Literary Sisters

"Reveals West's struggles for recognition outside the traditional literary establishment, and her collaborations with innovative African American women writers, artists, and performers who faced similar problems. With such "literary sisters" as Zora Neal Hurston and West's cousin, poet Helene Johnson, she created an emotional support network that also aided in promoting, publishing, and performing their respective works. Integrating rare photos, letters, and archival materials, this book is not only a groundbreaking biography of an increasingly important author but also a vivid portrait of a pivotal moment for African American women in the arts"--