Book Review: IMARO by Charles Saunders

Posted on February 13, 2013 by Shykia



“I go…but I leave a warrior behind.”

These prophetic words are among the last five-year-old Imaro hears from his shunned mother, Katisa, as she leaves him with her people, the Ilyssai, who are reluctant to accept him. The reason; Imaro was conceived outside of the clan soon after his mother had avoided a forced marriage to the clan’s sorcerer. Though a warrior in Katisa’s eyes, her young son is faced with the perilous and turbulent journey of proving himself as such to the Ilyssai who alienate him and refer to him as ‘son-of-no-father.’ It is a journey that begins as he watches his mother exile herself from the clan, and his life, forever. In exchange, the Ilyssai grants Imaro the chance to earn his place among them.

Years elapse and as Imaro grows into manhood he displays remarkable strength, endurance and tenacity that are admired by some and envied by others. His path is lined with backstabbers who seek to either rob him of any chance of glory, or simply boost their own. Due to trust issues, Imaro is understandably slow to make friends, but makes fast enemies. Through it all, his keen intuition alerts him to an almost palpable presence of dark mystical forces that follow him like a predator, studding his path with unrest and peril, but why? A series of events leave Imaro determined to receive answers, poised for confrontation…and hungry for revenge.

IMARO, the first in a series, has been compared to Conan and I guess I can see the reason behind the comparison since both contain similar elements prevalent in sword & sorcery fiction, but Imaro is truly an adventure all its own. Charles Saunders has crafted a rich, classic tale that crackles with imagination. The scenery and descriptions are vividly described, but not excessively so—something I’ll keep in mind when penning my future work. Also, his adrenaline-inducing action sequences kept me glued to the pages. I found Imaro relatable in that he’s doing his best to survive a situation he didn’t choose for himself. At some point or another we all find ourselves in a position of either being an outcast or having to prove ourselves to our peers.

Imaro’s story is one that will resonate with anyone who has ever been an outsider at one point or another. He demonstrates that though difficult, being an outcast is survivable and in some cases preferable as he attempts to shape his own destiny. Imaro is as capable as he is strong, but he, too, has flaws and makes decisions that jeopardize those around him, particularly the few he comes to know as friends.

Originally written in 1981 (long before I realized my own desire to write) and revised in 2006, IMARO is the culmination of Mr. Saunders’ dedication, passion, patience and enthusiasm. These attributes are clearly reflected in the immense quality of his work. Initially, I was somewhat intimidated by the sporadic inclusion of the Swahili language, but the handy glossary Mr. Saunders included in the back of the book—and the immersive method in which he introduces the reader this rich lingo—makes for a comfortable transition.  As a result, I was rewarded with not only an engaging story and a few sleepless nights due to my piqued interest, but also increased knowledge of the fascinating lives, languages and customs the tribes mentioned in the tale. Imaro is an extraordinarily well-written novel that every fantasy enthusiast, particularly those of sword & sorcery, should add to their collection. I look forward to continuing Imaro’s journey and reading more of Mr. Saunder’s work.   

IMARO is currently only available in paperback, but it’s well worth the price and real estate on your book shelf. You can purchase your copy via amazon.com. You can learn more about Charles Saunders and his work at www.charlessaunderswriter.com

 

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Sci-fi & Cultural Evolution – Part 1

Posted on February 7, 2013 by Shykia

In honor of Black History Month, I wanted to take a glimpse at how far we’ve come as a society regarding the inclusion of African Americans in the sci-fi genre. This is a topic I addressed with three of my fellow authors during a science fiction panel discussion at the Harlem Book Fair last summer. In order to see how far we’ve come and speculate where we’re going, it’s important to analyze where we’ve been. Though much was covered during the discussion, my fellow authors and I only scratched the surface of this vast topic. After all, it’s quite a challenge to sum up over half a century’s worth of progress in just an hour.

