Authors N Focus

Happy Write Year

2012-01-12T20:40:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

Glad that there's another year, this is the best time to get started on your literary dreams.

If you're an aspiring author, it makes sense to invest in a writer's seminar or workshop. These classes get you going on the 'ground floor' as you'll hear from professionals who describe their experience, expertise, and encouragement that you will need to go through the publishing process.

It is believed there is an estimate of 80% of the U.S. population that wants to write a book. Wishing to write a book is not the same as actually making it happen. How many of you felt this was the year to begin that long awaited novel or family biography, perhaps even a chapbook full of your favorite poems only to be bogged down with personal issues, obligations and unexpected events? While we cannot predict what will happen in the course of the year, it is suggested that you at least attend a workshop or seminar in your area to at least know what is expected of you when you finally put pen to paper and start your manuscript.

If you don't have the time to attend one of these functions, then take a look at the Resources page of our website, Authors N Focus, and discover what it takes to be the author you want to be.

Until then, always keep your dreams in focus!

Charles Chatmon
Authors N Focus

P.S. This blog has been neglected for the longest time, but starting this year, we'll go more into the issues surrounding the publishing business and what it means for new and aspiring authors. We plan to post more interviews from emerging writers too.

Dawn M. Lightsy: Producer N Focus

2011-11-03T10:55:00.000-07:00

Update: We’ve been away, but we’re back and will have news about the show soon.

You already know about the hosts of the upcoming Authors N Focus program, but there is a third person involved in making this happen, co-producer Dawn M. Lightsy. Dawn is the author of Stellar, a novel which chronicles the struggle of Common Starr, a successful screenwriter who faces challenges in her marriage, her profession and her inner demons.

She is also the founder of Red Sea Entertainment, a commercial, television and film company located in Los Angeles, California. The company specializes in the production of seeing literary print works to screen and developing projects to feature and short films to documentaries and commercials.

While Dawn is working to secure a home for the Authors N Focus television show (we thank her for that), she is currently working on a few projects that you can look for yourself on her new website: http://www.redseaent.com

We thank Dawn for her contribution as she is keeping her dreams N focus!

Authors N Focus - The TV Show update!

2011-04-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

It's been busy in the past couple of weeks on the ANF TV Show side of things, but we're finally getting it together.

Together with producer Dawn Lightsy, co-host Chandra Adams and myself, we've finished taping the first few shows and ready to start airing them in May. (L.A. market only - nationwide later on). I hope you'll enjoy our interviews with the following guests: Actress and author Cherie Johnson; Actress, filmmaker and author, Ci Ci Foster (photo courtesy of her husband, Kevin), Michael McGrew, Wisdom Sikora, Wilma Blair-Reed, Odessa Cleveland, Aja Rae, Jas Jamieson, Gary Phillips, Shay Olivarria, Michele Waters and Nelson Brown.

Quite a lineup huh? We had fun speaking with them and I hope you'll feel the same after you watch the shows.

We have a YouTube page up now with Writing Tips for new and aspiring authors. We have a page on the blog for past lessons, and we'll have a link on the website soon.

Authors N Focus - The Next Level!

2011-02-24T20:50:00.000-08:00

Reprinted from another blog......

I’ve been silent on the blog the past few days due to a wonderful new project coming up.

It all started during a writers workshop last year at the AC Bilbrew Library in Los Angeles. I’ve shared my knowledge of the writing business at that location for several years and in this one workshop, one young lady was so impressed with the material I presented, she claimed it was the best workshop she’s ever been in. Come to find out, my detailed lesson stuck with her enough to contact me and suggest we turn that knowledge into a cable show and add a webcast as well.

So now I present to you….Authors N Focus - The T.V. show! Yes, Authors N Focus, the website that laid dormant for years (finally updated it last year) is now a television show. With the help of Dawn Lightsy of Red Sea Entertainment, we begin shooting in March and we have a partner for the internet radio version of the show. I can’t tell you that I feel blessed right now that things are moving in a good direction and authors old and new, will benefit from this. The specifics are still being played out, but I feel good about the long term success of the program. It promises to be a lot of work and the payoff I feel, will be worth it. Chandra’s joining me as a co-host so you can expect a great show.

In the weeks and months to come, I’ll have more news regarding the show and which authors, writers, poets, you name it, will appear. I never thought it would be a reality, still grinning from ear to ear proves again that hard work, prayer and perseverance does indeed pay off.

THE SHAY FRESH INTERVIEW

2010-12-13T14:14:00.000-08:00

Quite often here at Authors N Focus, we run into friends and associates who planned to write a book, but for some reason, never get around to it. Therefore it is with extreme pleasure I bring on a talented artists who has attended many book festivals in the Los Angeles community now spreading her wings with the release of her debut title, 'Black Love: Challenging the Status Quo'. Here is Shay Fresh.

Authors N Focus: Hello Shay, thanks for taking part in the interview. First, what can you tell us about Black Love, your first book?

Shay: Thank you Charles! Black Love: Challenging the Status Quo examines the intersection of love and the various dynamics within the Black community, and to encourage harmonious interfacing between Black men, women and children.

ANF:Does your book address any of the standard issues between men and women? How does it differ from all of the relationship titles on the market?

Shay: The book will address some standard issues within the context of the "man/woman" dynamic, but it differs because this is not an "advice" or "how to" book, but it deals with a holistic context on the ideas of love and the entire community from a creative expression angle and from an African/Black view.

ANF: I have to admit; reading your press release there’s a reference to food preparation which begs me to ask this question, what part does a healthy lifestyle play in maintaining or building healthy relationships?

Shay: The body is interconnected to the mind and soul, and we must take care of our physical bodies with healthy food, so that we are operate on a higher level of existence. We also have to be very conscious of the ENERGY we put into our foods when we prepare our meals. Angry heart, angry food - happy heart, happy food! This is why "Soul Food" is such a celebrated culinary staple within our culture, because of the "love and creative energy" that is involved...even though the ingredients were detrimental to our health.

ANF: I understand Black Love will also display your fabulous poems as well. What poems should our reading audience expect to find in the book?

Shay: The poems cover a variety of topics including motherhood, money, love between a man and a woman, being happy with one's career life, and many other topics we deal with as a community. A lot of these poems were collected over a period of time, so you will experience my growth during the journey of creating within the poetry paradigm.

