Book and Lounge: Recent Episodes
the Afro-Caribbean Bookclub
An engaging bi-weekly books podcast where members of the Afro-Caribbean Book Club discuss books they have read and sometimes talk to authors about their novels.
In this episode, we are joined Lauri Kubuitsile to discuss her novel, The Scattering, which intertwines the lives of two women from different backgrounds navigating the chaos of war. Set against the backdrop of the Herero genocide and the Second Anglo-Boer War, we explore the poignant stories of Tjipuka, a Herero woman, and Riette, an Afrikaner, as they confront the harsh realities of their respective histories.
We discuss the importance of women's voices in historical narratives, the emotional weight of writing about trauma, and the research that informed her work.
Join us for a rich conversation about the power of storytelling, the complexities of identity, and the necessity of empathy in understanding our shared past.
Don't forget to share your thoughts on the episode and the book with us!
Join us as we explore themes of identity, literature, class and sexuality in the Most Secret Memory of Men by Mohamed Mbougar Sarr.
Set against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dreamcount explores the lives of four women—Chiamaka, Zikora, Omologo, and Kadiatu, each grappling with their own struggles and aspirations.
Chiamaka, a travel writer, finds herself reflecting on her past relationships during lockdown, while Zikora, a high-flying lawyer, feels the pressure of societal expectations to find a husband. Omologo, a no-nonsense banker, challenges traditional norms regarding motherhood, and Kadiatu's journey from Guinea to America highlights the complexities of immigration and the power imbalance women in particular face in their adopted countries.
Tune in for an engaging conversation that celebrates the complexity of women's narratives and the power of storytelling. Don't forget to share your thoughts on the book with u, was it worth the wait for you?
In this episode, we unpack the themes of identity, family dynamics, and the impact of Rastafarian culture in Safiya Sinclair's memoir, How to Say Babylon. Our discussion navigates the tension between poetic expression and narrative clarity, as we reflect on Sinclair's upbringing in a strict Rastafarian household and the complexities of her relationship with her father.
We share our thoughts on the balance of lyrical prose versus storytelling, and how it shapes our understanding of her experiences. From her struggles with familial expectations to her journey of self-discovery through poetry, we engage in a lively debate about the effectiveness of her writing style and its resonance with readers. Join us as we reflect on the themes of family, culture, and resilience.
In this episode we explore the motivations behind why we pick up books and the evolving landscape of literature. Our conversation touches on the accessibility of books, and the differences between reading physical books and listening to audiobooks.
We share personal anecdotes, discuss the impact of technology on reading habits, and reflect on the importance of empathy and perspective gained through storytelling. From the joys of collecting physical books to the convenience of audiobooks, we cover it all in this lively exchange that celebrates the written word.
Episode References
- One More Book Podcast
- Navigating the African Publishing Landscape: In Conversation with Author and Publisher Richard Ali
- Reading Agency
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Safiya Sinclair
In this episode, we explore the complexities of identity and politics through the lens of Diane Abbott's memoir, A Woman Like Me.
We engage in a lively discussion about Abbott's experiences as the first Black woman elected to the UK Parliament, touching on themes of resilience, racism, and the inner workings of the Labour Party.
With a mix of humour and serious reflection, we uncover the challenges she faced and the lessons learned from her journey.
Tune in for an insightful conversation that explores the intersections of race, gender, and politics.
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction
(05:00) Overview of A Woman Like Me
(15:00) Revelations from Diane Abbott's Life
(30:00) Insights on the Labour Party
(45:00) Personal Reflections and Reactions
(60:00) Conclusion
Episode References
Diane Abbott
https://www.dianeabbott.org.uk/
A Woman Like Me
https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/316/316818/a-woman-like-me/9780241467972.html
Labour Party
https://www.labour.org.uk/
In this Episode we explore the depths of Toni Morrison's Beloved. We discuss its complex themes of memory, trauma, and resilience in the aftermath of slavery. Join us for an engaging conversation of this literary masterpiece that provokes thought and reflection.
