Author Dismukes recounts her recent recovery from alcoholism as paradym for African-American led needed change in American consciousness, which she finds both an ongoing process, and a desirable end.

The poetry is moving, some of the essays poignant, and the African graphics all provide a terse and thought provoking introduction to current 'Afrocentric' thought. Whether discussion of SM in a chapter on sex adds to, or detracts from, the author's otherwise spiritual approach cannot be determined by this reviewer who has no special knowledge of this particular sexual practice.

Except for this sidetrip into current fad sex, the book is a strong contribution to the recovery literature from the African-American view, with prose and poetry mix an African-American tradition.

As the summer 'merchandise mart' market approaches in Atlanta, where I live, thoughts are already turning to Christmas merchandise, and gift giving for the Holidays.

This short book makes an ideal 'stocking stuffer' or gift to someone who may not be familiar with Kwanza, or its close similarity to its Jewish and Christian models, or so is my perspective.

As many Christian churches become more 'inclusive and diverse' in their membership, the in-centering of African spirituality which is one outgrowth of the sixties 'consciousness' revolution, is often included in their formal or informal rituals of celebration. Thus, in the church I attend, Oakhurst Presbyterian, (see separte review O Lord Hold Our Hands: How a Church Thrives a Multicultural World, Stroupe and Leach), Kwanza is annually a part of our Holiday celebration.

As a way to recognize this process and celebrate it, this thoughtful short book suggests a daily attention to this celebration. While not all have the time for daily meditation,
it is certainly worthwhile to suggest it, and is a welcome
contribution by this author to her other Kwanza books.

Certainly, it is a title that should have perennial Holiday interest for many, many years to come.

Howard M. Romaine