African Books

Great read. Interesting characters in a believable setting that is funny, and will grab your attention. Ms. Suzette is just getting better with each new book. Can hardly wait for the next one. Recommend reading when not busy or in a rush, you will not want to put it down.

You will read this very fast. Excellent book. Could not turn pages fast enough. A must read for all of you.

We voted this novel Best Romance for 2003.
The story is smart, fresh and keeps you turning the pages.
I loved this story.

BE PREPARED FOR STARES AS YOU COMMUTE ON THE BUS AND THE TRAIN BECAUSE THIS NOVEL WAS LAUGH OUT LOUD FUNNY. ALSO BE PREPARED TO TALK BACK TO THE BOOK TOO BUT HOPEFULLY YOU'LL ONLY DO THAT IN THE PRIVACY OF YOUR OWN HOME/ROOM. :) MS. HARRISON DID EXCELLENT ON HER SECOND GO ROUND WITH THIS NOVEL BECAUSE LIVING ON THE EDGE OF RESPECTABILITY WAS GOOD. I WAS UPSET THAT I STARTED THIS BOOK DURING THE WEEK? WHY? BECAUSE I HAD TO SLEEP AND WORK! A WORD TO THE WISE, START THIS BOOK ON A FRIDAY NIGHT SO YOU CAN READ IT THROUGH THE NIGHT. GOOD WORK MS. HARRISON AND I LOOK FORWARD TO FUTURE NOVELS.

GOD BLESS!

WHEN PERFECT AIN'T POSSIBLE is a love story about a single mother of a teenage daughter who finds herself reluctantly falling in love with her daughter's guidance counselor.

After a disastrous first marriage her daughter Nia's father, Imani, the protagonist, has given up on men. When she is summoned to her daughter's guidance counselor's office, the last thing Imani expects to find is Braxton, an extremely attractive 6'1" head turner, who tickles her fancy but raises her ire. Before long they develop an off again on again romance punctuated with satisfying sexual encounters.

After a spiritual awakening, Imani starts having moral misgivings about the direction their relationship is taking and opts to end the affair. Braxton on the other hand, is not ready for a serious relationship, but finds himself extraordinarily attracted to Imani. After Nia and Braxton are involved in a near fatal auto accident, the two lovers are forced to make some life altering decisions.

This book is a tedious read though it has it's bright moments. The plot is meandering and the characters lack the depth necessary to keep the reader interested in a novel of this length. The author does an admirable job in dealing with the issue of morality in a contemporary relationship. Perhaps a more condensed version of the story would make for a more engaging read.

Reviewed by Autumn
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

All three stories were well written. These stories deserve their own stand alone novel! They were great. All the stories pulled you in and you hated to see the characters go! I would love to hear more about Erin and Raimi as well as Tre' and Dr. Summer Lane.

All three stories were great. Francis Ray's story was about Samantha Clark, a former manager of a bed and breakfast. Samantha answer an ad for a housekeeping position and never expects to find the handsome Ethan Rawlins, a man still in pain. Shirley Hailstock's story is about a woman that was hurt when her prom date stood her up. Now he has returned and she is trying to fight the attraction that still lingers. Donna Hill's story is about a radio relationship expert that has no relationship of her own, when she meets the handsome program director, will all of that change?

If you only had one wish for Christmas, what would it be? Would it be something materialistic, or would it be to find love with that special someone, on the day that is set aside to celebrate the birth of the one who is the epitome of unwavering love? In WINTER NIGHTS, an anthology with stories from such notable authors as Francis Ray, Donna Hill and Shirley Hailstock, we are treated to three endearing stories of true love at its finest.

Though each story was your typical romance with the happily ever after ending, the authors managed to portray deep emotions that have you rooting for the characters as they embark on that often bumpy, but ultimately rewarding, road to love and happiness. Next time you're feeling blue and need a little something to bring a smile to your face, or you want to escape from the pressures of life, pick up a copy of the newly re-released WINTER NIGHTS. You're sure to come away with a full heart and the knowledge that true love really does conquer all.

Reviewed by Renee Williams
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers

Again my girl Ray out did herself with another great read! "Winter Nights" kept me up all night! I encourage everyone to go out and get a copy. They even have it in paperback now!