In this episode we discuss Gael Faye's novel, Small Country, a poignant coming-of-age novel set against the backdrop of civil war in Burundi. The story follows Gabriel, a young boy navigating the complexities of his mixed heritage while grappling with the realities of life in exile. Gail Fay paints a vivid picture of Gabriel's idyllic childhood, filled with innocence and mischief, before the harsh realities of war intrude.Tune in for an enriching conversation that not only reflects on the narrative but also resonates with contemporary issues faced by many.Episode ReferencesGail Fay - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ga%C3%ABl_FayeToni Morrison - https://www.tonimorrison.comBurundi - https://www.burunditourism.comRwandan Civil War- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rwandan_Civil_WarGreat Lakes Region - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Lakes_region_of_Africa
In this episode we sat down with Lizzie Damilola Blackburn to talk about her latest novel, The Rewrite, a contemporary romcom set in South London. The story follows Temi, a struggling writer who lands a ghost writing gig for her ex, a recent reality TV star, leading to a whirlwind of unresolved feelings and second chances.
You can find Lizzie on:
Insta: @lizziedamiblackburn
Twitter: @DamilolaLizzie
Episode References
The Rewrite
Penguin Books
Love Island
The Literary Consultancy
Story Engineering by Larry Brooks
Jericho Writers
In this episode we welcome the multitalented Richard Ali, a lawyer, writer, and publisher, to explore the intricate world of books and publishing. We discuss the challenges and opportunities within the African publishing landscape. Richard sheds light on the potential of digital platforms and the need for more cultural interactions across the continent. He offers insights into the future of publishing, highlighting the importance of translations and the role of social media in fostering a vibrant literary community.
Whether you're an aspiring writer, a literary enthusiast, or someone interested in the dynamics of African publishing, this episode promises to inspire and inform. Tune in for an engaging discussion that bridges continents and highlights the universal love for storytelling.
About Richard Ali
Richard Ali, a lawyer and writer, has published the novel, City of Memories (Parresia Books, 2012) and the poetry collection, The Anguish and Vigilance of Things (Konya Shamsrumi, 2019). He is a founding member of Nairobi-based arts collective, Jalada Africa, and co-founded the poetry publishing house, Konya Shamsrumi. He is also an expert in issues of internal security and preventing and countering violent extremism
References
Richard Ali's Website - https://richardali.com/
City of Memories - https://www.amazon.com/City-Memories-Richard-Ali/dp/1480037141?tag=bookandloun05-21
Cassava Republic Website - https://www.cassavarepublic.
African Writers Series - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_Writers_Series
Airtel Africa - https://africa.airtel.com
As the curtain closes on another year, we are taking a look back at the books that defined our 2024 reading experience. From fiction page-turners to thought-provoking non-fiction, we immersed ourselves in a wide range of captivating titles over the past 12 months.
In this special year-end episode, we are excited to share our top book recommendations with all of you. These are the books that stuck with us long after the final page, the ones that transported us to new worlds, challenged our perspectives, and those that we simply couldn't get enough of.
Whether you're a voracious bookworm or someone looking to add a bit of variety to your reading list, you are sure to find your next great read among our selections.
So, grab a pen and paper, tune in and get ready to jot down some must-read titles for your 2025 TBR list.
In our latest podcast episode, we delve into the rich tapestry of Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi's novel, The First Woman.
At once epic and deeply personal, the novel tells the story of Kirabo, a smart and headstrong Ugandan girl raised by doting grandparents in idyllic Nattetta. We meet Kirabo is at that stage where she feels a dual force inside of her, one that is obedient and the other that wants to wreak havoc. Growing up fast, her world keeps changing, secrets are being revealed that forces Kirabo to question her reality.
Set against the political backdrop of the 1970s, book explores her search for identity, her understanding of womanhood across history, and the implications for her future.
In this episode, we discuss all things womanhood inspired by bell hooks' seminal work, Ain't I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism.
We explore the intersectional challenges faced by Black women, examining historical and contemporary issues of race, gender, and class. We examine the complexities of the feminist movement, the societal expectations placed on women, and the evolving perceptions of Black women and men in society.
Let us know your thoughts about the episode in the comments or via email at hello@bookandlounge.com
In this episode, we sit down with Alex Wheatle, the acclaimed author known as the Brixton Bard. Alex shares his incredible journey from the vibrant streets of Brixton to becoming a celebrated writer. Discover how his experiences as a DJ, poet, and novelist have shaped his storytelling and the importance of representation in literature. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about storytelling and the power of empathy.
