Kiese Laymon

Kiese Laymon, a celebrated writer and MacArthur genius, discusses his latest children's book, *City Summer, Country Summer*, highlighting the transformative power of summer experiences for Black boys. He shares his passion for portraying emotional tenderness and growth. Sascha Alper introduces her debut book, *The Littlest Drop*, inspired by Quechua folklore and illustrated by Brian Pinkney, who carries on his late father's legacy. Together, they explore themes of resilience, climate awareness, and the importance of fostering a safe environment for children through literature.

In this engaging conversation, Constance Bailey, an Assistant Professor of African American Literature, and Kiese Laymon, an acclaimed author known for works like Heavy, dive deep into the editorial journey behind 'Conversations with Kiese Laymon.' Constance reveals how her Mississippi roots influenced her connection to Laymon’s narratives. They explore the curation process of interviews, highlighting Laymon’s perspectives on revision, Black masculinity, and his literary influences. The duo also reflects on the identity and audience of the collection, emphasizing its accessibility and significance.

Constance Bailey, an accomplished editor and scholar of African American literature, chats with Kiese Laymon, a celebrated author from Mississippi. They dive into the fascinating process of compiling 'Conversations with Kiese Laymon,' exploring how regional identity influences his writing. Laymon shares insights about his creative energy and changing narratives, while Bailey reveals the challenges of preserving the authenticity of his voice through transcription. Their dialogue showcases Laymon's humility and his profound impact on contemporary literature.

In this engaging discussion, Constance Bailey, an Assistant Professor and editor of "Conversations with Kiese Laymon," sits down with acclaimed author Kiese Laymon. They delve into how Bailey selected interviews for the book, highlighting Laymon's unique voice and experiences as a Mississippian. Laymon shares insights on his writing process, his reflections on Black masculinity, and engaging with literary giants. Together, they explore the dynamics of literary recognition and the importance of capturing authenticity in his storytelling.

Kiese Laymon, a celebrated novelist acclaimed for his memoir "Heavy," dives deep into the intricate challenges of retelling personal and cultural narratives. He discusses reclaiming the rights to his works, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in addressing complex societal themes like race. Laymon reflects on the struggles Black writers face, including the pressure from mostly white audiences and the impact of systemic racism on storytelling. The conversation also touches on the need for diverse voices in literature and the healing power of revision.