“Rykas books give LGBTQ individuals a voice; a chance to speak up over their oppression. Rykas ability to articulate her inner feelings shows an in-depth mastery over the written word. The enthusiasm with which she reads suggest a passion for the topics she writes about. There were moments within her readings where members of her audience were moved to tears. There were other moments in which they laughed out loud. In just one hour, Ryka Aoki managed to command the attention of everyone in the room. No one was checking their cell phones. No one was looking at their watch. For a full hour, a room full of college students was fully engaged. This is quite an accomplishment in todays world.”

Thank you again, so much to Western Illinois University, and to Merrill Cole. And to Hali Pace, the writer of this piece.

Ryka