Episode References
Afro Caribbean Book Club www.bookandlounge.com
Brixton Rock https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brixton_Rock
Small Axe Series https://www.theguardian.com/film/2020/dec/06/small-axe-alex-wheatle-steve-mcqueen
Bob Marley https://www.bobmarley.com
Exodus Album https://www.bobmarley.com/exodus
Dennis Brown https://www.dennisbrown.com
Young Gothic by M.A. Bennett https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202286306-young-gothic
Brighton Rock https://www.britannica.com/topic/Brighton-Rock-novel-by-Greene
James Baldwin https://www.jamesbaldwin.org
Linton Kwesi Johnson https://www.lintonkwesijohnson.com
Janet Kay https://www.janetkay.com
Malorie Blackman https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malorie_Blackman
Windrush Scandal https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Windrush_scandal
Grenfell Fire https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grenfell_Tower_fire
Grenfell Tower Fire Inquiry https://www.grenfelltowerinquiry.org.uk/phase-2-report
In this episode we discuss Afua's memoir Decolonizing My Body, an exploration of beauty standards, heritage, andself-acceptance. While the book had its challenges, it offers a unique perspective on decolonisation.
Let us know what you think about the episode in the comments or via email at hello@bookandlounge.com
In this episode, we explore Buchi Emecheta's novel In theDitch, which follows the story of a young Nigerian mother, Ada, as she navigates the challenges of raising her five children alone after separating from her husband. The narrative examines Ada's daily struggles as she tries to make a life for herself and her family on a council estate, known as the Ditch by its residents.
The book highlights Ada's resilience and ability to find positivity amidst adversity. It touches on broader societal issues, such as poverty, survival, and the cycle of welfare dependence. The story captures the diverse perspectives and experiences of individuals within the welfare system,contrasting those aspiring for independence with those content to remain reliant on it.
Despite the hardships faced by the protagonist, the book is warm and human, offering a nuanced look at the challenges encountered by those living in poverty.
Buchi Emecheta was a renowned Nigerian author andsociologist, celebrated for her poignant novels that explore the struggles and resilience of women in both African and immigrant societies. Born Florence Onyebuchi Emecheta in Lagos, Nigeria, she moved to London in 1962. Her worksoften explore themes of gender inequality, motherhood, and the clash between tradition and modernity.
Emecheta's other notable novels include Second Class Citizen (1974), The Bride Price(1976), The Slave Girl (1977), and The Joys of Motherhood (1979). Her writing is characterized by its autobiographical elements and its focus on the quest for self-confidence and dignity as a woman. In recognition of her contributions to literature, she was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2005.
Chapters
- 00:00:00 - A Mother's Struggle in 1960s London
- 00:06:57 - Surviving the Ditch: Welfare Dependency and Upward Mobility
- 00:12:45 - Contrasting Perspectives on Welfare and Upward Mobility
- 00:15:34 - Poverty Trap and Welfare System Flaws
- 00:22:57 - Navigating the Complexities of the Welfare System
- 00:27:27 - The Conflicting Role of Carol as a Social Worker
- 00:35:05 - The Blame Game: Scrutiny on Social Workers
- 00:39:54 - Maintaining Self-Worth Through Humour and Resilience
- 00:45:27 - The Dehumanizing Experience of Navigating the Welfare System
- 00:52:37 - Navigating Racism and Discrimination in Ada's Journey
- 00:55:06 - Navigating Racial Biases and Microaggressions
- 01:05:20 - Paying for a Prescription: A Challenging Experience
- 01:07:27 - Challenging Microaggressions and Owning Discomfort
- 01:09:55 - Navigating the System: An Immigrant's Journey
- 01:14:20 - Social Commentary in Novel
- 01:19:14 - African Immigrant Families in the West
- 01:21:55 - Working-Class Camaraderie and Middle-Class Judgement
- 01:23:33 - The Courage to Leave
In this episode, we discuss Maame by Jessica George. The novel follows Maddie, a young woman juggling the demands of her career while caring for her ailing father and dealing with depression, and life's many challenges.
We discuss Maddie’s journey of self-discovery and tackle some of the themes explored in the book including love, relationships, grief, depression, and the weight of parental expectations.
Key Themes: Cultural Identity, Self-Discovery, Mental Health, Family Dynamics, Female Friendship
About the author
Jessica George was born and raised in London to Ghanaian parents. She studied English Literature at the University of Sheffield. After working at a literary agency and a theatre, she landed a job in the editorial department at Bloomsbury. Maame is her debut novel.
In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the complexities of racial issues, systemic inequalities, and the emotional resonance of the diaspora experience through the lens of Gary Young's acclaimed work, Dispatches from the Diaspora.