ANF:What reaction would you like Black Love to have? What lessons do you feel our reading audience will learn from the book?

Shay: I would love for people to feel stimulated to re-connect to their power of independent thought, or encourage them on the path of independent thought. The reader will learn the creative aspect of embodying the various principles found in the Kwanzaa celebration, especially the principle of "Kuumba" which means "To do always as much as we can, in the way we can, in order to leave our community more beautiful and beneficial than we inherited it."

ANF: Shay, I’ve known you for a while and you have interests outside of writing. Please share with us what they are.

Shay:I really enjoy and love art, so my interests include portrait photography, graphic design, fine art, and theatre. Motherhood definitely has my greatest interest!

ANF: How important is literacy in the community to you?

Shay:There was a period in time that it was unlawful for a Black person to learn how to read. Illiteracy limits a person from extending their talents to higher levels and disables a huge opportunity to receive quality information and knowledge to could positively enhance their life. "Underserved" communities suffer from this plague, and it's important that literacy is enforced, so that the members of the community can search and find information that could transform their lives, and their community.

ANF:As a new author, what are your expectations for future books? Will they continue to center around romance, social consciousness, health, or anything else you have in mind?

Shay: I expect my future works to continue on the path of stimulate social consciousness and to enhance the quality of life of the reader through examining various mediums of creative expression.

ANF: Shay, where can our readers find you online and offline?

Shay: I be emailed at shayfresh@hotmail.com, on my website - Shayfresh.com, on Facebook (facebook.com/imagesofhue) or on Twitter (twitter.com/iamshayfresh).

ANF:Do you have anything left to share with our new and aspiring authors reading this? What would be the one piece of advice you can leave them with?

Shay:When entering the realm of becoming a published author, you must love more than just "writing"; you must also love the "business" of writing as well.

ANF: Shay, it’s a pleasure taking time to interview you and I can’t wait to find out what “Black Love” is all about. Thanks once again.

Shay: And thank you for providing an outlet for local authors to share their work with the community!

THE IMANI TRUE INTERVIEW

2010-12-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

Imani True and Dreama Skye are two new authors on the literary scene with a book that’s considered hot and steamy. Their erotic novel, “Strawberries Stilettos and Steam” has caught the attention of many and the two ladies are certainly on their way upwards as a solid team of erotic literature writers. Authors N Focus is glad to speak with one of the co-authors of “Strawberries Stilettos and Steam”, Ms. Imani True.

Authors N Focus: Imani, thank you for your time. Please share with our reading audience what (or who) convinced you to produce a novel, especially an erotic novel?

Imani: I have always written stories, having done my first one at the age of six. Over my life, I've managed to have scraps and notes on every topic. After taking time off to raise a family, I decided to pull out those scraps and see what I had. When I read them, my creativity just opened up! Dreama helped convince me that we should write this book because we both wanted to put some different Erotica out there-maybe attract new readers, and give the experienced readers something fresh to add to their collection.

ANF: How did you meet Dreama and why did you two decide to write “Strawberries Stilettos and Steam” together as opposed to writing your own books?

Imani: I was actually writing my own book, and fell into a long stint of writer's block. I put the novel aside, but continued writing my stories. I posted them on a few social networking sites where I met Dreama, who was writing amazing erotic poetry at the same time. We tried writing something together, and realized that our styles, our talents, merged very well. My novel was on the backburner by then anyway, so we decided to collaborate this book, which was done via text, instant messaging, chats group, e-mails, and phone, since we live in different states.

ANF: I’m sure our audience would like to know the stories inside the book. Please tell us why they will leave them “intrigued, enticed and definitely turned on?”

Imani: I think readers will find at least one story they can totally relate to. They will recognize the characters (with different names, of course), and put themselves in some of the very unique, very erotic situations we put them in. Our characters are regular men and women who live out their fantasies. Not everyone is in a position to do that, but our stories will at least give them a peek at some things they mave have never thought about. Or maybe they have. Even so, they'll live through the eyes of Nikas who receives the best birthday gift ever; they'll think about ditching their GPS for paper road maps; they'll feel the love between Jamaica and Shante; they'll fist-bump Jamal, who gets worked over while logged on; and they will definitely envy Darius, who's been fantasizing about his best friend's very sexy, recently-divorced mother. And trust me, that's JUST the beginning!

ANF: Who are the main characters of each tale? Our main characters range from married couples, long term boyfriends/girlfriends, best friends from college, people who met on the internet, and total strangers. Why are they relevant to each story?

Imani: They're relevant because they're regular, normal adults who simply explore their feelings and desires. We get to know their lives, their personalities, why they're in the situation they are in, and how they react to it. There's love, humor, fun in this book. And some of the dialogue...well, it's real talk!

ANF: What do you think the audience will come away with after reading your book?

Imani: I think our audience will feel like our characters are people they know. They will also realize that we all have fantasies; some live them out, some deny them, and some live through others who are bold enough to experience their fantasies firsthand.

ANF: Imani, you’re a native New Yorker, but you’ve been in Las Vegas for quite awhile. What differences have you found in the attitudes between East and West coast book buyers and readers?

Imani: So far, I haven't seen much difference in East and West coast readers/book buyers. I think all readers enjoy good writing, writing that puts them into the work being read. What people choose to read is a personal choice, but most readers are open-minded, visual people who can appreciate works in every genre, even if it's not their favorite genre. Readers love to read something they wouldn't normally read and be entertained. They love writers who "take them there," and they'll support you if they like your work.

ANF: In your bio, it mentions you’re working on other projects, including a future novel with Ms. Skye. Would you like to share with our audience what they are?

Imani: Dreama and I are already working on a sequel to "Strawberries." No title yet. As for me, I'm working on a novel entitled "A Little Sumthin' Sumthin'" about a woman starting her life over after divorce. I also have a four-part crime series in progress-my background is in Forensic Science/Criminalistics. I can't wait to do that one because I spent years in school and at various jobs perfecting those skills. I am anxious to share them with readers as the backdrop of 4 great stories.

ANF: Is it difficult collaborating with another author or does it make the storytelling process easier?