The specific title of the panel was Black to the Future: Why We No Longer Die First in Sci-fi Movies. The aim was to analyze the evolution of the inclusion of African Americans in the genre, not necessarily just film alone. My fellow panelists and I discussed our theories as to why black characters were often used as cannon fodder in the genre and what has changed between then and now. My assessment is that the extent of the representation of minorities was reflective of society at the time since there was a struggle for blacks to gain equality and acceptance. In reality, the future of black Americans was uncertain, so in many ways it makes sense that the studios didn’t see a future for this portion of the population in the fictional world either. It was also likely that the executives didn’t want to challenge what had become a familiar way of life, perhaps out of fear of protest or potential loss of revenue.

That’s not to say that this was a unanimous outlook among all the studios. George A. Romero’s independent film Night of the Living Dead (1968) boldly featured Duane Jones, an African American, in the lead role in what would become a cult classic zombie film and pave the way for such hits as the Walking Dead. Mr. Jones didn’t portray the villain, nor a subservient character, but rather a take-charge hero and not once was the subject of race brought up in the film. The main focus was on the fact that a group of strangers were thrust together in their pursuit of survival. Remarkable, given the social tensions of that era.

 

Two years prior to Romero’s accomplishment, Gene Roddenberry put forth his vision of a culturally balanced future by casting a black woman, a Japanese man and a Russian in his Star Trek (1966) series. A bold move considering the Civil Rights Movement and the Cold War were still in progress. Night of the Living Dead and Star Trek both went on to become huge successes and proved that although a portion of the population had become complacent with segregation, the majority of audiences weren’t as unanimously biased as the executives may have believed.

Still, there have been setbacks along the way. When I was growing up, there was sort of a running joke as to who would die first in a sci-fi/horror film. Usually, it was the character with the most melanin. And if the character wasn’t killed off, chances were they’d be insignificant or would become the victims of racial stereotyping. What was the reason for these setbacks? I’ll elaborate more on this next week in part two of this blog.

For now, I’ll wrap up by saying that although there is still a disproportionate cultural representation in the genre, there’s no denying the remarkable strides that we, as a society, have made between the late-sixties and today. Such progress couldn’t have been achieved without vision, passion and a collaborative effort to spark change. With the age of technology there’s no doubt that we can go even further, as long as we work together.  

 Click here to watch a video of some of the highlights from  the 2012 Harlem Book Fair sci-fi panel discussion.

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2013 Wishes

Posted on January 2, 2013 by Shykia



Happy New Year! Here’s hoping the year ahead will bring increased understanding, peace, and joy. 2012 was a year filled with challenges and tough lessons such as the fragility of life, hope and dreams. It has also taught us the importance of perseverance, especially when facing seemingly insurmountable odds.

We cross the threshold of a new year at different stages in our lives. Whether we’ve lost loved ones or cherished belongings in the previous year, we still possess something extremely valuable— something we all have something in common. We each hold the instruments that will ultimately color the year ahead. It’s up to us to ensure that the end result will be as much of a masterpiece as we can make it; that we paint as vibrant a canvas in honor of those who have passed and to inspire those who have yet to be born. As we begin construct the collaborative collage that is our future, I hope we will all feel free to do so with the richest colors in our palette; imagination, patience, wisdom, optimism and love.  

I understand that 2013 has begun on a bittersweet note for some, especially those who have recently endured hardship and tragedy. There really are no sufficient words that can heal as well as time, but I hope this greeting offers at least some comfort to those who need it. I also hope that you’ll find your way back to joy, or vice-versa. In the meantime, I wish you strength and serenity.

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Happy Birthday Mom!!!

Posted on December 22, 2012 by Shykia

I write about fictional heroes, but this post is dedicated to a very real and special woman who has always been, and still is, my number one heroine. This post is dedicated to you, Mom.

