1. One of the most popular poets that Coffee House publishes, Troupe has been the cover subject in magazines ranging from Poets & Writers to Black Issues Book Review. He's a dynamic performer and outspoken interview subject who keeps an extensive travel schedule-teaching workshops, participating in reading series, and book festivals. Based on his track record, we can expect sales for each event in the 50-100 copy range. 2. Troupe's work is already taught in African American Studies and English classes at both the secondary school and university levels. The title poem of this collection should garner wide attention and, as always, Troupe's tribute poems to musicians and sports stars will likely spread far and wide. 3. Despite the controversy raised by Troupe's resignation as California's first poet laureate during the publication of his most recent book, Transcircularities, the book sold well and won the Milt Kessler Poetry Book Award, was a Publishers Weekly Book of the Year, and a finalist for the Paterson Poetry Prize. It was also a well-received selection in the prestigious Minnesota-based Talking Volumes book club (sponsored by the Loft, Star Tribune, Speakeasy magazine, and Minnesota Public Radio).