Poetry Information

New Poetic Work By Ethiopian Immigrant Promotes Respect, Courage And Cultural Sensitivity


McLean, VA - "The Healing Conscious" tells the story of an Ethiopian immigrant boy on his fascinating journey to America and adulthood. Author Kifle Bantayehu, a 23 year-old second-generation Ethiopian immigrant, recounts this poignant tale in poetic format. His inspirational collection of poems reflects the final words and thoughts of a dying man who traveled across the world, raised a family and became successful-finally fulfilling the American dream.

These poems, written in a uniquely modern style, reflect a journey of sacrifice, courage and strength. "The ideals of cultural preservation, respect and love intertwine with each person encountered along the narrator's journey and serve as inspiration to all people, regardless of race religion or sex," states the introduction of the book.

Bantayehu says there have been very few work works of poetry written and published by Ethiopian authors. And he feels as though he's breaking new ground for this genre of literature by combining the English language with Ethiopian culture.

"The Healing Conscious" is available for pre-order at Borders and Barnes & Noble. It's also available online at Amazon.com and books.lulu.com at discounted pricing.

Part of the proceeds from book sales will be donated to Ethiopian Children's and Orphans' Association, Inc. (ECOA), 46664, Africare, the African AIDS Initiative and other organizations working to promote HIV awareness and helping those affected in Sub-Saharan and East Africa.

Bantayehu says he wrote the book-which is based on the lives of his parents- to tell the compelling story of an immigrant, who through much pain and sacrifice, was able to leave his homeland of Ethiopia with an equally-strong and motivated woman, and raise four children in the best possible environment for education, opportunity and happiness.

"Although, there are many wonderfully unique stories and novels depicting the lives of immigrants in America of backgrounds ranging from Italian, Irish, Chinese, and English, there has been little said of the sacrifices and contributions of the Ethiopian immigrant community residing in the United States," Bantayehu said, explaining his motivation. "Not only do we, as Ethiopians, possess over 2,000 years of a rich, cultural heritage, but we are a loving, caring and hard working people from whom the values of family, sacrifice, respect and camaraderie can be learned."

"The Healing Conscious" is meant to inspire immigrants and others to have faith in their dreams because anything is possible. It also seeks to stir cultural consciousness and sensitivity. Many people and the world community at large, don't take the time to understand a culture or society other than their own, Bantayheu says. And stereotypes, misconceptions, and hatred arise from our lack of knowledge.

"Whether Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim or any other ethnic or religious background, we all breathe the same air, feel fear, feel joy, shed tears, laugh, and love," he says. "Those innate qualities make us human."

Given the fears and prejudices that have arisen from the September 11 tragedy, "The Healing Conscious" promotes important principles for the entire global community to embrace and practice.

For more information about the book, please contact Kifle Bantayehu via phone / fax at (703) 628-3229 / (703) 448-0515 or email at kifle@globalcbp.com Additional information may be located at the following website: www.thehealingconscious.com.

About The Author

Kifle Bantayehu is a second-generation Ethiopian born in the United States in 1980. He grew up in Mexico, Kenya, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, and the United States. In 2002, he received his B.A. Degree from the University of Virginia and currently resides in Virginia, USA. He is a Distinguished Member of the International Society of Poets.

kifle@globalcbp.com


MORE RESOURCES:

Spare our children poetry with a moral
Independent, UK - 3 hours ago
By Shirley Dent With two days to go until National Poetry Day, do you know what sort of poetry your kids are reading? Are they being led as 'lonely clouds' ...


Poetry that doesn't toe a party line
guardian.co.uk, UK - 7 hours ago
But how has this affected formally radical poetry's relationship to radicalism? Is politically radical poetry dead and buried? The truth is that poetry ...
Free Tonight? Londonist
all 2 news articles


BBC News

Credit crunch poetry
BBC News, UK - 6 hours ago
This Thursday is National Poetry Day, which aims to explore the relevance of verse in modern-day life. This year's theme is work. Award-winning poet Paul ...
A few choice words from the guru guardian.co.uk
all 2 news articles


Business Wire (press release)

Can You Haiku? Coffee Lovers Get Poetry “Published” on Millions of ...
Business Wire (press release), CA - 6 hours ago
We’re happy to celebrate coffee in this way, and put great coffee poetry from our loyal customers in the hands of millions.” The paper cups on which the ...
Caffeinate your world. Haikus celebrate java and joe Boston Globe
all 6 news articles


Finding Joy in Contemporary Poetry
Telluride Watch, CO - 38 minutes ago
RIDGWAY – Mention reading poetry and many of us squirm in discomfort, remembering struggling to understand it in school and our careful avoidance of it ever ...


Importing a passion for poetry
guardian.co.uk, UK - Oct 6, 2008
Imagine living in a society where poetry was considered to be the most important art form. Where a poet could easily fill a football stadium. ...


Poetry fest goes on line
Ledbury Reporter, UK - 8 hours ago
By Gary Bills-Geddes » ANYONE who missed this year’s Ledbury Poetry Festival will be able to see highlights on the internet, to help celebrate National ...


Sun City senior recognized for her poetry by Mensa
Press-Enterprise, CA - 11 hours ago
Her writing takes other creative forms: children's fiction, nonfiction and poetry. Her poetry recently received national recognition from Mensa, ...


Mesa State professor heals pain through poetry
Grand Junction Free Press, CO - 10 hours ago
Farolito Press recently published a book of poetry by Moorman called “A Body Less Perfect,” about living with cerebral palsy. He’s also written a novel ...


Essay, poetry contest deadline approaches
Scarlet Scuttlebutt, NJ - 13 hours ago
CENTRAL JERSEY —Creative Communication has announced its Fall 2008 Essay and Poetry Contest. More than $3000 in prizes and awards will be awarded to poets, ...

Poetry - Google News

home | site map
© 2006