GOT TO BE READ: Reader’s Advisory for African American Fiction
It's one of the fastest growing and most popular areas of fiction: works
by African American writers. From urban literature to faith-based
stories to romance to mystery to science fiction and fantasy, there's
something for everyone. How can we help customers make selections that
suit their tastes and that they'll enjoy? Presenters will discuss all
these genres and the authors and books of note in them. They will share
the latest in related print resources, websites, blogs, and databases
for reader's advisory and collection development. (60 minutes)
Got To Be Read: Reader's Advisory for African American Fiction
1. Got to Be Read Reader’s Advisory for African-American Fiction Presented by Yolanda Johnson and Sylvia Coker
2. What you can expect to learn introduction to African American fiction and its genres overview of prominent authors and well-known books among the genres information about websites, blogs and publications to aid you in purchasing and learning more about African American fiction
5. Forgotten Readers Frederick Douglass Tennessee Freedman’s Bureau New England School Teachers Reading Societies Slavery Pre-Civil War Early 19th & 20th centuries
6. Progressive Years 1970-2000 African American Women Fiction gives voice Deeply rooted in history/further propels causes (Abolitionist Movement, Reconstruction, Harlem Renaissance, Great Depression Era, Civil Rights Movement, Black Arts Movement) New Black Aesthetic
7. What is the Quickest Way to Learn More about AA Fiction and Integrate it into my Collection? Talk to your Patrons!
16. Overview Early 20th Century Chester Himes Coffin Ed Johnson & Grave Digger Jones Walter Mosley Easy Rawlins Stephen Carter Popularity & Variety 1900’s 1970 1965 1990 1995 Present
19. Romance Fun Fact 35 to 40% of African American romance titles share the titles or lyrics of Old School [and contemporary] R&B Songs.
20. Why is African American Romance Needed? Purchasing power In recent past, African Americans readers fastest growing segment Positive image appeal
21. Overview Frank Yerby/Curse of the Caste Pulp Magazines Entwined Destinies Adam and Eva Vivian Stephens Kensington Publishing/Arabesque Dominated by Women Crosses Genres 1865 1971 1980 1985 1994
30. Characteristics Large urban settings “Rated R” Gritty subject matter Brand name references Female characters Drug Dealers Art imitates life Readership
31. Origins Coldest Winter Ever Cultural Shift Iceberg Slim Donald Goines Heavy Influence Early 60s & 70s 1969 1971 1999