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 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:

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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 Nadifa Mohamed, a novel that revisits the shameful event of a Somali sailor in 1950s Wales who was hanged for a crime he did not commit. The book is a poignant retelling of Mahmood Mattan’s story, who was convicted for slitting the throat of pawnbroker and moneylender Lily Volpert. Despite having alibis confirmed by four separate witnesses, Mahmood was convicted and hanged. His name was cleared in 1998, 46 years after his death, and in 2001, a payout of £1.4m was offered by the Home Office as compensation Mohamed illuminates the inner life of Mahmood, a small-time petty thief with a big heart who talks a good game and is in his element among the Somali and West Indian sailors, the Maltese businessmen and Jewish families of Tiger Bay. The author’s approach to the material is less about the details of the case and its intergenerational impact and more about delivering us deep into Mahmood’s inner world so that, through the power of imagination, we inhabit the mind of a lovable rogue. This book is a gripping and poignant read that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the impact of racial injustice on individuals and communities. Tune in to our podcast to hear our thoughts on this powerful novel. About the author Nadifa Mohamed FRSL is a Somali-British novelist born in 1981 in Hargeisa, Somaliland. She is the author of Black Mamba Boy (2010), The Orchard of Lost Souls (2013), and The Fortune Men (2021). Mohamed’s first novel, Black Mamba Boy, won the 2010 Betty Trask Award and was shortlisted for numerous awards, including the 2010 Guardian First Book Award, the 2010 Dylan Thomas Prize, and the 2010 John Llewellyn Rhys Prize. In 2013, Mohamed was named as one of Granta magazine’s “Best of Young British Novelists” and in 2014, she was included on the Africa39 list of writers aged under 40 with potential 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 poetry to 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.  She is 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

In this episode we are talking about Sankofa by Chibundu Onuzo, a novel that explores identity, heritage and belonging through the story of Anna, a woman who discovers that her father was a former president of a fictional African country.

The main themes of this book are:

- The impact of colonialism and post-colonialism on African nations and their people.

- The complexity and ambiguity of political leadership and activism.

- The search for one's roots and the meaning of family.

- The role of women in society and history.

- Race, colour and tradition

Sankofa is a captivating and moving novel that raises questions about family, history, and politics. It also features some beautiful descriptions of West Africa and its culture. We loved reading this book and we can't wait to share our thoughts with you. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and join us for this episode of our book club podcast.

About the Author:

Chibundu Onuzo is a Nigerian novelist who has won several awards and accolades for her captivating stories. She started writing her first novel, The Spider King's Daughter, at the age of 17 and became the youngest female writer ever signed by Faber and Faber. Her second novel, Welcome to Lagos, was praised for its vivid portrayal of the city and its characters. Her latest novel, Sankofa, is a moving tale of identity, belonging and history. Chibundu Onuzo is also a talented screenwriter, journalist and academic who loves to share her insights and experiences with the world.

Follow us on all the socials details at: https://linktr.ee/bookandlounge

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. 

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 podcast episode, we share our honest reviews of the best books we read in 2022 and the most anticipated books we are looking forward to reading in 2023. Whether you are a fan of fiction, non-fiction, romance, thriller, fantasy, or any other genre, you will find something to suit your taste and interest in this episode. This podcast is for lovers of books by black writers who want to discover new books, learn from other readers’ perspectives, and enjoy a lively and engaging conversation about books.

The Book of Memory 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.

Themes: Impact of Religion on some communities Being different-  attitudes to Albinos Reliability of memory. Shame of homosexuality Impact of Poverty on Women Life in prison Humour can bring joy in tough times. About the Author: 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. She is currently the Principal Legal Advisor to the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area based in Accra, Ghana. As well as being an international trade lawyer, Petina is a novelist and playwright. She is the author of two novels – Out of Darkness, Shining Light and The Book of Memory – and two short story collections: Rotten Row and An Elegy for Easterly. Her work has been published in more than a dozen languages, including by The New Yorker and Der Spiegel.  She is the recipient of the Chautauqua Prize, the McKitterick Prize, the Guardian First Book Award and Zimbabwe’s NAMA Award Follow us on all the socials- https://linktr.ee/bookandlounge

