So here's the new PW cover and here's the new PW controversy. Is it racist? No. Is the photo impressive? Yes, and I'm sure in the context of the book if came from, it is quite lovely indeed. But in a year that has seen so much vocal online discussion about the struggles for People of Color in literature, of arguing about book covers, of angst over POC in SFF and railing against the book store gods who insist upon all too often sequestering African American authors in a separate section of their stores, well, really...who the hell thought this cover was a good idea?

Calvin Reed, Senior News Editor at PW (and also African American btw) seems to take the primary responsibility (via Galleycat): "I admit that I love afro picks! In the 1970s I had many just like them also stuck in my massive afro ... and it's a story about 'picking' books. I love dumb jokes," Reid wrote on Twitter. He concluded: "While I respect everyone who may be offended, I think the photo is a delightful and wry expression of historical Afro Americana."

Great. It's a joke. Okay, I get it but PW is the leading industry magazine for an industry that is so woefully behind when it comes to racial and ethnic diversity it's not the slightest bit funny. Now is not the time for jokes, we are way past jokes. (And please - jokes about African American hair in 2009?! Really?) It is like pulling teeth to find middle grade and YA lit written by POC or containing characters of color. It drives me insane trying to find this balance on a monthly basis (and all too often I fail miserably). So if you want to highlight titles by African American authors how about your just review more and more and MORE OF THEM in every damn issue? How about we make African American literature less about something different (and judging by this cover, just flat out weird) and more about just being part of the American literary landscape? Could we, do you think? FINALLY?!

This is not a racist cover but is about the lamest thing to come down the pike this year (except maybe the Liar cover). PW, wake up and get a grip, okay? We really shouldn't have to remind you what's its like out here in the literary world; you're supposed to know this crap already.

[Please read author Tayari Jones' take on the cover - my favorite bit: "And the fists? Good Lord, as if sisters-- in writing and in life-- don't have to worry about seeming scary and intimidating. (Mrs. Obama, can I get an Amen?)]