I grew up in Albany, GA in the 60s and 70s. It was a time of transition in America and in Albany. Schools were segregated, even after desegregation. As a young boy, I didn't venture far from my area of town and I've known most of my closest friends since birth. My extended family was as close as my immediate family. Many adults in church, school, and the community were a positive influence. Being successful was not a option, it was expected.

The cover was designed by Laura Brown and Eric Finley, Jr. (artist). I wanted to capture a scene from a family gathering, which is the impetus for the book. The scene takes place on the front porch of a home in Anytown USA. The men are talking about life and reminiscing while they watch the grandkids. The people in the scene are (from left to right): Wayne Brown (Pop-Pop), Justice (Grandson), Harmony (granddaughter), Serenity (granddaughter), and Irenus Brown Sr. (Big Pops).

Two years ago, I started writing with the goal of finishing a book. Prior to this, my writing was more academic. As an Air Force member, I wrote technical instructions and lesson plans. Putting my thoughts in print was not my idea, my wife Laura was the coach who encouraged me to write my first book.

Knowing my writing will help someone long after I'm gone.

I enjoy family gatherings. My father had 14 siblings, which made family reunion a big event. Relatives from around the country would come to reminisce and enjoy each others company. During those times, one or more of the seasoned relatives would talk to me about life. I actually enjoyed hearing the stories about their successes and failures. Now, I'm the seasoned relative passing on my stories. LISTEN captures some of these stories in hope of helping the next generation.

My next book is about life nuggets I've gained from finally learning to swim at the age of 51.