Contemporary Romance
June 7, 2018, 2-4 PM
Lisle Library District
Assignment:
1. Read a book from two different authors (two books total). Choose from the authors listed below. Preferably, both authors should be new to you.
- Rochelle Alers
- Sonali Dev
- Colleen Hoover
- Brenda Jackson
- Julie James
- Christina Lauren
- Linda Lael Miller
- Susan Elizabeth Phillips
- Alisha Rai
- Jill Shalvis
2. Read about the discussion of diversity at the RITAs and RWA. It’s still unfolding. Here’s where you can get started but feel free to add more sources.
- Ripped Bodice Diversity Reports
- RWA Statement on Commitment to Inclusivity
- Smart Bitches Trashy Books: RWA Board Addresses Inclusivity in RITA Awards and Finalists
- The Guardian: Romance so white?
- Bestselling Author Naima Simone Talks Sales in the Diverse Books Movement
Much of the conversation is happening on Twitter. Follow authors and advocates who are leading the discussion: @Tuphlos, @courtneymilan, @AlisahRai, @authorMsBev. Additional handles to consider: @helenkaydimond (current head of RWA), @romancewriters, @SuleikhaSnyder, @AlyssaColeLit, @TheRippedBodice, @WoCInRomance, @MostlyBree, @Sonali_Dev, @DrenzPen.