Radical, Raw and Brilliant are just a few of the terms associated with this remarkable poet. Born in Brooklyn New York Castina Charles is a fierce passionate writer determined to take the literary world by storm. Learning to read and write at just the tender age of three Castina has spent her entire life fascinated with the written word. "Since as far back as I can remember I've always been inlove with literature. It has served as form of escapism, as well as the principal guiding force in my life." Castina attended St. John's University where she received both her bachelors and masters degree, and graduated with high honors. Her greatest achievement lies in the self-publication of her book Baad Ass Poetry. "For five years I struggled relentlessly to get my work out there. It was a harrowing task because I faced numerous obstacles. What kept me going was my deep rooted belief in my work, and the powerful impact I knew I would make." With the release of Baad Ass Poetry, Castina has begun to receive considerable notice. Editor of Books2Mention Storm Wynters describes her as "a budding poetess on the rise." Castina has continued to work on other projects. She is working on a new book of poetry entitles Rantings of A Mad Black Woman, and is currently in the process of creating a new site Baad Ass Literature which will be dedicated to showcasing the works of independent artists.