African-American Writer to Speak at WFU

Staples’s book chronicles his ascent from the mean streets of the urban ghetto to the executive offices of The New York Times.

“Parallel Time: Growing Up in Black and White” has garnered high praise from critics. The New York Times called him “a writer of edifying eloquence” and said, “Parallel Time reminds us that the best personal writing is born of the courage to confront oneself.” Time magazine noted, “what sets this book apart is the writer’s refusal to oversimplify or offer easy prescriptions for the underclass dilemma.”

Staples is a member of The New York Times editorial board. He has also been an assistant metropolitan editor at that paper and an editor at The New York Times Book Review.

“We are fortunate to be able to present a speaker of this stature and accomplishment,” said Dr. Dolly McPherson, a Wake Forest English professor and chief organizer of the event. “He is a singular and important voice in both public affairs and literature.”

Staples’ address is sponsored by the English department, the multicultural affairs office, the journalism program and the student life division as part of the 37th Institute of Literature.

Admission is free.

For more information, contact the English department at 759-5383.