Francis Ray's, "Until Christmas" is a touching novella about a young woman who not only touched the heart of the high school principal, Ethan Rawlings, but Samantha also won the hearts of Ethan's twins, Alan and Alex. Samantha, aka "Sam," was hired as a combination housekeeper, babysitter temporarily, but only until Christmas. At least, that is what Ethan told the twins and Sam, as well as himself. However, it was much too late for all of them to abide by this decision. Each was starved for the other's affections and each had become too attached to give up. The twins, not only saw Sam as their housekeeper/babysitter, but they saw her as a friend. She could play ball and was not afraid of their dog. The twins' affection went deeper still. Although they were in contact with their grandmother, they were still minus a mother figure. Sam with her winning ways, not only because she was a good cook and let them help her in the kitchen, but because it was who she was, had become special to them and they wanted her with them full time. Not only had Sam become special to them and the twins had become special to Sam, but Sam had also affected the twins' dad. Ethan's feelings for Sam were more than that of an employer, more than that of a friend. Somehow, in that short time, Sam had imbedded herself into Ethan's heart. Was he willing to allow a new love interest into his life or was he still shadowed by the deceit and experience of his ex-wife and the deceased mother of his twins. Ethan thought he had a solution to the problem when he reluctantly agreed to keep Sam, "but only until Christmas." However, love does not have a set time to go away. Therefore, until Christmas, turned out to a lifetime of love for Sam, Ethan, Alan and Alex. "Until Christmas" was the best. Way to go, Ms. Ray.

"Kwanzaa Angel" was a sweet remembrance into the past with a chance to correct the future. Erin had been hurt in the past by Raimi, who had reentered her life. Would Erin give in to her feelings that never dissolved for Raimi and become involved in a new relationship or would she revert back into the past? "Kwanzaa Angel" was about the Kwanzaa celebration, but with a twist of love for Erin and Raimi. Good story.

"'Round Midnight" was about the New Year's celebration. I loved the story of Dr. Summer Lane, the psychologist who now has a job at the radio station as a counselor on the air. Her show airs around midnight. It is at the radio station where Summer meets Tre Holland, one of the bosses. Everyone thinks Summer is a snow or ice maiden because Summer stays to herself and does not socialize with the others. However, Tre is attracted to Summer and sets out to melt the snow. Summer also has feelings for Tre and wants the ice to melt from around her heart. However, after getting together, somewhere while the ice is melting another freeze comes along and the ice around Summer's heart becomes another block of ice. Summer and Tre suffer heartship and are temporarily separated. Tre sets out to recapture Summer's love and to permanently melt the ice. He knows a new year will be approaching and is determined to be in Summer's life when the new year begins. So, he sets out around midnight to make it happen. Will Tre succeed in his endeavor? Read "'Round Midnight" and see what the New Year has in store for Summer and Tre. Great story with just the right amount of heat.

There are many good books of reference on African American history published. However, this one ranks among the best. Well written, user-friendly layout, addressing a broad range of topics, this is recommended for a home or classroom library to teach that all members of a society contribute to its advancement and that our society must be inclusive of all members. Every child can be proud of his or her cultural and historical heritage in a country created by immigrants.

The author states in his introduction that this book is not to be viewed as a text book, but rather to be used as supplement. It's a rather comprehensive supplement with captivating text! This book is organized in easy reading segments that are all numbered 1 thru 1001 & also divided within 6 Parts (Sports, Culture and Religion. . .). I feel as if the author is talking with me personally. History boring? I don't think so with this book! I plan to use this book with homeschooling as well as "homeschooling" myself! Can't wait to learn more of what I missed in school!

It's not easy to write a comprehensive history book that is also engaging and user-friendly. Author, historian, and professor Jeffrey Stewart found the way. In 1001 Things Everyone Should Know About African American History, he pens a concise yet encyclopedic narrative that highlights the people and events underlying the amazing story of African American history.

Stewart organizes his work around six sections: Gretat Migration, Civil Rights, Science, Sports, Military, and Religion. This is a book you can read cover to cover or one article at a time in any order.

Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction .

This is a wonderful wealth of information written at a level that easily read and interpreted by students. It should become an addition to every classroom library.

Took me absolutely forever to read this book - months! But I loved it and certainly learned a lot. Stewart is to be commended for pulling so much information together in a marvelously cohesive book. Prints and photographs are terrific. And for those who want more on the subject, and there is more, believe it or not, there is a black history calendar, a desk calendar, also chuck full of history and info.

OK.....so here I am.......the author.....writing a review for MY book. My Brer Rabbit first came into the world eight years ago and I'm still very proud of him. Of all the stories for children that I've written, the Brer Rabbit stories are the best and my favorites. I get a special joy out of seeing so many children and adults get a kick out of hearing and reading Brer Rabbit's stories. I am a performing storyteller so I have the opportunity to share these stories often, out loud, entering Brer Rabbit's world and sharing with my audience what I see and feel. I become that rabbit, that fox, that bear, et al and I bring my audience right along with me. The stories in this book, especially when read aloud, with take you into Brer Rabbit's world where you are truly welcomed and the FUN is non-stop. ENJOY!