Featuring poignant interviews with icons like Maya Angelou and Lewis Hamilton, the work offers an in-depth exploration of racial dynamics in the US, UK, and beyond.
Our in-depth analysis explores the significant themes that Gary Young so masterfully captures including:
- the enduring presence of systemic racism and the lack ofmeaningful progress
- the relevance and purpose of the Commonwealth and statues
- the intersections of race and class
Gary Young's writing possesses the remarkable ability to make readers pause and reflect on the realities that too often go unnoticed. Tune in now to deepen your understanding and be part of this crucial conversation
In this episode as we sit down with acclaimed author Desmond Hall to discuss storytelling, writing suspense novels and his latest book Better Must Come. Desmond shares his techniques for keeping readers on the edge of their seats, and his tips for writing authentic characters who leap of the page with raw emotion and authenticity.
Better Must Come takes readers on a gripping journey through the sun-drenched streets of Jamaica, where light and darkness collide. Deja, a barrel girl who receives barrels from her mother in America, and Gabriel, entangled in a dangerous gang, find their lives intersecting unexpectedly. When Deja stumbles upon a bag filled with money, she unwittingly sets off a chain of events that will test their courage, loyalty, and love. It tackles universal themes of resilience, family bonds, and the pursuit of a brighter future.
About the Author
Desmond Hall was born in Jamaica,West Indies, and moved to Jamaica, Queens. He has worked as a high schoolbiology and English teacher in East New York, Brooklyn; counseled teenageex-cons after their release from Rikers Island; and served as Spike Lee’s creative director at Spike DDB.
Desmond has served on the board of thePartnership for Drug-Free Kids and the Advertising Council and judged the One Show, the American Advertising Awards, and the NYC Downtown Short Film Festival. He’s also been named one of Variety magazine’s Top 50 Creatives to Watch. Desmond is the author of the gritty YA novel Your Corner Dark which confronts the harsh realities of gang life in Jamaica and how far a teen is willing to go for family. He lives outside of Boston with his wife and two daughters.
In this episode, we examine the complex history and ongoing challenges faced by African nations, drawing insights from the seminal work How EuropeUnderdeveloped Africa by Walter Rodney.
We explore how Western colonial powers have systematically exploited African resources and undermined the continent's development, creating persistent challenges.
We examine Rodney's definitions of development and underdevelopment, acknowledging their continued relevance while also exploring alternative perspectives onprogress beyond just economic measures. We debate the power imbalances between resource-rich developing nations and more industrialised countries, as well as the complex dynamics of foreign aid, education, and brain drain.
The conversation also touches on the role of African leaders, the legacy of colonial-era policies, and the struggles for self-determination and meaningful progress. We highlight the need to centre African voices, challenge Eurocentric narratives, and promote diverse narratives to better understand the continent's history and development.
About the Author
Walter Anthony Rodney was a Guyanese historian, political activist, and academic. His influential work includes the book How Europe Underdeveloped Africa, first published in 1972. Born into a working-class family in Georgetown, Guyana, Rodney’s upbringing exposed him to issues of race, class, and empire from an early age.
He earned a PhD in African History at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London by the age of 24. His dissertation, which challenged conventional wisdom, focused on the slave trade on the Upper Guinea Coast and was published as A History of the Upper Guinea Coast 1545–1800.
Rodney became known internationally as an activist, scholar, and formidable orator. He taught at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and his alma mater, the University of the West Indies in Jamaica. Critical of the middle class’s role in post-independence Caribbean, he advocated for socialism and working-class leadership to break free from imperialism.
Tragically, Rodney was assassinated in Georgetown, Guyana, in 1980. His legacy endures through his groundbreaking work on African history and development.
Inthis episode, we delve into the captivating narrative of Sharma Taylor’s firstnovel, “What a Mother’s Love Don’t Teach You”. The story unfolds in LazarusGardens, a ghetto in Kingston, painting a vivid picture of life through adiverse ensemble of characters. Each character’s life is deeply entwined withthe complex interplay of politics, power, and corruption in Jamaica.
Wefurther dissect the influence of the United States on Jamaican politics, thecollision of different cultures and social classes, and how these factors shapethe lives of the characters. A significant theme we explore is the role ofmotherhood - the impact of a mother’s love, or the void left in its absence, onthe lives of their children.
Joinus as we discuss this and more.
In this episode, we explore the enigmatic world of Malian writer Yambo Ouologuem. His groundbreaking debut novel, “Le devoir de violence” (published in English as “Bound to Violence”), shattered literary norms and sparked heated debates.
