Sheila Williams Book order

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows Dorothy Thom, a Spelman graduate and librarian, who joins the Women's Army Corps to serve overseas. Alongside her fellow African American WACs, she faces the challenges of military life in a segregated environment. As they process millions of letters for GIs in England, they confront both adversity and opportunities, ultimately transforming their lives and paving the way for future change in America. This historical novel sheds light on the overlooked contributions of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.

Born in West Africa in the mid-eighteenth century, Maryam Prescilla Grace--a.k.a "Momma Grace" will live a long, wondrous life marked by hardship, oppression, opportunity, and love. Though she will be "gifted" various names, her birth name is known to her alone. Over the course of 100-plus years, she survives capture, enslavement by several property owners, the Atlantic crossing when she is only eleven years of age, and a brief stint as a pirate's ward, acting as both a spy and a translator. Maryam learns midwifery from a Caribbean-born wise woman, whose "craft" combines curated techniques and medicines from African, Indigenous, and European women. Those midwifery skills allow her to sometimes transcend the racial and class barriers of her enslavement, as she walks the razor's edge trying to balance the lives and health of her own people with the cruel economic mandates of the slave holders, who view infants born in bondage not as flesh-and-blood children but as investment property. Throughout her triumphant and tumultuous life Maryam gains and loses her homeland, her family, her culture, her husband, her lovers, and her children. Yet as the decades pass, this tenacious woman never loses her sense of self

Highlighted as a top summer beach read, this book has garnered attention from multiple reputable sources. It promises an engaging narrative perfect for leisurely reading by the shore, combining elements that resonate with a wide audience. The story likely features relatable characters and themes that evoke a sense of summer escapism, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy a captivating tale during the warm months.

Anthology of original science fiction short stories published in conjunction with the MIT Technology Review--

The Weave - History, Mystery and Fantasy. A Romany Witch, a French Count and an English Author entangled in a lie told centuries ago... 1598: When Oskar, Comte de Tréville asks the witch Ombrine to save the life of his son, she demands a high price. Oskar must leave his family and his lands and travel with her, as a servant, to Barbaria.On his return to France five years later Oskar finds he is wanted for the murder of his wife. Unable to prove his innocence he allies himself with Ombrine who persuades him to take the Jouance - a life-prolonging drug.Three centuries later, Oskar, now wealthy and leisured uncovers the truth about the fate of his family. 2013: Debut author Richard Pease suffers from writer's block. He is also broke and bedevilled by fears of his own inadequacy. A chance encounter takes Richard to the Nonesuch Club, a writer's retreat in France run by Oskar and Ombrine. As he finds the block to finishing his book lifts he also begins to uncover the secrets within the club. He finds himself trapped in a centuries-old tangled web of deceit which leaves him not only fighting for his career but also for his life.

The narrative explores the contrast between youthful imagination and the complexities of real-life experiences. It delves into the characters' journey through unexpected challenges and profound revelations that shape their understanding of life. As they navigate through various trials, the story highlights themes of growth, resilience, and the often-unforeseen nature of reality compared to their earlier fantasies.

'The History of Knitting Pin Gauges' is a comprehensive study of the most collectable of knitting tools - the gauge. Succinct wording, careful attention to detail and a myriad of photographs ensure a commendably concise yet absorbing history of an attractive and useful little knitting tool.

Exploring the journey of self-discovery, the narrative delves into the complexities of embracing a restored spirit. The protagonist encounters unexpected revelations that challenge their understanding of purpose and identity. As they navigate through various answers, the story unfolds with themes of transformation and the quest for meaning, leading to profound insights that reshape their perspective on life.

The narrative explores the resilience and strength of women facing life's challenges, blending humor with poignant adventures. Through the experiences of these characters, the author highlights their journey towards self-discovery and freedom, showcasing their determination to reclaim their identities and embrace life fully. The story promises to resonate with readers who appreciate tales of empowerment and the complexities of women's lives.

“Dancing on the Edge of the Roof kept my heart and mind dancing through the pages. Sheila Williams, with her talent for detailed storytelling, expertly takes the reader on a poignant and humorous quest for self.”—Lori Bryant-Woolridge, author of Read Between the Lies At forty-one, Juanita Lewis is running away from home, courtesy of a one-way ticket to Montana, a place that seems about as far away from the violence and poverty of the Columbus, Ohio, projects as the moon. She wants adventure and excitement—if such things exist for a pre-menopausal African American woman with three grown, deadbeat children. Juanita’s new life in Paper Moon, Montana, begins at a local diner where a culinary face-off with chef and owner Jess Gardiner finds Juanita in front of Jess’s stove serving up home cookin’ that lures the townsfolk like a magic spell. And suddenly Juanita, who was just passin’ through, now has a job by popular demand. Out here in this wide-open space, Juanita’s heart can no longer hide, especially when she sees herself through the eyes of the wonderful and eccentric people of this down-to-earth town. She’s happy in Paper Moon; she’s found a home, but can she stay? And then there’s Jess. She has always dreamed of romance, but she never planned on falling in love.