Soul food

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Copage, author of the popular Black Pearls series, has compiled a literary collage of stories, poetry and fables in a chicken-soupish volume that provides a hearty buffet of inspiration in bite-size morsels. The pieces have been grouped into sections, including Love, Self-esteem, Family, Creativity, Tenacity, Wisdom and Faith. Contributors include Nikki Giovanni, Colin Powell, Oprah Winfrey, Queen Latifah, Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis, as well as some lesser-known authors. One memorable anecdote, written by Copage and entitled "The Choice," tells the story of a runaway slave after he was caught and beaten by "he who called himself master." In a narrative of advice entitled "Royalty, Part II," Queen Latifah expounds on what it means to her to be a self-proclaimed queen and tells other women how they too can have what it takes. Most important, she says, "You have to want to be a queen." In "An Unmarked Man," Michel Marriott shares how he discovered "an essential element of being a man" while pledging a fraternity known to physically brand its members during initiation. In "Cupid's Arrow," Copage reveals how a stick, a ribbon and a trip to Martha's Vineyard tell the story of 25 years of love and marriage. In all, this collection dishes up a quick, satisfying bit of inspiration. (June) Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|