Soul Talk: The New Spirituality of African American Women

In Soul Talk, Akasha Hull has interviewed African American women who openly acknowledge their otherworldly spiritual experiences. Chapters on women such as the poet Lucille Clifton show how difficult yet exhilarating it is to live in a fluid spiritual realm. That "other" world beckons irresistibly to the soul while baffling the quotidian mind. This is a truly original work of scholarship, imaginatively conceived and elegantly written.

I return to this book often as its' pages are rich with stories, narrative and insight. It helps lift the lenses through which I see the world and opens the door to new places - or old and forgotten places. Through each reading my understanding evolves. This is a book that will stay in my permanent collection and grow increasingly dog-eared with use.

I am a white woman who for years has sought to enhance my traditional concepts of religion (Christianity, Islam, Judaism etc.) by exploring alternative forms of spirituality. I was surprised and even a bit "shocked" to discover this pragmatic, mainstream, woman-of-color author. Her wide exposure, deep understanding, and ability to process a powerful and elusive spirituality--and then transmit this knowledge and experience back to the rest of us in a lucid and matter-of-fact manner--is very impressive. For those of us on the seeking path, this book is a wonderful addition to our library and spiritual community as it validates that we are not alone in our journey--regardless of race, religion, and gender.