Topical

We all have our issues. The issue of racism is mine.

And there's another round of conversation going around the 'net about racism in publishing (which inevitably turns into racism in general).

As much as it fascinates and thrills me to see people talking about it, it frustrates and saddens me too, because I like to convince myself that people are more open-minded than they prove themselves to be. However, it's important stuff and that's why I keep bringing it up.

So, for those interested or wishing to peek at what's being said this time:

Karen Scott is posting the results of her Racism in publishing surveys. There are interesting things being said in the comments over there. There are clashes and conflicts too, but as stated above, that seems to go with the territory.

Kate Rothwell also broached the topic on her blog this weekend and got an interesting dialogue going. Not the same old argument that goes around and around.

Dear Author touched on the topic again with some angry results but also some decent conversation as well.

And Monica Jackson has commentary on her blog as well.

If I've missed someone that you know about, feel free to share a link and I'll add it here.

As for me, I'm curious about those of you who pass by my piece of internet real estate, as I don't think I've seen any of my "regulars" participating, at least.

Do you read African-American romance novels? Are you aware that they exist? If you don't, do you have a conscious reason for it? If you don't read them, but you're willing or uncertain, what would it take for you to pick an AA romance novel up?

Do your local bookstores have African-American sections? Do you know or notice whether AA romance novels are shelved with other romances or whether they're relegated to the AA section?

What about Latina romance or Latina lit? Do you see it, know what it is, have any idea where it might be shelved in your store? Would you read it?