Judy Juanita Livres

Judy Juanita uses four different genres to scrutinize the seminal Black Arts Movement. Her novel, Virgin Soul, is about a young black woman coming of age in the 1960s who joins the Black Panther Party. Excerpted here from Virgin Soul is "The Black House" which follows a young woman discovering black culture in the 1960s. In the play/film script, "Life is a Carousel," a black academic, Layla, on her way to a Black studies conference, meets the forgotten founder of Black Studies, Diahlo Green. They spar with airport reservation agents about the fare. Diahlo and Layla meet at the convention venue where blatant disregard for him continues by a whole new generation of academics. At issue is the relevancy of the Academy, Black Studies and the struggle. At each step of the way, the new, including LGBTQ professors, crushes the old.In the essay selection, "Five Comrades in The Black Panther Party, 1967-1970," Juanita, a former Panther, looks back at her youthful participation in the most influential black revolutionary organization of the late 1960s.The poetry selection, "(not) forgotten man," is a sonnet about a seminal figure from the 1960s,

Tartt Award Co-winner. With aplomb and humor and steady eye, this collection looks at the Black experience in Oakland, from the founding of the Black Panthers to present day.

Set against the backdrop of the 1964 black power movement, the narrative follows Geniece Hightower, a young African American woman navigating her college years at Oakland City College. As she juggles personal milestones like her first relationship and newfound friendships, Geniece's experiences as a reporter for the school newspaper immerse her in activism and political discourse. Her journey of self-discovery and identity culminates in a pivotal choice that reflects the era's social upheaval, showcasing her evolution from a typical student to an engaged activist.

Exploring the emotional landscape of Oakland, this poetry collection delves into themes of urban identity, gentrification, and cultural resilience. The verses range from blues and sonnets to protest poetry, infused with humor and sharp wordplay. Influenced by notable poets, the collection captures the raw edges of life in a city under siege, where racial and cultural identities collide with language's power. The title poem serves as a passionate outcry against gentrification, portraying Oakland as a battleground for its marginalized communities.

Featuring a diverse array of languages, including standard English, Ebonics, and slang, this collection showcases the rich theatrical landscape of Oakland. It includes one-act plays by Judy Juanita, spanning from 1986 to 2023, that have been successfully staged in various prominent venues across the United States. The book serves as a valuable resource for actors and drama students, offering rehearsal warmup exercises, audition monologues, and scene study materials, making it an essential tool for anyone involved in theater.

Activism and feminism are intricately woven into Judy Juanita's exploration of her political, artistic, and spiritual life. The work features a blend of essays, poems, and graphics, reflecting on influential thinkers and the author's semi-autobiographical experiences. It chronicles her development against the backdrop of significant societal changes, starting with her father's legacy as a Tuskegee Airman and her childhood in Oakland. The essays articulate a quest for a simplified freedom and a deeper understanding of black consciousness, positioning Juanita as a feminist voice in the historical narrative.

Exploring themes of identity, social justice, and the complexities of the human experience, Judy Juanita presents a diverse collection of her work. The text includes a poem that delves into personal reflection, a drama that highlights interpersonal conflicts, a short story that captures nuanced relationships, and an essay that critiques societal norms. Each piece offers a unique perspective, showcasing Juanita's versatility as a writer and her commitment to addressing important cultural issues.