When you came into this world on this day (I won’t say how many years ago in case you’d prefer to keep it secret), you brought with you a vibrance that continues to touch, shape and save lives. Seeing all you have done, and continue to do, I understand that being a mother is by far the most demanding job on Earth. It’s a responsibility that you took on with great passion and devotion. I’ve never witnessed anyone weather the storms of motherhood quite as resiliently as you have. You have made many sacrifices in hopes of giving your children and grandchildren the best life possible. The challenges were numerous, but you faced them all with dignity and grace and remained strong when many others would have crumbled under the pressure. Your strength, endurance and wisdom fortifies my resolve whenever I feel I’m against impossible odds. The knowledge of everything you’ve overcome reminds me that all things are possible when you have faith. Reflecting on all that you have accomplished in your life, I know that I am a descendant of greatness.

Happy Birthday Mom! In the year ahead and all that follow, I wish you the very best of everything and more. Above all, I wish you much love, luck, serenity and abounding happiness. You more than deserve it!

Love always,

Kia <3

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Flash Fiction: The Rotund Giant

Posted on November 30, 2012 by Shykia

The grimy steel gates are sealed, but he remembers the arcade windows through which a miniature city of lights and frivolity once beckoned him inside. His gaze follows an empty soda bottle as it tumbles down the vacant alley. At the end stands the Wonder Wheel, frozen in time amidst the frolicking ghosts of his childhood. They conjure up memories of the carefree days when he regarded the vast world with kaleidoscopic glasses as he sat upon the shoulder of the rotund steel giant that lived up to its namesake. There was once wonder and possibility as far as his eyes could see. Somehow, the view has dulled over time, becoming almost as gray as the vast sea he once dared to swim. He now finds himself standing atop a growing tower of years, his view obstructed by obligation and circumstance.

For a moment, the salty-sweet scent of cotton candy, popcorn and the crashing waves of the steel ocean seem to swirl around him. He shuts his eyes briefly as time reels him back decades, breaking the chains of logic, responsibility and fear—except that of the gravity-defying rollercoasters. Suddenly, what at one time seemed lost forever glimmered with the hope of restoration. He smiles, realizing that even though his childhood had long closed up for the approaching winter, his heart still beats with all the warmth of those summer days when everything seemed possible.

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The Next Big Thing Blog Hop

Posted on November 28, 2012 by Shykia

 

UPDATE: Unfortunately, the author that was to be tagged in this post had to cancel due to other responsibilities.

I was honored to receive a message from Martin Crosbie inviting me to participate in The Next Big Thing Blog Hop. Joining the blog hop entails answering ten questions pertaining to my current work in progress, then tagging five authors who will continue the chain on their respective blogs until we run out of authors. This blog hop has been going on for quite some time, which is probably why I was unable to tag any authors.

To see the post Martin Crosbie tagged me in, click here.

What is the working title of your book?
I’m working on several novels at the moment, including a collection of short stories, but the tentative title of my next novel in the CAMILEON series is called The Uprising.

Where did the idea come from for the book?
The idea for the CAMILEON series, and subsequently The Uprising, came to me when I was at a crossroads in my life. At the time of its early development I had no idea how much of my personal challenges were reflected through some of my characters. I’ve noticed that there’s an ongoing struggle in most people whether to use their heart or their mind. I wanted to write a story that reflects that conflict while presenting the possibility that both aspects of our humanity play a vital part in our lives and ultimately our survival.

What genre does your book fall under?
The Uprising, and the CAMILEON series, is categorized as scifi/fantasy and paranormal, but it really transcends those genres while addressing real life issues and concerns. The plot seamlessly incorporates elements of mystery, thriller, horror and romance.

Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie rendition?I’ve given this much thought over the years as my characters developed. Oddly enough, I haven’t figured out which actress would be a good fit to play Camile Leon. However, I think Sanaa Lathan and Thomas Gibson would be great at portraying her parents. Phylicia Rashad has such grace and confidence and I think she’d be great at playing Tabitha Livingstone, a shaman in the CAMILEON series. Last, but certainly not least, I’d love Brent Spiner to take on the role of Sir Drayden Sebastian. He’d do an amazing job at bringing the mysterious knight to life. Brent is a genius at playing complex characters and Sir Drayden is certainly one! In fact, Sir Drayden has a history so rich it demands its own story.

What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
Sorry, I don’t have an official synopsis at this time. Like many authors, I dread writing synopses and therefore wait until the story is either near or at completion before writing one.

Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?
My other books are self-published, so The Uprising is sure to follow suit.

How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?
The draft is still in development. The Uprising is an intense story with many characters. I really hope to be done with the draft by Fall 2013, but only time will tell. It’s just one of several books I’m writing in addition to a number of smaller projects. And I’m just getting over a rather pretty case of writer’s block.

What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
It’s tough to compare the CAMILEON series to any one book in the genre. I think it has similar elements and themes covered in C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia, but with more of an adult twist. The Uprising explores Camile’s internal struggle for her identity, the burden of her vital mission, and the stress of her past potentially ruling, or ruining, her future. The survival of much of humankind is at stake and Camile wrestles with her inner compass, which can lead her to aid in their survival or destruction.

Who or What inspired you to write this book?
I was inspired by a number of things. The power of compassion is too frequently underestimated while callous carelessness seem ubiquitous. There is so much glorification of bad behavior that it seems some people think it’s boring or passé to be the good guy. So many people take so much joy in tearing each other down (politically and otherwise) that they fail to realize that doing so only sets us all back in the long run. This acknowledgement led me to write the CAMILEON series. I wanted to present a story that delved beneath the shell of humanity and reveal what many believe has been lost; hope, faith and love. I also wanted to write a story that illustrated the dangers of perception. Good and evil, hero and villain, are often colored by the brush of individual perspective. In The Uprising, it becomes increasingly clear, the extent of the damage that humanity has endured. The question is, can Camile sort out her own perception and inner conflict in time to help the world to avoid its pending doom?

What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
Camile’s journey has as much to do with saving herself as it does saving humanity, but she encounters the jarring possibility that the salvation of one may require the sacrifice of the other.

*****

Click here to download the FREE 5-chapter PDF sample of Shykia’s most recent release, CAMILEON: Beyond the Veil.

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6 Reasons Why I Avoid Black Friday like the Black Plague

Posted on November 23, 2012 by Shykia

While recovering from yesterday’s Thanksgiving feast I saw one of several reports about the Black Friday craze. I shook my head as I witnessed the antithesis of the true concept of holiday spirit, which seems to have all but faded away in the chaotic blur of the zombie-like crowds with dizzying discounts in their eyes, making them oblivious to the fellow customers that helplessly serve as carpets lining the path to retail nirvana (or hell, depending on one’s perspective). Of course I’m not painting all Black Friday shoppers with a single brush, only noting what has become a notorious by-product of the yearly event. I wouldn’t be surprised if there are spectators watching safely from home, placing bets as to when the first reports of shopping-related violence will pour in; kind of like betting which hockey player will lose the most teeth during a season. I was asked whether I’d be raiding the stores today. After a vehement “Hell no,” I highlighted my reasons for avoiding this year’s games sales. Without further delay, I present you with the top 6 Reasons why I avoid Black Friday like the Black Plague:

6. The phrase ‘Deals to Die For’ has become a bit too literal.

5. I don’t believe shopping should be synonymous with a contact sport.

4. I refuse to buy sale items I didn’t intend to buy in the first place.

3. Just because something is on sale doesn’t automatically make it a good deal. In fact, many items go on sale in an attempt to push old product that has been sitting around for a while.

