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Reviews
Loving to be WE
Dr. Michael Likier: In this magical and real story, we experience the power of love, not only to transcend difference, but as a force that contains and transforms the myriad of struggles that lovers encounter in cross-cultural, inter-racial relationships. In the “receiving mountains as stepping stones,” Cheri Avery Black takes us through the trials and tribulations of a couple that on the surface, by Western logic, shouldn't work, but does--in the most wonderful of ways. Here we experience love in the doing and the being, the surrender and the sacrifice, self-knowledge and openness to the other, pain and healing, and the journey to one.
Loving to be We is a celebration of what is best about the human spirit, the desire to live to the fullest, to love and grow together, through spirituality and sexuality, the strength of family, the passion for justice, all set to a reggae rhythm. Traveling to and from Kansas, Jamaica, Philadelphia and beyond, across race, culture, country, language, wealth and poverty, this adventure captivated me from the start. I was enthralled, enriched and inspired by their journey. I know it will touch your heart as it did mine. Michael Likier, Ph.D., ACT is a licensed psychologist and a Diplomate of the Academy of Cognitive Therapy. His personal and professional passions lie in the intersection of social justice, faith and psychology. Dr. Likier is a trainer with Whites Confronting Racism, a Philadelphia based workshop for White people who want to challenge the racism around them—and in their own heads and hearts—and who are searching for a way to strengthen their work for racial justice. Dr. Likier worked with Cheri multiple years for the PRIME Institute at Drexel University, as a lead diversity trainer and advisory board consultant. He, too, is experiencing the unique delights and deliberations of cross-racial/cultural marriage and parenthood. Mike is a drummer who accompanies weekly Shabbat services at his New Jersey synagogue.
Siatta Scott-Johnson: As I read through this story, I experienced the life of a typical African father. I followed the characters and the romance portrayed as strictly coming from the heart, overcoming any differences of age, race or color. Being an African myself and coming from the same low economic status as Alex, I felt as if the writer was speaking to me. This book is well worth reading and I must underscore that Cheri Avery Black did a marvelous job outlining the difficulties that lovers of different races face and how they struggle to keep their love afloat. Cheri’s vivid writing is beyond measure and extraordinarily well-done. Her family must be so proud. As a mother, I especially enjoyed the conversions between Alex, Moses and Joseph. The talk of kukus and vaggies were typical of children’s minds.
Loving to be We brings out the inner-most feelings of two worlds apart coming together to a place of no return. The couple’s romance in this book had me emotionally frozen at first, then warmed me slowly with my smiles as I silently went with them through their journey. Thanks, Cheri, for giving us an idea of what island love-making feels like and how it brings out the energy in the lovers. I must strongly proclaim that the brains and hearts involved in writing every word in this book were indeed intelligently and joyfully merged. Siatta Scott-Johnson is CEO/Creative Director and film-maker at Smart Media Liberia, where she trains young people in journalism and produces documentaries on issues that affect women and children. The 2007 award-winning documentary, Iron Ladies of Liberia, was co-directed by Siatta, whom Daniel Junge, director, described as a fantastic partner. She heads the Female Journalist Association of Liberia. and holds a B. A. in Mass Communication from the University of Liberia, with a Diploma in political reporting from the Liberia Institute of Journalism. Siatta met Cheri while she was on a ‘voluntour’ trip to Liberia in 2011 and was working with . Siatta described her delight in high school when first seeing the infant magazine, founded in 1992. Siatta now is a featured columnist for the magazine. She named her twin boys, now 4-years-old, after Toney’s sons Cheri helped raise.
Dr. Gloria Kersey-Matusiak: Loving to be We is the ultimate romantic novel in that the author weaves a tale of love that transcends the love we expect to read about in a typical romance novel. Much more than that is this story of love that reaches far beyond the depths of the visceral or superficial physical attraction to capture the essence of a love that is genuine and enduring. Here these lovers make a selfless commitment that reaches out soul to soul, heart to heart, mind to mind, crossing barriers of race, class, and culture that stands the test of time against unrelenting obstacles.
In this story, love is revealed in all its many noble and glorious forms, the love between a father and his sons; physical, patient, compassionate love that is shared between a man and a woman; love of family; of one’s homeland; and the spiritual and uplifting love that exists between man and his God.
Cheri Avery Black’s writing, of what she tells us is a memoir, is crisp and vibrant. Like an experienced tour guide, she takes us on a fast-moving, magical journey between two worlds providing all the reader needs to fully experience the lives of each of her carefully drawn characters. Each character’s longings, frustrations, disappointments, and sorrows, become our own as we witness their various trials and tribulations. It is truly an action-packed, often fun-filled, vacation to a foreign land that leaves us yearning to see and know even more about the culture and lifestyle of the people who inhabit Lottery and other places along this incredible journey.
