Turn Your Pain Into Art with Chester B. Himes, The Father of African-American Crime Fiction

Reed, Write, and Create

Get ready for a pep talk that explains how perseverance, persistence and pain can lead to productivity, fame and fortune in a writer's life. 

When you hear about the life and work of African-American crime writer, Chester B. Himes, you will overstand what’s possible for a writer, even when confronting the worst things life can throw at you. Racism, violence, prison, poverty, chronic pain. Chester Himes experienced all of those things and more, and yet still managed to write award-winning novels, searing social commentary, short stories, and two memoirs. 

Press play to learn all about this inspiring yet under-appreciated writer who spent the latter years of his life in a small, seaside town in Spain, writing through his pain. 

MORE CHESTER HIMES

If you’d like to learn more about Chester Bomar Himes, you can read his memoirs:

The Quality of Hurt  and My Life of Absurdity

You can also read the critically acclaimed biography, Chester B. Himes, by Lawrence P. Jackson.

If you'd like to see some videos and images showcasing where Chester Himes spent his final years in Spain, check out my YouTube channel @LiteraryLori because I have a video there showing my recent literary pilgrimage to Moraira, Spain where Chester Himes spent his final years. 

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DON’T FORGET: APPLICATIONS FOR THE SANCTUARY ARE NOW OPEN, BUT ONLY UNTIL SEPTEMBER 27, 2024!!!

Applications are only being accepted for four more days  to join The Reed, Write, and Create Sanctuary, our private membership community for BIPOC women writers who take their writing seriously. The last day to apply before doors close for the season is September 27, 2024 at 12pmEST. 

The Sanctuary is for emerging writers and seasoned authors, who want to get paid and published. Our resources, workshops, classes, and community are made to support writers through the entire lifecycle of their writing life, from writing, to getting published, to promoting your work.  If you’re tired of writing alone; you’re ready to optimize your writing life; and you want to see your words in the world making real impact, then come join us in The Sanctuary. Instructions on how to apply are on The Reed Write & Create website.  

APPLY NOW BEFORE WE CLOSE THE DOORS FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR.

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If you’re looking for more resources and literary inspiration, visit the Reed, Write, & Create website and sign up for our bimonthly newsletter. 

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