it's many functions as used by the ancient kamitians. Fascinating photos and descriptions of melanin, even more interesting are the various step by step models of achieving Cultural Literacy and on to cultural harmony, final phase!...fantastic job Aunk!

Finally, after reading Aunk's DoubleSpeak in Black and White", I have become conscious of certain terms and phrases I had been accustomed to using, which once it had been brought to my attention, via Aunk's book, I realized I had to make certain changes in how I communicate cultural ideas. I was able to recognize how some of what I may have said and how I said them, may have, in essence, been perpetuating Cultural Poisoning. In a time where "race" issues have been the highlight of much our societies discussions, it is certainly good to know that we now have a concise reference guide/tool that can help us to be able to bring to political forums on "race", terms and phrases which can be used universally in articulating our views in a way that everyone present can understand/comprehend, thus providing us with the opportunity to be well on our way to resolving some of the "race" issues in America and abroad.

This handy tool..."DoubleSpeak" can certainly be considered a universal reference guide for not only us but our children and those of other ethnicities as well, present and future! Let's provide a brighter future for generations to come, become Culturally Literate! Also I would like to recommend that we all take time to take the "Cultural Poisoning Self Test" [see Aunk's "DoubleSpeak in Black and White"] in conclusion...I would like to say th-ankh you brotha Aunk for all the positive energy you invested in not only your book...but in "us" as well. For caring enough to provide us with such a valuable tool, which by the way, in developing "our" own schools in the future and for those of us who teach, this book can be used as an excellent reference guide for teaching adults and children in schools, or wherever it is you teach...Aunk's book, "DoubleSpeak in Black and White" comes highly recommended by me!... ....in keeping the cypher in motion... Omniversal love and respect to all!!

"... If you and I would just realize, that once we learn to talk the language that they understand, they will then get the point. You can't ever reach a man if you don't speak his language. If a man speaks the language of brute force, you can't come to him with peace. Why goodnight! He'll break you in two, as he has been doing all along. If a man speaks French, you can't speak to him in German. If he speaks Swahili, you can't communicate with him in Chinese. You have to find out, what does this man speak? Once you know his language, learn how to speak his language. He'll get the point, there will be some dialogue, some communication, and some understanding will be developed." El-Hajj Malik El Shabazz (Malcolm X)

I have "zero tolerance" when it concerns overtly racist white folks or patronizing white folks who call themselves "liberal." I cannot afford to waste my valuable time explaining the concept of a "just" society to those who supposedly advocate and practice it. I am a part of that generation, born into segregation; weaned into integration; now traumatized by the intransigence of white supremacy. It took me a long time to adjust, but I am clear now. Maybe if I would have had Rudy Aunk's book, "DoubleSpeak in Black and White," when I was younger, I might have become clear sooner and saved myself the heartache.

It is only appropriate that Aunk starts his work in the context of America's last chance to begin any type of racial healing, President Clinton's failed national discussion on race, a plan that I have had very personal experience with. Aunk underlines the reasons why I, and the rest of the country, had difficulty with this discussion-we came to the conference table unprepared because we did not speak the same language. Aunk makes a critical point that if the medical and sales profession can standardize speech within those professions, then the same can be done to raise the ''language efficiency' in our discussions on 'race'. Aunk even offers standard definitions to many of the terms surrounding 'race' in order to begin the standardization process.

From there, Aunk traces the roots of this unpreparedness as being grounded in the cultural poisoning that has taken place since our childhoods. Not convinced of the level of your poisoning? The book even has a very enlightening self-test, if you are not afraid to face the truth!

Need validation of Aunk's position? All you have to do is look at the results of the National Geographic-Roper 2002 Global Geographic Literacy Survey. This study surveyed over 3,000 18- to 24-year-olds in Canada, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Sweden and the United States and found that American students scored next to last lowest score. It is frightening and unfortunate that no one has put forth any "clear" plans to do anything about this except Aunk and a few others. Prevention is a central theme of the book, however, Aunk offers clear solutions for today's stalemated issues. For example, Aunk's commentary of the educational voucher controversy should offend no one, especially if they are really about teaching the children.

Aunk then goes about the task of exploding popular myths and other miseducation while offering an action plan that will help us de-toxify and empower ourselves with cultural literacy.

Probably the greatest concept Aunk puts forth in the book is a question few dare, in this culture of obfuscation, to ask. That is, "now that you know, what are you going to do about it?"