This is a very good book that my son loves to read over and over again at night:) It not only is entertaining for children, but it teaches them a lesson.

As the parent of an African-American child, it is very important that I expose my daughter to the richness of her legacy - Adventures of Brer Rabbit and Friends has assisted in this exposure. Karima Amin has compiled a vast variety of interesting, comical, and spirited stories that were once shared among my ancestors - my appreciation cannot be expressed. I read the collection to my daughter practically every night (per her request - she's two) and there is no book that makes me feel quite this proud. The stories are in the tradition of oral storytelling - teaching as well as entertaining. If you are interested in a book that performs these duties and keeps your children asking for more, then Adventures of Brer Rabbit and Friends is the book for you. The book is complete with the history of Brer Rabbit (an excellent, added feature) and is guaranteed to remain in your hands once your child has left your lap. Please - share these beautiful words with your children!

November is a chilly, leafless month where I live in Western New York. However I just finished re-reading The Adventures of Brer Rabbit and Friends as retold by performing storyteller Karima Amin, and it was like drinking a magic spring tonic. Instantly, I found myself transported to the warm, sun-drenched, dreamy world of Brer Rabbit and his myriad animal neighbors. The text of each story wraps and winds its way around the lush color illustrations by Eric Copeland, with a sprinkling of big, bold, bouncy exclamations of "Bookity-Bookity", "Splishy-splushy", and "Lippity-clippety" jumping out to grab your attention at just the right moment. The stories have a universal appeal because they reflect the "life lessons" we all struggle to learn when growing up - to pay attention, to get along with your neighbors, to use your natural abilities, to take time to laugh. Of course, these stories didn't appear out of thin air and the book includes insightful background on the historical context of these classic African American tales and their even-earlier African origins. The only way the publishers could have improved upon this well-done project would have been to offer a cassette or cd/book read-along package. That would have allowed readers the pleasure of following along as Karima Amin brings to life these charming oral tradition folk tales.

I give The Adventures of Brer Rabbit and Friends to every new baby I know! As a parent, grandparent, early childhood educator and school board member, I am thrilled to find a book that meets my criteria for excellence. Karima Amin has skillfully combined the richness of the vernacular language with current concepts and expressions familiar to today's child. The colorful, active illustrations also draw us into the wonderful world of pranks, surprises, and fun. Sections on the African storytelling tradition, the Southern plantation world of Brer Rabbit, and the animals native to Southern USA deepen our learning and appreciation of the treasured tales we have in this lovely book. Brer Rabbit and Friends is perfect for lap reading, group reading, dramatization and learning to be a storyteller. Karima Amin's Brer Rabbit is truly every child's pal!

Shephard created a book satiated with texture, woven in embroidery of dyes and rituals. In African Accents, the author shares with us her stories through textiles. She recreates African accents for readers who have formerly collected pieces of cultural tradition and for the newly converted. Scanning through the craft section of any bookstore, one could notice a scarcity of African crafts, house style, and decorating books. With this book, Shephard undertakes a worthy task. The author's time spent in Senegal piqued her already flourishing interest in African design. Shephard prefaces each chapter with anecdotes, the significance of fiber technique, and facts about the fabrics used for the easy to follow hand-made crafts she shares later in the book. The author separates the fabric regionally and explains the social and rich cultural aspects tied into the various designs and processes.
The first part of the book is devoted to recreating the essence of each separate style of fabric, (that is, if you choose to). Some fabric recreations are simple and others are intricate including embroidery and weaving. Shephard cautions that replicating the fabric does not replace the real thing, but could rather deepen one's appreciation for the years of apprenticeship. In reproducing the designs on the fabrics, the book includes actual sized symbols with their meaning. Some of the Ashanti designs on the fabrics, the author indicates, are the equivalent of the European family crest.
In part two of the book the chapters are devoted to each room of your home and the art of gift giving. Secrets and tricks are provided to lend your pillows, clocks and picture frames the professional touch. There is certainly no limitation of "how to" procedures. I tried a few myself and although the suggestion of the staple gun for the kente stool fell short of my expectation (probably the gun itself) I pulled out the old hammer and nail and my stool looked unfailingly as Shephard had promised. Some of the crafts, if you were not handy with a sewing machine would be better left to the local tailor. Yet, there was a time when a sewing machine was a staple in most family's homes. The art of sewing and the practicality of its uses have been forgotten. But if sewing seems impossible for you, Shephard happily offers other easy alternatives.
This is a consummate reason for a recommendation of this slim book to be on the shelves of all art leagues. The book makes it apparent that Spanish and French artists popular in the 19th and 20th centuries have gained much of their appeal with the use of African art infused with their own. Shephard's passion for the continent exudes throughout the book, aquatinting the reader with crafts and fabric otherwise inaccessible. It is a craft-book du nouveau, a comprehensive history lesson, and a full color tabletop book. It is a significant forefront of a happily growing movement. Through this thoughtful undertaking the beauty of the textiles, that have been admired and used for years, could now have intimate meanings and representations. Choosing that kente, Kuba or mudcloth after reading Shephard's book will add new substance to its use.

