Deaths and births

Obituaries –
I learn so much from reading obituaries. Each one is a miniature history lesson and insight into our culture. Particularly about public figures and artists. (The obits sadden me, too. I am not minimizing the pain of the families and friends of the deceased. I also know that a well done obituary can be a powerful way to tell the deceased’s life story one more time. I hope that being one of many readers who is edified and inspired by their loved one’s life story is some kind of tribute).

Unfortunately, there are many writers and artists who I only hear about when their obituaries appear.

A couple of the links I’ve wanted to share this week are obituaries, so, before I share more of them, I thought I’d explain.

Joseph Wilcots, cinematographer on ‘Roots’ – LATimes
Carleen Hatcher Polite, whose novels explored racism and sexism – NYTimes
Percy E. Sutton, civil rights and political trailblazer, attorney for Malcolm X – NYTimes

Births –
Really, I’m just posting about one birth, the debut of Dolen Perkins-Valdez’s novel, WENCH. Today is the publication date. Haven’t heard about the book? Here are a few links to catch you up.
(Congratulations, Dolen!)

Check out the author’s blog.

She sold the historical fiction novel on the first try – Examiner.com

If you aren’t buying it at a local bookstore (HINT), here’s the Amazon link.
And it will be featured in the February issue of O Magazine.

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