Review of Dixie Ann Black's book "Just Chasing the Sun"
Reviewed by Peggy Kassees
Joy, peace, and a poignancy that
almost breaks the heart fill this jewel of a book.
Nuggets of poetry slip around short
stories like long fingers caressing a loved one. They stroke the spaces between
memories. When you read Black’s book, you know her—a happy, bright individual
who carries sunshine in her footsteps. The story of going “home” to Africa, of
being welcomed by the soil and sun, the animals, and the men and women of her
ancestry relates to all people. It is the feeling I experienced when stepping
foot in the south of France. Her words evoke the experience exquisitely.
Humor abounds – her poem “Holy
Vessels” had me laughing. Black knows the human spirit and presents it simple
words full of love and a bit of chagrin. She understands.
“Just Chasing the Sun” also delves
into darker issues with knowledge and compassion. “Through My Eyes,” one of
Black’s short stories walks the reader through a day in the life of a disabled
individual who also lacks the capacity for speech. Not on the outside as an
observer, but from the perspective of the individual. Please, God, I think
as I read this, I don’t want to live this way when I’m older. And yet, so
many of our elderly and disabled family and friends do.
Black loves to travel, and “Just
Chasing the Sun” has stories that resonate with her wanderlust. You see the
places she journeys through her eyes with wit and self-insight.
This book is filled with real
stories; some funny, some sad, but all looking for a bit of light, a splash of
joy – just chasing the sun.
Black’s book is not lengthy, but
like gold, it is a treasure. You may want to keep an eye out for her book
signings and readings. Black’s voice and presence add piquancy to her words
that you will not want to miss.
“Just Chasing the Sun” can be
purchased on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, in book stores around town, and at
Black’s book signings.
Dixie Ann Black is a mother and a
daughter, a Believer and friend. She is also a teacher, healer, artist, and a
leader. She is a mother of two and an avid world traveler. She holds a black
belt in martial arts and practices tai chi, yoga, and various other fitness
oriented activities. She enjoys ballroom dancing, writing poetry, short
stories, and public speaking. Her professional life has included social work
and brokering real estate. She is passionate about health – both physical and
spiritual. Black believes in the importance of building community and taking
care of our planet. She is a seeker of truth.
Black lives in Tallahassee,
Florida, and is a member of the Tallahassee Writers Association.
