Black women have made a lasting impact on literature. From luminaries like Toni Morrison and Maya Angelou to contemporary voices like Roxane Gay and Jacqueline Woodson, these writers have not only enriched the literary world but also provided a platform for black women authors to be heard.
Hoping to add to this rich tradition is Morgan Christie, an author whose talent spans poetry, fiction, autobiographical essays, and other literary genres. Christie has published several works, won esteemed prizes such as the 2022 Arc Poem of the Year Prize and 2017 Player’s Theatre Prize, among many others, and has been featured in various exhibits and notable news publications. She also has an upcoming novella titled Liddle Deaths, set to be released in March.
Her most recent work is the fiction collection People Without Wings – consisting of three stories following diverse characters in their struggles with grief, identity, mental health, and finding hope. The collection draws readers into narratives exploring universal themes of human experience. The trio of short stories in People Without Wings comprises “Warbird,” “Rainbow Parachute,” and “How to Eat Marzipan.”
In “Warbird,” readers are introduced to Albert, a veterinarian in a war-torn city who crosses paths with Jhonti, a warbird with wings seeking refuge after deserting the military. Jhonti grapples with issues of identity, sacrifice, and the desire for liberation in a futuristic world that deprives them of their humanity. Jhonti’s decision to leave the military represents their pursuit of self-discovery and freedom from societal restrictions.
“Rainbow Parachute” tells the story of Dyana, a novice skydiver who discovers solace in a toy parachute that symbolizes safety and comfort as she grapples with depression and anxiety. Dyana’s experience as a new skydiver, leading up to her first solo jump, brings depth to her story by connecting her past with her present emotional challenges. The narrative explores themes of resilience, escapism, and the pursuit of emotional refuge through a rainbow parachute. The contrast between the toy’s playful nature and its significant impact on Dyana’s feeling of safety highlights her determined search for peace amidst life’s challenges.
In “How to Eat Marzipan,” Jamika struggles with personal loss and feelings of hopelessness as she strives to perfect a marzipan recipe. The story vividly portrays Jamika’s resilience as she navigates grief and seeks stability in the aftermath of her grandparents’ tragedy.
People Without Wings shines light on underrepresented human experiences. It is a worthy addition to the strong tradition of impactful fiction by Black women writers. This collection invites introspection on human connection and the meaning of finding oneself and processing emotions as human beings in a complex world. For those seeking stories that speak to the human spirit, Morgan Christie’s People Without Wings is a collection worth adding to your shelves.
To get your copy of People Without Wings, visit the link below on the Digging Press website. Learn more about the author Morgan Christie and her journey by checking out her website.
Morgan Christie’s Website: https://www.morganchristiewrites.com/
Published by: Martin De Juan
