September - October 2004
 Around The Way Girls
by Dwayne S. Joseph, Angel Hunter, and La Jill Hunt
What is an "around the way" girl? Can such depiction serve notice for a good story hashed from the bowels of the community they serve? Self-confidence, well dressed for success, flaunting all the junk in the trunk, and having attitude for dramatic impact are all the rage. She's also that type of girl who gets high, and drink moderately but definitely not to get drunk. Meet the Around The Way Girls in the novel of the same name, collectively depicting three well-written short stories. The authors are Dwayne S. Joseph, Angel Hunter and LaJill Hunt -- all within the stable of writers Carl Weber has assembled at Urban Books.
Each story is centered on a femme fatale that fit the description of the opening statement of this review. Busted and Disgusted, by Angel Hunter, is the story of Cream White, an exotic dancer with a myriad of problematic issues living the life in da ‘hood with a boyfriend who deals in drugs. Typical of this type of story is playing the game to perfection and knowing when to get out of it. When this is realized to maximal effect, Creams makes her decision to the dismay of those want things to remain status quo. Secondary characters are adjuncts to illustrate the points the author give to a supporting cast in the name of best friend Amber, and with the owner of the club where she dances. Amber’s involvement adds a different element to the story in an aid and abet scheme pulled on two unsuspecting men to finance her getaway from her sordid life. Southern Comfort, by La Jill Hunt, focuses on a woman looking for independence and a chance to discover herself. Sydni Johnson wants a new lease on life preferably in a new locale. Central to the theme is righting wrongs and making amends. Drama abounds in this story, i.e., the circumstances with the death of her brother, the marriage of her mother to a man she disapproves of, and a sister who is a ward of the streets, and a love interest who is the perfect foil for all that unfolds in this novel. I liked this story best, as it captures the poignant action that defines a well-written story that is entertaining to the end. The characters support the setting with a plot that is congruous to the moving storyline. Played, by Dwayne S. Joseph, tells the story of Angel Santiago. The game of hustling, being in control and making a name for yourself, not only is drama personified, but is necessary for bragging rights. This braggadocio-style can only go so far, and it’s evident in the character displayed by Frido. Frido, ever the opportunist gives a distinct color to this canvas as life in the inner city is front and center. Angel has an amount of trials and tribulation trying to keep pace with Frido and still maintain the persona that has made her what she is. The climax is worth the wait as things come to a head. Who wins in the end? Individually and collectively Together, shorts are excellent reasons why Urban Fiction will have a place in the African-American literary mindset. These were strong female lead characters and the authors lent credence to the value of street fiction.
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