By Esther Callens
A paramount book that poses what America’s thoughts were concerning a crucial event is currently available in retail. Somebody in the White House Looks Like Me –Thoughts and Poems of Ordinary Black People on the Election of President Barack Obama is the title of the amazing work. Written by noted author Rosetta L. Hopkins, Somebody in the White House offers the viewpoint of the ever present unfamiliar voice – that of the typical Black American.
Rosetta L. Hopkins’ latest was birthed out of pure ingenuity. After numerous forms of media broadcast what Black American celebrities (e.g. civil rights activists, politicians, actors) thoughts were on this pivotal event, Hopkins was left with an important question. What does the average Black American think of this? Having said that, Hopkins soon set in motion a unique way to answer this question that many have pondered.
Laced with various opinions from people representing every walk of life, Somebody in the White House presents a unique opportunity – a platform for them to express their sentiments. Therein is listed nurses, teachers, psychologists, managers, construction workers, secretaries, police officers, doormen and countless others. The broad spectrum includes some who are just beginning their career such as a 21-year- old college student. Then there are those who are now reaping the benefits from a life of service. One example would be the 93-year-old retiree. All are given a voice in Hopkins’ book. Additionally, included are several pictures of the interviewees and emotive thoughts and poems by the author herself. Somebody in the White House Looks Like Me offers America as a whole, some valued responses – that of mainstream Black America.
Voices from a Black Heart Speak, a collection of poems, essays and short stories, is Rosetta L. Hopkins’ first book. A graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago Circle with graduate study at University of Chicago, Northwestern University and Loyola University, Hopkins is a neonatal critical care registered nurse. She is the mother of three adult children.
