Poetry. African American Studies. "This focused first collection chronicles 300 years of African American medical experience, primarily exposing the outrage of health disparities, but also highlighting the groundbreaking work of Black physicians. Composed of both individual and collective histories, and meticulously researched, it is as absorbing as a novel, but its ultimate aim is justice. Williams says it best in her Author's Note: ELEGY FOR A SCARRED SHOULDER works to 'remind readers of the complexities, concerns and needs of the Black body, and how this and other bodies of color, bodies fearfully and wonderfully made, are worthy of protection, personal and community longevity, and quality affordable healthcare.' Her poems achieve this goal mightily, and they speak with many voices"--University of Arizona Poetry Center.

Author City: INKSTER, MI USA

Karen S. Williams, a 2009 Pushcart Nominee and 2009 Debut Poet for Poet's & Writer's Magazine, is the author of two poetry collections: MARINE LIFE: A WORLD IN POEMS and the 2009 State of Michigan Notable Books-nominated ELEGY FOR A SCARRED SHOULDER, both from Willow Books. A Cave Canem Fellow, and graduate of Michigan State University, Wayne State University and Ohio University, she has been featured on public radio's "Weekend America" program. Her poetry, fiction, and essays have been published widely.

Reviews and Other Links
Author Site
Immunization Against Invisibility