Imani: Not at all. It was very easy working with Dreama because she is so visual. And as a poet, she has a way with words, and really understands how they should flow to paint a picture. We worked very well together, and it shows. One reader even said "the book reads like it was written by one person." We hoped it would read that way, but didn't really plan it. We just put our heart and soul into the writing and let our characters guide us. They told their stories; we just wrote them down.

ANF: Where can our reading audience find you and Dreama? Website, snail mail, etc.?

Imani: Our book is available on Amazon, Borders, Barnes and Nobel, as well as all the other online sellers. We are getting it in more stores daily, and will be out touring soon. Our website is www.trueskyemedia.com and we're both on Twitter (Imani True/Dreama Skye1); Facebook (DreamaSkye/Imani True). We each have our own blogs (skyeserotichaven.blogspot.com

and truerotica.blogspot.com). And of course, our publisher is at www.ncmpublishing.com. The best place to start is at www.trueskyemedia.com where you can view the video, meet the characters, keep up with tour dates, and contact us via e-mail. they can even purchase signed copies of the book via PayPal!

ANF: Any closing thoughts or advice to new or aspiring authors reading this interview right now?

Imani: I would tell them to keep writing through the droughts, and NEVER throw anything! Also, be prepared when your opportunity comes because it may come out of the blue. And finally, believe in your work, write from your heart, and just do it!

ANF: Imani, thank you for taking time out in participating in this interview. I wish you and Ms. Skye much success and I look forward seeing the both of you at future book events.

Imani: Thank you, Charles, for this opportunity to your readers to our work.

THE MIKAL EL-AMIN INTERVIEW

2010-10-27T00:10:00.000-07:00

Mikal El-Amin is the sole founder of Double-Up Publishing producing a series of urban literature tales and romance novels. Authors N Focus caught up with Mikal to find out more about the company and his current title, 187 Iz An Art.

Authors N Focus: Where did the idea of 187 Iz An Art come from?

Mikal: Through correspondence with Richard Brown we decided to get into the literary arena, by coauthoring a debut novel to introduce ourselves to the world, and then afterwards to work on our individual releases.
We wanted to demonstrate exactly why some adolescents, particularly at-risk youth, turn to a life of crime. Some people may think that no matter the circumstance kids have options or outlets, which is absolutely true, however depending on the dynamics of their circumstances, it is difficult sometimes.
For instance, say a kid is from a very rough neighborhood. He's an all-around good kid with no street intentions. One day he gets into a fight with another young guy who is a thug and he beats the guy up. Days later he crosses paths with the same guy who is with his friends and they jump the kid. Fuel to the fire-they all go to the same school.
The innocent kid decides to carry a knife to protect his self. You can see how the initial altercation had a snowball effect; because maybe he ends up srabbing one of them when defending his self in subsequent altercations with the group of boys. Now the kid feels the need to have a gun, because he knows the other guys are hardcore thugs.
What if the kid's parents don't have any means of moving to another neighborhood, or options to send him to live with relatives in better environments. With the premise of this one example there could be many tragic outcomes that manifest. The kid gets caught with the gun, does time, kills one of the guys etc. Ultimately what happens is that typical innocent kids become hardened, because of the environment which they are raised in. This is why we developed the story starting Kamikaze and Killa off at such a young age, so that it made sense why they were leading that type of lifestyle.
We decided that our debut novel would be an urban-fiction title, which would have the elements of life as a hustler or gangster, as we know it. Our focus was to put out a novel that was 100% uncut with no holding back, as far as the level of street content was concerned, so that hopefully readers would take away from the book that there is absolutely nothing glamorous about the streets.

ANF: Who are the main characters in your novel?

Mikal: The main characters are Kamikaze and Killa. Kamikaze is a charming cool adolescent from the projects who has no intent on becoming a gangster, but faced with hopelessness and despair, he concludes that the only way to a better life is to be a drug dealer. He ends up being a very brutal type. Killa finds himself in the same circumstances, which makes sense, because he and Kamikaze both live in the projects with Killa's mother. So he evolves into a similar street guy, however he is more of a calculating type, a thinker.

ANF: Are there any supporting characters the readers should be interested in?

Mikal: There is Paula, Tiffany, and Nee Cee which are three young ladies whom are all major characters in the story, from beginning to end. Paula is the thorough chick in the story. She has everything together, and is independent with lots of aspirations. She's very pretty, knows the streets, is from the hood, but carries herself properly and has plans she's pursuing in life. She gets sucked into the game though which unfortunately happens frequently to young ladies.
Tiffany is the around the way girl in the story. She's from the hood but has a real nice personality, and is sweet, sexy, optimistic, and very likeable. Tiffany is the girl in life everyone thinks is going to be somebody and she has all the potential, but her characteristics of trust, loyalty to friends, and a small hint of naiveté becomes her down fall. Life swallows her up. Nee Cee is the gangsta chick in its essence. She's sharp, direct, indifferent, independent, deadly, attractive, and ambitious. She'll do whatever it takes in her quest for money and power, and has an unshakable loyalty to her man.

ANF: I see you're originally from Durham where the story takes place. How much of it is fact and what is fiction in the book?

Mikal: It is a story of fiction. I would assume though that most writers have to pull from life experiences when creating characters and telling a story, so that what they are describing is authentic. Richard Brown and I are both from Liberty Street Projects where most of the story takes place. In the early 90's, Lib as we called it, was a very dangerous place and Durham as a whole period.
So being from those projects one couldn't help but know the streets on an intimate level.

ANF: I see 187 Iz An Art has won several awards. Where did you win them and how do you feel about receiving accolades from your masterpiece?

Mikal: The first award, a 2009 Los Angeles Book Festival Award, was won in Los Angeles and Richard Brown and I were honored in Hollywood at the acclaimed Roosevelt Hotel along with the other winners of various genres. I was very pleased and excited about the award. Winning the award was a surprise to me, as the organization is a mainstream outfit, and they have competitions globally.
It was a bit overwhelming observing the managing director's excitement when announcing our title as the winner. His segue to me making my speech contained an astonishing compliment that I definitely wasn't expecting, so I was somewhat nervous initially. It was a wonderful night and a major push in my growth, and having my family there made it even more special.
The second was a 2010 San Francisco Book Festival Award, and the third was a 2010 New York Book Festival Honorable Mention. Overall, the awards have motivated me to continue to grow as a writer, and challenge my capabilities by tackling the most unique plots I can think of. I plan on heightening the complexity of each novel that I release, by writing outside of the box. Also I am grateful for the awards because they helped to bolster my confidence. As an author I want to please my readers, because they are a part of the nucleus which allows me to have success as a writer.

