We’re proud to announce our 2026 Book Corner!
We’re starting off with July’s Highlight:
RPCV Naomi L. Shank (Senegal, 1989–1991)
Naomi published her first book, When the Universe Pivots, in 2026.
As a community development volunteer in Senegal’s Animation program, Naomi, lived in a rural village and partnered with residents to implement grassroots projects that improved quality of life. Naomi was inspired to write, When the Universe Pivots, after learning the history of people taken from Senegal and sold into slavery in America. Shortly after returning from Peace Corps service, she moved to New Orleans and was introduced to the research of historian Dr. Gwendolyn Midlo Hall, who documented that people from Senegal and The Gambia were among the first individuals enslaved in Louisiana during the 1700s and 1800s. Deeply affected by this history, Naomi set out to tell their story through fiction in a way that would engage contemporary readers.
When the Universe Pivots, is a sweeping, multigenerational novel spanning two continents and two centuries, exploring love, loss, resilience, and the enduring ties of heritage. Learn more at naomilshank.com.
More on the Author: Naomi holds an MBA in nonprofit and public management from Boston University. After a 25-year career leading philanthropic initiatives in education, economic development, healthcare, affordable housing, and interfaith bridge building, she founded SoftEarth Insights Coaching & Consulting in 2025. Visit her LinkedIn for more info.