Yasmain Broady-Soya...

African Accents by Lisa Shepard is more than just another book with homey decorator projects for the Do-It-Yourselfer. As Shepard makes clear in her introduction, her passion for genuine African fabrics is based on admiration for their strong colors and designs coupled an educated appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into their creation.

Since she recognizes that collection of these beautiful fabrics may well be beyond the reach of the average pocketbook, she sets out to teach us how to duplicate the look with affordable materials and then provides detailed instructions for sophisticated decorating projects that are reasonably easy to accomplish.

Make your own stamps with potatoes, compressed sponges or rubber stamps to get the look of Adinkra cloth. Shepard provides over 20 different Adinkra symbols to copy together with their African names and meanings.

Choose from over a dozen images to create unique Korhogo designs (and I dare you to resist trying the panels and floor cloth projects in the book). Try mudcloth, Kuba cloth or Kasaii velvet.

The instructions are clear and the power of the designs would enhance just about any room in your home or office.

They would also be fairly easy for a school group or Scout troop to teach children about the strength and beauty of the cultures they represent. I can easily imagine a group of kids having a good time creating Adinkra stamps at a children's birthday party.

Shepard expresses the hope that working on the projects will increase the readers appreciation for the real thing. A quick glance through this lovely book will convince you.

This was exactly what I was searching for...beautiful, inspiring photos of projects that you can easily do for yourself. If has great graphic designs you can copy and use for stenciling, stamping, etc. Loved the cardboard spear and the textiles.

I must have bought 10 other books on exotic decor, ethnic decor and this is the only one that really thrilled me.

I enjoyed lisa's book but I'm not much of a craftsperson. I love african style, and came away with some good ideas. Some of these projects require more than I am willing to give. I'm into simplistic projects that look like there was alot of effort. The projects range from easy to not so easy. The are some good internet sources but some of them are no longer avalible. I have not attempted any of the crafts in the book but I'm looking foreward to Lisa's next release (coming out in October). I think her next release may be what I'm looking for.

Ms. Shepard's knowledge and appreciation for African textiles and crafts is shown with style throughout this book. The craft instructions are clear and easy to follow (even for a novice craftsperson like myself!) The photographs are terrific also, they act as real motivators to try some of these great decorating ideas. How refreshing to see a crafts and decorating book with culturally diverse appeal!

I first read about this book in the New York Times. I went to Amazon and ordered it. It's an amazing work of fiction. Even more than that it's a real inside look at addiction, and the addiction crazed world of gambling. If there's one novel you should read this summer this it.

Preston has done it again. This guy keeps pumping out good books like Florida gives us sunshine and babes on the beach. I read this book in less than 48 hours, the story was very entertaining and easy to read, yet very deep and raw. I like his style, I like how he brings you around and delivers the punches when you least expect it. I love Grisham and Preston had a style that reminds me of him.
Thanks Preston...keep them coming.

Roger Pereira

No Shame in His Game...

All or Nothing by Preston L. Allen is a gambler's confessional. I have read many books about gambling, but have never read anything that felt as personal as this book. Many times I gasped as I read to what lengths a gambler would go to chase his or her addiction. P is a married man with a family, a bus driver by profession and a gambler by addiction. There seems to be nothing in the world he loves more than gambling. Be it the lottery scratch-off tickets, slot machines or Vegas Casinos. P places nothing before the game.

Preston L. Allen goes below the surface with his tight prose and personal insight throughout the novel. There are times when it feels as if all he is going to write about is a game, then he will hit you with a choice P made in regards to his gambling and you are left stunned. In one passage, when P discusses what he did after the death of his son, it is absolutely amazing. Reading how he would win tens of thousands of dollars and almost immediately gamble it away will have you feeling his pain. The reader will also ache for his family who had so much faith in him and was often unaware of how much he was actually losing. All or Nothing is a true gambling expose'.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in a novel on a gambler's mindset or anyone who enjoys a well-written, thought-provoking novel.

