BLACK GIRL IN PARIS

"Griot," an African word for storyteller used in this novel, may have been the inspiration for the name of this new imprint of African American fiction. Youngblood's "griot," Eden, takes herself to Paris in search of her literary voice. Robin Miles's depiction is light and clear. She picks up Eden's moods and energy as the young girl copes with life's realities without losing her dreams. But, she misses opportunities for minor characterizations, which would have enlivened some of the flat writing. Miles keeps the flow of the story moving even though the uneven narrative makes it a challenge. R.F.W. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 01]