ANF: According to your website, you sent your manuscript to several publishers but was turned down or didn't receive a reply. From all the success you're enjoying now, how do you feel about owning your own publishing company and producing an award winning novel?

Mikal: First and foremost I have to definitely give credit to my parents for this. They have instilled in me the value of being a leader my entire life, so that quality helped me in this aspect of my success. I was raised in a highly disciplined household, so this quality was also paramount in turning my vision into reality.
First I started out trying to get published in the traditional sense, though it was for a very brief time. I bypassed the agent route because I didn't have name recognition, and the time it takes to find a proper agent can vary, usually on the lengthy side. I submitted my manuscript to only about 5-6 publishers. If I would've kept going then there was the possibility that one of them would have picked me up, however I didn't like the powerlessness and process of the situation. Constantly checking the mailbox hoping to get the magical response that every author wants to hear, rendered me with complete lack of control over the outcome of my success.
At that point, the stories I've heard of it taking individuals several years to get published, blasted loudly in my ears. So as you referred to my bio, yes, I envisioned myself becoming an entrepreneur and ultimately a successful businessman, and started to reapply my ambitions of being an author with this type of mentality. I cut out the middleman and eventually released 187 Iz An Art, along with my coauthor Richard Brown.
So far the experience has been very exciting to me. It was a gamble and a high risk to take, but things have been actually working out far better than I imagined for a first release. I know that I'm blessed so I definitely want to pass on the same opportunities to others.

ANF: Now besides 187 Iz An Art, what other books do you have in the Double-Up Publishing pipeline?

Mikal: Double-Up Publishing's upcoming projects are: 1. Richard Brown's solo release which is about an all female bike club that is on a quest for power, and they embark on elaborate schemes procuring money in a unique way. 2. My solo release which is about a crime scene investigator whose life gets rocked by a unexpected turn of events. I have a couple of other projects as well that show great promise. Readers and everyone else can reference my website, to keep up with projects in the works.

ANF: Tell us something about your co-author , Richard Brown. How long have you known him and when can we expect to read his books?

Mikal: Richard was originally born in New Haven, Connecticut, and his family moved to North Carolina when he was a little boy. I became friends with Richard and his brothers and clicked with them out the gate, so I've known Richard for over 20 years now. Richard is currently incarcerated in North Carolina. He has been incarcerated since 1998 for a mistake that was made while he was a youth. He has dedicated his self to becoming a prolific author, and has many solid reasonable goals upon his release.
If any readers would like to get in contact with Richard he definitely appreciates and welcomes any correspondence.

Richard Brown
PO Box 280
Polkton, NC 28135

ANF: You've been writing for five years and in the business for a year now. What inspired you to write and where do you see yourself and Double-Up in another five years?

Mikal: I've always had ambitions to become an author, and years ago I started getting encouragement from family and friends to write a book. I remembering telling them light stories about the streets, hustling, or even dating, and they would give me encouraging feedback about my verbal storytelling. Well I knew I was keeping it PG when telling these stories, so in the back of my mind I always thought people would really be amazed if I just gave them the real.
To be honest it wouldn't be fair not to give a few of my college professors credit for the inspiration as well. A few of them helped to plant the seed after taking a distinct interest in my writing. One in particular was a professor in Queens, NY who asked my permission to keep a copy of my journal of essays. He told me, "I want to keep a copy of your journal as an example to my other classes. You know you are a very compelling writer right?" That was the last boost of confidence I needed.
Publishing goals… I'm attempting a major undertaking. My long term publishing goals are very distinct. I want to grow into a major publishing house with multiple imprints under the Double-Up Publishing umbrella. More than five years though... I've been taught to put my goals on paper because it makes you have to commit and take them more seriously, so I enjoy putting my goals out there as a way to pressure myself.

ANF: Where can our readers find Double-Up Publishing and get in contact with you personally?

Mikal: They can learn more about me by checking out my company Double-Up Publishing http://doubleuppublishing.com or following me on their favorite social sites. http://twitter.com/AuthorMikalE
http://twitter.com/DoubleUpPublish
http://tinyurl.com/28jqfu4 Author Face Book
http://www.myspace.com/doubleuppublishing
http://www.myspace.com/maddstylzes
Feel free to come socialize or network with me!

ANF: In closing, any advice to our new and aspiring authors on the site?

Mikal: I still have tons to learn myself, however if I had to give one pointer I would say; if you don't have a lot of resources, then be unlimited with your resourcefulness. Don't limit yourself in any aspect of pursuing your dreams, because there is a way around everything. I would also encourage them to not look for the easy way out of things. One thing there isn't a way around is the fact that being an author is a lot of hard work and a full time job, so you have to be willing to fully commit.

ANF: Mikal, thanks for the interview. Much continued success to you!

Mikal: Thank you for the opportunity to be heard by your visitors, and providing authors a platform to spread their work.

Dysfunctional Beginnings with Renee A.

2010-10-26T23:54:00.000-07:00

Authors N Focus is proud to encourage new authors on the literary scene. One of those authors goes by the pen name of Renee A. Her debut book Dysfunctional Beginnings promises to be unpredictable, “highly sensual and dramatic with a twist of humor”. Let’s find out more from this outstanding new artist.

Authors N Focus: Where did the idea for Dysfunctional Beginnings come from ?

Renee: The idea for Dysfunctional Beginnings came to me one day when I was reading a book by J. California Cooper. I was so inspired by how her stories flowed and held my attention. It was such good reading that I decided to write a story equally entertaining. And so Dysfunctional Beginnings my dream became a reality. The characters in my book understood the tremendous responsibility of delivering an outstanding story and they didn’t let me down. As a result of my expectations we ended up with an unpredictable, interesting, highly sensual, dramatic and at times humorous novel.

ANF: Can you tell us more about the main characters Taylor and Mrs. Vera ?