Aunk's book is definitely a must read for those individuals not afraid to explore the possibility of creating another mindset. I think this book should be used as a primary textbook for the millions of institutions in the United States and the Western world responsible for "Diversity" programs. Certainly, the book should be required reading at my job, however, the whites and blacks are severely poisoned, close to cultural death

By Tolbert

I am a European American young woman. My relationships with African Americans at school and work, was not where I wanted it to be. I read DoubleSpeak in Black and White, most of the info was new to me, and has made a big difference. Aunk is right, detecting Cultural Poisoning, and deleting these negative programs from your bio-computer is easy, once you know how. I have recommended this book to everyone in my family, and highly recommend it to YOU!

I am an African American educator. I use to be defensive about my culture. I used the information in DoubleSpeak in B/W to move from cultural defense to cultural offence. As an Elder, I now enjoy helping others do the same.

this is a very nice book for the money, for those interested in unusual photography

Somewhat a photographic collection of the "best of Jerry Uelsmann" -the intricate, fantasy-like surrealist photographer. Works almost solely in the darkroom - not digitally. The book does not really mention Uelsmann's pristine practice in the darkroom, however provides quotations from the artist.

Had this book delivered just in time before the artist came recently to Pittsburgh. The 70 year old charismatic artist was kind enough to sign my book. Very entertaining, down to earth modern artist.

A beautifully produced book of gelatin silver photographs to be looked at and
savored. Uelsmann's photographs question our world of physical realities
and introduce us to his world of visual realities. His photographs mystify
and question. They are of things that don't exist, yet do exist.

All of Uelsmann's books reflect a poetic irrationalism, and this book is no exception. The images evoke a strange and surreal eloquence. Technically, like all of his work, the prints are tonally rich even as reproductions.

There are numurous photgraphers who currently utilize digital tools in the creation of similar collage/montage work, yet they rarely achieve the same formal elegance as Uelsmann - and he has been doing this for years - long before Adobe Photophop became a tool in the photographers arsenal. He's the photgraphic collage master - Version 1.0.

I first saw Jerry Uelsmann's work in the sixties when we were stranded in a Chicago Airport by a snowstorm, waiting for the same commuter plane. He was in his late twenties then and carrying a portfolio of his work. As we talked, he shared it with me. I knew I was in the presence of artistic genius immediately. Already, I discovered, he was well known in the art work with major exhibits in known galleries. Not only did the content of his montages excite me but, but, being an amateur darkroom photographer at the time, I had some vague sense of the skill involved in his final productions. We were friends for a number of years and lost touch, but I've kept up with his work because I still admire it so deeply. This book is a treasure and I recognize some montages from the sixties in it, as well. Jerry is not only creative, but he's an interesting lecturer and funny, besides. The child in him will never die. I suspect that's one big reason he's so good. I would highly recommend any of his books, and this is one!

As with the majority of other reviewers of this book - the exception having apparently only a remote acquaintance with English, which would, indeed, make the book rough going - I found Mr. Phinney's work to be not just interesting, but delightful.

It is a rare feat to be able to touch the scholarly and analytical bases, as well as to entertain. I cannot imagine a university course on the cultural influences of African-American music - or on American popular culture or music - which would be complete without reference to this book.

I read this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. It really is a richly detailed book. The interviews were fascinating. This is a superior book to others I have read on the subject. I liked the photographs, too. Author Kevin Phinney lets the artists do the talking and keeps the mundane sociology to a minimum. His writing style is informative without being preachy. He explains so much of rock and roll in exact terms that make sense. I wish the publisher would go and give the book more publicity. I only found out about it while searching the name of a former black blues player who's in the book. Anyway, a good book, well worth your time. And, you get a lot for your money. This is a solid bit of musical research. Enjoyable and entertaining reading.

I read Souled American in a few sittings - it's that good. Here, for what I think must be the first time in a highly readable and very entertaining book, are the truths that some music historians have tried hard to keep in the dark. Writer Kevn Phinney has a pleasant writing style and this enhances the overriding theme of this fact-crammed journey through Black Blues and White Rock And Roll - that much of what we know or experience as the roots of "white rock" was really the result of the hard work and vast talent of earlier African-American musical artists and, in some cases, musical geniuses. The interviews with such greats as Ray Charles, David Byrne, Sly Stone, Willie Nelson, B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, and others are worth the price of the book alone. Mr. Phinney really knows how to ask questions and draw out information.

The author's understanding of how musical worlds, tastes, styles, and talents blended or were at odds with each other enhances his thesis. He appreciates the historical roots of blues and rock. When did any writer of a book head for Kansas City to really dig into the subject of KC Blues and then make a sane link to specific styles of rock and roll. Sheer brilliance. And enthrallingly written. The author brings in refences to myriad bands, such as The Rolling Stones or Chaka Khan. The musical richness of this volume is superb.