Are you looking for ways to heal from a traumatic birth experience and prepare for a positive one? Do you want to learn how to cope with the challenges of postpartum life and embrace your new identity as a mother? If so, you don’t want to miss this episode. I chat with Illiyin ⁠Morrison of Mixing Up Motherhood⁠ about her book The ⁠Birth Debrief⁠, a book that helps women process their birth stories and plan for future pregnancies and births. She shares her own journey of overcoming birth trauma and becoming a birth activist. She also gives us some valuable tips on how to communicate with health professionals, practice self-care, and use affirmations to boost our confidence and well-being. Listen to this episode now and discover how you can debrief your birth and reclaim your power as a mother.

About the Author

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.

Themes

• Birth trauma and healing
• Birth debriefing and reframing
• Postpartum recovery and wellness
• Birthing whilst Black
• Self-advocacy and empowerment

Follow us - https://linktr.ee/bookandlounge

Join us as we discuss the themes, characters and style of An Orchestra of Minorities, a Booker Prize-shortlisted novel by Nigerian author Chigozie Obioma. This epic love story, narrated by a guardian spirit, follows Chinonso, a young poultry farmer who falls in love with Ndali, a wealthy woman from a different social class. When Ndali’s family rejects him, Chinonso sells everything he owns to pursue higher education in Cyprus, hoping to win her back. But his journey is fraught with obstacles, betrayal and tragedy. How does Chinonso cope with his fate? How does his chi influence his decisions? How does Obioma blend Igbo mythology and culture with contemporary issues and global perspectives? Find out in this episode of Book Talk, where we discuss An Orchestra of Minorities with insights from the author himself.

Some of the themes we explore are:

• Fate versus free will
• Love and sacrifice
• Class and identity
• Migration and belonging
• Spirituality and morality

Follow us: https://linktr.ee/bookandlounge

In this episode, we dive into the debut novel by Caleb Azumah Nelson, Open Water, a lyrical and powerful exploration of love, race, art and identity in contemporary London. We discuss how the author uses the second-person narration to create an intimate and immersive experience for the reader, and how he portrays the joys and pains of a young Black couple navigating their relationship in a world that often sees them as threats. We also talk about the themes of vulnerability, masculinity, creativity and belonging that run through the novel, and how they resonate with our own lives and experiences. Join us as we celebrate this exciting and ambitious work of fiction that has been praised by critics and readers alike.

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 talk to Ira Mathur, the award-winning journalist and author of Love the Dark Days, a memoir about intergenerational trauma, colonialism, and identity in post-colonial worlds. We explore her family history, spanning from India to Trinidad, and her encounters with influential figures such as Derek Walcott and Indira Gandhi. We also discuss the themes of empire, migration, race, and gender that shape her book, and how she finds healing and hope in writing. Join us for this fascinating and candid conversation with one of the most compelling voices in contemporary literature.

About the Author

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. Listen, comment, share - https://linktr.ee/bookandlounge Check out more books on our website - www.bookandlounge.com

Friday Black is a stunning debut by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, a collection of short stories that confront the brutal realities of racism, consumerism, violence, and survival in a near-future America.

In this podcast episode, we dive into the stories that range from surreal to dystopian, from a Black Friday sale turned into a zombie massacre, to a theme park where white patrons can unleash their racial fantasies, to a society where emotions are suppressed by drugs. We discuss how the author uses his unique style of magical realism to amplify the horrors and injustices of our present world, and how he challenges us to empathize with characters who are often marginalized, dehumanized, or forgotten.

Join us as we explore the many ways Friday Black fights for humanity in an unforgiving world.

Themes

Racism and racial violence in America Consumerism and capitalism as sources of dehumanization and exploitation Survival and resistance in dystopian and apocalyptic scenarios Empathy and compassion for the marginalized and oppressed Magical realism as a tool for social commentary and critique

About the Author

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.

In this episode we discuss Afua's memoir Decolonizing My Body, an exploration of beauty standards, heritage, and self-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

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

Instagram 

Twitter

LinkedIn

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!

