E Danielle Butler

Jessie Maple has a well-deserved reputation as a leader for Black women's rights and independent film advancement. Her first book, How to Become a Union Camerawoman, shared her journey to becoming the first African-American woman to join New York's camera operator's union. Her trailblazing accomplishments in the film industry include recognition as the first Black woman to write and produce a full-length film independently. While many have chronicled Maple's significant contributions to the industry, none have captured the moments of her career that are most meaningful - the people, the crew, the family - she assembled. The Maple Crew picks up where her debut title left off, offering a personal account of her experiences after the outcome of her discrimination appeal against a news network and the years that followed. Jessie Maple draws readers in by providing a candid glimpse into the episodes that were known as her life.