Author Description

From Booklist Distinguished poet and novelist Walker figures prominently in the chronicle of contemporary African American literary accomplishments. Collected here for the first time are 30 thought-provoking essays, culled by editor Graham from speeches and other writings spanning six decades of Walker's fertile life. Graham's admirably cohesive arrangement divides these pieces into four sections, dealing with Walker's reflections on her own creative process as well as that of other black women writers; on black culture overall; and the arena of race and politics. A final section delves into educational issues and revolution on college campuses. This collection of essays, from an important voice in American letters, will make a significant addition to literature collections. Alice Joyce From Library Journal At 82, Walker (Jubilee and Other Essays on Life and Literature, LJ 1/90) is one of the most important African American writers at work today, having first achieved literary prominence in 1942, when she won an award for a collection of poems she penned called For My People. These essays represent six decades of Walker's personal and political life. Beginning with the personal, she speaks mostly of her experiences as a black female, writer, and teacher and of her search for freedom. From a political standpoint she focuses on the evolution of black women writers, black culture, Mississippi and politics, and education and revolution. Walker also replays well-known historical facts of black history and the Civil Rights movement, which could have been left out. She's at her best, though, when she's waxing philosophical, reflecting on the many facets of her life and times?which one hopes she'll continue in her upcoming autobiography. Worth considering for African American and literature collections.?Ann Burns, "Library Journal"Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.