Angelia Menchan
APOOO BookClub

What Fyodor Dostoevsky did for The Gambler over a hundred years ago, Preston Allen does for his bus driver "P" in All Or Nothing. A degenerate gambling addict on a losing streak, "P" will do anything for the big win, believing that one vast win will save him. He gets that win, and many more, and along the way you meet all different types of gamblers. Allen proves that this addiction crosses all barriers and does not discriminate on race, ethnicity, sex, age, or class line. Anyone can be taken prisoner and held hostage by this addiction, and intellect has nothing to do with it. "P" is a lovable, warm, and generous guy, and you are rooting for him all the way, but in the end, Allen proves that no matter what the stakes are, no matter how much you win....it is never enough. A fascinating, heartbreaking, beautifully written "must read" for anyone interested in the topic of gambling, or gambling addiction.

This book is in my top 3 for stories about compulsive gambling. The other two are "Nicotine Dreams" and "Stung". I really enjoy reading about people with gambling addictions and these are 3 books in which the addiction rings true. Thanks for the great story. Loved the writing style.

This book includes one of my favorite Anansi tales, and I love how the clever spider is portrayed by the illustrator--as a "real-looking" spider rather than some sort of spider / human hybrid that seems to grace the pages of many children's books. This more "spidery" persona of Anansi makes him appear all the more crafty, sneaky, and greedy--much to the delight of readers.

It's brilliant how the animals maintain a taste of realism while also sporting some recognizable human qualities too--like sitting in porch chairs and rocking chairs! This is a refreshing approach, and the illustrations are so fun! A joy to look at! You just have to laugh at a fainting hippo and a dejected lion.

The story is well told too. We all wait for Anansi to be outwitted by Little Bush Deer after his reign of trickery and food collecting!

Readers who enjoy this book may also enjoy "Anansi and the Magic Stick," which is created by the same author / illustrator pair: Eric A. Kimmel and Janet Stevens. For readers who like an Anansi that is a spider that has a human face, check out Verna Aardema's "Anansi Does the Impossible."

This book makes a great addition to the family and / or school library.

Good story with elements of mystery & magic...and when will Anansi get his? He does of course. My little one walked around slowly mimicking the sad lion when his goods were swiped...then, she'd burst out laughing. We had lots of fun with this.

This story is about a phrase that if said near a magical rock makes animals fall to the ground and then wake up shortly after. No one gets hit, they just have to say the phrase for the rock to make the faint. It is a great illustration of one of the many great tales from the Ashanti people about the mischevious Anansi. KIDS LOVE IT! I don't know how to explain it, but they think it is so, so funny. If you want to make your kids LOVE a book, get this one. And don't worry there is absolutely no violence.

As a kid I learned how to read with Anansi and the Moss Covered Rock. I had my parents read it to me until I had memorized it, then I read it, associating the words I knew were there with what was there. It was hands down my favorite book as a child and I believe that the moral in it helped build a moral character into me. I never saw any violence in the story, just thought that when you said the magic words you fell asleep - magically. I am 21 now and still have a soft spot for the story, and will likely read it to my own children someday.

My kids (ages 8 and 5) think this book is hilarious -- I just now finished [re]reading it to my daughter, who made me repeat the schtick between Anansi and the little mule deer about six times in a row, ending up with us acting out the two parts. A little boisterous for bedtime, maybe, but we had a ball. The idea of a strange moss-covered rock that knocks out anyone who says "what a strange moss-covered rock!" is pretty surreal, but if you suspend your disbelief the rest of the tale, and its moral lesson, follow like clockwork.
The illustrations are well done, too. Some of the animals are a little too cartoony-cute, but Anansi has an intriguingly zig-zag shape, and it's a nice sight gag to see them using ceiling fans and aluminum lawn chairs. Also, if you flip back through the book you can find little mule deer peeking out from the background on nearly every page, which is a huge bonus as far as the kids are concerned.
A previous reviewer condemned this story as violent -- but it's not suggested or shown anywhere in the book that the rock hits the animals on the head. Instead it's just "KPOM!" and the animal falls in a faint. My kids and I hadn't even considered the being-hit-on-the-head theory at all: they just figured the rock was magic. Maybe they just haven't watched enough Bugs Bunny cartoons...

