Thank you for spotlighting an older author. So often "new" or "emerging" voices really means young voices, and wonderful writing like this gets overlooked.
Oh I love this. The details are so rich and the bittersweet feelings about Harlem are obvious. And as others have said, this 56-yr old new writer appreciates a woman over 50 being celebrated!
That was absolutely beautiful. My heart is heavy, but full. My eyes teary, but I’m smiling at the imagery. (And knowing you’re older... I’m almost 50 and just starting out. Thank you for your artful personal storytelling and for being an inspiration.)
Christola you told the story as I remember it also as kids of Harem poor but we enjoyed ourselves and respect for our elders going yo the stor for miss so inso withno problem and playing our street games. Christ keep up the good work was enjoyable to read, Congrats Liz Coakley
This! This is what I need, this is what the world needs! Rich stories in which a place we have all heard of but, as in my case may never have been to, such as Harlem, becomes the main or supporting character. How relieving it is to read the words of someone more my age, a woman with so much life experience and hindsight. I thank you for leading the way.
I initially read this story because it was written by woman who, like many of us, has lived a full life and finally has the space to find her voice. What I found was a vivid story of growing up in a changing Harlem. Such rich details and images. I am excited to read more, and can't wait for "Paper Curls & Peanut Earrings." Thank you, Christola - you are a gift to the world.
Congratulations Christola! This is so beautiful and inspiring. This text is so nostalgic, full of imagery and has so much value for this new and upcoming generations!
There is so much I love about this piece. To me, it's reminiscent of Maya Angelou's style. To be elegantly descriptive and concise at the same time is a hard thing to accomplish and you've done it amazingly well, Christola. I particularly loved "Her chin drops to the notch of her collarbone" and "a voice within me, audible to my soul". I'll be looking for more of your writing!
Thank you for spotlighting an older author. So often "new" or "emerging" voices really means young voices, and wonderful writing like this gets overlooked.
Oh I love this. The details are so rich and the bittersweet feelings about Harlem are obvious. And as others have said, this 56-yr old new writer appreciates a woman over 50 being celebrated!
That was absolutely beautiful. My heart is heavy, but full. My eyes teary, but I’m smiling at the imagery. (And knowing you’re older... I’m almost 50 and just starting out. Thank you for your artful personal storytelling and for being an inspiration.)
This is gorgeous. I'm crying over my coffee.
Christola you told the story as I remember it also as kids of Harem poor but we enjoyed ourselves and respect for our elders going yo the stor for miss so inso withno problem and playing our street games. Christ keep up the good work was enjoyable to read, Congrats Liz Coakley
This! This is what I need, this is what the world needs! Rich stories in which a place we have all heard of but, as in my case may never have been to, such as Harlem, becomes the main or supporting character. How relieving it is to read the words of someone more my age, a woman with so much life experience and hindsight. I thank you for leading the way.
Thank you.
Florencio,
Many thanks . I’m grateful to you and my other fellow writers in our writing group for your comments and critiques when I began this story.
This was an inspiring read and rich with imagery of life in Harlem over decades.
I initially read this story because it was written by woman who, like many of us, has lived a full life and finally has the space to find her voice. What I found was a vivid story of growing up in a changing Harlem. Such rich details and images. I am excited to read more, and can't wait for "Paper Curls & Peanut Earrings." Thank you, Christola - you are a gift to the world.
Beautiful story...
This is a really truth telling story of growing up and seeing how your life and your neighborhood changes. Inez Robinson-Turpin
Congratulations Christola! This is so beautiful and inspiring. This text is so nostalgic, full of imagery and has so much value for this new and upcoming generations!
Cannot wait to buy and read this book.
There is so much I love about this piece. To me, it's reminiscent of Maya Angelou's style. To be elegantly descriptive and concise at the same time is a hard thing to accomplish and you've done it amazingly well, Christola. I particularly loved "Her chin drops to the notch of her collarbone" and "a voice within me, audible to my soul". I'll be looking for more of your writing!
Love her voice! Thanks for featuring this lovely author. I can’t wait to read more from her