African and African American Speculative Fiction

Why should you read the works of Stafford Levon Battle?

There are thousands of sci-fi, fantasy and speculative fiction authors scrambling for recognition and royalties to pay rent, to keep a roof over their head, to uplift depressed egos at Sci-Fi conventions and to satisfy their spouses. Some authors write well but sell poorly and for decades languish in obscurity. A few sci-fi authors with mediocre literary workmanship luckily gain temporary popularity status due to exemplary marketing and promotional efforts. But the depth of their celebrity status fades quickly over the litmus test of time (sometimes in days or hours when their friends and family stop commenting).  Authors such as Octavia Butler or L. A. Banks gained a paucity of accolades or financial rewards during their lifetime but since untimely deaths, they now are considered to be phenomenal and book sales are rising.

The measuring tape for success is difficult to apply. IMHO, it is the will of the widespread readers,  who really determine the true greatness of an author.  And, there are many newly recognized authors  who have been producing quality literature and honing their craft. Their time in the spotlight is here. Stafford Battle is among this class of new luminaries.

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