Monday, November 27, 2006

In memoriam: Bebe Moore Campbell

I just stumbled across this in an email and am just floored. Shocked. Heartbroken. At the risk of sound like a tired cliche, Bebe Moore Campbell truly was one of my favorite writers.

I've read so many of her novels including "Your Blues Ain't Like Mine," "Singing in the Comeback Choir," and "Sweet Summer: Growing Up With and Without My Dad." However, it was in college when I first discovered her. I read "Brothers and Sisters" a fictional story set in the aftermath of the L.A. riots in the early 1990s that explores the internal and external struggles of several characters in corporate America who vary in race and class. I was immediately captivated by her ability to humanize each of these complex characters and how they were affected. It was that book that got me hooked on her novels.

When I wasn't reading her fiction, I was enjoying her stories and profiles of celebs in the pages of Essence magazine. I was even surprised to learn that she was a sorority sister of mine and that her daughter is the young actress Maia Campbell from the defunct sitcom "In the House."

I know it's a reality that people die everyday. However, it seems like we're suddenly losing a lot great ones at an alarming rate.

But maybe there's something that can be gained. If you haven't heard of Bebe Moore Campbell, this is as good a time as any to get familiar with her contributions to the literary world. Visit Amazon and check her out.

3 comments:

Southerner in Suomi said...

This is a very depressing time, I must say. The list keeps getting longer and longer or people we are losing the we NEED (desparately need) around right now.

Unknown said...

As an avid reader, Bebe Moore Campbell has always been one of my favorites. Glad to see her among the favorites of the younger generation too. Thanks for the tribute....

Joel Anderson said...

I offer my services to console Miss Maia Campbell. Maia, if you can read this, give me a call.

I'll be "In The House" as sooooon as you ring me.