BLK LIT

In this lively roundtable discussion, host Jacquees Thomas sits down with some of her favorite book influencers to unpack the fictional novel Sky Full of Elephants. Joining the conversation are Jordan Hernandez, founder of Completely Booked; Chase Griffin and Shaquille Anderson, co-founders of Booked and Busy Book Club; and Anne, creator of LaGringaBaiana. Together, they dive into each guest’s personal journey and the inspirations behind their literary platforms while exploring the complex themes woven into Cebo Campbell’s Sky Full of Elephants. The discussion highlights the layered perspectives of characters like Sydney and Charlie, the emotional weight of forgiveness and identity, and the possibility of adapting the novel into a series. The panel also reflects on the unspoken influence of setting; how Alabama’s charged history and the ocean’s symbolic presence act as characters of their own, shaping the narrative’s depth and impact. This episode offers an intimate look at the power of literature to inspire community and culture—and how that same community can uplift an artist’s perspective, even in the absence of mainstream media support. Connect: Jacquees "Peace" Thomas @_ThatsPeace  Jordan Hernandez @_CompletelyBooked  Chase Griffin & Shaquille Anderson @BookedandBusyBookClub_ Anne @LaGringaBaiana Read: SKY FULL OF ELEPHANTS  Learn More: CeboCampbell.com Special Thanks to @CeboCampbell See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of BLK LIT, host Jacquees Thomas delves into the life and work of Cebo Campbell, author, creative director, and award-winning poet. Best known for his debut novel, Sky Full of Elephants, Campbell’s work has captured the attention of book clubs and literary influencers across the country. The episode explores Campbell’s creative journey, including the personal experiences that shaped his voice, the inspiration behind his storytelling, and the challenges he faced while promoting his work. With powerful insights from Campbell himself and reflections from book influencers, this conversation examines themes of identity, culture, and the intentional removal of the white gaze in storytelling. As the dialogue unfolds, listeners gain a deeper understanding of Campbell’s process, his richly drawn characters, and the emotional weight his work carries, on the page and beyond. Connect: @_ThatsPeace @CeboCampbell  Read: SKY FULL OF ELEPHANTS  Learn More: CeboCampbell.com Special Thanks To: Jordan Hernandez @_CompletelyBooked  Chase Griffin & Shaquille Anderson @BookedandBusyBookClub_ Anne @LaGringaBaianaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is Cebo Campbell? What inspired him to write the novel Sky Full of Elephants? In this conversation, we explore his upbringing and the world that shaped his brilliant mind and unique perspective. Cebo reflects on his journey and the profound significance of identity, family, and cultural heritage in informing his work. He speaks to the audacity of Black existence, the search for solace, and the responsibility of holding Black culture sacred through storytelling. Drawing from personal experience and the lasting influence of literary giants like Toni Morrison, Colson Whitehead, and Octavia Butler, Cebo underscores the importance of collective identity and expansive imagination. He reminds us that the future of Black literature depends on bold artistic expression and a commitment to honoring our shared cultural legacy. While sports once defined his early years, writing quickly became his sanctuary—and now, it’s our privilege to receive his words. Sky Full of Elephants is Campbell’s debut novel. It opens with a cataclysmic event: all of the white people in America walk into the nearest body of water. The premise grabs you immediately—and so does Cebo, in this first episode, as we journey deeper into his work and the vision that drives it. Connect: @_ThatsPeace @CeboCampbell  Read: SKY FULL OF ELEPHANTS  Learn More: CeboCampbell.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, New York Times bestselling author George M. Johnson joins Jacquees Thomas for a powerful conversation about identity, imagination, and the role of literature in shaping culture. George reflects on their upbringing in New Jersey, the strength of family support, and how writing became both a refuge and a form of rebellion. Together, they explore the challenges of being a queer writer, the importance of storytelling across generations, and the urgent need to foster empathy—especially in a time of rising book bans and societal censorship. From generational shifts to the evolving understanding of gender and identity, this conversation dives deep into how literature can challenge norms, affirm truths, and spark collective healing. At its core, this episode is about the radical act of writing with authenticity—and the freedom that comes from owning your story. Connect @_thatsPeace @iamgmjohnson Read: All Boys Aren't Blue and Flamboyants Listen: Fighting Words  Learn More: About George M JohnsonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Jacquees and Producer Jason Torres join the conversation to unpack the power of Black history with Michael Harriot, the absurdity of whitewashed narratives, and why understanding the past is the real flex. They break down the term “Drapetomania”—the so-called “mental illness” that doctors once claimed made enslaved people want to escape—and how this twisted concept still echoes in today’s political landscape, where erasing uncomfortable truths is big business. Harriot, known for his sharp wit and cutting commentary, pulls back the curtain on his latest book, “Black as Fuck History”—a deep dive into the parts of our past that mainstream textbooks like to skip. He shares surprising discoveries from his research, the power of storytelling, and why centering Black voices isn’t just about history—it’s about our collective future. If you’re ready to flip the script on what you thought you knew, this episode is for you. Get ready for laughs, hard truths, and the kind of perspective shift you didn’t know you needed. Connect @_thatsPeace @MichaelHarriot Read: Black AF History  Listen: Drapetomaniax: Unshackled History Learn More: MichaelHarriot.