A striking collection of rhythmic poetry and vivid story-telling, African-American. is a haunting yet empowering exploration of black identity. Unrelentingly personal yet political, Benjamin Raji's debut collection explores the common but often suppressed stories of "hyphens"--in this case, American residents and citizens born to African parents--who come to experience not one, but two racial awakenings. An intense weaving of narrative and discourse, his work provides a dynamic blend of candor, reflection, and piercing critique that touches all parties involved, including himself. African-American. rapidly plunges readers into a gray space that begins with furious anxiety, but ends with an emergence of self-confidence and dignity. Both a memoir and a manifesto, Raji's work whispers a bold question in the midst of chaos, rejection, violence, and unflinching resolve--who & what are you?About the Author: Benjamin Adekunle-Raji, commonly referred to as Benji, is a 23-year-old wordsmith and musician currently based in Elkridge, MD. He is a recent graduate of Kenyon College with a severe weakness for Chinese food, hip-hop, and deep conversations.