Mr. Phinney details politics, sociology, and culture as it influences music from the horrid days of Jim Crow to the White Rap escapades of Eminem. The author knows full well that white culture has been mightily transformed by black music. There is no escaping this fact. Souled American is a great book that has long been needed. Mr. Phinney makes stunning links between slave chants and specific musical riffs being heard today. This entire project seems a staggering undertaking. But the book is not daunting at all. It works on every level. It informs, enlightens, entertains, and succeeds on every level and I'm glad I read it. The author has a keen awareness of culture, counter-culture, and cultural shifts. Not only should the book be read by every musician, it should be read by anyone who loves the blues or rap or hip hop or good old rock and roll.

By far the best comprehensive read on music made in the United States that I've read. Phinney weaves a story line that takes us all the way back to the era of the African slave trade where an Englishman named Richard Jobson becomes the first European in recorded history to write about his observance of witnessing Africans involved in the making of music. He brings us through history right to today's doorstep where music makers as diverse as Eminem to Wynton Marsalis continue to tell the story not only of their music, but who we are as people living and contributing to an constantly evolving culture. The research is extensive and exhaustive. It reminds me of Ken Burn's Jazz series on steroids as it encompasses all genres of music through many centuries including slave work songs, minstrelsy, gospel, ragtime, blues, jazz, rock and roll, R & B, rock and todays hip-hop. There isn't enough attention made to the Latin tinge in American music but that ommission just as it was with the Burns series doesn't take away from all of the great research that defines this book. For music lovers and people who are interested in the underpinnings of American culture in general, it is a must read! It is a definitive statement of the addage that music is a mirror that reflects the people and times it was created in. Highly recommended!!

Bobby Jackson
Cleveland, OH

If you are a music fan, a history fan, a pop-culture fan, or just someone who loves intelligent storytelling then you will love this book. I really was not exposed to the Blues or early Jazz prior to reading Souled American and now I find myself listening to music with different ears.

This novel was a masterpiece. I grew up with Marc and we shared most of the same friends through High School, and we competed viciously to be recognized and loved by our peers. I hope through time and experiences we all have learned to be better people and more so better adults. This book will slam you back into the past and hopefully deliver you into the future. I really had no idea about the situations you witnessed as a child and young adult. I know your book made me realize the good and bad that I brought into peoples lives back in High School. Although we did not keep in touch after High School I am very proud of your accomplishments and I wish you well

I read this extroadinary novel and I am overwhelmed. I grew up with Marc and although we shared most of the same friends. This book is a brilliant piece that makes us all think of the good and bad we have brought into our fellow peers lives. I thought the book got right to the point in many ways. This novel made me realize that many people were not happy in our High School although we faught viciously to be the best and most recognized. Now that we have all grown and gone our own ways hopefully this novel can help people accept and appreciate people as a whole. We were all diffrent and very much the same in many ways and this brilliant masterpiece will definately make one think and hopefully bring closure to wounds that were inflicted by ignorance. This book is obviously a product of your growth. Best Wishes.

I found this book very interesting because it gives you a point of view of prejudice and rejection from all possible sides, sad but true. Hopefully this book will make people think and open up their minds to except all people as just human beings instead of black, white, asian etc.

It is said that a good piece of literature occurs when the words of a writer leap from the pages and land directly into the reader's heart. Words that evoke emotion, captivate the audience, and commence a journey. Marc accomplishes each of these feats with ease, as he takes the reader on an autobiographical tour and welcomes everyone to understand, to learn, and to grow. This text is written with a passion to overcome the darkness in the world and to see through the light in our own eyes. Everyone should read this book. Whether you are searching for a great piece of literature, or are willing to discover an incredible individual, Marc's talent brightly shines.

Devan Marc is a certainly a voice of his generation. I found his book simply riveting, for lack of a stronger word. Being Jewish I didn't think that I could much relate to anything about the black experience, but "White Boy" is so much more than that. This is a book that speaks on such a deeply human level, and it has something to say to all people. The voice of Devan Marc soon becomes the voice of us all, someone searching for his place in the world, and struggling to maintain his human dignity. Cheers to Marc for accomplishing this and for sharing with the world his stunning voice. Every once in a while a book comes along and just reading it changes your mind in such a profound way that you never look at life or at people the same way again. Devan Marc has written that book. It's called "White Boy".

Anton Corbijn's work is incredible; his photographs are stark and grainy, dark and moody, full of contrast. This book is devoted to photographs he has taken of celebrities over the years. We've seen pictures of these people, in some cases, literally thousands of times, but in this book, we see these stars in completely new ways (in fact, in some cases, they are almost unrecognizable). Corbijn is a master at cutting through the celebrity persona and showing us little pieces of who these people really are. I can't recommend this book highly enough.

