In our fifth installment of Literary Vantage Points, the HBW staff has covered the book launch of Kevin Reeves. Reeves is the author of s.m.i.l.e., his debut novel—a love story painted against a Chicago cityscape.

In this brief interview, Reeves discusses the specific authors that have influenced him as a writer and literary scholar.  He also discusses what he hopes his novel will contribute to the African American literary cannon.

Reeves has also been a guest blogger for the HBW discussing the role of hip-hop in literature.