How many times have you driven through or past the inner city? Maybe, you just scuttled past the dilapidated buildings at a hurried pace not giving much thought about the people who reside in them.

Poet and community advocate Samantha T. Roden-Levy sheds light on the plight of those who suffer needlessly in the inner city. Her book, “The Illumination of My Soul”(158pp.pb, $12.00) is a collection of powerful poems that were written about her struggle as a strong-willed young woman who confronted a society that shuns impoverished minorities.

Austin L. Allen, professor of history at the University of Houston-Downtown and author of a soon to be released book about the Dred Scott case, says, “In this collection of penetrating poems, Samantha Roden-Levy explores what it means to be a woman and an American in a world defined by race even when none of our categories seem to fit. I look forward to rereading this fine book and to reflecting on its contents for years to come.”

Violence, poverty, racism, spirituality, hope, and social acceptance are topics that Roden-Levy embraces in order to tear down the partition that separates the haves from the have-nots. Her poetry readings are receiving newsworthy buzz around Texas. Does the inner city have a new voice? Yes, it does and her name is Samantha T. Roden-Levy and she is the author of the critically acclaimed book, “The Illumination of My Soul.”

Samantha T. Roden-Levy’s book signing will be held at (Eb5 International Art Gallery) Jan 13, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. Roden-Levy will also be reciting some of her newly released verse as the featured author at (Eb5 International Art Gallery) Jan 14, 2006 at 9:00 p.m.
Location: (22557 Aldine-Westfield, Suite “H” Spring, Texas 77373)

Samantha T. Roden-Levy’s book, “The Illumination of My Soul” can be purchased at http:// www.Jolanipublications.com.

For more information, or to schedule an interview with Samantha T. Roden-Levy you may contact her at (713) 560-3441 or e-mail at peacebstill7@aol.com.