Black Girls Learn Love Hard

by Ras Baraka

Ras Baraka’s "Black Girls Learn Love Hard" (Moore Black Press 2006) is more than a brother mourning the loss of his sister; more than a father arming his daughters with weapons of truth; more than a son lamenting the struggle of his foremothers. "Black Girls Learn Love Hard" is more than baraka's first collection of poetry, it is a critical look at a world that preys on women instead of praising them, a thought provoking investigation into the social and political issues that plague the African American community, and a passionate tribute to the strength and resilience of humanity. This touching, powerful collection of work that pays homage to the life and courageous spirit of Baraka’s younger sister Shani, and all women who learn love hard.

Genres: Poetry

76 pages, Paperback

First published January 10, 2006

Reviews

[RainbowWriter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true poetic masterpiece and very difficult to find. Reading this book was a very eye-opening experience to me and I felt that it helped me understand black people even for more that I already do. Ras Baraka's poetry also made me feel more compassion towards black women's issues than I already do. After reading this book I'm even more convinced that we're "one people, different colours" like Lucky Dube sang. We might be different colour but women's issues are universal. I mean, naturally black women and white women might have some different aspects and different life experience but I believe that something is similar and makes us sisters and this book confirmed that. A very touching book, an instant favourite. My favorite poem from this collection is "The Definition Of Freedom". The best books make you think and this one absolutely does!

[Lacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

baraka is an incredibly talented writer and truthful poet. this book is painfully honest, and heartfelt. It's joyous, mournful, contemplative and inguing. Every word is infused with emotion. Read this, then read it again.