Description
Blacklisted: 12 Men Facing Stigma and Success is a collection of 126 poems that encompasses the realness of being a black man in America. The books concept is much like a court case in which there are often 12 jurors selected. Author Elishia Peterson identifies each voice as if they are on trial, such as "Brotha #1," "Brotha #2," "Brotha #3" and so forth. Many of the men featured have had experiences as if they were on trial. On trial for driving while Black. On trial for being stereotyped as a father. On trial for being educated. On trial for just being what they are, Black. Peterson creatively transcribed what the men shared with her, and put their words into poems, along with her own style.While their names may be anonymous, their stories of blackness and life speak volumes. The verdict is in: Blacklisted.
About the Author
Elishia Peterson is a poet, author, educator, and grew up in West Philadelphia. In her very first years of school she was known as "the quiet girl," but through writing she had lots to say. Her imagination at six years old was so detailed and mature that her first-grade teacher noticed her talents and insisted she never give up on her writing. Instead of writing short sentences as a first grader, Elishia was writing full paged stories, stories her mother still has in decent condition. Elishia continued that vivid imagination by crafting her writing style into something that is encouraging, fun, and something she can be proud of. After receiving her Bachelor's degree in Print Communications from Arcadia University in May 2009, her journey as a professional writer began. She has worked as a freelance writer, and led writing workshops as a volunteer for five years at Tree House Books, a non-profit literacy organization serving youth in North-Central Philadelphia. In May of 2013, upon receiving her Master's degree in Writing Studies, Elishia felt empowered by her thesis project "Black Roses: Five Women and Their Mental Breakthrough." So, she published her work into a chapbook to promote, and start the conversation about mental health within the black community. Blacklisted is her first and official published book that features 126 poems. Elishia currently resides in New York City where she has worked as a teacher in Harlem and Brooklyn, while pursuing more education opportunities to be of service to youth and adults.