Renee: To understand Taylor’s character one would have to understand the depths of a barren heart. She’s hated before she’s delivered from her mother’s womb. For sixteen years she escapes hell on earth, but the piper must be paid. As a result of it her self esteem takes a beating. Love jockeys for a position in her heart but its constantly intercepted by unforeseen glitches. Mrs. Vera’s character is a dear and trusted friend of Taylor’s family that makes it her business to protect Taylor’s psyche while her life is being picked apart.

ANF: How about the men in Taylor’s life, what can you share with us about their relationship with her ?

Renee: Taylor falls in love, but turbulence, deceit and uncertainty is a constant companion. The only way to truly appreciate how love snubs her is to read the book and I guarantee you the agendas and outcomes will take you on a surprising journey.

ANF: Savannah is one of Taylor’s best friend in the novel. What should our readers find out about her ?

Renee: Savannah is the kind of friend people search a lifetime for and some will never find. She is there for Taylor not as just a listener to her problems, but to let her know they are one heartbeat. She’s non judgmental and would move the universe if she could for her friend. There is a good reason why their friendship and respect for each other will stand the test of time.

ANF: Now although Renee A. is your pen name, you’ve been quite involved in the literary world for some time, is that true ?

Renee: Yes. To date I have written two poetry chapbooks called : Write To Your Heart and Just A Little Bit Naughty. Dysfunctional Beginnings is my debut novel. And an incredible novel it is. I am a reviewer for Rambles.net and a former contributing writer/interviewer for Black Awareness Online Magazine. I’ve been a featured author interviewed by Ella Curry with Black Pearls Magazine as well as writing contributing relationship E-zine articles. I’ve posted poetry and will be submitting short story submissions on Bare Back Erotic Online Magazine. And last but certainly not least I’m at the finishing stage of my next novel of short stories called COME INSIDE ME.

ANF: This is more of a general question, but what inspired you to write ? Did it begin early on or just recently ?

Renee: I fell in love with the power of the pen and paper as a teenager. I loved the way paper smelled, felt and understood that I could write amazing stories taking my mind on a journey of endless possibilities. I found it intriguing to grace the blank lines on paper with various genres of poetry and love laced fiction. That is how my writing journey evolved.

ANF: Although Dysfunctional Beginnings has just been released, has there been any reaction to your novel so far ?

Renee: The euphoria an author gets from completing a novel can’t compare to the feeling they get when they get positive feedback on their book. I have had so many people phone me, e-mail me and tell me how incredible they thought my book was. The biggest compliment I’ve enjoyed is when readers contact me and say they couldn’t put the book down they finished it in one day.

ANF: What can we expect next from the pen of Renee A.?

Renee: The pressure was put on me to immediately start another project after many of the readers finished reading DYSFUNCTIONAL BEGINNINGS. I took their desire to read another one of my books to heart and as a result of it my next novel called : COME INSIDE ME will be coming out very soon.

ANF: Where can our readers pick up a copy of DYSFUNCTIONAL BEGINNINGS and where can they look you up on the web ?

Renee: Because I self published my book can be picked up at : amazon.com and barnesandnobles.com. My website is http:S2.webstarts.com/WriteToYourHeart/index.html. Feel free to contact me on my e-mail as well. cerectia@hotmail.com

ANF: Renee, any final comments and /or advice to our new and aspiring authors?

Renee: The only comment befitting of this interview is that I am humbly appreciative of Charles Chatmon for giving me the opportunity to introduce myself to potential readers that I may have otherwise missed out on connecting with. He extended his hand when I reached out and I will certainly do the same when someone reach out to me.
New and aspiring authors I welcome your correspondence. My e-mail address is cerectia@hotmail.com. The literary world can be overwhelming at times but don’t walk away from your vision. I don’t claim to have all the answers, quite the contrary, but if we work together everyone wins.

The Passion of Literature

2010-07-20T22:37:00.000-07:00

I’m taking a break from L.A. Black Book Expo duties to share my thoughts on the following article with you: Iowa City Book Festival quadruples its attendance. When I read that article, I was looking for any tips that I could use to apply for LABBX, until I read this one quote which made all the difference for me:

“People came out because they're passionate about writing and literacy, and this gave them a way to be actively involved.” - City of Literature executive director Jeanette Pilak.

I’ve heard the arguments, had the reasons said in my face but when it comes to ‘us’ we fall back on this one small quote:

“Black people don’t read.”

First, I don’t believe that, and second, that’s offensive to the individuals I know who do read. It’s all a matter of what we’ve been conditioned in our society and how ‘cool’ it is not to read a book. If you’ve read this blog in the past, you know how much I’m an advocate for reading and writing in the community and how not doing so impacts not only our future but our present as well. When I’ve sold books in community trade shows or other events, I’ve had a few people repeat the same line, “I’m not a reader’. I would argue that if a famous author came out with a hot steamy novel or other provocative title, lines would be long. However, what the Iowa City article showed is that it’s not only called the City of Literature, but the citizens are quite proud of it.

It’s almost embarrassing we don’t take pride in the past authors who blazed a literary trail and started a Renaissance for us to emulate and follow. As much as Hughes, Baldwin, Hurston, Larson and other distinguished greats with the pen left us a legacy with their words, in most of our communities across the nation, we have the authors but not the support, the bookstores but not the desire to keep them open, the book festivals and fairs, but…

You get the point.

Book events like the Leimert Park and Harlem Book Fairs do show people are passionate about literacy, -they want to support the authors and they do come out. Still, we have to continue to keep these venues thriving because at least in Los Angeles, due to this economy, most of our long standing trade shows are suffering, not able to produce the types of quality shows as they would like. That’s why any festival, including a book festival, needs book lovers to come out.

It’s not a question whether Black people don’t read, it’s the desire and passion to pick up a book from an author who put their soul into the manuscript and give it a try. With the number of books out in the market today, hopefully there will be something for everyone to enjoy. However, if we continue to have this laid back attitude in regards to literature, everyone else will pass us by….again. Case in point, here’s a link to an article about a book festiva l outside the United States and the passion from the patrons in attendance.

While it is encouraging to see a book festival season in 2010, we have to keep this going. We have to keep the passion and desire for literature alive.

iPad Challenges Traditional Publishing Economics - PCWorld Business Center

2010-03-10T17:01:00.001-08:00

iPad Challenges Traditional Publishing Economics - PCWorld Business Center

Posted using ShareThis

sandiego.com | Business | Independent Bookstores Turn The Page

2010-02-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

Even in the home of the Chargers and Padres........

sandiego.com | Business | Independent Bookstores Turn The Page

Keeping Up With P.R. Hawkins

2009-05-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

During my time away from Authors N Focus, I’ve spent time networking with various writers in the literary world. You’re going to meet some of them now.