This book was so hard to get i Sweden and to order from the rest of europe was to expensive.
This was a great buy, and im totaly pleased with everything.
Thanks!!!

Anton is a darkroom master and I think this is his finest collection. His ability to present celebrities uniquely shines on these pages. My favourite photog.

Anton Corbijn is a genius. As a photographer and/or album cover designer for groups like Depeche Mode, U2, and REM, his unique style captures my attention like no other. Unlike Herb Ritts or Bruce Weber who, by comparison, appear glossy and slick, Corbijn has a gritty approach to photography that makes him stand apart from the competition. No doubt, "Star Trak" is pricey, but for those looking to spice up their coffeetable would be foolish to ignore this great book. A few stars who have gotten the Corbijn treatment are Clint Eastwood, Morrissey, David Gahan, Tricky, Neil Young, Kurt Cobain, and countless others. Handsomely presented and elegantly shot, "Star Trak" is worth a purchase.

WOW! That's all I can say about Anton Corbijn (cor-bin)Just thought you'd like to know.

The most amazing, precise, moving, expressive, imaginative, distinct, photos I've ever seen!(And I have a BFA in photography!)

well worth any cost.

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2BQ4EWXI8X74C This book transcends genre -- it's a good collection of memoirs, entertaining style, nice splash of humor, an extremely detailed travelogue with beautiful photographs, a good description of technology, a touch of Science Fiction (since it is purportedly written by a Artificial Imagination program) and suffused with philosophical musing and last but not the least, a moving love story.

Even though it's obviously written by a Technologist, the book is very human. It is primarily about the immigrant experience, but Kalpanik is extremely observant and has an eye to look for the unusual, notice what stands out and build humorous side of people, places and his own life.

Wonderful! I am specially moved by his bitter-sweet love story at the end.

Here are some poster size photos and calendars from the book:

Scenic City and Boat Photo Poster
University of Washington Photo Poster
Seattle Secenic Sunset Photograph
Thonging At the Beach
San Francisco Scenic Union Square Photo Poster
Nashville Tug Boat on Cumberland River Photo Poster
"Playing Guitar" Photo Poster
Pike Place Market Photo Print
Beach Hotties Poster

This book combines elements from good humor, a memoir, a scenic travelogue, a touching love story, science fiction and philosophy.

Whether you ever wondered about meaning of it all, or you want to read something light amusing, or want to see places like Seattle, San Diego, Nashville from the eyes of the writer, or vicariously live the life of a
student at University of California, this book is for you!

The author, purportedly an Artificial Imagination computer program simualting a life/career journey through the Hi Tech and yet very sdcenic world of California and Washington (Settle) is witty still though down to earth and funny! The book is written in a very conversational style, as if you are reading a letter from a close friend!!

Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/RH3902RKHGQYG reat book, will make you laugh, smile, giggle, chuckle, giggle, crack up, guffaw and generally have a good time. Extremely nice photos. And it is actually very thoughtful, one can quickly see through the pretended thoughtlessness. Here are some posters and calendars with the high resolution versions of the book:
Scenic City and Boat Photo Poster
University of Washington Photo Poster
Seattle Secenic Sunset Photograph
San Francisco Scenic Union Square Photo Poster
Nashville Tug Boat on Cumberland River Photo Poster
Pike Place Market Photo Print
"Playing Guitar" Photo Poster
San Diego Scenic Waterfront Poster

This book transcends genre -- it's a good collection of memoirs, entertaining style, nice splash of humor, an extremely detailed travelogue with beautiful photographs, a good description of technology, a touch of Science Fiction (since it is purportedly written by a Artificial Imagination program) and suffused with philosophical musings.

Even though it's obviously written by a Technologist, the book is very human. It is primarily about the immigrant experience, but Kalpanik is extremely observant and has an eye to look for the unusual, notice what stands out and build humorous side of people, places and his own life.

Wonderful! one can feel a touch of his bitter-sweet experiences but one is encouraged by his ability to find humor everywhere.

Great book, love it! It's hilarious! I could not stop giggling, I cracked up page after page. Really Nice!

And so many nice photographs. I was traveling with the author, feeling his ambitions, his surprise, excitement and pain. And what a brave soul! He (yes, despite its claims to have been written by an AI program, this book is written by a loving, feeling, breathing human for sure!)--He is able to maintain his sense of humor even as he moves from one place to another, faces one set back after another! He always comes back!

Wow! What a story!!

Oh, And the love story in the end is touching.

