Celebrating the Launch of The People’s Detective at Red Bay Coffee Headquarters & Café

On Saturday, September 21, Red Bay Coffee Headquarters & Café in Oakland became the vibrant hub for the long-awaited launch of The People’s Detective by Dr. Nicholas Baham III. This unforgettable event, welcomed an enthusiastic crowd to celebrate a novel that dives deep into Oakland’s heart, blending rich storytelling with pressing social issues.

A Perfect Venue for a Thought-Provoking Novel

Set in the charming Red Bay Coffee HQ, the event began with an hour of mingling from 2:00 to 3:00 PM, where guests enjoyed fresh brews while connecting with other book lovers. DJ AstatuZ curated an upbeat soundtrack that filled the space with energy and set the stage for the exciting afternoon ahead.

Reading, Q&A, and Insight from Dr. Nicholas Baham

At 3:00 PM, the spotlight turned to Dr. Baham, a Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay, and an internationally respected scholar in Black Studies. Dr. Baham introduced The People’s Detective, his debut in a series that examines the hidden struggles and triumphs within Oakland’s Black community. From unreported stories of young women impacted by sex trafficking to gentrification and corporate corruption, Dr. Baham’s narrative sheds light on essential yet often overlooked issues.

Reading from his novel, Dr. Baham transported the audience into the gritty yet resilient world of his detective protagonist. As each line unfolded, the audience could feel the passion and authenticity in Dr. Baham’s words, capturing both the beauty and the struggles of Oakland.

Following the reading, the Q&A session offered fans a rare opportunity to delve into Dr. Baham’s inspirations and experiences that shaped The People’s Detective. He discussed how his work as a professor, writer, and media figure informs his fiction and how he hopes to amplify Oakland’s untold stories, fostering a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and current challenges.

Special Guests: Carol Denise Mitchell and Damien Hunter

Award-winning authors Carol Denise Mitchell and Damien Hunter joined the celebration as special guests, sharing their perspectives on the importance of representation in literature. They inspired everyone with their journeys and reiterated the impact of using one’s voice to foster awareness and social change — a mission shared by Dr. Baham and Bootstrap Publications.

Dr. Baham’s Vision for the People’s Detective Series

Dr. Baham’s vision extends beyond The People’s Detective as he plans to explore new themes in forthcoming books, addressing pressing issues such as homelessness and crime in the post-COVID era. His work is a powerful fusion of fact and fiction, a tribute to Oakland’s resilience, and a call for awareness and action.

Couldn’t Make It? Join the Story!

For those who couldn’t attend, you can still join Dr. Baham on this journey through the city he holds dear. The People’s Detective is available now, offering readers a compelling exploration of Oakland’s unfiltered stories and the nuanced dynamics within the Black community.

📖 Order Your Copy Here: The People’s Detective