Politics and race have been the talk of America since Barack Obama became president of the United States. As we witnessed this historic moment, more blacks are toying with the idea of gaining political power. This is shown in a new book by Marc Little titled, “Don’t Blink When God Calls.”
The text chronicles the life journey of Curtis Felton, Jr., a former professional baseball player and successful businessman. Felton is attempting to make history by becoming the first black mayor of a conservative Southern city in Forestville.
The book deals with Felton’s irresponsibility during an extramarital affair, and his drug use, while reaching for spiritual redemption during his quest to become mayor. The story’s theme is compared to Obama becoming the first black president of the United States.
“The obvious is that both of them journeyed in uncharted waters in their quest for political office,” Little said.
A very stark comparison was also how both Felton and Obama neutralized many of their opponents by playing the game of politics in a mainstream manner.
Little also wanted to make his main character, Felton, a very intelligent black man, so he portrayed him as a former student of Florida A&M University.
Not only was Felton a FAMU alum, five of Little’s other characters were graduates as well. The school was mentioned approximately 22 times in this book.
“I have a deep respect for Florida A&M University and I felt that since other authors could use their hometowns, home high schools and colleges, I felt very comfortable inserting FAMU as the college that most of the characters attended,” said Little, a former professional advisor for the FAMU Public Relations Student Society of America.
Obviously by the title, this story has a religious undertone as well. It shows a man who has tremendous success relying on God and the Bible to get through tough situations. Readers take away a religious message of paying attention when God calls.
“The message that I got from it is that we can miss our blessings when we don’t pay attention to God’s calling,” said Felicia Mitchell, 48, a Jacksonville native and reader of Little’s novel.
The book is filled with subtle yet exciting elements of racial tension, infidelity and deception.
For individuals who have gotten excited over politics lately, or people who love a story of a successful FAMU student, this is the book for you.
For more information on the text, or to order a copy of, “Don’t Blink When God Calls,” visit www.marccurtislittle.com.