‘Joy Comes in the Morning’

Lucinda Askew

BY SORAYA K.ROUSE, Contributor

ST. PETERSBURG – Author and playwright Lucinda Askew has recently released a new book entitled “Joy Comes in the Morning” and will be available at a book signing this Sunday, May 7 at Chief’s Creole Café, 901 22nd St. S, from 1-5 p.m.

The book’s title is based on Psalms 30, and the main character, Tracey, overcomes some Davidian obstacles due to beauty, charm, education, wit and plain old stubborn will. When faced with the possibility of losing her beloved family, she brokers a deal with her boss, a wealthy banker.

“This novel came about because myself and others have held on to past hatred without being able to move forward,” explained Askew. “In writing these fictional characters, I learned we have got to let go of our past pain and hurt in order to receive the blessings that God has for us.”

“Joy Comes in the Morning” unapologetically pleads with us to come to terms with our own unforgiveness. There are passages in the book that are “real, raw and insightful,” as stated by Dr. Sheila Tribble in the book’s forward.  “The intimate themes, the exploration of love, responsibility and self-worth and empowerment are what give us the opportunity to grow.”

The book is dictated to the memory of the late Rev. Dr. Arthur T. Jones who used to say, “You can’t fix what you won’t face, the truth is messy, and people are messy.”

“Jones encouraged me to pursue my education and fulfill my destiny as an author, playwright, producer and director,” said Askew.

The West Tampa native is the founder of Talents Blessed By GOD, a local production company. Her work includes “The Woman and the Alabaster Box,” “God has the Last Say,” and “Jesus Born in the Hood.”

A married mother of four adult children and grandmother, she is a member of Bible Based Fellowship Church in Carrollwood for more than 25 years.  She also volunteers with Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated and Men of Tomorrow, a youth group of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Askew is a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School and the University of Tampa, where she received a degree in Film Media and Communication with a minor in speech, drama and theater.

Come meet Askew and be inspired by her novel filled with insight and inspiration.