Defining Emma is a book of short stories that opens a door and sheds light upon the lesser-known aspects of the lives of Afrikan American preteen and teen-aged girls. Each story is an individual vignette and, ultimately, part of a larger portrait of the many recurring issues that perpetually keep young Black girls under attack—some issues seemingly tailored for those in America while others are universal across the Afrikan Diaspora. This work was designed to be a discussion of history, spirituality, and etiquette with hopes of serving as an enchiridion, of sorts, for behavior and decision-making as it relates to external stimuli. It underscores the author's belief that if our communities are to eliminate the negativity that has become commonplace, the ever so important role of our young ladies and their development must become the central focus. Defining Emma not only recognizes their significance in restoring our traditions and our communities but that God is presenting us with an opportunity for blessings. Characters in these stories are faith-tested yet maintain while doing their due diligence, for “…faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone... faith without works is dead (James, chapter 2: verses 17 and 20).” Proving one’s faith is the key to earning His blessings.
