President Johnson Sirleaf Commends Liberian Writer for Self-Publishing

Tuesday, 28th October 2008

Monrovia, Liberia - President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has commended U.S.-based Liberian writer Elma Shaw for self-publishing her first novel, entitled Redemption Road. At her Foreign Ministry Office today, the Liberian Chief Executive commended Ms. Shaw for re-energizing Liberia’s rich literary tradition, a tradition that boasts writers such as Bai T. Moore and Wilton Sankawulo. 

The President said that she is hopeful Shaw’s example will encourage other Liberian writers to carve out some time to tell the nation’s many tales:  “So much of our history has been abandoned, and it is important that we reclaim it by writing our own stories.” Thanking the President for writing the Foreword of Redemption Road, Shaw said the President’s contribution has “inspired readers already, but more importantly, it has inspired writers.”

In the Foreword, the President wrote: “There comes a time in every country’s history when things go astray, when we don’t put our best faces forward, when we falter and stumble. Liberia faltered and stumbled time and time again for over a century. Now we’re taking bold steps to walk upright again, holding our heads up high. Redemption Road reminds us of those times of knee deep failure, and yet, it also shows us that Liberia will rise again through the potential of our most prized possession, our will as a people to transcend.”

Shaw presented the President with an autographed copy of Redemption Road for her collection, and made available complimentary copies. President Johnson Sirleaf said she intends to give one of the copies to the Haywood Mission Library on the Old Road in Sinkor, Monrovia.

Shaw has conducted four book readings/signings throughout the country, and has planned other readings during her next visit to Liberia in December. She also plans to launch a Liberian English audio version of the book, and introduce tabloid copies of the novel that will be accessible to all. Copies of the book are currently available at select supermarkets in Monrovia, Liberia’s capital. Shaw’s publishing company, Cotton Tree Press, will promote writers of Liberian and African ancestry.

After being briefed about Shaw’s background as a filmmaker, the Liberian leader said that it was important to re-introduce speech and drama programs for Liberian youth as an alternative recreational activity. She remains a staunch supporter of literacy programs that encourage young learners to think critically and express themselves creatively.

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