2. I don’t think the rampant pandemonium, long lines, or crowds (hey, I like my personal space) are worth the bargains.

1. As a former employee of a major department store, I’ve had rink-side seats to the insanely barbaric behavior exhibited by those in pursuit of rock bottom bargains. Back then, I subjected myself to such an environment because I was a college student in need of some extra cash. In retrospect, I don’t think the money was worth all the stress, but I did learn a lot about the industry as well as my threshold for chaos. Even so, why the hell would I put myself through all that again? And for free at that!

For those who are more enthusiastic about venturing into the Black Friday madness, please be careful and shop responsibly.

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Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 4 – You ARE a Survivor!

Posted on October 17, 2012 by Shykia

 

(Cont’d from Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 3)

You are alive for a reason, even though that reason might seem elusive at this point. You might find it tough to figure out for a while, but keep in mind, it can take some time before you do. That doesn’t mean your purpose doesn’t exist. I didn’t come close to finding my purpose until long after college. We are all on a journey of self-discovery and no matter how high and mighty one person may present themselves, no one’s journey is more important than another (nor is there a rule that says we all have to take the same road). It is our combined experiences that shape the world and our future. No one person can do that on their own.

Hope always exists, even though we don’t always see it in the midst of our struggle. There’s at least one life that can be positively affected by yours, even though you may not have met him or her. Once in a while, I look back and think what if I had succeeded in my suicide attempt? I would have cheated myself out of experiencing so many wonderful things: falling in love, getting married, seeing many of nature’s wonders, discovering talents I never thought possible, achieving professional milestones, meeting some of my heroes (some of whom have been catalysts in my ongoing development), helping others in their struggles… The list goes on and on.

All of those things greatly outshine the darkness I endured back when I was at my lowest point, emotionally. I know it sounds trite, but life really does get better. Even as you read this, no matter your situation or how you feel, you are already a survivor! And you possess the strength to remain one! The key is to believe in yourself and give yourself a chance, even if it seems like others are too stubborn to do so. Surround yourself with positive things and people whenever you can. If for some reason you find yourself in solitude, don’t worry; use the time and space to learn a new skill, take up a hobby and occupy your time by building yourself with activities that make you happy. In doing so, you’ll channel what would have been festering negative energy into a positive force that benefits you.

If for whatever reason you feel like you can’t go on, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.

I sincerely hope this series of posts have been useful. You’re welcome to share this with anyone you think might need a little boost in morale.

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Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 3 – Rediscovering Hope

Posted on October 17, 2012 by Shykia

 

(Cont’d from Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 2)

Things were somewhat different in high school. I still faced some struggles with bullying, but it wasn’t nearly as rampant as it was in junior high. In addition, I gained the support of the remarkable staff and teachers (some of whom I still keep in touch with). Their influence, combined with my mother’s tireless devotion, was life-changing and something for which I’ll be forever grateful.

Some wounds never fully heal, no matter how much time elapses, but with time we become stronger to accept that certain events in our past cannot be changed. In time, those events cease to rule or determine who we are. Though it may seem like pain is perpetual, it’s just one of many transitions that life has in store for us. I know this may sound strange, but heartache can propel us to become the people we’re meant to be; that is, if we process it wisely. Throughout my teens I frequently had my heart broken (I know…Who hasn’t?). By my sophomore year in high school, I decided to swear off relationships until my college graduation. Life took an unexpected twist and I met my husband just months into my freshman year. This November will mark our 15th year as a couple.

The most powerful way to combat bullying at any age is to know thyself and what you truly stand for, independently of what anyone else thinks. Don’t seek to build yourself based on the shaky foundation of other people’s thoughts and opinions. Peers are fickle and can’t seem to make up their mind about what they want from one moment to the next. The same can be said of society. Why mold yourself to such an dubious standard? Why jump to their tune instead of creating your own? Don’t be afraid to be the odd one out. Don’t be afraid to take the ambitious road of being yourself vs. the lazy path of following everyone else’s template. Most importantly, never feel the need to seek permission to be yourself.

