Reviews

Lost Souls

Shawn Lytle brings a strong, fresh voice to today's literature as he shares his insight into a world that is often exciting, often sad, yet always hopeful. Through his collection of thought provoking essays and short stories, young and old alike will gain a better understanding of the complexity of today's society and how we can each make a difference as we strive for a better tommorrow. -- Sherri Linsenbach, Editor

Shawn Lytle is a young writer on the rise. Lost Souls is a young man looking at a cold and cruel world, yet, as he says, "I love my people." When you experience Lost Souls, (read is just not a strong enough word,) you will understand why "his people"-us, love him. It is such a good thing to see young men taking control of their thoughts and emotions and giving it back to us. Lost Souls is a must. -- NIKKI GIOVANNI

Shawn Lytle is a young writer with unique insight into the human character and psyche. Lost Souls, his most recent literay contribution, is an expose of the forces and parameters of the human condition. Lost Souls is a voyage by a young man buffeted and compelled by his circumstances to vent his journey through these pages.
Shawn Lytle is a voice in the wilderness crying aloud: he calls to us for recognition and significance. Our answer must be, "We hear" -- John Delgado, Attorney At Law

Shawn P. Lytle's LOST SOULS is definitely a voyage into lives and
minds of those on whom society has basically given up. Lytle uses a
series of poems, essays and short stories to delve into life on the
streets that he, himself, called home for many years. The imagery
shows a harsh portrayal of the drug dealings, drive-by shootings, the
constant hustling, prostitution and other terrible scenarios most
often associated with inner-city neighborhoods. Not only, are we
allowed a look at the individuals, but also a look into their minds,
seeing the reasons why some things are as they are in "the hood."
Survival is at the forefront. There is a code to live and die by.
Mr. Lytle not only brings to life what happens on the streets, but he
also provides sage advice and encouragement for those seeking a way
out. As I read LOST SOULS, I could not help but to cheer for Shawn
Lytle as he has fought his way from the depths of the streets and is
trying to make a difference in the lives of "his people." This
anthology should be required reading for anyone considering or
already living by the code of "the hood."
--Reviewed by Brenda M. Lisbon
of the RAWSISTAZ Reviewers



The Night Darkness Spoke

THE NIGHT DARKNESS SPOKE is a collection of poetry from Shawn P. Lytle that takes the reader into the philosophy and insight of the man. He takes you on a stroll down memory lane with the poem "Souvenirs of The Past" calling to mind a time and a place of innocence and childhood. Creations such as "Sleepless Nights" and "Crying Hearts"give you a glimpse into a soul wrought with pain and sorrow. There are many uplifting pieces that bring a sense of pride and hope like "A Strong Black Woman" and "Mama Didn't Raise A Quitter."
 
Shawn P. Lytle tantalizes all the senses with this collection. Many of the poems give the feeling of listening to a man who is on a voyage of self-discovery, others make it seem as if you are reading a love letter,then there were those that make you feel as if you are walking into a revolution.
 
I enjoyed the messages that Mr. Lytle displayed in THE NIGHT DARKNESS SPOKE. There were thoughts and opinions on many different subjects and Shawn P. Lytle expressed them well in this collection. It is one that many readers will find pleasing and I definitely look forward to hearing from him again.
--Reviewed by L. Raven James
of The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers



Twisted Dreams

TWISTED DREAMS is definitely capable of reaching the masses of people rather it be old, young or in between.The Author is definitely a street disciple with street scriptures for lost souls and has outstanding potential to make his peers at least think to themeselves for a minute.
--Stephen Way