Great start to a funny series, would live to see this on tv. Three sisters all different from each other and its the quiet one, curvy one that gets the handsome rich guy. I give this 4.5 stars, would be 5 but I tend to roll my eyes at romances that takes place in a few weeks too unrealistic for me to handle lol. Plus would be nice if the permed or weaved hair was not described as if its a badge honour. Writers, most AA /black women have very curly hair naturally growing out of their scalps, some even have short afros lets celebrate this African beauty and stop trying to look like Caucasians...

Tamara Sneed does it again with the next installment of the Sibley sisters! Of course the three sisters, Kendra, Charlie, and Quinn (introduced in At First Sight) find themselves in Sibleyville, CA to celebrate Christmas. Kendra is the athletic opinionated New Yorker, while Charlie is the gentle/compassionate middle sister. This story is about Quinn, who comes across as the superficial Hollywood actress initially. Only Ms. Sneed could pull off an incredible love story with two characters who couldn't be more mismatched (but looks are deceiving indeed). Wyatt was introduced as Graham's bestfriend in At First Sight.

Since the other reviewers gave great summaries, I'm writing from a different perspective. What makes Ms. Sneed stand out as a writer is her unique sense of humor and ability to make the most unusual circumstances seem normal. When I read the plot summary on the back of this one I kept wondering how she was going to make this story believable, but she's gifted. I initially thought Wyatt and Quinn were flat secondary characters in At First Sight (though I enjoyed the story). I didn't think I would be able to like Quinn or find Wyatt appealing in their own story. in which they'd be center stage. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. Ms. Sneed makes them real and their love undeniable. This is a heartwarming story that will make you laugh and love. I can't wait for Kendra's story!

First book she's come out with in almost 2 years, and let me just say girlfriend hasn't forgotten how to write. Same lovable hilarious kinds of characters that she's known for. I especially liked the fact that the heroine of the book was not tall and thin like every other woman in every other romance novel I've ever read. Kudos to Ms. Sneed.

Set in the small town of Sibleyville, California, with a population if fifteen thousand, we enter the world of the Sibley sisters. Kendra, the oldest, is a Wall Street whiz kid; Charlie, the middle sister, has a Master's Degree in Art History; and last but not least is Quinn, the baby of the family, a television mega star. Three sisters, as different as night and day in every way, from employment, to personality, styles and beliefs.

They have not seen or spent time with each other in years. They are now forced to live together because of their grandfather's will, praying to inherit what they are hoping are millions, for their own individual reasons. One sister wants to start her own business, another has been fired from her job. The third trusted the wrong man. Kendra, Quinn, and Charlie feel as if the two weeks they spend together are an eternity. Their emotions run the gamut from humor to sorrow. Unfortunately, Charlie is stuck in the middle trying to be the peacekeeper.

AT FIRST SIGHT, written by Tamara Sneed, is a wonderful story of forgiveness. Sneed allowed us to laugh, cry, and feel pain and disappointment. She also tossed in a few handsome men, which turned AT FIRST SIGHT into a real party. In future books I hope we hear more from the secondary characters.

Reviewed by Toni Bonita
for The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers

This is the first novel I've read by Tamara Sneed. It is a great read! It was LOL funny, and very romantic. Ms. Sneed definitely made you want to be right in the middle of the imaginary town of Sibleyville. If for nothing more than to witness all the comical mishaps between Charlie and Graham. She captured the feel of the small country town, the attractions, the politics, and the sense of community. The main characters were well developed. Even the secondary characters were quite memorable, yet they did not take away from Graham and Charlie's story. Graham and Charlie's story was awesome, you will definitely enjoy the attraction between the two of them. Boy, I thought if they didn't hook-up soon, Charlie was definitely going to be the death of Graham with her clumsiness. Can't wait to hopefully read more about Quinn and Wyatt, there was definitely something going on with them. Overall it was a very enjoyable, quick read!

When I first picked this book from the library I had two minutes left to pick a book. So, I look on a shelf this was the first book I caught on my eye. When we came back to school I didn't want to read it but once I past that first page I really wanted to read it, because it talks about the issues in my life. Such as, how I would get in trouble because I would pick pocket people.
They shot the guy for a reason. Maracas and Eddie know, as black and white on the streets are about to get a scholarship to a basketball school. They don't have any jobs so they can pay for the basketball camp for they can get accepted to the school, so they started robbing people's cars when they will go in the hardware store. Until one day a guy saw them robbing his car so he ran over there and Eddie pulled out his gun and shot the person. Maracas knew who the person was but just couldn't figure it out at the time. One day when Eddie's family comes over and they are taking the bus then Maracas knew who it was, it was... The next day when they went to school the cops come and arrest them for murder.
I think this book is awesome I recommend this book because it has action cover to cover. My favorite part was when they found out that they had killed the guy, but Eddie's family is on the bus, I like this part because it is intense because you want to know who the person was. I like this book so much I read it 3 times because it relates to the issues in my life. This book says that if you don't have a job than go do things like selling drugs or robbing people and when you do that you go to jail.
I think Paul Volponi is one of the best authors in the world, because he knows how to catch his reader's interest. Also, he doesn't wait to the middle of the book to give you the action part he gives it to you on the second page. I think Paul Volponi does that for he won't boar his readers. It is a really good book for teens.

