book-reviews

By Bonnie Newman Davis

“The media has been in decline for a quarter of a century now.” — Dana Milbank, MSNBC, Feb. 28, 2025

Spot on. And exactly what I stated when discussing my book two nights ago at Fairfield Library. Because my audience included some amazing scribes, storytellers, community advocates/activists, historians and world travelers, our conversation was far-reaching and wide-ranging. One audience member, hoping to pivot from her social work profession to journalism, sought advice on how to accomplish her goal. Diane Walker, a retired Richmond news anchor and investigative reporter, encouraged her to seek out reporters and others who can help her pitch, shape or sell her stories or story ideas. (Diane is one of the 24 women who is featured in my book, “Truth Tellers: The Power and Presence of Black Women Journalists Since 1960.)

I agreed with Diane, and added that in today’s media climate, the social work professional should also consider starting her own digital publication or newsletter. “Technology is on our side,” I said. I then recalled how I wanted to purchase a Richmond publication about 20 years ago. It was The Good News Herald published by the late Cleomine Lewis. The paper lived up to its name, and I was always fascinated by how Ms. Lewis single-handedly ran the paper, which was mainly available in Richmond’s Black churches. Ms. Lewis died in 2004, according to a Chiles Funeral home obituary. Back then we did not have a smidgen of the technology that we now take for granted.

Here is what one attendee shared after the book talk:

“Hey Bonnie!! I didn’t want another day to go by without sharing how extraordinary your program was on yesterday! Bonnie, the wisdom that you, Diane and others shared, transcended time and journalism! I would love to see a monthly meeting like that one! We all felt so blessed to be in the presence of greatness!!! Thank you!!!”

Next up I will discuss my book at Second Baptist Church-Idlewood for Women’s History Month. Stay tuned for the date and time. And you to my loyal tribe of “Truth Tellers” supporters!