It's been close to five years since his rabid fan base has had a new work to read, but E. Lynn Harris is back with a vengeance. The best-selling author --of Invisible Life,' 'If This World Were Mine' and a memoir 'What Becomes of the Brokenhearted'-- returns to true form with his newest novel, 'I Say A Little Prayer,' in stores next week.
In 'Prayer,' small business owner Chauncey Greer's unknown past collides with his promising future when government politics enter his Atlanta church. Published by Doubleday, the book takes a topical approach on the controversy of homophobia in the black church, and the popularity of mega-churches.
"I write about those things I'm interested in or that are bothering me," Harris tells Black Voices. "My perspectives are generally in line with those of my peers and the overall message is that there is a lack of ‘welcome’ for Gays and Lesbians when it comes to the church."
The forty-something Arkansas native, has never shied away from controversial fare -- his first book, 1992's self-published 'Invisible Life,' was the first modern novel delving into the subject of secret bisexuality among black men , now labeled "the down low."
"Hopefully, [the new book] will spark the same kind of dialogue about what's going on in the church," he says. Harris, who is a visiting professor at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, adds, "I think now is the time for black gay, lesbian and transgender African Americans to ask the question 'If I'm not welcome here then where do I go to celebrate and strengthen my faith in God?'"
With his tenth book, Harris is embarking on a 35-date tour visiting cities such as Bowie, MD (May 2), Dallas (May 24), Charlotte (June 4), and San Francisco (June 8). About the cross-country trek he says: "Although the travel can be a pain, I am so looking to reconnecting with my readers and rekindling old friendships." He adds that while a large segment of his fan base are black women, he's noticed that diversity has increased in recent years among straight black men. "I think they want what their women are reading."
And Tinseltown has taken notice, too. "There has always been Hollywood interest in my work," Harris says. "I'm currently in negotiations with a major producer and hopefully, I'll have big news within the next few weeks."
It comes out next week!