Beyond Race: The Bhagavad-gita in Black and White
by TDL Turner, M.A. [L.I.S.]
My thoughts about and reactions to Beyond Race: The Bhagavad-gita in Black and White, by
Charles Michael Byrd, were well clarified by my return from AMEA's (packed!& worth it!) National
Conference on "The Multiracial Child", in Tucson (AZ) (mid-October 2002). While those who have
done some comparative reading of major religious texts might find it academically "friendlier",
anyone in the habit of critical thinking and analysis also can glean from these pages.
As a fifth-generation member of brown, tan, and pink Moxhaccine* (Mestiza-Creole)
Multiracials my responses to certain sections were both experientially and academically triggered.
So-called " 'black' and `white' cultures" (pages 22-25; 28-29) were developed entirely to
perpetuate antagonistic, viciously greedy, destructive, anti-humane agendas throughout the past 4,500
years. Since these agendas=the "definitions", I tend towards not using such terms, preferring African
(Afroid) and European (Caucasoid). While both European and African heads of state used what
became "racially-based" slavery to fund and expand their political/military agendas, Arabic Islamic
"jihads" that resulted in the fall of Adoghast (ca.1066, ending phase I of the Akana-Ashanti Empire),
and successive rises/declines of Akan-Islamic medieval to [baroque] empires that included Mali,
Songhay and Kanem-Bornu, further fueled West African involvement in kidnapping and selling of
humans (ref: Basil Davidson; Leroy Brooks; Eva L.R. Meyerowitz).
I believe many black and brown Afro-North Americans rejected the term "African" because
they have not been able to socio-psychologically reconcile some of their African ancestors' collusion in
the mass kidnapping and slavery connected with "Diaspora". The combination of improperly taught
history and unacknowledged injustices has caused the social diseases of "White" so-called

"supremacy", "Black" distrust and alienation, "professional victims" and "police-state agendas".
The quote by William Xavier Nelson (I.V. "Point-Counterpoint" debate) (p. 68) perfectly
illustrates the fact we all know there is no [actual human organism] such as a "light-skinned black
person". That racist construct was invented to provide huge pools of share-croppers, slops-collectors,
sweat-shop and sex-trade workers. Many religions including traditional Hinduism have been used to

justify race-based socioeconomic stereotyping. During the late 1960's/early 1970's, to embellish
whatever their "politics" were for that day, both " `black' revolutionaries" and " `white'
Blavatsky-ites" prattled about the "superior" Aryans (actually from India!) defeating the "inferior"
Dravidians (also real Indians!). Thanks to the late Mohandis K. Ghandi, much of the caste system
this revolved around was de- constructed (pp: 30-40; 60-70; 115-120) . Sadly, I was reminded that the

devaluation of Aboriginal American spiritual consciousness consistently has paralleled the spiritual
decline of not only the Western Hemisphere, but of the entire world.
As a *Moxhaccine (Mestiza-Creole) Multiracial, half of my history is indigenously North
American. I am pleased that Byrd stated terms such as "Mulatto/ Quadroon/ Octaroon" are
considered obsolete and "offensive", particularly since both Mestizo/a and Creole legitimately,
traditionally have represented many diverse Western Hemisphere populations of (obviously "mixed")
appearance. In future, I recommend inclusion of our term "Moxhaccine" (also "new and not widely
used") representing both hereditary and contemporary North American Aboriginal/First Nations
peoples mixed with Afro-European (often including "Semitic") (pp: 136-46; 149-50).
Review submitted by:
Ms. TDL Turner, M.A. [L.I.S.]
Founder/Coordinator
M.O.X.H.C.A. (AMEA'S Canadian-affiliate)
Edmonton, AB, Canada

Charles Michael Byrd is to be congratulated on weaving what every man and woman ought to be doing in terms of "race consciousness" with the greater morality of the Bhagavad-Gita. The Melungeons, a mixed ethnic group, have lived with, and continue to struggle with, the issues presented and discussed so thoughtfully by Mr. Byrd. All human beings - not simply those who consider themselves :mixed-race" - owe the author a debt of gratitude.

The primary message of this excellent book is that people must learn to see beyond racial distinctions. The author particularly emphasizes the distortion of truth and the injustive of identifying people with that element of their heritage perceived (by some) as "lowest", especially "black" African heritage. Both "white" supremacists and the "black" movement castigate mixed-race "black"/"white" people who claim an identity other than "black"... meaning that they are apparently supposed to ignore their other heritage.

The author's ideal is that "race" should not matter at all. He makes the excellent point that "races" are imaginary constructs based only on superficial physical similarities. Modern nation-state-based "ethnicities" are similarly illusory, being legal fictions.

As an intermediary measure before a raceless soceity can really develop, the author would simply like to see mixed-race have the freedom to acknowledge what they really are, and not be forced to identify with one or anotehr of the "races" their ancestors may have been.

