Blood at the Root

"Blood at the Root: An Nkisi is simultaneously a lyrical exploration that grips the soul and intellect and is also a poignant journey through parenthood, love, identity, and heritage. An intimate offering, Campbell explores the profound responsibility and joy of raising a daughter, weaving together reflections on roots and resilience through ancestral wisdom, unflinching love. Much like the titular phrase suggests, this work digs deep, unearthing truths that are raw, haunting, and profoundly beautiful."

-Javon Johnson, author of Ain't Never Not Been Black (Button Poetry, 2020) and Killing Poetry: Blackness and the Making of Slam and Spoken Word Communities (Rutgers University Press, 2017)

"Tshaka Campbell's Blood at the Root: An Nkisi is an aria of unconditional love from a father to his daughter. These poem offerings are simultaneously creation myth, praise song, and protection prayer. If you know Tshaka's work, trust that this book will both break and mend you. If you don't know it yet, you are about to be blessed in discovering."

-Arlene Biala, author of her beckoning hands, American Book Award winner and Santa Clara County Poet Laureate, 2016-2017

"Tshaka Cambell is one of the most powerful poetic voices of our generation. His work has been a gift in my life. For over twenty years I've watched him captivate audiences with his rhythmic wisdom and unforgettable performance style. Blood at the Root: An Nkisi deepens the conversation. It is a compelling compilation of poetry from a master of his craft."

-IN-Q, Emmy-nominated poet, multi-platinum songwriter, world renowned keynote speaker, and the best-selling author of Inquire Within (HarperOne, 2020)