Alumnus’ Novel Inspired by Trials and Triumphs

3/28/2008

By Deonshay Danson, student writer
Accomplished musician, writer and Alabama State University alumnus Carlos Rance Redman published his first fiction novel, Young Hearts Run Free.
Set on a fictitious depiction of ASU called HBCU, Young Hearts Run Free is the story of Heart, a troubled young man whose journey into manhood is shaped by his anger and bitter resentment towards his absent father.
The novel is inspired by Redman’s own personal trials and triumphs. Redman says the book was sparked by his relationship with his father.
“Very often I wondered how different my life would have been had we made a connection. I felt it was a solitary problem until I began teaching. There are millions of young men who are yearning for a rapport with their paternal legacy, and fill the void with rebellion”, said Redman.
Redman’s unique writing style and method of story telling utilizing his musical background brings Heart’s story alive, as this gripping tale addresses some of the contemporary issues that plague the hearts of young men – commitment, education, manhood and legacy.
When asked what people should take away from his book, Redman said, “Young hearts should triumph over adversity by learning from their experiences. They survive, not by using them as negative affects, but as a symbolism of endurance”.
Redman, a Detroit native, graduated from Alabama State University in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts... Redman is the recipient of several literary awards, including the Detroit Optimist Scholar Award, the National American Appreciation Award, and twice the African American History Award for Literature from Alabama State University. Redman has two jazz albums, “Remix” and “Love Letters”.
Young Hearts Run Free was released February 28 and is published by Southern Pleasures Books, and can be found at the following retailers: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Target, and Borders.