The book begins with a subject matter that many of us fi nd too uncomfortable to talk about racism. In the poem “Let’s Talk About Racism”, the reader will hear the words as if Ms. Allison was speaking directly to you with warmth and passion. This poem reaches the hearts of people of all nationalities and leaves you feeling more at ease to discuss racism openly. There are three poems dedicated to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. Ms. Allison holds no punches in the provocative poem “Change” (A Poem for Barack Obama), as she strongly suggests the need for young African American men to change any destructive behavior they may engage in while living in urban America. “Stolen”, a heart wrenching piece dedicated to Michelle Obama and Sarah Baartman, openly discusses the history of the Black woman as it relates to the legacy of slavery. “We Are Inaugurated” rejoices the victory of mankind by electing America’s first African American president.

Stealing Peace expresses the pain and frustration of living in a world plagued by racism and suggests that the existence of racism impedes upon achieving world peace. Throughout the book Ms. Allison sprinkles very warm and passionate love poems which can be found in “Cover Me You” and “Our First Poem”. The poetry in Stealing Peace is warm and gentle yet strong and powerful. Jewel Allison is a new voice that is sure to find its place in the hallows of your mind. Her poems are pungent, creative and alluring. Her writings allow you to visit paradoxes and ironies in our society, as well as the enduring beauty of our culture. Jewel’s poems unveil the not so obvious and unmask that which is painfully true. Stealing Peace provides a mirror through which we can reflect and correct the errors of our ways as a society. This book also fosters a great appreciation for the contributions of people of African descent and the gifts they possess as a people.