Episode 109: The Power of Black Literature & Creativity: Featuring Janine Cook of Harriet’s Bookshop

Hosts: Manny Smith & Camari Ellis

Special Guests:

• Janine Cook - Shopkeeper at Harriet’s Bookshop, Ida’s Bookshop, and Josephine’s Bookshop.
• Kyron Ryals - Filmmaker and Photographer.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Introduction to Black Creativity:
   • Manny and Camari discuss the evolving role of Black creatives and the intersection of passion and purpose.
   • Camari highlights the importance of nighttime productivity and creative processes, noting that Black voices often emerge from deep, personal reflection.
2. Janine Cook’s Bookshop Journey:
   • Janine shares her journey of establishing Harriet’s Bookshop in Philadelphia, Ida’s Bookshop in New Jersey, and the traveling Josephine’s Bookshop in Paris.
   • The transformative nature of her bookshops, designed to inspire visitors and bring Black literature to life, is discussed.
   • Janine explains her vision of keeping books alive in a time of censorship and control, emphasizing the cultural and social impact of Black literature.
3. The Importance of Storytelling in Black Communities:
   • The significance of passing down stories in Black culture, from oral traditions to modern storytelling through literature and creative mediums.
   • Camari and Kyron share their perspectives on how storytelling shapes Black identity and provides spaces for critical thought and community dialogue.
   • The episode discusses how media, from Ebony and Jet magazines to today's digital platforms, connects Black communities through shared experiences and narratives.
4. Empowering the Next Generation of Creatives:
   • Janine speaks passionately about her work with youth and how her bookshops employ young people, giving them a sense of responsibility and purpose.
   • The conversation delves into the importance of providing opportunities for Black youth, especially in creative fields, and nurturing future leaders.
5. Iconic Black Literature and Legacy:
   • Janine, Camari, and Manny discuss the enduring relevance of classic works like "The Color Purple" and how these stories resonate across generations.
   • The episode highlights Black literary icons such as Toni Morrison and Alice Walker, emphasizing the need to honor and uplift their contributions to the culture.
6. Janine’s Upcoming Projects:
   • Janine hints at her upcoming book, tentatively titled "Shut Up and Read," which explores the power of silence and reflection in a noisy world.
   • She reflects on her personal journey of journaling, creative expression, and the importance of listening to oneself and one's ancestors.

Quotes to Remember:

• “Stories are medicine. I’m a medicine woman, and that’s why I’m sharing these stories.” – Janine Cook
• “We are walking, living, and breathing legacies. And our job is to be, authentically.” – Camari Ellis
• “We are creating history right now, while also writing our future.” – Manny Smith

Resources Mentioned:

• Harriet's Bookshop, Ida’s Bookshop, Josephine’s Bookshop: Bringing Black literature to communities in non-traditional spaces.
• Laureen Carey’s book ‘Lady Sitting’ and upcoming play adaptation.
• Toni Morrison, Alice Walker – Celebrating Black literary giants.
• Bookshop Events: Janine’s work with Will Smith, Jerry Seinfeld, and Michelle Obama.

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