ORAL HISTORY
The Curious Case of the Underground Copies of Ziggi's Book:
October 2026
If you know of me, you've likely seen my work exploring our local roots, mapping archives, and recording our shared community history. But recently, a completely different kind of mis-story has unfolded.
Back in November of last year, I quietly printed my first collection of poems. It was a deeply personal milestone, and I deliberately chose to bypass the traditional publishing route. There was no ISBN, no commercial distribution, and no marketing blitz. Instead, I restricted the print run strictly as a private gift for close friends and family. (And for those wondering, Guerrilla Histories, which I produced this past May, is under total lock and key due to copyright reasons!)
However, the universe—and the printing fairy — had other plans for Disabled Black Boys with Flies in Their Eyes.
It has come to my attention that a batch of copies from that first edition managed an "escape". They have found their way into the hands of books-of-lore, a niche and antiquarian bookseller on eBay, who has been offering them for sale without my permission.
Conventional wisdom says an author should be upset by bootleg copies. But as a historian, I can’t help but be fascinated by the narrative. What was meant to be a private circle of words has accidentally transformed into an underground rarity out in the wild.
To anyone who has stumbled across my poetry via eBay: Welcome. You have accidentally acquired a piece of a very limited, unreleased print run. While I didn't intend for the book to find the public this way, I am deeply moved that these poems are out there finding an audience of their own. For how much longer my lawyer wonders?
What’s Next?
Because of the copyright restrictions, Guerrilla Histories in Poems+ will remain strictly private. However, this entire experience has lit a spark. I am currently working on a unique concept for Book 3, and this time, I am actively seeking a traditional publisher to bring it to the wider public officially.
If you managed to snag one of those escaped copies of Disabled Black Boys, let me know via the Contact Form. I will put your name in the draw for a free copy of my groundbreaking 3rd volume. Or, if you've been following my historical work and want to see where my poetry goes next, please drop your details in the Contact Form. I’d love to invite you to apply for signed, free copies of both Guerrillas and my third book.
Thanks, and please stay in touch.
Ziggi
12 October 2026