Contributors from the UK and the US read excerpts from the book, at its launch in Hackney, including essays, poetry, interviews, and vignettes, and spoke about the poignancy of the event taking place on the night of the planned riots across the UK, highlighting the continued racial and political unrest that James Baldwin wrote about in his own lifetime.
Kadija George Sesay, Co-Editor of Encounters with James Baldwin, said:
"What a powerful learning curve it has been to edit this book! This compilation of original material allows the reader to learn and understand James Baldwin from a new angle.
"He has been part of the coming-of-age journey for many and an oracle for others.
"But what Baldwin really impresses on us is the importance of history and the essential nature to love."