Join us as we explore the following themes:
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The Literary Revolution: Ouologuem’s novel defied conventions, blending history, myth, and biting social commentary. We dissect the narrative structure and its impact on African literature.
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Controversy and Plagiarism: Ouologuem’s meteoric rise was marred by allegations of plagiarism. We unravel the scandal that rocked the literary world and examine its aftermath.
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Legacy and Reclusion: After the controversy, Ouologuem retreated from public life. We discuss his mysterious existence, the silence that enveloped him, and the enduring legacy of his work.
Whether you’re a literary enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the intersection of creativity and controversy, this episode promises a captivating journey through the words of Yambo Ouologuem.
Tune in as we untangle the threads of violence, liberation, and artistic brilliance. 🎧✨
In this episode, we discuss The Fortune Men by NadifaMohamed, a novel that revisits the shameful event of a Somali sailor in 1950sWales who was hanged for a crime he did not commit. The book is a poignantretelling of Mahmood Mattan’s story, who was convicted for slitting the throatof pawnbroker and moneylender Lily Volpert. Despite having alibis confirmed byfour separate witnesses, Mahmood was convicted and hanged. His name was clearedin 1998, 46 years after his death, and in 2001, a payout of £1.4m was offeredby the Home Office as compensationMohamed illuminates the inner life of Mahmood, a small-timepetty thief with a big heart who talks a good game and is in his element amongthe Somali and West Indian sailors, the Maltese businessmen and Jewish familiesof Tiger Bay. The author’s approach to the material is less about the detailsof the case and its intergenerational impact and more about delivering us deepinto Mahmood’s inner world so that, through the power of imagination, weinhabit the mind of a lovable rogue.This book is a gripping and poignant read that will leaveyou with a deeper understanding of the impact of racial injustice onindividuals and communities. Tune in to our podcast to hear our thoughts onthis powerful novel.About the authorNadifa Mohamed FRSL is a Somali-British novelist born in1981 in Hargeisa, Somaliland. She is the author of Black Mamba Boy (2010), TheOrchard of Lost Souls (2013), and The Fortune Men (2021). Mohamed’s firstnovel, Black Mamba Boy, won the 2010 Betty Trask Award and was shortlisted fornumerous awards, including the 2010 Guardian First Book Award, the 2010 DylanThomas Prize, and the 2010 John Llewellyn Rhys Prize. In 2013, Mohamed wasnamed as one of Granta magazine’s “Best of Young British Novelists” and in2014, she was included on the Africa39 list of writers aged under 40 withpotential and talent to define future trends in African literature.Mohamed has also written short stories, essays,memoirs, and articles in outlets including The Guardian, and contributed poetryto the anthology New Daughters of Africa (edited by Margaret Busby, 2019).
In this episode we discuss If I Survive You, a stunning debut collection of short stories by Jonathan Escoffery. We talk about the themes of racial identity, family and belonging that run through the book, as well as the craft of writing in the second person. If I Survive You follows Trelawny, a young Black man who moves from Jamaica to Miami and faces various obstacles and opportunities in his new home. The stories are linked by Trelawny's voice, which is witty, honest and engaging.
In this episode, we discuss the powerful memoir, “Maybe I Don’t Belong Here” by the critically acclaimed actor, David Harewood. Harewood’s memoir is not just a story of personal triumph, it is also a deeply personal exploration of the duality of growing up both Black and British.We discuss Harewood’s experiences with racism in Britain, his breakdown, and his journey to recovery, we examine the impact of everyday racism on Black mental health, explore how Harewood’s story can help us understand the impact of racial trauma on mental health and examine the systems and biases that continue to shape our society.
In this episode we discuss The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw, a collection of short stories that showcases the lives of women who are devout and complex, spiritual and sensual, resilient and vulnerable. We explore how the author portrays the church ladies as they navigate love, family, and sexuality in their own ways, and how they balance their faith and their personal aspirations. We also examine the universal themes that resonate with readers and listeners alike, such as identity, desire, and spirituality.
About the author
Deesha Philyaw is an American author, columnist, and public speaker who writes about race, sex, gender, and pop culture. Sheis a Fellow at the Kimbilio Center for African American Fiction and a past Pushcart Prize nominee for essay writing.
She has also written a series of columns for The Rumpus and Literary Mama, as well as essays for The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Harvard Review. Her debut short story collection, The Secret Lives of Church Ladies, won the 2021 PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction, the 2020/2021 Story Prize.
