Janet Cheatham Bell

author and publishing consultant

"The Time and Place That Gave Me Life is such a gift. It speaks to the incredible things that can be manifest, even despite the greatest obstacles." Nissy Stetson-Grace, Greencastle, Indiana


“Great book! I haven’t read many stories of everyday living of a black person in America. Bell’s coming of age story in Indianapolis with its historical perspective makes this book very valuable. I’m truly pleased that she is writing!” Betty Brigewaters, Bloomington, Indiana


There are not many things that I highly recommend to people, but I urge all of you to read Janet Cheatham Bell's memoir. ...She opens a door into America's past that most of us have never been privy. The overt (as well as the behind-closed door) racism that one person (and her family, friends and peers) dealt with for generations in the Midwest was eye-opening. I was completely unaware of the prejudice in Indiana, in particular, Indianapolis. What none of [the other civil rights literature] have ever done for me is just, 'break it down' to the every day life of a black person growing up in post-depression America. How a family makes little or simple adjustments to their lives, including the way they plan a family vacation, or the methods they use to earn a living....I was brought to tears several times. This work is truly an inspiration and I hope you will take the time to read about a fantastic family and incredible woman." Dan Hoops, Detroit, Michigan


"We must read and talk about Bell’s memoir." Rita Kohn, Indianapolis, Indiana in NUVO: Indy's Alternative Voice, June 6, 2007


I am enjoying The Time and Place That Gave Me Life immensely. Janet Cheatham Bell writes the way someone would talk and I like that kind of chatty style. Christy Farnum Pope, Iowa


"I loved your book. I teach U.S. history and grew up in Indiana. You opened my eyes to many things I did not know about Indiana. Thank you for your story." Pam Gimbel


"Janet Cheatham Bell's memoir is both heart-wrenching and heart warming....an extraordinary account of the times in which she grew up, a strong and resourceful family, and her own resilience and courage." Barbara Carlson, Bloomington, IN.


"I could not put it down, except to sleep....It is a great coming of age book and I think today's generation of Americans need to be reminded of how RECENT all this stuff was. Thanks for writing it." Vinita Ricks, Perugia, Italy


"This book is exquisite!" Chalmer Thompson, Indianapolis, IN


"What a triumph! You really pulled it altogether and have made a bold and courageous tale. The way you combine the personal and the political is perfect." Antonia Matthew, Bloomington, IN


"Your work is thought provoking and enjoyable and really beautiful. It is so wonderful to hear about your experiences in a voice that is honest and reflective... a wonderful blend of personal anecdotes and factual information." Melissa Hudson, Riverside, CA


"The first chapter is powerful. It reads like a really good opinion piece in a newspaper. It is personal, funny, informative and has a bite." Jason B. Smith, Oak Park, IL


"I was totally captured by your narrative. You told a very human, candid, and gripping story. What a gift to your family and friends -- and to yourself." Marcella Taylor, Indianapolis, IN


I found it refreshing to read about your life from your informed, unapologetic and humorous perspective. I loved it! D. Delores Logan, Columbia, SC


"This is one crazy world and hopefully your book will help it become a better place." Elaine Smith, Chicago, IL


"This coming of age tale has universal appeal and should be required reading for all Indiana high school students." A'Lelia Bundles, Washington, DC




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