Mr. Byrd uses the Bhagavad-Gita, an important Hindu scripture, to make this point, as well as to show the real solution, which is to recognize that the real identify of all humans is that of the "race" of conscious beings. According to Krishna, in the Gita, the "soul" or the living being is the consciousness. When we collectively see this as the common characteristic between us, then the superficial characteristics of our, and our ancestors', bodies will cease to have any meaning.

I found BEYOND RACE to be thoroughly enjoyable and very important book. It will benefit anyone who reads it, but perhaps will resonate most strongly with those of us whose bodies are mixed-race. As a mestizo or metis who has studied the Gita for over ten years, I was delighted to find this book which so ably brings out an application of its teachings from this new perspective and remaining completely within the message of the Gita.

For many, Vedic wisdom seems too remote or detached from our western way of thinking to have much appeal or value. Mr. Byrd provides us with a valuable tool to help in our understanding of the Bhagavad-gita, by linking crucial passages with contemporary examples. Even though the focus of 'Beyond Race' is trancendence of race conciousness, it becomes readily apparent that the same principles may be applied to a great many other social ills. In a society so driven by the accumulation of material wealth, it is not surprising that a spiritual void exists. Thankfully, we are reaching a point where the quantum physicist and the yogi can find common ground. This fact tends to validate the author's approach. 'Beyond Race' is a book for humanity, and I recommend it be read slowly and thoughtfully in order to get the deeper meaning.

Charles Michael Byrd, successful editor and publisher of the cyber-journal INTERRACIAL VOICE, has penned this short book with a purpose which, at first glance, appears to be a distilling of Indian Vedic scriptures and their applicability to providing a solution to the problems associated with a combative social system in the United States which is based on membership in "black" and "white" "racial" groups defined as such by rules which seem to guarantee their perpetuity. Eighteen chapters are offered in which a Vedic lesson is presented--each lesson is designed to be a springboard to writings of Mr. Byrd as he argues for an end to "race" consciousness, along the lines of the particular lesson. Many of such writings are taken from editorials and messages contained in INTERRACIAL VOICE over the years. The book ends with a speech given by Mr. Byrd at the 20 July 1996 MULTIRACIAL SOLIDARITY MARCH held in Washington, D.C.

Writing about "race" in the United States has long been the charge of academically-based social scientists. The first thing which should be said about this book is that it is not a social science work in the classic sense: with an emphasis on "objectivity" and a collection of "racial" data presented in an unemotional, passionless manner. Mr. Byrd minces no words in letting the reader exactly know how he feels about the present-day "racial" landscape in the United States, especially with regard to the line of demarcation between "white" and "black" North Americans. The reader, therefore, will not close this book armed with a great deal more quantitative data about North American "racial" groups. The reader will, however, be exposed to a mindset he or she may not have known existed, for Mr. Byrd is writing AS A MULTIRACIAL PERSON, not as a disinterested observer (such as the Swede, Gunnar Myrdal, who, as an outsider, described the "American Dilemma" in the 1940s).

And just WHAT is that multiracial mindset? That is for the reader to explore by reading BEYOND RACE. I can, however offer this: Mr. Byrd's view has an emphasis on joining and uniting; joining and uniting with the entire human family and it is perhaps Mr. Byrd's overwhelming personal sentiment in doing so which has led him to the Bhagavad-gita.

An accurate accounting and description of a mere two of the forces arrayed against humans creating societies of goodwill: (a) unbridled greed (often manifested in monopoly capitalism) and (b) religious and ethnic fanaticism, should have most of us fearful for the future, as we move further into the new millenium. The United States is (or should be) a force for the betterment of mankind. Mr. Byrd implies, on pages 72 and 73, that America certainly has that potential. Yet, the specters of "racialist" thinking, "race" hatred and "racial" and ethnic balkanization threaten America's ability to create more equality for its people. According to Professor John E. Farley of Southern Illinois University, racism has devastating effects on not only U.S productivity but on America's conception of itself as a unified nation. And warring "racial" factors will never unite to confront a U.S. class system which is becoming more and more oppressive and more prone to monopoly capitalism.

Yes, the U.S. has the potential to be a force for good, but the United States will never do its fair share in bringing people together if it remains in dis-union as a nation of separate "races", especially "races" meant to be exclusive of each other. That is why, although Charles Michael Byrd is writing about Indian Vedic scriptures, the reader will soon sense that he is.....a citizen of the United States of America with an American Plea for the Human Family.

This is the culmination of a fantastic and underated title that has gone under the radar of much of today's western manga readers. Fools!

