Identity in Shades: Wisdom & Soul

A complete work of Urban poetry containing his two previous books (Whispers of the Moon, and Memories in the Rain) with additional work that makes use of four languages (English, Spanish, Choctaw, Japanese). The chapters of poetry are crafted in order to bring color and soul to the reader. Each of the five sections leads those who have become entrapped by the imagery, to further explore themselves in relation to the content. Ten percent of online proceeds will be donated to California Relay for Life. Shamir Kali Griffin is the recipient of the 2014 Central Valley Favorite Author Award sponsored by Community Link Newspaper.

About the Author :
Shamir Kali Griffin, is an American contemporary poet of Black and Native American descent originating from Oakland, CA. At the age of seven, his family of seven moved to Stockton, Ca where he was matriculated in school; remaining active in both scholastic activities and social activism. At the age of twenty-one, Griffin graduated from San Joaquin Delta College with four associates of art degrees. Later on that year He would go on to move to Bakersfield, CA and enroll in California State University, Bakersfield. While enrolled in CSU Bakersfield, Griffin experienced many financial, physical, and mental health issues that would later serve as an additional focal point of his alter works. The effect of his diagnosis of lung cancer at the age of twenty two, can be seen in some of the poems found in his book Identity in Shades. Although troubling times did impact Griffin's academic carrier, there were many honors and achievement he became involved in. During his first quarter of enrollment, Griffin joined the International Honor Society Psi Chi and became an officer of public relations. The following quarter he was inducted into the Kappa Sigma International Fraternity. Both of these organizations gave Griffin a opportunities to give back to his community, as well as an audience to test out his then maturing voice within his poetry. Some of the events Griffin has been involved in are: Democratic Party Presidential Campaign Volunteer (2008), No on Prop 8 (2008-2013), Immigration Bill Reform protest (2008, 2013). U.S. Department of Education Listening and Learning Session on Urban Indian Education (2011)Relay for Life (2012-2013), Runner Dance Marathon (2012-2013), Martin Luther King Day Clean up (2013), Walk to Cure ALS (2012). His poetry uses these unique, and albeit painful experiences to help deliver a sincere and wise tone not often found in youth.