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Effect Presents... BLK LIT! The discussion centers on the friendship between Phyllis Wheatley and Obour Tanner, highlighting their intellectual exchange and the significance of their letters during the Revolutionary War. The episode delves into themes of legacy, faith, and the power of Black joy, illustrating how these women navigated their identities and built a lasting impact through their words. CREDITS Brigitte Fielder - Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin Madison in the College of Letters and Science David Waldstreicher - Professor of History, Black, Race, and Ethnic Studies, Biography and Memoir, American Studies at CUNY Cassander Smith - Professor of English at the University of Alabama / Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Honors College also at Alabama Tara Bynum -  Associate Professor of English and African American Studies at the University of Iowa. Halimah Shabazz - Special Guest  Don Holmes - Assistant Professor of English at the University of Pittsburgh READ  The Odyssey of Phillis Wheatley: A Poet’s Journeys Through American Slavery and Independence By David Waldstreicher Reading Pleasures - Everyday Black Living in Early America, By Tara A. Bynum Race and Respectability in an Early Black Atlantic, By Cassander L. Smith CHAPTERS 00:00 The Broader Landscape of Black Literature02:53 Friendship and Resilience in Letters05:50 Phyllis Wheatley: A Voice of Power09:14 Legacy and the Importance of Correspondence11:55 Faith and Reclamation of Power14:50 The Impact of Black Joy and Friendship TEAM BLK LIT Jason Torres: @JNTNY Jabari Davis @JabariADavis Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace  Join the Writers Collective BLKWritersRoom.com Sign up for News and Great Gifts for Book Lovers AbakeBooks.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BreakfastClubPower1051FMSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Katie Mitchell discusses her newly released book 'Pros to the People,' a powerful tribute to the legacy of Black bookstores in America, exploring their rich history and cultural significance. She shares the personal journey that led her to write the book and reflects on the deep cultural impact these spaces have had as hubs for knowledge, resistance, and community. Katie doesn’t shy away from the hard truths—like the history of FBI surveillance—but also brings light to the beauty of visual storytelling and the enduring spirit of Black literature. It’s a moving dialogue about preservation, purpose, and what the future holds for Black bookstores in a changing world. Read Prose To The People  Connect @_thatsPEACE @goodbooksatlSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation, our panel dives deep into the legacy of Phillis Wheatley—not just as a poet but as a cultural ancestor whose words still echo today. Together, they explore how her work continues to shape Black literature while confronting the historical erasure of Black women writers and the complex ways their stories have been told—or left untold. Listeners are invited into a powerful dialogue about the tension between visibility and silence, shame and pride, and memory and forgetting. Through personal reflections and academic insights, the speakers share how their own relationships with Wheatley have evolved and what it means to teach her work in classrooms shaped by censorship, skepticism, and cultural loss. But this isn’t just a story of struggle. It’s also about joy—reimagining historical narratives centered on Black creativity, agency, and pleasure. The conversation honors Wheatley’s poetic brilliance while calling for a future where Black literature is not only preserved but lived, felt, and passed on with purpose. Whether you're an educator, a reader, or someone discovering Wheatley for the first time, this episode offers a rich and resonant reminder: Storytelling is resistance, remembrance, and restoration. CREDITS Cassander Smith - Professor of English at the University of Alabama / Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Honors College also at Alabama Tara Bynum -  Associate Professor of English and African American Studies at the University of Iowa. Don Holmes - Assistant Professor of English at the University of Pittsburgh READ  Reading Pleasures - Everyday Black Living in Early America, By Tara A. Bynum Race and Respectability in an Early Black Atlantic, By Cassander L. Smith TEAM BLK LIT Jacquees Thomas - HOST & PRODUCER: @_ThatsPeace  Jabari Davis - PRODUCER: @JabariADavis Jason Torres - PRODUCER: @JNTNY Join the Writers Collective BLKWritersRoom.com Sign up for News and Great Gifts for Book Lovers AbakeBooks.