“I write for young girls of color, for girls who don’t even exist yet, so that there is something there for them when they arrive. I can only change how they live, not how they think.” -Ntozake Shange (1948-2018)

This book, is a heart work. I believe I am in the position, emotional space and grace to compile this book. The quote given here by she whose name translates ‘she who walks with lions‘ is the inspiration behind this book. 

I am of the age and background where I heard this phrase a lot. Too much, if I am honest. For how I look, dress, speak or negotiate the world. Something about me being Black, female, and this place of other, this phase was used to describe me.

“You’re pretty for a Black girl.”

“You’re smart for a Black girl.”

“For a Black girl, you carry yourself well.”

“For a Black girl, you don’t talk like we do.”

And on. And on. And et cetera. So with this book, I wish to leave something for the Black girls that feel as if they have no place in the world; don’t know where to look for one; or even wish, plan, hope to leave it. 

This book will be a collection of essays written by Black women and girls, by Black women and girls. They will range from joys and triumph to grief and loss. Even things that are hilarious and fall somewhere in between. Essay must be a minimum two pages. Proper credit for all work will be given. If your essay is selected, you will be notified. If you work is not selected, your work will not be included with that entry being sent back to you. 

If you desire to submit an essay, please email me at theladyofharris@gmail.com.

The release date is my birthday:  June 24, 2020.