Critic’s File 001: Nicholas A. Nichols

Najah Webb
BIPOC Book Critics Collective
2 min readJan 18, 2021

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Emerging Photographer, Book Critic, and Assistant Poetry Editor at The Rumpus, Nicholas A. Nichols, tells us about their inspiration, their craft, and the kindness they bring to their work.

Photograph of Nicholas A. Nicols

Critic’s File is a monthly case study of Black, Indigenous, Book Critics of Color, ranging from ambitious up-and-coming critics to those focused on leaving a legacy after a long and fruitful career. This section is wonderfully experimental and will continue to evolve in format and style as it ages. Sometimes the questions will seem purpose-driven, sometimes they’ll be borderline obscene. Our hope is that by observing how other critics approach their craft, their careers, and life in general, we will gain a broader understanding of the art of contemporary literary criticism and the steps to take to better navigate careers in media and publishing.

Name: Nicholas A. Nichols
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Favorite Snack: Dried Mango
Favorite Book: “Sirena Selena” by Mayra Santos-Febres
Biggest Creative Influence: Kanye West & Carrie Mae Weems

How long have you been a book critic?

February 2018 was when I published my first review.

How do you approach writing about

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Najah Webb
BIPOC Book Critics Collective

I’m a writer, autism mommy, editor, lover of books, parenting, culture, body positivity, and all things religion | You can find me: @TheNajahYasin, @BIPOCreader