But mostly, this book speaks of hope and determination, of patience and fortitude, and of faith in the All Knowing and Loving Creator. Ultimately this book is about self-fulfillment, true happiness, and joy that only comes when one is willing to commit, to risk, to achieve important life goals. Most importantly, Loving to Be We is a must read for all the dreamers in the world who long to live their best lives and become their best selves. This book is a real road map that shows us the way. Gloria Kersey-Matusiak Ph.D., RN, Professor Emerita, Holy Family University, Philadelphia; author of Delivering Culturally Competent Nursing Care. She could also write a book about being in a cross-racial/cultural marriage. Gloria worked with Cheri on an independent study for her doctorate program and was a star graduate the post-Master’s Certificate in Culturally Competent Health and Human Services at Temple University, conducted by an institute Cheri directed. Toney refinished wooden floors and replaced tile floors in her home.
Joseph Warkreh T-Toe: This autobiography reads like a romantic novel filled with intrigue and rousing details which send the reader’s imagination on a wide exploration of the senses. The main character, Lanee, chronicles her ‘seemingly chance’ encounter with Alex, with whom there is an immediate compelling attraction that is continuing into infinity. While the book validates the assertion that true love is blind and can be found in the strangest of places, it opens the window into the lives of two individuals from nearly opposite ends of the world’s spectrum of cultural, social and educational backgrounds--yet finding love as a common denominator. This riveting account of their journey continuously begs the reader to keep asking, ‘what happens next’ from the opening chapter to the last. It’s a ‘must read’ you’re bound to recommend . . . so let me be among the first to applaud its essence. Joseph Warkreh T-Toe, Associate Editor, FunTimes Magazine; former Foreign News Editor, the Liberia News Agency.
Thell and Julia Prueitt: THIS has been a joy upon joy reading! Julia and I are soul mates from two cultures also ̶ Caucasian/Indian (me being 1/16 Cherokee) and Julia being Mexican Indian/Hispanic, so reading about soul mates from two cultures delighted us to no end!! The story is authentic and honest to be sure, with surprises, dips and turns. Human frailties exposed within unconditional, deep love intertwined through it all, created a tapestry of life in majestic hues of color ̶ blindingly so at times ̶ but real, full of laughter and a few tears. We totally loved the story. The author kept us superbly spellbound from beginning to end. Five stars all the way!! Thell Prueitt A Serial Entrepreneur with over four decades of Leadership/Mentoring/Coaching in the Network Marketing Field, proudly in the BE HAPPY business! Co-author in a best-seller The Art & Science of Success Vol 2, proud father of two beautiful girls, happily married to his “wild/crazy/Latino bride,” Julia. The Prueitts are commonly known by their peers as The Masters of Fun.
Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite.com Loving to be WE by Cheri Avery Black is a nonfiction book, a memoir with a powerful multicultural appeal, a story of love, faith, and an inspirational “cross-cultural” journey. Meet Alex, a young and dynamic man who struggles to raise his two children in the slums of Jamaica. Alex gets a vision from Jah that he’d meet someone significant from a far-off country that would play a great role in his life. And then comes Lanee, a forty-eight-year old woman from Philadelphia, a travel aficionado and a woman who has been divorced. Alex sees his dreams coming true in the woman, and Lanee’s dream of having a bed and breakfast on a beach in Jamaica couldn’t be far away when the two meet.
Cheri Avery Black’s book is a powerful rendition of the issues that happen in interracial marriages--problems of language, understanding, and perspective. Alex and Lanee are determined to make their union work. It is wonderful to read about their faith in each other, and their resilient spirits, as they decide how they can transform every obstacle into an opportunity for growth. Written in a beautiful and lyrical style, this is a story that will inspire love in the hearts of readers and encourage them to seek values that unite. The themes of love, marriage, and faith are expertly showcased in this engaging story. This is a story about the joys and perils of adventure and the hope that wins in the end. This is a lyrical story every bit as entertaining as it is inspiring.
Kathryn (Kitsi) Watterson: I love Cheri Avery Black’s book. I keep it on my desktop as it smiles at me when I open it up. She’s truly amazing. Kathryn (Kitsi) Watterson teaches Creative Writing at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. She is the author of nine books, three of which are New York Times Notable Books of the Year. Her nonfiction includes Not by the Sword, which won a 1996 Christopher Award, inspired a play and opera, and is one of Cheri’s most favorite references at the Multicultural Institute she directs. Kitsi sings and drums with The Unity, a popular improvisational musical band, and has just published her first novel.