Introducing Book and Lounge

In this episode, we explore Buchi Emecheta's novel In the Ditch, 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 and sociologist, 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 works often 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 

1. 00:00:00 - A Mother's Struggle in 1960s London
2. 00:06:57 - Surviving the Ditch: Welfare Dependency and Upward Mobility
3. 00:12:45 - Contrasting Perspectives on Welfare and Upward Mobility
4. 00:15:34 - Poverty Trap and Welfare System Flaws
5. 00:22:57 - Navigating the Complexities of the Welfare System
6. 00:27:27 - The Conflicting Role of Carol as a Social Worker
7. 00:35:05 - The Blame Game: Scrutiny on Social Workers
8. 00:39:54 - Maintaining Self-Worth Through Humour and Resilience
9. 00:45:27 - The Dehumanizing Experience of Navigating the Welfare System
10. 00:52:37 - Navigating Racism and Discrimination in Ada's Journey
11. 00:55:06 - Navigating Racial Biases and Microaggressions
12. 01:05:20 - Paying for a Prescription: A Challenging Experience
13. 01:07:27 - Challenging Microaggressions and Owning Discomfort
14. 01:09:55 - Navigating the System: An Immigrant's Journey
15. 01:14:20 - Social Commentary in Novel
16. 01:19:14 - African Immigrant Families in the West
17. 01:21:55 - Working-Class Camaraderie and Middle-Class Judgement
18. 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 of meaningful 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 school biology and English teacher in East New York, Brooklyn; counseled teenage ex-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.

 Episode References

 

Desmond Hall

[Desmond Hall's Website](https://desmondhall.com)

 

Your Corner Dark

[Your Corner Dark on Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/

 

your-corner-dark)

3--- Better Must Come

[Better Must Come on Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/

 

better-must-come)

4--- Spike DDB

[Spike DDB](https://www.spikeddb.com)

 

Bank Street College of Education

[Bank Street's Best Children's Books of the Year](https://www.bankstreet.edu/library/center-for-childrens-literature/childrens-book-committee/best-books-year/)

 

The One Show

[The One Show Awards](https://www.oneclub.org/awards/theoneshow/)

 

American Advertising Awards

[American Advertising Awards](https://www.americanadvertisingawards.com)

 

Variety Magazine

[Variety's 50 Creatives to Watch](https://variety.com)

 

Rikers Island

[Rikers Island](https://www.nyc.gov/html/doc/html/about/riikers-island.shtml)

 

Simon & Schuster

[Simon & Schuster](https://www.simonandschuster.com)

 

Jason Reynolds

[Jason Reynolds' Website](https://www.jasonwritesbooks.com)

 

Courtney Summers

[Courtney Summers' Website](https://www.courtneysummers.ca)

 

Jennifer De Leon

[Jennifer De Leon's Website](https://www.jenniferdeleonauthor.com)

 

Marlon James

[Marlon James' Website](https://www.marlonjameswriter.com)

 

George Packer

[George Packer's Articles](https://www.theatlantic.com/author/george-packer/)

 

The Gleaner

[The Gleaner](https://jamaica-gleaner.com)

 

HBO

[HBO](https://www.hbo.com)

 

Pulp Fiction

[Pulp Fiction IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110912/)

 

Tarantino

[Quentin Tarantino IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000233/)

 

Tulsa Massacre

[Tulsa Race Massacre](https://www.history.com/topics/roaring-twenties/tulsa-race-massacre)

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 on progress 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.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating narrative of Sharma Taylor’s first novel, “What a Mother’s Love Don’t Teach You”. The story unfolds in Lazarus Gardens, a ghetto in Kingston, painting a vivid picture of life through a diverse ensemble of characters. Each character’s life is deeply entwined with the complex interplay of politics, power, and corruption in Jamaica.

We further dissect the influence of the United States on Jamaican politics, the collision of different cultures and social classes, and how these factors shape the lives of the characters. A significant theme we explore is the role of motherhood - the impact of a mother’s love, or the void left in its absence, on the lives of their children.

Join us as we discuss this and more.