The following author is named Paulara Hawkins, a talented scribe and filmmaker. Her film, “Fabulous” was shown at the recent Pan-African Film Festival in Los Angeles and she even took time off to be one of the panelists for our L.A. Black Book Expo relationship panel hosted by Barnes and Noble at the Grove (Farmer’s Market).

There’s more that I could say, but the rest you’ll have to find on her website: P.R. Hawkins

Here is Ms. Hawkins after the relationship forum. Enjoy.

A Report On The 2009 LA Times Festival of Books

2009-05-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Southern California book season officially kicked off last month at the L.A Times Festival of Books in UCLA. After walking the entire festival area and going to almost every booth collecting cards, saying hello to exhibitors and meeting up with a few author friends I haven’t seen in a while or for the first time, I am pooped. It was worth it as I checked out the festival with an estimated crowd of 150,000, snapping pictures with my digital camera.

It wasn’t hard to see why the festival has a great turnout annually. The Times along with its Tribune partner, KTLA 5 and their fellow sponsors does a great job attracting top level authors, publishers and celebrities. Before I left the campus, there was a massive crowd gathered in front of one of the booths to catch a glimpse of a celebrity who was in one of the Back to the Future movies. You may know who I’m talking about, but besides him, there were the celebrity authors who either finished their panel discussions or just casually strolling along with their families who made their presence known.

I met authors from across the country by walking up to them and asking for their card. Of course, they wanted to talk about their works, and I took time from booth hopping listening to how their book differed from the next writer’s. I could tell when frustration sat in their faces by noticing how they reacted when I requested their contact information. I could feel their pain, after my experience of selling books at the festival years before. Still, they gave me what I asked for and I can say I had enough contacts to fill up our Mixed Matters guest list for a couple of years, at least that.

One of our new L.A. Black Book Expo committee members Azure Antoinette had invited me to listen to her youth poetry group, Get Lit. They’re a group of young men and women who recite contemporary and classical poetry and they turned it out! This is a talented bunch who I hope to connect with in future events, including the expo. Of course, the poetry stage would be moved away from the festival’s traffic. Of course. (smile). It didn’t dampen the energy of the poets who read. Each one had a great time on stage and judging from the crowd in attendance, they loved the flow as well.

This was the first year I actually took a hard look at the festival, observing the various stages, programs, etc. The venue certainly made me think hard about future book events I plan to be a part of or directing. However, it was a fun event and I didn’t know what effect the weakened economy would have on this weekend’s affair. Judging by the massive turnout, I’d say not much. This was my first time attending the festival in three years, and I’m glad I showed up to witness it. Next up is the Black Writers on Tour so I’m anxious to see how it turns out, partnering up with the L.A. Black Business Expo.

The book season has just begun in Southern California.

Note: that's me sucking wind and hanging in there after the long day - Saturday!

Charles L. Chatmon
Authors N Focus

Back Home to ANF

2009-05-08T08:38:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Authors N Focus is back...for good!

I've neglected this site for so long due to my other duties with the L.A. Black Book Expo, California Writers Collective and hey! I'm now a married man and enjoying it :) So now I'm back focusing on authors who you may not have heard of, but will in the coming days and months ahead.

As you can see, I'm serious about maintaining Authors N Focus. Not only have I updated the site with lots of interesting features, but have also changed the look of both blog and website. It is my hope you'll enjoy the changes.

Thanks for the support!

Charles L. Chatmon
Authors N Focus

Live Internet Radio Discussion With Dr. Rosie Milligan

2009-02-02T17:59:00.000-08:00

Join Dr. Rosie Milligan ---LIVE! Tues Feb.3^rd , 2008 from 10-11 AM Pacific Time. Special Guest: Mr. Jamaal Goree

TOPIC FOR DISCUSSION: Facing Tough Economic Crisis- What Families Must Do To Stay Sane? and to Survive in times Like These.

Is There a Lifejacket to save us? Don’t miss Dr. Rosie’s Take on This one. Call and give your take=2 0on the subject.

Call in 310-928-7733 or email your comments innerlightradio@yahoo.com

This is one that you should not miss.

Log on to http://www.innerlightradio.com

Please read these instructions carefully!

*IMPORTANT: READ BEFORE LISTENING*

Our main Broadcasting service @ live365.com tends to "Fill to Capacity" for free listeners. When this happens, you can listen (for FREE) by downloading the player, below, and follow the simple listening instructions.

New! Second Listening option: http://www.Ubroadcast.com

(download Player on the desktop on your computer and insert 16386 next to "JUMP to station" and Click on JUMP)

Once this is done you will never have download this again. You can click on the site for future listening.

Call in 310-928-7733 or email your comments innerlightradio@yahoo.com

Don’t forget to get a copy of Dr. Milligan’s newest release, “BLACK AMERICA FACES ECONOMIC CRISIS: Solutions Made Simple” for $12.00

Log on to http://www.milliganbooks.com to order your copy or call 32 3-750-3592

This is one that you should not miss.

Log on to http://www.innerlightradio.com

Please read these instructions carefully!

*IMPORTANT: READ BEFORE LISTENING*

New! Second Listening option: http://www.Ubroadcast.com (download Player on the desktop on your computer and insert 16386 next to "JUMP to station" and Click on JUMP)

Once this is done you will never have download this again. You can click on the site for future listening.

P.S. Take a look at Dr. Rosie's other websites

http://www.911forblackamerica.com

http://www.Drrosie.com

http://www.myypl.com/rmilligan

http://www.rosiemilligan.tv

http://myspace.com/rosiemilligan

http://www.blackwritersontour.com

Note: Dr. Rosie's show appears every Tuesday on the same location. Lots of interesting hot topics and food for thought. Check it out.

