How I Remember My Mama

Book Review ***** Memories of my mentor —— By Rox Burkey

Shirley Harris-Slaughter captures the essence of her dear mama as she fought to contribute to her family, community and country. During a time when many women, Black or White, failed to stand up their beliefs, Mrs. Harris-Burkes lived her principles. As a mother to eight children, she set an admirable example of hard work along with dedication to her family. I recalled from women’s history lessons the contribution of millions of female laborers who worked in factories during World War II, especially Rose the Riveter. The unsung heroines of the era worked at home while their husbands went to war.

The sections of this memoir show various aspects of the life of Ms. Harris-Slaughter’s mama. The Apple section illustrates the strong role model who led the family. It was a remarkable analogy of how much of the author’s life followed in her mama’s footsteps. Readers will appreciate the details from this section regarding the public speaking, writing, and community involvement of both women.

Samples of Joyce Winifred Harris-Burkes writing includes poems, short stories, and inspirational opinions. They seem to coincide with events during her life with heartfelt delivery. They depict humor, sadness, and sentiments of a woman who cared deeply. One line in Are You Missing Summer Fun—The stars are shining teardrops And the moon is downright mad—said a great deal to me. Fans of memoirs, family, and overcoming adversity will enjoy this book and the messages contained in the pages. A truly touching tribute.

About the Author

My name is Shirley Harris-Slaughter and I’ve been a published author since 2007, although my life plans never included becoming a writer. I was urged to write when I realized there were things going on around me, threatening my community’s survival and yet it seemed no one was paying attention to the urgency of it all. I never dreamed that I would be the “chosen one” to take on the task, but I was, and so, after much research, sleepless nights and being shunned by those who didn’t want me to tell this story, “OUR LADY OF VICTORY: THE SAGA OF AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY” was born. Something that started out as just a timeline of events to honor the pioneers of this West Eight Mile Community, turned into a full-blown narrative history.

Like most Indie authors, I was struggling to get even a little recognition in an already over-crowded field. Then, I happened upon the RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB where I served for a short while on the Governing Board. This club is all about supporting and helping authors.

RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB is the brainchild of Founder & President, Author, Nonnie Jules. She took the time to read my book and gave it an honest review. Since becoming a part of this awesome organization, I have been blessed with many opportunities which further profiled and brought recognition to my book. I have had such honors as being: the President’s Pick in the online Newsletter, a “WHO’S ON THE SHELF” Interview by Nonnie Jules, a #PUSHTUESDAY Winner, a week-long “SPOTLIGHT” AUTHOR BLOG TOUR,” Blogs and Trailer Block Parties, and I’ve held countless other seats, which are too great in number for me to list here.

Aside from being an active reader and writer, I am also a community-activist, and from time to time, I lend my name to petitions to stop something or another, or, I may even pick up the phone to call my elected Representatives, if that’s what it takes to get something accomplished.

A BIT MORE ABOUT ME:

During my graduate studies I prepared an Applied Research Project to address the deplorable condition of our train station, in downtown Detroit, MI. It was certified and accepted by the faculty of Cleary University in August 1993. I was able to galvanize the entire community around this issue which was videotaped and featured on broadcast news. I utilized college interns and the city of Detroit to find some answers in order to provide a template for saving this historic station. Here is the Title…

“THE IMPLEMENTATION APPROACH TO RESTORING THE MICHIGAN CENTRAL DEPOT”

(This report is on file with the university and is not confidential.)