In this episode as we explore the idea of using "caste" to make sense of the way race and hierarchy play out in the United States. We're taking a close look at Isabel Wilkerson's 'Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents' and how it might help us untangle America's complex social structure. We examine Wilkerson's insights and research, trying to connect the dots between historical caste systems and the racial divisions that still shape American life.
Join us in this episode as we engage with the question of whether 'Caste' can offer us a fresh perspective on the racial dynamics that persist in the USA.
About the author
Isabel Wilkerson, an accomplished American author and journalist, is celebrated for her remarkable ability to delve into intricate societal subjects and render them accessible through her compelling narratives.
With a background rooted in journalism, she made history as the first African-American woman to receive a Pulitzer Prize. Wilkerson's portfolio includes a range of impactful works, including 'The Warmth of Other Suns,' a critically acclaimed exploration of the Great Migration, and 'Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents,' a groundbreaking examination of hidden societal frameworks. Her books resonate with meticulous research, offering readers profound insights into issues such as race, inequality, and human resilience. Through her writing, Wilkerson continues to invite us to reconsider our world and strive for a more just future.
In this episode, I am joined by my book club members to discuss Kehinde Andrews' book, The New Age of Empire: How Racism and Colonialism Still Rule the World. We share our thoughts on the main arguments, the historical evidence, the strengths and weaknesses, and the implications of the book for our understanding of racism and colonialism today. We also debate some of the controversial points that Andrews raises, such as his critique of international organisations, the enlightenment thinkers and global power structures. This is a lively and engaging conversation that will challenge you to rethink your assumptions and perspectives on these important issues.
About the author: Kehinde Andrews is Professor of Black Studies at Birmingham City University and the founder of the Organisation of Black Unity. He is also the author of Back to Black: Retelling Black Radicalism for the 21st Century and Resisting Racism: Race, Inequality and the Black Supplementary School Movement. He writes regularly for The Guardian, The Independent, and The Washington Post, and appears frequently on media outlets such as BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera.
Do you love children's books that celebrate diversity and inclusion? Then you'll love this episode of Book and Lounge, where I chat with Kampala Chukwuka, a mum, an entrepreneur, and a brilliant author of diverse children's books. She shares her creative journey, her challenges in the publishing industry, and her tips for aspiring writers. Tune in and get inspired by her amazing stories!
About the Author
Kamapala Chukwuka is a wife, mum of 3 boys, an award winner author and founder of a creative digital marketing agency - inspiredcreativehub.com
She writes diverse children's books with positive moral values of love, kindness, patience, confidence, acceptance, building self-esteem and more. She feels representation in children's literature is very important as it offers ALL children variety in what they read and promotes acceptance of others.
Her hobbies are spending quality time with her family, hosting friends, writing, and being in the outdoors.
Contact :
Website: Kamapalac.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamapala_c/
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/kamapala.Chukwuka1
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/kamapala_C
LinkedInhttp://linkedin.com/in/kamapala-chukwuka-b53b5220a
If you love reading novels that explore themes of friendship, love and identity in the African diaspora, you won't want to miss this episode of our podcast. We are thrilled to have a special guest: Frances Mensah Williams, the author of Strictly Friends, a heart-warming and entertaining novel that will make you laugh, cry and think.
Frances shares with us how she came up with the idea for Strictly Friends, a story that follows Ruby, a successful career woman who finds herself in a complicated situation with three men on Sorrel Island, a Caribbean paradise that according to legend was created as an enchanted refuge for lovers.
Frances reveals how she developed her characters, her plot and her setting, and how she incorporated themes of culture, heritage and belonging into her novel. We also learn about Frances's writing process, from brainstorming to editing to publishing, and how she balances her life as an author and entrepreneur.
You can find Strictly Friends on Amazon, Kindle and Audible.
About the author
Frances Mensah Williams is a talented writer specialising in romantic fiction with a talent for crafting compelling stories. She has an impressive collection of published works including seven outstanding romance novels. Strictly Friends is her seventh novel.
Her debut novel, From Pasta to Pigfoot, a must-read, was published in 2015 and selected by WH Smith Travel as one of the top 25 summer reads. The book follows the story of Faye Bonsu, a pasta enthusiast, as she embarks on a journey of self-discovery in Ghana.
Frances's writing is deeply enriched with vivid characters and imbued with relatable characters and engaging storylines. Her expertise extends beyond fiction to the non-fiction domain with books such as Everyday Heroes and I Want to Work in Africa.
