From an author who adopted an African name as an adult comes the most inclusive book of African names. Obama, Iman, Kanye, Laila—authentic African names are appearing more often in nurseries, classrooms, and boardrooms. The African Book of Names offers readers more than 5,000 common and uncommon names organized by theme from 37 countries and at least 70 different ethnolinguistic groups. Destined to become a classic keepsake, The African Book of Names shares in-depth insight about the spiritual, social, and political importance of names from Angola to Zimbabwe. As the most far-reaching book on the subject, this timely and informative resource guide vibrates with the culture of Africa and encourages Blacks across the globe to affirm their African origins by selecting African names. In addition to thousands of names from north, south, east, central and west Africa, the book shares: A checklist of dos and don'ts to consider when choosing a name—from sound and rhythm to origin and meaning A guide to conducting your own African-centered naming ceremony A 200-year naming calendar

The book contributes towards the rediscovery of the concept of African-ness and the rejuvenation of the African tradition and culture. It is in the hope of saving the African way of life that pro-Africanists have found it necessary to hold on to their native African names and encourage their use as a means of espousing the cultural heritage of the people. Though the main focus is on African names, the book slides in brief moments into some cultural elements of the African people. There is so much to be said about the people of Africa that this book cannot now fulfil. However, it is anticipated that African names are a good start to highlight the essential features of the life of the people. Consequently, it is expected that the book would aim to signify and reflect the rich diversity of Africa’s ethnic and rural communities.

Published in dual print and electronic formats, this is a new edition of a much acclaimed reference source that brings together a wide range of sources of information in the African studies field, covering both print and electronic sources. It evaluates the best online resources, the major general reference tools in print format, current bibliographies and indexing services, biographical, cartographic, statistical and economic resources, as well as film and video resources. Additionally, there are separate sections on African studies library collections and repositories throughout the world, a directory of over 250 African studies journals; listings of news sources, profiles of publishers active in the African studies field, dealers and distributors of African studies materials, African studies societies and associations, major African and international organizations, donor agencies and foundations, awards and prizes in African studies, electronic mailing lists and discussion forums, and more.

The book is an enlightenment and educational. It brings all the cultures and languages of the continent of Africa under on common roof and draws most popular and meaningful African names. It is written in a way to aid African parents and parents to be a fine resource in the selection of their baby name(s). It is the hope of the author that this book will serve the intended purpose.

Engaging questions of language, identity, and reception to restore South African and diaspora writing to the African literary tradition

This book considers how the establishment and/or improvement of gender equality impacts on the social, economic, religious, cultural, environmental and political developments of human societies in Africa and its Diaspora. An interdisciplinary team of contributors examine the role of gender in development against the background of Africa’s convoluted and arduous history of state formation, slavery, colonialism, post-independence, nation-building and poverty. Each chapter highlights and stimulates further discussion on the struggles that many African and African Diaspora societies grapple with in the perplexing issue of gender and development - concentrating on gains that have been made and the challenges yet to be surmounted.

The growing usage of African name in the United States makes this book appealing for those who want to understand the meaning, proper usage and significance of African names. Asante provides the historical rationale and the proper translations and usage of African names from the four corners of the continent.

Merisa Davis & Family Merisa Parson Davis is Dr. Bill Cosby's cousin. She is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, where she earned her Master's degree in Theological Studies. She attends First Redeemer Church in Cumming, Georgia, pastored by Dr. Richard Lee. There, she serves as a Bible teacher, youth worker, and women's conference speaker. She earned her undergraduate degree at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. (Founded by the late Dr. Jerry Falwell) There, she studied television, journalism, and Christian counseling. She is a former news reporter for WVIR-TV NBC-29, in her hometown of Charlottesville, Virginia. Merisa has worked in youth ministry since 1998. Currently, she is helping create Liberty University's new Black Worship Studies Program, scheduled to begin classes in fall of 2010. She has been married for 15 years to Marc Davis, who is the owner of the Davis State Farm Insurance Agency, in Stone Mountain, Georgia. She is the proud mother of Charissa Joy and Marc Isaac. She plans to pursue her Ph.D in the near future. "For several years now I have had the joy to see, firsthand, how God is using Merisa Davis to bring a message of inspiration to others. Her book, "Bill Cosby Is Right" is a prescription for those who are seeking to move to a higher place in their work, their lives, and their faith." Dr. Richard Lee, General Editor, "The American Patriot's Bible," Founding Pastor, First Redeemer Church "I have had the opportunity of reading a portion of Merisa's book, "Bill Cosby Is Right." To say the least, it is the best that I have ever seen on the subject. My advice-secure a copy and be both informed and inspired " Dr. Harold L. Willmington, author, "Willmington's Guide to the Bible," Dean, Willmington School of the Bible, Liberty University