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet. It explores her impact on Black literature, the complexities of her poetry, and the misconceptions surrounding Black literacy and slavery. The discussion highlights Wheatley's humanity, creativity, and the joy found in her relationships and writings, emphasizing that Black expression has always existed despite societal constraints. The episode concludes with a reflection on Wheatley's exceptionalism and the importance of joy in her life and work. CREDITS Tara Bynum -  Associate Professor of English and African American Studies at the University of Iowa. Cassander Smith - Professor of English at the University of Alabama / Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Honors College also at Alabama Don Holmes - Assistant Professor of English at the University of Pittsburgh Cornelius Eady - Poet, Playwright, Songwriter, Co-Founder of Cave Canem, and the endowed chair at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville  Brigitte Fielder - Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin Madison in the College of Letters and Science READ  Reading Pleasures - Everyday Black Living in Early America, By Tara A. Bynum Race and Respectability in an Early Black Atlantic, By Cassander L. Smith CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Phillis Wheatley06:00 The Complexity of Wheatley's Poetry10:55 Wheatley's Humanity and Early Life17:35 Misconceptions About Black Literacy23:46 Black Joy and Wheatley's Writings35:59 Wheatley's Exceptionalism and Tenacity TEAM BLK LIT Jason Torres: @JNTNY Jabari Davis @JabariADavis Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace  Join the Writers Collective BLKWritersRoom.com Sign up for News and Great Gifts for Book Lovers AbakeBooks.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacquees and her producers discuss the creative process behind the podcast, share personal small wins, and delve into the poetry of Langston Hughes that resonated with them the most. They explore the therapeutic role of poetry, the importance of mental health in the Black community, and how cultural expressions serve as coping mechanisms. The conversation highlights themes of loneliness, legacy, and the impact of art, while also reflecting on the interviews with experts from the chapters focused on Langston Hughes in previous episodes. Previous Episodes: Langston Hughes - We, Too: The Life, Legacy and Longevity of A Poet Langston Hughes - The People's Poet: The Power of Oral Traditions and The Blues Langston Hughes - Fulterius King, The Table and The Inspiration Langston Hughes - How Our Relationships Shape Us and Our Art Connect With The Team  Jason Torres: @JNTNY Jabari Davis @JabariADavis Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace  Join the Writers Collective BLKWritersRoom.com Sign up for News and Great Gifts for Book Lovers AbakeBooks.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of BLK LIT, Jacquees shares her journey of creating a community poetry event called Poetry in the Park, reflecting on the generational influence of poetry and the significance of art in the Black community. We delve into the life of Langston Hughes, exploring his relationships with women and the cultural dynamics of the 1920s, particularly in Paris and Harlem.  Learn More: The Black Archives of Mid-America  Read: Langston Hughes in the Classroom: "Do Nothin' till You Hear from Me"  My Dear Boy: Carrie Hughes Letters to Langston Hughes, 1926-1938 Not So Simple: The "Simple" Stories by Langston Hughes Listen: Voices of Mississippi: Artists and Musicians Documented by William Ferris Connect with the Host: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Join The Collective Writing Community BLKWritersRoom.com A Black Effect Original SeriesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we highlight Fulterius King, a Poet and Licensed Mental Health Therapist. Fulterius shares the significance of Langston Hughes in reflecting on societal issues through poetry, and shares a powerful poem from his book, 'Poems for Black Kings,' highlighting the theme of brotherhood among Black men. BLK LIT Highlighted Artist: @FulteriusKing Learn More and Pre-Order the Book: FulteriusKing.com Connect with the Host: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Join The Collective Writing Community BLKWritersRoom.com A Black Effect Original SeriesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we delve deeper into Langston Hughes's life and work, exploring the cultural and historical contexts that shaped his voice. The conversation highlights the significance of oral traditions, the influence of blues on Hughes' poetry, and the importance of preserving Black culture through the work of scholars like Dr. William Ferris and Dr. Akiba Sullivan Harper. We also gain insight into Hughes' humor and social commentary through his Simple series and his global perspective as a writer. Overall, it emphasizes Hughes' enduring legacy and relevance in contemporary literature. Learn More: The Black Archives of Mid-America  Read: Not So Simple: The "Simple" Stories by Langston Hughes Listen: Voices of Mississippi: Artists and Musicians Documented by William Ferris Connect with the Host: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Join The Collective Writing Community BLKWritersRoom.com A Black Effect Original SeriesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Effect Presents... BLK LIT! This conversation delves into the profound impact of Octavia Butler's work, particularly her exploration of identity, legacy, and the human condition. It highlights the importance of imagination in shaping our realities and the necessity for confronting historical trauma through storytelling. Brandon Jacob Jenkins joins us to discuss the adaptation of Butler's 'Kindred' and the complexities of relationships within her narratives, the challenges in writing and adapting in Hollywood, and our need to expand past our fixed perceptions in society. Series Links: Interview with Brand Jacob Jenkins  Read: The Book of Martha  Kindred Watch: Kindred the Series on Hulu (AGAIN) Connect: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Join the collective writing community BLKWritersRoom.com Learn More: OctaviaButler.com A Black Effect Original SeriesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BreakfastClubPower1051FMSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Black Effect Presents... BLK LIT! This episode of BLK LIT delves into the life and legacy of Langston Hughes, a pivotal figure in the Harlem Renaissance. Dr Carmaletta Williams - CEO, of Black Archives of Mid-Amercia joins the conversation to explore Langston's early life, struggles, and the hustle that defined his journey as a poet. It highlights the cultural impact of his work, the intersection of music and poetry, and the themes of faith and skepticism in his writing. The episode concludes with a tribute to Nikki Giovanni, emphasizing the enduring influence of Hughes' art on future generations. Learn More: The Black Archives of Mid-America  Read: Langston Hughes in the Classroom: "Do Nothin' till You Hear from Me"  My Dear Boy: Carrie Hughes Letters to Langston Hughes, 1926-1938 Connect with the Host: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Join The Collective Writing Community BLKWritersRoom.com A Black Effect Original Series  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BreakfastClubPower1051FMSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of BLK LIT, Jacquees and Anita Kopacz delve into the world of Black literature, focusing on influential writers like Octavia Butler and Langston Hughes. They discuss the themes of Anita's book 'Shallow Waters', exploring its historical context, emotional depth, and the healing journey it offers readers. The conversation touches on the significance of dreams in the creative process, the cultural importance of Black mermaid stories, and the empowerment of Black women through storytelling. Anita shares her journey into writing, the challenges of overcoming insecurities, and the process behind her upcoming book 'The Wind on Her Tongue'. In this engaging conversation, Anita shares her methods for staying connected to her creative flow, including creating a sacred writing space and the unique practice of the shake dance to release energy. They delve into Anita's deep connection with the Orishas, particularly Yemaya and Oya, and her profound experiences with ayahuasca in Peru. The episode ends with Anita reading an excerpt from her new book, "The Wind On Her Tongue". Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Black Literature and Legacy02:08 The Power of Afrofuturism05:09 Writing as a Spiritual Practice10:02 Yemaya and the Call to Create15:13 Healing Through Storytelling19:52 The Connection to Orishas25:01 The Journey of Writing 'The Wind on Her Tongue' The Wind On Her Tongue is NOW Available for Pre-Order and Available Everywhere books are sold, next year on January 21st. Read: Shallow Waters by Anita Kopacz Learn More: Anita Kopacz Connect with the Host: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Join The Collective Writing Community BLKWritersRoom.com A Black Effect Original Series  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we delve into the profound impact of Octavia Butler's work on Black literature and the unique perspectives it offers. The conversation explores various interpretations of Butler's narratives, critiques of her approach, and the historical context of Afrofuturism. It highlights the educational value of her work and its prophetic nature, emphasizing the themes of community, change, and resilience as embodied by the character Lauren Olamina in her Parable series. The episode concludes with the dissect of a conversation between Olamina and her stepmother., "I'd rather have the stars,” I say. “The stars are free.” She shrugs. “I'd rather have the city lights back myself, the sooner the better, but the stars are free."  Interviews - In order of introduction: Joshunda Sanders  Dr. Reynaldo Anderson -  Black Speculative Arts Movement Sheila Liming  Bruce Duncan - Terasem Movement Foundation    Series Links: Read: Parable of the Sower, Kindred Connect: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace BLKWritersRoom.com Learn More: OctaviaButler.com   A Black Effect Original SeriesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is Octavia Butler? What molded her creativity? In today's episode we continue to explore the life and legacy of Octavia Butler, an oracle of science fiction, whose visions of the future resonate more deeply today than ever. We examine the backdrop of her upbringing, the environment around her and the lasting impressions on her life that defined her as a writer. Nisi Shawl (Writer / Friend) also joins in to discuss the work, and her relationship with the late Octavia Butler.  Read: Parable of the Sower, The Last Unicorn Connect: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace BLKWritersRoom.com Learn More: NisiShawl.com OctaviaButler.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the home of Black literature. BLK Lit is a bi-weekly series that delves into the lives and works of literary visionaries in ways you’ve never seen before. Hosted by Jacquees R. Thomas, this podcast is a meditation on the words that move us and the authors who bring those stories to life. In a world of book bans and "fake news," we are honoring the power of writing and reading. With four episodes dedicated to each luminary—beginning with Octavia Butler—this podcast dives deep to answer how each writer's personal experiences shaped their professional legacies. How did they bend traditional spaces to suit their more expansive visions? And how are we encouraged to do the same with what we’ve learned from them? Connect: Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace Learn More:  BLKWritersRoom.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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