-Chazz

The Bookstore List

2009-01-30T09:21:00.000-08:00

An online directory of bookstores:

Black Oak Books
1491 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, 94709
(510) 486-0698
http://www.blackoakbooks.com/

Alexander Books
50 2nd St, San Francisco, 94105
(415) 495-2992
http://alexanderbook.booksense.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp

Carol’s Books
300 Florin Rd, Sacramento, 95831
(916) 428-5611
http://mybmsf.com/carolsbooks/

Underground Books
2814 35th St, Sacramento, 95817
(916) 737-3333
http://www.underground-books.com

Express Yourself Books
425 W Manchester Ave # C
Los Angeles, 90047
(323) 750-3592
http://milliganbooks.com

Zahra’s Books & Things
900 N La Brea Ave, Inglewood, 90302
(310) 330-1300

Smiley’s Books
20220 Avalon Blvd, Ste B
Carson, CA 90746
(310) 324-8444
(866) 824-8758(office & fax)
http://www.smileysbooks.org

Eso Won Books
4331 Degnan Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90008
Tel: 323-290-1048
http://esowon.booksense.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp

2T’s Books & Things
22435 Alessandro Blvd., Suite 105
Moreno Valley, California 92553
http://www.2tsbooks.com

Skylight Books
1818 N Vermont Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90027
Phone: (323) 660-1175
http://www.skylightbooks.com/NASApp/store/IndexJsp

Metropolis Books
440 Main St
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(213) 612-0174
(213) 612-0635 (fax)
http://www.metropolisbooksla.com

Tia Chucha's
10258 Foothill Blvd
Lakeview Terrace, CA 91342
(818) 896-1479
(818) 896-1489 (fax)
http://www.tiachucha.com

More to come...............

Charles K. Campbell: The Keeper of The Magic Coin

2008-10-12T15:20:00.000-07:00

The gentleman posing with me is author Charles K. Campbell, author of The Magic Coin. Besides sharing the first name, Charles loves to create positive images in literature as much as many authors do. He's also one of the few individuals who posted a blog about his work on The Huffington Post. Check out the link and find out what's behind The Magic Coin and the buzz it's generating. If you want to hear more about Charles, hear the latest Mixed Matters interview (African Marketplace 2008) and find out what Charles is working on next, as well as his future plans involving his masterpiece.

Maya's Locs by Norman Burton

2008-10-12T14:49:00.000-07:00

This Authors N Focus spotlight is directed at children’s book author Norman Burton and his masterpiece, “Maya’s Locs” (Milligan Books)

Here’s a brief description of the book:

Maya would cry every time her mother combed, pressed or permed her hair. This made her mother unhappy and she knew she had to find a solution.

One day, while walking through the bookstore, Maya and her mother discovered the perfect hairstyle for Maya–locs! When they went home that night Maya’s mother began to twist Maya’s hair and soon the twist turned into locs.

To find out how this ends for Maya, please visit Milligan Books and Amazon.com.

Let Norman know how you feel about his book by picking up a copy for yourself!

All The Buzz about Tifany Jones

2008-08-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

Here at Authors N Focus, our goal is to alert everyone on the various websites that help promote the new writers out there with books you may not know about. That being said, here's two brand new websites to introduce for you (although they may have been around for a while :) )

Tifany Jones - multi talented up and coming author coming out with a new book "Since You Went Away From Me" due out soon. You can take a look at what Ms. Jones has in store for the readers on her website: TifanyJones.com

All The Buzz - The website featuring an interview with Ms. Jones and other up and coming authors (besides this one -smile:) ) is All The Buzz.com. The owner of the site, Renee Williams is a former RAWSISTAZ reviewer as well as QBR and The Black Book Review so she definitely knows talent when she sees it. Check out her site and if you're a new author, Ms. Williams would love from you.

From Ms. Williams herself, a blurb about her interview with Ms. Jones:

Tifany Jones is a fresh new talent making her mark on the literary world! She founded Sistah Confessions, a book club and radio show for the purpose of healing, inspiring, and eliciting change to transform the lives of her audience. Tifany's literary works include the forthcoming titles The Powder Room and Since You Went Away From Me. Both books are slated for release in 2009. Tifany is also a contributing author to an anthology, The Breakthrough: A Triumph of My Soul, also to be released in 2009. When she is not writing or producing her radio show, Tifany enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. They reside in Maryland.

For more information about Tifany, visit her online at www.tifanyjones.com, www.myspace.com/sistahconfessionsbookclub, and www.blogtalkradio.com/sistahconfessions.

Another book scam artist busted!

2008-08-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

The following is a cautionary tale for all you new authors and publishers:

http://www.wral.com/news/news_briefs/story/2281292/?print_friendly=1

Much thanks to fellow author Kim Robinson of Kim's Crew with the heads up!

New Author in need of a website? Check these links out!

2008-07-17T12:51:00.000-07:00

If you're a new author without a website, I have a trio of links that could help you out. The best thing is that they're free of charge and very helpful get you started while you're saving enough to build your own personal web page.

Give the following sites a try:

http://jumpstart.com
http://kickapps.com
http://freewebs.com

Hopefully, I'll find more for you in the future. Good luck!

Lullalee Productions is always N Focus

2008-07-12T00:31:00.000-07:00

Lullalee Productions deserves a round of applause for all they’re doing in the Southern California community. The pictures above were part of an event inside the Shriners Hospital for Children in Los Angeles around 2005. Not only has Lullalee under the leadership of Lee Ann Butler-Owens been instrumental in providing literary programs for the youth, but the organization has also encourage the joy of reading and writing for everyone, young and old.

Lullalee is proving that it’s easy to sit back and criticize while you’re sitting at home pointing fingers and blaming everyone in sight for the ills of today, they’re actively going out and doing something about eradicating illiteracy for the next generation. They’re always looking for volunteers, so if you’re serious about becoming a hero for literacy, log on to the Lullalee website and see what you can do to get involved!

Thanks again, Lullalee for making sure no child gets left behind (in literacy of course!)

Here's their video on YouTube!

Mixed Matters returning in August

2008-07-09T09:53:00.000-07:00

From the ‘pardon our dust’ department……

Hey Mixed Matters fans!

Did you miss us? If you did, then I’m proud to announce co-host Chandra Adams and I will return live on tape this coming August 2008! Date to be announced at a later time. In our two years of successful interview up and coming authors on their latest and greatest, Mixed Matters is becoming a show where new and even established authors, writers and poets are welcome to join and participate in an interview with us.

