”I will not have my life narrowed down. I will not bow down to somebody else’s whim or to someone else’s ignorance.” -bell hooks

bell hooks was a pioneering author, feminist, social activist, cultural theorist, and teacher whose unflinching work carved deep grooves for the feminist and anti-racist movements. In this collection of interviews, stretching from early in her career until her last interview, she discusses feminism, her ”Hillbilly Roots”, class politics, the complexity of rap music and masculinity, Buddhism, intersectionality, sexuality, and the importance of communication across cultural borders. Whether sparking controversy on campuses or facing criticism from contemporaries, hooks relentlessly challenged herself and those around her, inserted herself into the tensions of the cultural moment, and anchored herself with love.

”bell hook’s profound and positive influence will be with us for generations to come. May she rest in power.” -Vice president Kamala Harris

”She was an intellectual giant, spiritual genius & freest of persons! We shall never forget her!” -Cornel West

”hook’s writing inspired generations of writers and thinkers after her, gave voice to plight of Black women in American society, and advocated for love as a transformative force.” -Kevin Young, poet and the director of the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of African American History and Culture

”bell hooks embodied amazing courage and deeply felt intelligence. In finding her own words and power, she inspired countless others to do the same.” -Margaret Atwood