The Art and Science of Success
Hi Cheri - I gained so much from your chapter on the first read because much of what you said applied to me personally, that night and ongoing. Thank you so very much!! It was as if certain points just jumped out at me specifically. I realized this right away and read seeking those personal messages not for flow or content. The story presented in the content certainly isn't what anyone would expect rather it is a thrilling story of success, joy and love. Thus, even if you made the structure more like what the reader may expect, the story carries the day. You are quite an amazing person Cheri and I love knowing all of these things about you, your life and your philosophies. -Best, Karen Smith, Regional Sales Director, The Citizenre Corporation (Making solar simple and affordable for homeowners).
Greetings Cheri! Your chapter hooked me! I especially liked the way you connected each paragraph with a story, proverb, scripture or quote (it takes me to another inspirational source to reinforce what I've gleaned from your insights!) When I finished reading, Roberta Flack is in my head singing "strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his word..." I'm feeling your emotion because some of this belongs to me. Thank you for including me in this preview. -Earldine V. Tolbert, Program Specialist, Temple University, PRIME Institute Associate, Drexel University.
Cheri, This is totally awesome, you are beautiful. Thank you for sharing this. I don’t usually have time to read but something compelled me to do so tonight and I thank you for the gifts. -Winnie Lanoix, Ed.D., Coaching Lead , Right Management (a manpower company).
Hi dear Cheri!! It was an honor to review your chapter... I wouldn't change or delete anything I can't imagine cutting it down and I am so in favor of you expanding your obvious talents and write your own book/story... I read it about 5 times and it just really makes me feel inspired and happy... :-)
-Dayna Knight, Delta Flight Attendant and your fav niece.
Cheri, OUT Mastermind Buddy – You Rock! I see you dancing across the stage many times. I am grateful for your presence and honor your soul!
-Love ya, Roe Desaro, Director, WorldVentures; co-author Empowering Transformations for Women; former Vice President, EF Hutton.
To Cheri, My dearest Friend and Buddy, You are the Epitome of Success, Joy, and Love. Thank you for being in my life and sharing the Awesome Adventure we are on...your chapter really rocks my soul - not just because I know you, but your laser focus on what is REAL and movement of LIFE comes sparkling through ever so clearly! -Love you Big, Thell Prueitt, The Master of Fun, WorldVentures Director; co-author, ‘The Art and Science of Success, vol 2’ (order this edition at www.outmastermind.com).
I am so proud of you Cheri & Roe & Thell. I can’t wait to get my signed copies. Cheri, You’re an awesome leader stepping it up! Ed Terranova, Regional Marketing Director, WorldVentures and my Team Leader of DreamTrips Partners; co-author, ‘Chicken Soup for the Network Marketer’s Soul’.
I am sure many will feel inspired and encouraged by these testimonies of never quitting! -Minister Margie Carpenter Franklin
Greetings Cheri! Your chapter hooked me! I especially liked the way you connected each paragraph with a story, proverb, scripture or quote (it takes me to another inspirational source to reinforce what I've gleaned from your insights!) When I finished reading, Roberta Flack is in my head singing "strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his word..." I'm feeling your emotion because some of this belongs to me. Thank you for including me in this preview. -Earldine V. Tolbert, Program Specialist, Temple University, PRIME Institute Associate, Drexel University.
Cheri, This is totally awesome, you are beautiful. Thank you for sharing this. I don’t usually have time to read but something compelled me to do so tonight and I thank you for the gifts. -Winnie Lanoix, Ed.D., Coaching Lead , Right Management (a manpower company).
Hi dear Cheri!! It was an honor to review your chapter... I wouldn't change or delete anything I can't imagine cutting it down and I am so in favor of you expanding your obvious talents and write your own book/story... I read it about 5 times and it just really makes me feel inspired and happy... :-)
-Dayna Knight, Delta Flight Attendant and your fav niece.
Cheri, OUT Mastermind Buddy – You Rock! I see you dancing across the stage many times. I am grateful for your presence and honor your soul!
-Love ya, Roe Desaro, Director, WorldVentures; co-author Empowering Transformations for Women; former Vice President, EF Hutton.
To Cheri, My dearest Friend and Buddy, You are the Epitome of Success, Joy, and Love. Thank you for being in my life and sharing the Awesome Adventure we are on...your chapter really rocks my soul - not just because I know you, but your laser focus on what is REAL and movement of LIFE comes sparkling through ever so clearly! -Love you Big, Thell Prueitt, The Master of Fun, WorldVentures Director; co-author, ‘The Art and Science of Success, vol 2’ (order this edition at www.outmastermind.com).
I am so proud of you Cheri & Roe & Thell. I can’t wait to get my signed copies. Cheri, You’re an awesome leader stepping it up! Ed Terranova, Regional Marketing Director, WorldVentures and my Team Leader of DreamTrips Partners; co-author, ‘Chicken Soup for the Network Marketer’s Soul’.
I am sure many will feel inspired and encouraged by these testimonies of never quitting! -Minister Margie Carpenter Franklin