Oakland's Citywide Poetry Anthology

"Voices from the Middle represents the rainbow of diversity that exists
in the City of Oakland. These works act as a wonderful resource for
parents, educators, community leaders and others concerned about
our youth growing up in today's society; as this book sheds light and
offers solutions to the issues young people face in Oakland. This
collection of poetry is another reminder that together, we can do great
things."

-Ronald V. Dellums, Mayor, City of Oakland

"As I read the words our (Oakland Unified School) children put on
paper, I began to cry. My tears were joyful tears because of all
the passion written in their words."

-Karen B. Todd, Director of Project SOAR II

"This fantastic poetry blends language, music, art and soul into a
single, sublime composition which captures the distinctive spirit that
makes Oakland so wonderfully unique."

-Dr. Kimberly Statham, State Administrator, Oakland Unified
School District

"This is a wonderful collection of the courageous voices of our youth,
sharing the complexity of their lives, the world as they know it, their
fears, dreams, and hopes for the world that they will surely impact."

-Emily Brizenndiner, Ed.D., Professor and Interim Dean, College of
Education and Allied Studies, CA State University, East Bay, Hayward CA