Please Don't Interrupt: An Anthology, Review

Spotlight on Literary Voices: Exploring Social Justice and Creative Expression

This article highlights the impactful work of two prominent figures in the literary landscape: Rona Altrows, a writer deeply committed to the power of literature for social change, and Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike, a scholar and creative writer whose work bridges the African and African Diaspora experience with broader global conversations. Their individual contributions, diverse perspectives, and dedication to their craft offer a valuable glimpse into the dynamic world of contemporary literature.

Rona Altrows: A Champion of Humanism and Social Justice through Literature

Rona Altrows is a multifaceted artist whose career spans fiction, essay writing, editing, and playwriting. Her belief that literature serves a vital role in advancing social justice and promoting humanism forms the core of her artistic endeavors. This commitment is evident not only in her published works but also in her active engagement within the literary community.

Altrows has demonstrated her commitment to equity and social awareness by serving on the equity task force of her province’s writers’ guild. Recognizing the importance of community engagement and the vital role of writers within their local environments, she has also served as Author in Residence at the Calgary Public Library, and as the Writer in Residence at the Alberta Writer’s Centre. These residencies provide opportunities for connection with the wider reading public, allowing for workshops, discussions, and the sharing of her creative insights.

Her short fiction collections, including A Run on Hose, Key in Lock, and At This Juncture, showcase her mastery of the form, offering a unique opportunity for readers to examine the world through her lens, and explore themes that resonate with audiences. Altrows has further expanded her creative reach into the realm of editing. She has edited or co-edited three anthologies, demonstrating an ability to nurture diverse voices and perspectives . Notably, You Look Good for Your Age explores the often overlooked complexities of women, aging, and ageism. This anthology presents a powerful exploration of a marginalized group and the struggles they face in a youth-obsessed culture. Her dedication to her craft and the quality of her work have earned her recognition, including the prestigious W. O. Mitchell Book Prize and the Jon Whyte Memorial Essay Award.

Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike: Championing African and African Diaspora Literature

Uchechukwu Peter Umezurike is a scholar and writer currently serving as an assistant professor in the Department of English at the University of Calgary, Canada. His academic focus lies in the study of African and African Diaspora literatures, postcolonial literatures, gender and sexuality studies, and cultural studies – enriching his approach to creative writing. Through his research, he engages with the complex narratives of the African experience and explores the impact of historical, social, and cultural forces on individual and collective identities.

Umezurike’s creative talent has been recognized with numerous awards. His published works include the collection of short stories, there’s more (2023), the novel Double Wahala, Double Trouble (2021), and the short story Wish Maker (2021), offering readers powerful and innovative accounts of the human condition. His commitment to literary collaboration is further demonstrated through his role as co-editor of Wreaths for a Wayfarer (2020).