Author Talk: Sammie's War

Plainfield author, Crystal Reynolds will discuss her recent book, Sammie’s War (WestBow Press, 2021). Sammie's War depicts an African-American enlisted soldier’s battle on two fronts during the First World War. Our main character, Sammie Lee Henderson begins his “combat duty” as a somewhat naïve but confident, intelligent young man, determined to use his talents in the war effort. Immediately after arriving on base, he must defend himself in the United States against a murder charge and systemic racism, before boarding a troop ship to defend our country overseas. Unlike his Caucasian counterparts, Sam’s fight against the Germans was his second battle. He finds true love before heading off to Europe, but returns changed not only due to combat, but the oppression in his native land. The pain and anger take their toll on the young private. He never talks about the first battle again, leaving it for his wife Bessie to reveal almost 50 years later, and then only upon his death.

This program is part of the Library's Black History Month celebration.

Crystal Darlene (Price) Reynolds is the youngest of five children born to the late Rev. Calvin D. and Gertrude L. Price. Her father was an CPA and (retired) United Methodist Minister, & her mother was a Special Education instructor. Mrs. Reynolds was inducted into the National Honor Society in high school and graduated from Rutgers College, Rutgers University (New Brunswick, New Jersey) with a double major in English and Political Science. Previously, she was employed as an Assistant Contract Consultant as well as a Contract Analyst for two major insurance carriers. Her proudest accomplishment (other than graduating from college, then giving birth at age 47) is being a breast cancer survivor first in 2001, then again in 2011. In 2004, Mrs. Reynolds discovered another spiritual gift, writing. Along with SAMMIE’S WAR, she is the author of a manuscript entitled, IT FEELS...LIKE COTTAGE CHEESE (a 180 + page spiritual memoir outlining her two breast cancer experiences (and median childbirth)). In the past, she has had articles previously published in SEEK, LIVING, and MORE.com magazines.

This FREE program is open to all, and is hosted by Plainfield Public Library and the Historical Society of Plainfield / Drake House Museum.

Our programs are made possible in part by operating support grants from the New Jersey Historical Commission, a division of the Department of State - additionally through a grant administered by the Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, Department of Parks and Recreation; and by a 2023 HEART (History, Education, Arts Reaching Thousands) Grant from the Union County Board of County Commissioners.