The city has gone to hell and the division of Black and White at the end of book two has acted as a herald of woe for not only the city but the rest of the cast as well. Without wanting to give too much away I will say that the fate of characters was met swiftly but intelligently and in a way that was in line with the whole concept of a world grounded in a corrupt and degenerating urban landscape.

Black and White remain the heart and soul of the story despite being apart for much of it, allowing the reader to feel the separation and distance experieced by the characters, albeit in their different ways.

The art is one that is a great and unusual blend of Eastern and continental underground styles that is able also to communicate a great sense of sound. This is hard to do in comics and gives credit to Matsumoto.

I cannot recommend this manga enough. It is outrageous that the first volume is out of print. It is really worth the effort to get hold of.

An "existential urban punk" that you won't forget.

This might be the best graphic novel ever made, and I don`t say that lightly. It`s a shame that it doesn`t have a wide circulation in Europe and US. It`s pretty much impossible to compare to anything else, Black and White it`s the most lyrical and at at the same time the most punk comic you`ll ever read. Think Miyazaki, Tank Girl and Takeshi Kitano all wrapped up in one story that is so good it hurts. Just get it, if you like indie comics chances are this is your new favorite one.

It all comes together. The line quality is in itself endlessly diverting. The vision of the city and its technology and architecture is totally unique. The story... the fabulous, ass-kicking flying boy-hoodlums with hearts of gold, perching atop telephone poles and living in an abandoned car... a techno-post-modern peter pan cast in a deliciously not-anime Tokyo ghetto. These 3 books are incredible. Don't miss them.

this book is one of the best graphic novels i've read. i liked the drawings a lot. simple but spicific. i liked the friendship between black and white. and the freindship between the two kids and chocolate the gangster. i recomend it very much

This book is simply wonderful. Though the story might be somewhat stereotypical, the art and characters redeem it. The art is a strange hybrid of Japanese and French styles. The characters are really touching, Black and the way he protects the retarted White, and White with his happy, almost microcephalic observations and attitude. I can't wait to read volume two, and I bet once you read volume one, you won't be able to wait either. Well worth the price of admission.

Thoshinsky executes a beautiful photo essay. Gritty, funny and remarkably touching. A brief and privileged glimpse into a world rarely experienced or understood by those outside law enforcement.

"The truth is most people don't like the police. They need 'em. They just don't like 'em." Peter Thoshinsky examines the delicate and brutal world of the San Francisco Police Department in his book, Blue in Black and White, sharing pictures he has taken over his 25-year tenure as a cop. These stark, graphic images show San Franciscans from all walks of life, fighting, demonstrating, and pleading to be released from their handcuffs, and always close by is the officer who has to deal with the civilian's actions. Each subject is treated with respect, no matter the crime or event shown, and Thoshinsky writes free verse and prose poems next to the shots explaining the unseen or unknown, giving the reader a window into a world few rarely see.

The subject is San Francisco and the boys and girls in blue who walk her streets, but the book transcends location. Market Street, 200 Leavenworth, Broadway, Union Square, North Beach, Candlestick Park, and McAllister Street all make appearances to remind us where the pictures were taken, yet the reader gets a sense that these images are everywhere, in each skid row alley of every great American city, and these are the men and women who risk their lives for their job. Capturing the mixed emotions most officers feel protecting citizens who also despise them for who they are, the book humanizes the police force for those who have never understood the weight that goes with the occupation.

Peter Thoshinsky investigates the realities of homelessness, mental illness, drugs, and cops' use of force with the integrity of someone who is there firsthand, and he wrestles with the truth and justice each officer tries to bring to a workday while trapped under a hot Kevlar vest, badge, radio, belt, and ammunition somewhere below the San Francisco skyline. He tells us that the police remind themselves every day, "That could be your brother, sister. Given a change of fortune, that could have been you." Thoshinsky reserves judgment of the characters he meets on his beats, and instead captures their portrait with a sense of anticipation, the reader left curious what happens next in the scene. Blue in Black and White educates with cop lingo like "B Caper," "Four Boys," and "Hondels" and memorializes fallen officers with a picture and a line or two in their honor.
This pictorial set in San Francisco shows the heart of the city and the people who live in it and protect it. It is accessible and moving for both officer and civilian, honestly examining the lives of the police as they move from the academy to the streets. The reader comes away knowing more about what it means to be in the line of duty performing a job no one wants to give credit for.

Blue in Black and White is a photography book of San Francisco's law enforcement officers, by police sergeant, experienced photographer, and native San Franciscan Peter Thoshinsky. Each two-page spread features a black-and-white, larger-than-life photograph of people keeping the peace on San Francisco's streets on the right, and a brief poem, caption, or insight on the left. A moving and unforgettable visual tribute, as well as a window into the daily routine of a difficult yet rewarding public duty.

