It’s Our Anniversary
Black History, Black Present, Black Future
Because so much of my work is about telling Black stories and uplifting Black writers and artists, when February comes around, I’m a little less enthused than most. I’m on a Black History all year round kind of vibe, and the more and more I see the month commodified with platitudes and ridiculous performances of solidarity, the less excited I get about singling out February as a time of celebration. Also, the energy is off when the state I call home is literally cancelling Black history in curriculums and on campuses.
To combat my feelings of disgust and disappointment, I’m going to use this space to uplift a few resources in the hopes that you’ll engage in the work and support the efforts of folks who are fighting against the bigotry, hypocrisy, and violence that threaten Black lives and Black livelihood.
Engage and Support
Michele Rayner, Florida House of Representatives
It’s the Violin Bridge for Me
It took a while to get it done, but I’ve finally released the TENTH ANNIVERSARY EDITION of my debut short story collection, Once and Future Lovers.
I’m so excited to have this book out it the world once again, but this time with revised versions of reader favorites and new selections from a few anthology and online magazine rounds. The new cover makes me smile, and I can’t wait to hit the road to share these stories with you once again.
Something Like a Book Tour
ReadOut: A Festival of LGBTQ Literature — February 17 - 19 (Gulfport Public Library)
Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference — March 8 - 12 (Seattle Convention Center)
Read Herring — March 15 at 8 p.m. (Corner Club Tampa)
Tombolo Books OFFICIAL BOOK RELEASE PARTY, in conversation in Yuki Jackson — March 28 (Tombolo Books)
Other Upcoming Events and Classes
ReadOut Poetry Panel! My first panel as a published poet. Come talk queer poetry with this talented panel of poets and hang out all weekend for readings, workshops, and more! Register HERE!
I have the great pleasure of being in conversation with author Cheryl A. Head in celebration of her new novel, Times Undoing, at Tombolo Books. Register HERE!
Whether for practice or to work out the chapters in your novel, I’m teaching a webinar with Free Expressions on opening and closing chapters. Register HERE!