Besides her writing, Frances is also an accomplished entrepreneur, consultant, and executive coach.
Sign up to Frances’s readers’ Book Club to receive exclusive information, free story downloads and book discounts before anyone else: https://francesmensahwilliams.com/newsletters
All her novels are available to buy on Amazon
We hope you enjoy this episode and don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more discussions and interviews with amazing authors.
The Book ofMemory" by Petina Gappah is a poignant and sometimes humourous novel that tells the story of a young woman named Memory who is on death row in Harare, Zimbabwe. As she awaits her execution, she reflects on her life and the events that led her to this point, revealing a tragic and heart-wrenching tale of loss, betrayal, and survival.
Petina Gappah is a Zimbabwean writer with law degrees from Cambridge, Graz University, and the University of Zimbabwe. Her short fiction and essays have been published in eight countries.
In this episode I am in conversation with Illiyin Morrison of Mixing Up Motherhood about her book the Birth Debrief. In it, she offers practical solutions to navigating pregnancy and transitioning into postpartum life, well beyond those first six weeks. With reflection stops, guided exercises, affirmations, advice on communicating with health professionals, and practical tips, it aims to equip women with the tools to reframe past birth experiences and advocate for themselves in future pregnancies and births.
Illiyin Morrison runs hypnobirthing classes, birth debriefs for new mothers and advocacy workshops for birth workers. She qualified as a Midwife in 2017 and as a Hypnobirthing teacher in 2018. Illiyin has always had a passion for empowering women during pregnancy and childbirth and believes good antenatal education can make an enormous difference to the birth experience.
Her experience of trauma during her daughter’s birth led her to appreciate the need for greater understanding of what took place and why, so she began to offer birth debriefs and has extended this work into her first book.
You can connect with her on Instagram at @mixing.up.motherhood and get copies of her book on Amazon and all major and independent bookshops.
In this episode, we discuss Chigozie Obioma's An Orchestra of Minorities which was on the Booker Prize shortlist in 2019. A young farmer named Chinonso prevents a woman from falling to her death. Bonded by this strange night on the bridge, he and Ndali fall in love, but it is a mismatch according to her family who reject him because of his lowly status. Is it love or madness that makes Chinonso think he can change his destiny?In the mythic style of the Igbo literary tradition, Chigozie Obioma weaves a heart-wrenching epic about the tension between destiny and determination.Please note, there are lots of spoilers in this episode.
In this episode, we discuss the books we read and enjoyed in 2022 and the ones we are looking forward to reading this year. If you are looking for some recommendations or some inspiration for getting back into reading, this is the episode for you.
In this episode we discuss Caleb Azumah Nelson's Open Water.
Two oung people meet at a pub in South East London. Both are Black British, both won scholarships to private schools where they struggled to belong, both are now artists trying to make their mark in a city that by turns celebrates and rejects them. Tentatively, tenderly, they fall in love. But two people who seem destined to be together can still be torn apart by fear and violence.
Caleb Azumah Nelson is a British-Ghanaian writer and photographer living in south east London. Open Water is his debut novel.
In this episode, we are joined by award-winning journalist and columnist Ira Mathur to discuss her Memoir Love the Dark Days. Set in India, Trinidad, England, and St Lucia, the book chronicles Mathur's upper-class family history from the Mughal Empire to present day Trinidad.
It's a brutally honest recount of love, pain, damaged intergenerational relationships, and of Empire with an appearance by Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott.
Ira Mathur is an Indian-born Trinidadian award-winning multimedia journalist with degrees in Literature, Law, and Journalism. She is currently the Trinidad Guardian’s longest-running columnist, and has freelanced for the Guardian (UK) and the BBC. In 2021 Mathur was longlisted for the Bath Novel Award for her unpublished novel Touching Dr. Simone.
In this episode we discuss Friday Black, a collection of short stories by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah. Set in a dystopic future which is uncannily similar to America of today, it tackles urgent instances of racism and cultural unrest, and explores the many ways we fight for humanity in an unforgiving world.
Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah’s work has appeared in numerous publications, including the New York Times Book Review, Esquire, Literary Hub, the Paris Review, Guernica, and Longreads. He was selected by Colson Whitehead as one of the National Book Foundation's “5 Under 35” honorees, is the winner of the PEN/Jean Stein Book Award, and a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle’s John Leonard Award for Best First Book and the Aspen Words Literary Prize.
