Before There Were Guns There Were Gods

About the Book

This book is a collection of poems that aims to be the voice of a generation. It examines issues of oppression, separation, segregation, sexism, the rise and fall of Hip Hop and the list continues. There is a gripping honesty of the words and the poems paints pictures for the readers to see. With the title "Before There Were Guns There Were Gods" the author aims to show a linkage between the greatness of our ancestors and the demise of that greatness with the creation of the gun. It is not simply a collection of poetry; this book is a collection of reality. Enjoy!

About the Author

Ayanna McNeill is a force of indescribable talent and insight. She brings a voice of truth that is often ignored. She opens readers’ eyes with her words. Once called "Harriet Returned" Ayanna's words lead readers through the darkness into the shining light of poetry. Ayanna addresses issues of poverty, politics, racism, sexism, love, unity, and the preservation of culture in her poetry. Seeing the world through Ayanna's eyes is a spectacular treat. She easily brings her Brooklyn brashness along with her worldly intelligence as she paints a masterpiece of poetry and passion. Ayanna is a native Brooklynite with Southern & West Indian roots. She is the youngest child of three and attributes her success to her strong family values. The daughter of an educator, Ayanna thinks it’s imperative to educate yourself. A recent graduate of the first Historically Black University Lincoln University PA, she studied Sociology and Human Services. Ayanna continues to advance educationally receiving her masters in School Counseling. Ayanna plans to bridge the importance of culture and intellect for today's youth. And surely with her skills and insight Ayanna will do just that. Ayanna has been writing since she was 12. She has performed on stage, radio and television. Sharing the stage with seasoned poets such as Saul Williams and Abiodun Oyewole from The Last Poets, Ayanna has already made a name for herself.