I was really pulled in by this book and found it a page turner. It's got more than racial themes in it. It's also the story of friendship between boys, it's strengths and limits. Additionally, it's also the story of teenagers making poor choices and suffering the consequences of their actions.

You have two friends who are of different races, Eddie and Marcus, but they have pulled together and are tight friends through high school. Then, they both resent not having enough money for various things, and since the are both great basketball players and practices interfere with work, they decide to do some armed robbery to get some extra cash. They only do three hold ups, but things go wrong, and a gun is fired, and Marcus, the black friend gets arrested.

Eventually, Eddie is also arrested, and he was the one who shot the gun. The rest of the book circles around Marcus, and if he will turn is his friend or not since the police don't have enough evidence about the trigger man.

All of this is well written and fast paced. There is also a little romance between Rose, Eddie's sister, and Marcus.

What I feel keeps this book from being a great book, is the ending, which I will not reveal. I will only write that I think the ending keeps the character of Eddie from fully developing, and maybe that's more true to reality as he is only 17.

As a book of harsh, realistic fiction, I think this book has it nailed!

As a book of lasting, enduring literature, I think this book will be mostly forgotten in ten years and I fault the ending and the editor for letting that happen, because I feel this could have been at least better and a much more meaningful and enduring story.

That said, I do recommend this book and think it would give teen and adults a lot to discuss on a wide variety of themes such as friendship, race, honesty, and the US Judicial system.

This book stands with Children of the River as one of the best adolescent novels I have ever read. I thought about this book for weeks after reading it, and I am now working on getting it placed as required reading in our local school. The story is riveting and would capture the attention of virtually any reader, adolescent or adult.

Here's another book, I wanted to read more...more...more! What great messages the author delivered in the story. Volponi speaks of "black and white" issues, but he also goes deep into the human soul and gives guidance on how to live a content, happy life. This book could be a self-help book on dealing with the "big and small" mistakes made in life, change, stress, and growing up!

As a high school teacher-librarian, I will certainly recommend _Black and White_ to my teen readers as a fabulous read.

There are numerous quotes I admire, but my favorite is: [school office speaking to Marcus mother] "I know he's made some mistakes. But that's what adolescents do. Marcus is the type of young man who's going to learn from what he did wrong. He's going to pick himself back up and succeed. And one day, other kids from this neighborhood are going to look up to him for that." p. 131

The book is open-ended at the end. But that's okay and will leave the reader content. There will be ups and downs after the final page and much food for thought in the reader's imagination.

"Marcs and Eddie are the stars of Long Island City High School's basketball team. Marcs is black and Eddie is white, but they got past all that "racial crap" and have been best friends for years." Quote from Black and White

Marcs and Eddie are going make it to the NBA. Everyone knows it. They have scouts coming to their games to see them play. Both know it will only be a matter of time before they get their big scholarships and then they can go to the pros.

The problem is both boys are from the inner city and have little money. They could work but that would interfere with their practices and games. So, they decide to make some quick cash. Everything is fine until one night when things go horribly wrong. Now one will have to pay for their mistake.

This is an excellent novel that I cannot keep on the shelf. My students love this book. Mr. Volponi does an excellent job of portraying the struggle these young men face. The ending shocked me and when I finished reading the book I couldn't believe what happened. Amazing read. Boys who are into basketball will especially like this novel. However, I think boys and girls who want a solid story with realistic characters will enjoy this book.

Paul Volponi has written two other young adult novels including Rooftop and Rucker Park Setup. His first novel was Rikers, which could appeal to teens due to its topic.