In this episode, we are discussing the Other Black Girl by Zakiya Dalila Harris.
Twenty-six-year-old editorial assistant Nella Rogers is tired of being the only Black employee at Wagner Books. Fed up with the isolation and the micro-aggressions, she's thrilled when Hazel starts working in the cubicle beside hers. They've only just started comparing natural hair care regimens, though, when a string of uncomfortable events cause Nella to become Public Enemy Number One and Hazel, the Office Darling.
Zakiya Dalila Harris spent nearly three years in book publishing before leaving to write her debut novel The Other Black Girl. She has a MFA in creative writing from The New School.
In this Episode I am joined by Remingtob Blackstaff to discuss his debut novel the Durbar's Apprentice.
Remington Blackstaff was born in Nigeria and moved to the United Kingdom with his family at a young age. He went to The Priory School primary school,(not the psychiatric hospital, although he applied for a job there years later) in Banstead, Surrey with the actor Andrew Garfield. He was bitten by the martial arts bug in childhood and studied several disciplines into adulthood. Despite his obsession with fight choreography, he set aside any dreams of becoming a stuntman to study medicine at Royal Free and University College Medical School. Remington currently practices medicine in London, where he lives with his wife and son. He remains obsessed with martial arts, rugby, and cinema. The Durbar’s Apprentice is his debut novel.
You can connect with Remington on Twitter or Instagram and you can buy copies of the Durbars Apprentice from;
Bookshop.org
Amazon
Waterstones
Afrori
WHSmith
Blackwells
Foyles
LoveReading.co.uk
Audible
In this week we are discussing Assembly by Natasha Brown.
Assembly is a story about the stories we live within – those of race and class, safety and freedom, winners and losers. And it is about one woman daring to take control of her own story, even at the cost of her life. With a steely, unfaltering gaze, Natasha Brown dismantles the mythology of whiteness, lining up the debris in a neat row and walking away.
Courttia Newland is a novelist, playwright and screenwriter. He has published nine works of fiction, including six novels and three short story collections. His latest collection of speculative fiction stories, Cosmogramma, and novel, A River Called Time, were published in 2021. As a screenwriter he recently co-wrote two feature length films for the Steve McQueen BBC series Small Axe and his plays have been staged in theatres across the country.
In this episode we speak to him about his novel A River Called Time. Set in a decolonised world where slavery never happened, A river Called Time explores astral projection, African cosmology, and ideas around social inequality, agency and identity.
Black Spartacus traces Louverture’s singular journey, from his triumphs against French, Spanish and British troops to his skillful regional diplomacy, his Machiavellian dealings with successive French colonial administrators and his bold promulgation of an autonomous Constitution. Hazareesingh shows that Louverture developed his unique vision and leadership not solely in response to imported Enlightenment ideals and revolutionary events in Europe and the Americas, but through a hybrid heritage of fraternal slave organisations, Caribbean mysticism and African political traditions. Above all, Hazareesingh retrieves Louverture’s rousing voice and force of personality, making this the most engaging, as well as the most complete, biography to date.
About the author
Sudhir Hazareesingh is a Fellow and Tutor in Politics at Balliol College, University of Oxford.
In this episode we disects and critique The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett, a novel about twin sisters and how their choices shape their lives and impact that of those around them.
Weaving together multiple strands and generations of the Vignes family from the 1950s to the 1990s, Brit Bennett's second novel is a superb exploration of race, identity, colourism, sexism and homophobia. It considers the price do we pay to be ourselves and what we lose when we choose to leave part of us behind.
Let us know if you have read the book and if you agree or disagree with us on
In this episode I am in conversation with Russell Brooks author of four thrillers, Pandora’s Succession, Unsavory Delicacies, the Demeter Code and Chill Run. His fifth Jam Run is due for release later in 2022. Visit www.russellparkway.com to connect with Russell.
In this episode we discuss Nana Darkoa Sekyiamah's groundbreaking book the Sex Lives of African Women. The book is a collection of interviews with women across Africa and the diaspora covering sexuality, relationships, freedom and self-discovery. We dive deep into these stories so please beware there may be spoilers.
In this episode, we discuss Kei Miller's collection of essays where explores the silence in which so many important things are kept. He also considers the histories our bodies inherit - the crimes that haunt them, and how meaning can shift as we move throughout the world, variously assuming privilege or victimhood.
Please be ware of spoilers!