History has proven time and time again that people often attack and ridicule that which intimidates them or they can’t understand. The act of bullying is often fueled by some degree of insecurity or jealousy, no matter how strongly the offender may deny it. Surprisingly, it wasn’t until years after overcoming my darkest hours that I learned that some of my former bullies actually admired some of my traits as well as my resolve, not knowing how close I came to falling apart at the time. It struck me that some of them were truly clueless about the long-term damage their actions had inflicted. It truly amazed me that what at one time seemed impossible to live down was now barely a shadow in their memory. It also solidified two basic facts I’ve learned over the years: 

 1. Life goes on.

2. People tend to forget the things that embarrass us most.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 



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Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 2 – My Story (The Abridged Version)

Posted on October 17, 2012 by Shykia

 

(Cont’d from Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 1)

From early childhood through my mid-teens, everything about me was up for scrutiny; my skin color, my name, my voice, my clothing, my quiet demeanor… Little did my bullies know or even care, their antics was just one circle of hell I’ve had to navigate in my youth. And so, I was picked apart nearly daily, something that seemed to worsen as my grades improved and I gained favorable attention from some of my teachers. I wasn’t the target of just my classmates, but also the peers in my neighborhood.

Over time, I unwittingly sided with my bullies by internally ridiculing myself for not being perfect enough, pretty enough or outgoing enough. In addition, I was manipulated and taught to lie by some impressionable people in my life. Though it was a skill used to benefit the persons in question, it came in handy when burying some particularly traumatic incidents that led me to build a wall around myself.

During my regression, writing and drawing became my outlets to release some of the pain, but I knew I couldn’t remain within the fortress of my imaginary world forever. As a result I grew resentful and developed quite a temper by the time I reached junior high school. My mother always made it clear that I could speak to her about anything, but being that she was coping with a number of hellish problems at the time, I didn’t want to burden her with my troubles. Ironically, it’s this evasion that eventually led me to do just that.

As for my step-father (who I consider my true father), the disciplinarian of the family, I didn’t quite understand him at the time. He always encouraged his children to strive for nothing but the very best. Got an A on the test? Why not an A+? With age, I’ve come to understand the reason behind his outlook and that he always had the best of intentions. His stern methods were reflective of the era he grew up in. Even so, in my hormonal pre-teen/teen years, he often seemed like an intolerable drill sergeant (sorry Dad, I gotta be honest).

A person can bottle up their emotions for only so long and outlets can only do so much. For years I endured emotional and occasionally physical assaults via bullies (and sometimes strangers) to a point where I no longer felt like a person. I felt as though I didn’t belong; in my school, my environment, or my life. Even so, I put on a brave face, pretended things were okay even though my spirit was screaming for peace and acceptance.

The rage and depression mixed like vinegar and baking soda. It was only a matter of time before I, and the people around me, would see the explosive results. I was in either the 7th or 8th grade when I decided I would make an example of at least one of my tormentors. I was never a violent person, but like a cat, when it’s backed into a corner and tortured long enough, they’ll eventually lash out. Still, it’s not something I’m proud of. Luckily, my mother, who was—and still is—even sharper than my intended weapon, caught wind of my intentions and put an end to it. Understandably, she was growing increasingly concerned at my uncharacteristic behavior and did her best to set me straight.

I eventually grew to understand that hurting my bullies wouldn’t ease my suffering. In my life, bullies passed the invisible torch from one to the other. Some would move out of my life while others made their cruel introductions. It was a life sentence. At least that’s what I thought at the time. Sure, hurting others was wrong and would make me no better than my tormentors, but I figured I had the right to hurt myself. So, I decided to end it all. Thankfully, my suicide attempt was fruitless. Even so, I regret the strain that was put on my mother as a result. Strangely enough, it wasn’t until shortly thereafter, when I was nearly shot in a random crossfire, that I realized I still had much to live for.

Click here for Survivors of Cruelty Pt. 3 – Rediscovering Hope

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