Ever been curious about what it's like?...

Have a friend or family member who is one of 'them'?...

Think you already know what this calling is all about?...

It often seems impossible to express just exactly what it's like. With simple, stark and poinet photographs, as well as sparse, direct and accurate words, Pete Thoshinsky's, Blue in Black and White, comes about as close as one can.

Short of donning armor, girding weapons, and riding thanklessly into harms way in defense of others everyday, this is as close as you are going to get.

Thank you Pete,
Oro en Paz, Fierro en Guerra!

One of the most interesting things about loving books is that one never gets to the end of ideas for them. While there are indeed mountains and continents of sameness that can be safely ignored, one should never get blasé because someone will always find some way of surprising you and giving you something fresh to look at. I am not saying that in the history of printing there has never been a book like this one, but it is a very fresh look at something I have not seen.

And what is that? You say that it is just another book of pictures of cops? Well, it is a book of pictures of cops, but there is a big difference. This is a book of pictures of cops TAKEN by a cop. What difference does that make? Because we see the police officers the way a man who knows them and knows their job sees them rather than the way we usually see them depicted on TV and in the movies. We learn which assignments the cops like, which they don't, what some of the problems are, and even the tedium of the job.

Peter Thoshinsky was on the "Tenderloin Task Force" of the San Francisco Police Department. He shows us cops on the job and provides captions that help us appreciate the pictures. Some of the captions are merely informative, some are insightful, some are funny or ironic, and some are touching. And they all enhance the photographs.

I was particularly struck by the caption for "The Good Son"

Cop: "When was the last time you spoke with your father?"
Son: "Well, I call him every Sunday, `ya know, just to make sure he's ok."
Cop" "OK"
Son: ... "and so when he didn't answer the phone on Sunday, I thought something might be wrong".
Cop: "Yeah."
Son: "Yeah, so I come over and I found him dead just like that."
Cop: "So, when you called your dad on Sunday he didn't answer?"
Son: "Right."
Cop: "You must have been worried?"
Son: "Uh-huh."
Cop: "Today is Thursday."
Son: "Uh-huh."

Or the next picture of a female arm with wrist tattoos in handcuffs entitled "Tattoos and Bracelets".

Or: "The first rule of police work, the very first rule. Everyone lies. "I ain't got nothing officer, I swear it". See rule number one.

There are dozens of more like this. Fresh, insightful, and even touching. Not only for the cops (one picture is of an old women in a wheel chair flipping the bird to a cop), but also for the lost souls who are so lost they see the cops as the enemy rather than someone trying to help them (few people see being taken into custody as a help).

Very much worth having and lingering over.

I have met SuzAnne and came away very impressed. Between 2004 and 2006, the author a combat medic with the US Army, served a tour in Iraq. She is a staff sergeant. At only 106 pounds, SuzAnne is one of the toughest and most capable people I have ever met. She has "been there, done that." I am glad that she was able to share her artistic talent with us before she went into combat. I am hopeful that she will be able to create more for us to enjoy. The fact that she has such a tender and loving heart after serving in combat, speaks volumes not only about her, but of all the men and women who put on the uniform of the United States Armed Forces.

SuZanne has captured the hope, faith, heart and spirit of these youngsters with her creative and caring lense. Paired with the scripture -- miricales are all around us. Thank SuZanne

A great photography book for every coffee table in the country! With the recent tragedies that our nation has experienced SuzAnne Libby has offered a glimmer of hope with her black and white photography book set with biblical scriptures. With her simplistic and elegant approach SuzAnne Libby's book has given me comfort at times when I needed it most. I have sent Heart Warmings to my US Navy friends serving in the Middle East who have also been inspired and comforted by her book. SuzAnne Libby's Heart Warmings will warm the hearts and offer hope to all who open it up. This book will get alot of use. A must have, I highly recommend it.

This is an inspirational photography piece for every coffe table in the country! In light of our nation's recent tragedies SuzAnne Libby offers a glimmer of hope in this wonderful work of black and white photography set with biblical scripture. With her simplistic and elegant approach this book has given me comfort in times when I most needed it. I have sent this book to my US Navy friends serving in the Middle East who have also been comforted and inspired by SuzAnne's book. SuzAnne has done a wonderful job and this book will warm the hearts of all who open it up. A must have, I highly recommend this book!

this book is great. I put it out on my coffee table, and everyone can't seem to put it down. The combination of scriptures and black and white photographs makes this book inviting. It is a good way to relax or "wind-down" after a long day. Makes a great gift as well!