Encounters with James Baldwin

Encounters with James Baldwin is the spiritual evidence seen by some of the finest writers and thinkers and doers of our times. It is their majestic love letter to J.B., a love letter that is poetry, essay, social justice, awareness, and the beautiful struggle for freedom for all that Jimmy Baldwin represented his entire life. Life, yes, the words of this remarkable collection are breath blown back to our beloved ancestor James Baldwin, and he to them, to us: air we breathe, air we need, for these troubled times.


- Kevin Powell, GRAMMY-nominated poet; human & civil rights activist;

"From reflective pieces, interviews, essays, and poetic interventions, Encounters with James Baldwin confirms the enduring resonance of the life and work of James Baldwin across the globe. This is an important text for readers eager to consider the expansive legacy of arguably the most piercing and committed author and critic of the last century."

- Rich Blint, writer and critic

"What a joy this book is, a fabulous collection of poems, interviews, think pieces and cultural commentary, all marking and celebrating the life and work of James Baldwin. One to dip in and out of, rather than read all the way through, you need time to fully absorb what each writer has to say and process the new perspectives on Baldwin. Wonderful. " ****

- Claire Estelle - Reviewer, netgalley

"Encounters with James Baldwin is a heartfelt celebration of the author's 100th birthday, a testament to his enduring influence and legacy. This book features over thirty contributors who reflect on Baldwin's life and work in fiction and non-fiction. Each section reflects on how his thoughts and actions affected their lives and the social justice movement. For fans of Baldwin, this book offers a deeper understanding of his life and, more importantly, its profound impact on the world, inspiring readers to reflect on their own contributions to social justice."

- --- Beth Kelly, Reviewer, netgalley