When I first picked this book from the library I had two minutes left to pick a book. So, I look on a shelf this was the first book I caught on my eye. When we came back to school I didn't want to read it but once I past that first page I really wanted to read it, because it talks about the issues in my life. Such as, how I would get in trouble because I would pick pocket people.
They shot the guy for a reason. Maracas and Eddie know, as black and white on the streets are about to get a scholarship to a basketball school. They don't have any jobs so they can pay for the basketball camp for they can get accepted to the school, so they started robbing people's cars when they will go in the hardware store. Until one day a guy saw them robbing his car so he ran over there and Eddie pulled out his gun and shot the person. Maracas knew who the person was but just couldn't figure it out at the time. One day when Eddie's family comes over and they are taking the bus then Maracas knew who it was, it was... The next day when they went to school the cops come and arrest them for murder.
I think this book is awesome I recommend this book because it has action cover to cover. My favorite part was when they found out that they had killed the guy, but Eddie's family is on the bus, I like this part because it is intense because you want to know who the person was. I like this book so much I read it 3 times because it relates to the issues in my life. This book says that if you don't have a job than go do things like selling drugs or robbing people and when you do that you go to jail.
I think Paul Volponi is one of the best authors in the world, because he knows how to catch his reader's interest. Also, he doesn't wait to the middle of the book to give you the action part he gives it to you on the second page. I think Paul Volponi does that for he won't boar his readers. It is a really good book for teens.

I was really pulled in by this book and found it a page turner. It's got more than racial themes in it. It's also the story of friendship between boys, it's strengths and limits. Additionally, it's also the story of teenagers making poor choices and suffering the consequences of their actions.

You have two friends who are of different races, Eddie and Marcus, but they have pulled together and are tight friends through high school. Then, they both resent not having enough money for various things, and since the are both great basketball players and practices interfere with work, they decide to do some armed robbery to get some extra cash. They only do three hold ups, but things go wrong, and a gun is fired, and Marcus, the black friend gets arrested.

Eventually, Eddie is also arrested, and he was the one who shot the gun. The rest of the book circles around Marcus, and if he will turn is his friend or not since the police don't have enough evidence about the trigger man.

All of this is well written and fast paced. There is also a little romance between Rose, Eddie's sister, and Marcus.

What I feel keeps this book from being a great book, is the ending, which I will not reveal. I will only write that I think the ending keeps the character of Eddie from fully developing, and maybe that's more true to reality as he is only 17.

As a book of harsh, realistic fiction, I think this book has it nailed!

As a book of lasting, enduring literature, I think this book will be mostly forgotten in ten years and I fault the ending and the editor for letting that happen, because I feel this could have been at least better and a much more meaningful and enduring story.

That said, I do recommend this book and think it would give teen and adults a lot to discuss on a wide variety of themes such as friendship, race, honesty, and the US Judicial system.

This book stands with Children of the River as one of the best adolescent novels I have ever read. I thought about this book for weeks after reading it, and I am now working on getting it placed as required reading in our local school. The story is riveting and would capture the attention of virtually any reader, adolescent or adult.

Here's another book, I wanted to read more...more...more! What great messages the author delivered in the story. Volponi speaks of "black and white" issues, but he also goes deep into the human soul and gives guidance on how to live a content, happy life. This book could be a self-help book on dealing with the "big and small" mistakes made in life, change, stress, and growing up!

As a high school teacher-librarian, I will certainly recommend _Black and White_ to my teen readers as a fabulous read.

There are numerous quotes I admire, but my favorite is: [school office speaking to Marcus mother] "I know he's made some mistakes. But that's what adolescents do. Marcus is the type of young man who's going to learn from what he did wrong. He's going to pick himself back up and succeed. And one day, other kids from this neighborhood are going to look up to him for that." p. 131

The book is open-ended at the end. But that's okay and will leave the reader content. There will be ups and downs after the final page and much food for thought in the reader's imagination.

"Marcs and Eddie are the stars of Long Island City High School's basketball team. Marcs is black and Eddie is white, but they got past all that "racial crap" and have been best friends for years." Quote from Black and White

Marcs and Eddie are going make it to the NBA. Everyone knows it. They have scouts coming to their games to see them play. Both know it will only be a matter of time before they get their big scholarships and then they can go to the pros.

The problem is both boys are from the inner city and have little money. They could work but that would interfere with their practices and games. So, they decide to make some quick cash. Everything is fine until one night when things go horribly wrong. Now one will have to pay for their mistake.

This is an excellent novel that I cannot keep on the shelf. My students love this book. Mr. Volponi does an excellent job of portraying the struggle these young men face. The ending shocked me and when I finished reading the book I couldn't believe what happened. Amazing read. Boys who are into basketball will especially like this novel. However, I think boys and girls who want a solid story with realistic characters will enjoy this book.

Paul Volponi has written two other young adult novels including Rooftop and Rucker Park Setup. His first novel was Rikers, which could appeal to teens due to its topic.