By Derrick I.M. Gilbert (a.k.a. D-Knowledge) with a Foreword by Sonia sanchez

The first collection of original poems by "an extraordinary young poet and performer." -James McBride, author of The Color of Water

On the front lines of the spoken-word poetry movement, Derrick I.M. Gilbert (a.k.a. D-Knowledge) has become one of today's most influential and talked-about young performers. HennaMan is the debut collection of his poems-vibrant, contemporary, often humorous, and always provocative.

"D-Knowledge uses his poetry to talk about life in a way we can all relate to."-Quincy Jones

"How do you spell poet in these pseudo-poetical times? You spell him Derrick Gilbert."-Sonia Sanchez

"He is a teacher, lover, and a friend, using the power of word and logic, irony and insight to rally his fellow African-Americans to respect themselves and each other....A fine performer, a stunning intellect, and a poetic talent likely to be judged in time alongside Amiri Baraka and Gil Scott-Heron."-The Philadelphia Daily News