Liberia

[close] This is a discussion group for the childhood memoir that I wrote about Jabonkah Sackey: Driving The Birds. Jabonkah has a remarkable life as young girl who grows up deep in the Liberian bush of West Africa, in the mid 1950's, as a member of the Gola tribe. In Driving The Birds, Jabonkah exposes the Sande, tells us about the zoe, the devils of the secret society, and reveals her firsthand account of the centuries-old the ritual that promises death to those who dare speak of it. She was eight-years old at the time. At age twelve, her father gives her away to a missionary from Oakland, California who then enslaves her and forces her to work on a mission where Jabonkah cooks and cleans for two hundred boys. After four years of difficult labor and at the age of sixteen, Jabonkah is finally freed from the bondage of the missionary and goes to America to get an education. Here is what Rebecca wrote about Jabonkah's story: "The language is understated, but quietly beautiful, and I find myself invested in Jabonkah as she's portrayed on the page, not only because of what happens to her, but because of her view of the world, sometimes sweet and sometimes shrewd, and always strong." Rebecca, literary agent Read Driving The Birds and let me know if have questions for either Jabonkah or myself. Thank you...Russell

[close] A place to discuss all the unique aspects of Deaf culture as highlighted in the thriller Silent Fear (A novel inspired by true crimes) by Lance & James Morcan. This group can also be an intersection of sorts where Deaf and hearing people can engage and learn from each other.

[close] This group was created for readers who are interested in exploring books by women writers from West Africa. Together, we'll read novels that offer insight into the lives, experiences, challenges, and strengths of women in West African communities. Our goal is not only to enjoy great books but also to learn from the perspectives, histories, and cultures reflected in these stories. Whether you're new to West African literature or have been reading these authors for years, you're invited to join the conversation. We welcome thoughtful discussion, curiosity, and different viewpoints. Many of the books we choose feature women who navigate family, friendship, tradition, change, and resilience in complex and meaningful ways. Through reading and discussion, we hope to better understand the diverse experiences of women across the region and to celebrate the voices of the writers who tell these stories.

[close] This global discussion group has been designed to encourage debates about important and underreported issues of our era. All you need is an enquiring mind and a desire to gain or share “underground knowledge”. This is also a place to discuss the controversial topics explored in The Underground Knowledge Series (non-fiction books) by James Morcan & Lance Morcan as well as the Underground Knowledge podcast show.