Released on: June 6, 2008, 2:09 pm

Press Release Author: Apollo House Press

Industry: Entertainment

Press Release Summary: African American sci-fi/fantasy author R. A. Baker shares his
views on the genre, and the future of black speculative fiction.


Press Release Body: CHESTER, VA June 2008 - With his detailed narrative, gripping
plot, and compelling characters, African American author R. A. Baker is a fine
newcomer to the literary playing field. However, there is one thing that sets Baker
apart from most black writers: he writes science fiction. In 2008, R. A. Baker
joined the ranks of black science fiction/fantasy writers like Charles Saunders,
Steven Barnes, Octavia Butler, and Nalo Hopkinson, among others. They are part of a
small, but growing group of writers, specializing in genres previously the exclusive
domain of their white counterparts. It's a trend poised to add a new perspective to
fantasy and science fiction storytelling.

Baker, who wrote the sci-fi/fantasy novel, Rayna of Nightwind, says that he knew at
an early age that he wanted to write sci-fi/fantasy. "I've always loved speculative
fiction, which includes both sci-fi and fantasy," the Virginia author says. "It
allows for so much creative freedom-it is the only kind of fiction I would ever want
to write." With the commercial success of the Harry Potter novels, and movies like
The Lord of the Rings and Star Wars, there is little doubt of sci-fi and fantasy's
appeal. African American writers like Baker believe there is also a demand for a
fresh approach to these popular genres. "I believe African Americans can bring a lot
to the table and take speculative fiction in exciting directions it has never gone
before," he says.

Baker says he does not see himself as a pioneer, but simply as a member of a
special, and often misunderstood group. "When I tell people I write sci-fi/fantasy,
I sometimes get strange stares, like they are thinking to themselves, 'black people
don't write sci-fi'," he says. "It can be a little disheartening, but I know the
best way to deal with attitudes like that, is to be as successful in my field as
possible. In a way, it has made me a better writer, because I know I can never give
up or stop writing. I would never want to give the naysayers that kind of
satisfaction."

Additionally, Baker points out that diversity should be sought in all areas. "If
Tiger Woods had decided early in his career to abandon golf because it was uncommon
for a black person to play that sport, we would have missed out on a phenomenal golf
player, and a great role model," he said. "I think it's time we shattered some old
stereotypes about black literature, and be open to explore different avenues".

To aspiring African American sci-fi/fantasy authors, Baker offers the following
advice: "There is a world of possibilities to explore, so explore it your way. When
I wrote Rayna of Nightwind, I stayed true to my voice and my particular writing
style. Don't let preconceived notions about your race influence how you write, or
what you write about-let your imagination decide."
R. A. Baker is the author of \"Rayna of Nightwind\", the first novel in his new Taren
series(published by Apollo House Press), which is available for purchase on
Amazon.com. Books can also be ordered via the Apollo House Press website:
http://www.apollohouse.com/order.htm

Rayna of Nightwind
Hardcover: 328 pages
Publisher: Apollo House Press
ISBN-10: 0978751876
ISBN-13: 978-0978751876


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Web Site: http://www.apollohousepress.com/order.htm

Contact Details: R.A. Baker
804-437-1632

Apollo House Press
P.O. Box 3209
Chester, Virginia 23831