We Could Be Brothers-A Novel-trailer

I thought it would be cool to interview the two protagonists featured in the novel; I want the readers to not only get a feel of the characters, but after reading the book and checking out this trailer you are introduced to two African American young men that could be your sons, brothers, nephews, students, neighbors,etc.

One of my main goals and obligations I feel as an artist is to portray African American characters as the real life multidimensional human beings that they are. In particular, African American boys. The two young men in this tale live within ten minutes of each other, but come from polar opposite family structures. In Pacino's case, his home is void of a strong male figure, which thrusts a huge amount of responsibility upon him as the protector, caretaker, and part time provider. He has been given the task, as many of our boys are, to define on his own, what it means to be a real man.

Robeson, in comparison, has a dad that is college educated and very active in the community. There is an example of a family man in his home on a daily basis; a sounding board and a sage to help guide him through this very impressionable/crucial time in his young life.

With all of that being said, when these to young brothers meet, what is the conversation like? What do they talk about? How do their different points of views, experiences, and influences dictate the way they get along with one another? But most importantly, who really cares? Why did I write this book,address this issue? We all should care about the way African American boys see themselves, each other and their respective/collective futures.

Maybe my goal is to inspire Black men to become more active in the lives of young Black men. That would be awesome, but before that happens we have to all take a vested interest and listen. Simply listen to what they have to say, what motivates them, what frightens them, and if tomorrow has anything for them to look forward to.

I know it does, young brotha.

peace and blessings,
Derrick Barnes