Anansi Storytelling

About Dean Baxter

Dean Baxter, a union electrician based in San Jose, California, is not just skilled in the complexities of circuits and power systems, but also in weaving intricate tales that electrify the imagination. A proud U.S. Navy veteran, Dean’s discipline and resilience shine through in both his professional and creative endeavors.

From a young age, Dean was captivated by the world of superheroes, drawing inspiration from the iconic tales of Black Panther and X-Men. These stories, filled with characters that transcended the ordinary, sparked his lifelong passion for the extraordinary and led him down the path of storytelling.

Dean’s narratives are a unique blend of the mystique of ancient African legends and the allure of modern storytelling. His books pay homage to diverse cultures and traditions, creating rich, resonant narratives that speak to readers from all walks of life. Through his storytelling, Dean invites his audience on journeys that transcend the ordinary and celebrate the extraordinary aspects of human spirit and creativity.

Residing in the vibrant landscape of California, Dean’s life is full of inspiration. He shares his home with his loving wife, three remarkable sons, and two cherished canine companions—a Black Lab and a rescued pitty. His commitment to his family is paralleled only by his dedication to his craft.

With each word he pens, Dean Baxter invites readers into worlds where the fantastical becomes possible, urging us all to find the extraordinary in ourselves. As he continues to create, his stories promise to captivate the imagination and inspire those who venture into his literary world.

The Milieu

Milieu Synopsis of the Black Power Universe

The Black Power universe, as vividly created by Dean Baxter, immerses readers into a contemporary setting riddled with societal, racial, and supernatural tensions. This sprawling narrative takes us from the streets of major American cities to secretive underground facilities and mystical spaces between life and death, known as the In Between.

At the core of this universe is Scipio Harelson, a young Black man from San Jose, who, after a near-death experience, discovers his extraordinary abilities—telepathy and vector manipulation. His journey is not only about mastering these powers but also using them to effect change and protect those around him. Scipio’s character development is intertwined with his ability to navigate the complexities of his powers and the responsibilities they entail.

The series explores themes of systemic injustice through the “New Negro Problem,” a term coined by antagonistic forces within the story to describe the rise of empowered Black individuals like Scipio. This conflict is central to the plot, as Scipio becomes a beacon of hope for many, establishing clinics and safe havens for the oppressed, which not only heal but also protect communities from societal harms.

Scipio’s allies, including his best friend Ian Henderson, play pivotal roles. Together, they tackle both covert operations against them and the broader societal challenges facing their community. The narrative does not shy away from depicting the intricate conspiracies woven by those in power to maintain status quo, portraying high-stakes interactions that span global dimensions involving other empowered individuals and entities.

In the supernatural realms, the series expands the universe to the In Between—a liminal space where souls traverse post-death or pre-birth. Scipio and his allies navigate this realm too, bringing an ethereal quality to the narrative that connects the spiritual and physical realms. This aspect of the story not only deepens the lore but also aligns with the metaphysical struggles the characters face, reflecting their inner battles and growth.

The opposition Scipio faces is formidable, involving entities like the Sotir Group, which seeks to exploit or eradicate individuals like him. These antagonists are not merely villains; they are representations of entrenched systemic issues that the protagonists aim to dismantle. The narrative delves into the complexities of these conflicts, showing the nuances of power, control, and the human spirit.

Social commentary is woven throughout, with real-world issues like police brutality, racial profiling, and social equity discussed openly. The clinics set up by Scipio and his team are a direct response to these issues, providing not only medical relief but also a form of resistance against the oppressive structures depicted in the series.

Dean Baxter’s Black Power universe is a bold amalgamation of superhero fiction, deep social commentary, and vibrant storytelling that challenges readers to think critically about the world around them while rooting for characters that represent much more than their supernatural abilities. It is a universe where the battle for justice is visceral and ongoing, and where each victory is celebrated as a step towards a better, more just world.