Because of that success, the show is planning bigger and better things for the future. Visit our website at http://northbaymediareview.com to find out. If you’re a writer, author, publisher, literary professional, or independent bookstore owner, we’d love to have you on the show. We’re offering sponsor and show guest benefits as well.

You can contact us at the following address:

authorsnfocus@gmail.com

Mixed Matters is always the place for cool conversation and we hope you’re a part of it!

Maryee N Focus

2008-07-09T09:28:00.000-07:00

I would like to introduce you to a good friend of mine from Waco, Texas. Her name is Maryee and she's an exceptional writer and poet in that part of the state. If you have a minute, please visit her website at Maryee.com

When you go to the page, you'll see a variety of links of Maryee's poems, performances, what's on the Waco poetry scene, her talented sister Jen, and a lot more. You can also show her some love by signing her guestbook.

Look for more of this up and coming writer and poetess! :)

Authors Helping Out Independent Booksellers

2008-07-07T23:26:00.000-07:00

Note: I found this online but I think this would be worth it for American independent bookstores to try this with local authors. Just my two cents :)

From The Times

July 3, 2008

Authors jump the fence to help out behind the counter

As part of independent booksellers' week, a motley crew of household names are pitching in at their local bookshops

Megan Walsh

“Would I like to be a bookseller de métier?” said Orwell in his Bookshop Memories. “On the whole, in spite of my employer's kindness to me, and some happy days I spent in the shop, no.” A good writer doesn't always make a good seller.

So you might like to know that James Naughtie, Alan Titchmarsh, Bill Pertwee and Jilly Cooper are just some of the writers valiantly downing pens and switching off laptops this week to get behind their local bookshop till for some Strictly Come Bookselling.

“You have to meet readers halfway,” says Leslie Thomas (who is offering his services to Torbay Book shop in Paignton), “and this is one way of doing it.”

The writers are pitching up to spearhead the “love your local bookshop” campaign and to celebrate the inaugural Independent Booksellers' Week, running nationwide from July 1-8. They will be put to work stacking shelves alphabetically and helping you to find the book you're after.

The international bestseller Kate Mosse is one of the campaign's biggest advocates and is teaching writing to teenagers at her home town's bookshop on Hayling Island in Hampshire. “All writers are local writers somewhere. For me it began with that home town feeling and I think most of us feel that you should repay your dues.”

Independent bookshops have a fine record for going out on a limb for authors, from the big (Joyce's Ulysses, banned in England and America, finding shelter in Shakespeare and company in Paris) to the little (indie sellers supporting fledgeling authors before anyone else would).

The Booksellers' Association wants readers to discover or rediscover what an independent bookshop can offer. Talk to a local author or the bookshop owner whose family has been selling books for generations. They are likely to have a better idea of what you are looking for than your nearest Tesco. Books are cheaper on the internet and in the supermarket, but then everything is. “It is incredibly important that we support independent shops as much as we do the chains and libraries,” says Kate Mosse. “We've all got the same end goal in mind. Reading matters, whoever you are, wherever you live, whatever your age.”

A good local bookseller is the mutual friend of writer and reader. Find one and you won't need to venture far to find a book to lose yourself in. For details of 320 participating independent bookshops go to www.localbookshops.co.uk or www.loveyourlocalbookshop.co.uk

An Important Message from YourBlackFriend

2008-06-29T22:49:00.000-07:00

Note: the following is from a good yourblackfriend and fellow author. Please read below if you're interested in what's being recommended:

Hello fellow authors:

It's Yourblackfriend.com author of Why Do Black People Love Fried Chicken? And Other Questions You've Wondered But Didn't Dare Ask. Forgive me if you already know this but it’s NEW to me and I’m excited!

I’d been trying to figure out how to boost my book sales when all along I’ve had a valuable product sitting right on my computer. I’m sure that like me you have your book in a PDF format, readable by Adobe. If so, you are well on your way to having an e-book. You can sell or give away (as a promotional tool) your entire book, chapters, excerpts, etc. to your e-mail list and/or a new group of folks (around the world) who have never heard of you or your book.

Of course you’ll need to market your e-book version BUT with e-books, there’s no inventory, mailing or excessive commissions to be paid like with Amazon.com.

So how will people learn about your e-book version? Everything you need to know to get started creating and promoting can be found in this GREAT e-book product called: Building an Ebook Empire. It’s 96-pages of easy to follow information. No fluff. Yeah, there's a lot of sales copy but I PROMISE you the book is worth it.

If you have the will, the e-book is another way to get your name out there. Do yourself a favor and at least check it out. Click on any of my e-book links and let me know if you decide to go this route - I’m working on mine now. Don't leave potential sales on the table!

p.s. If you DON'T have your book in a PDF format let me know. DO NOT pay ridiculous amounts to have it converted. And please forward this mail to anyone who might benefit.

Your blackfriend.com is back - just in time for election season.

Not to know is bad, not to wish to know is worse – www.yourblackfriend.com

Author Nikki Turner in L.A. June 28

2008-06-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

The Savoy Entertainment Center

Nikki Turner

About Nikki - www.nikkiturner.com

Biography | Press Release

Join Kevin Nash and Tammi Mac of 102.3 FM of KJLH this Saturday night

for the world book release party for Essence Bestselling author

Nikki Turner newest book Black Widow.

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Nikki will be signing books and taking pictures for her fans.

Books will be available to purchase and are provided by

Smiley's Books of Carson.

We'll be having a complimentary soul food buffet

Over 600 people are expected arrive early to avoid the lines

All City, State, County and Government employees are

free all night long with ID.

Doors open at 9pm

FREE before 11pm with invite

(one invite per person - must have entire invite)

After the jazz DJ Fatbox will be spinning

the best in Hip Hop R&B and Soul

The Savoy has the most affordable birthday parties

in Los Angeles. Call Katrina at 951-660-1757 for info or

party@thesavoyentertainmentcenter.com

No casual clothes...

We reserve the right to refuse

entrance to anyone.

The Savoy Entertainment Center
214 S. La Brea Avenue
Inglewood, CA

Call 310-680-7600 for more information

Make sure you tell a friend!!!

www.thesavoyentertainmentcenter.com

Black Author Showcase Interview on Wednesday

2008-06-23T00:27:00.000-07:00

Hello folks,

Taking a huge break before I get back to finishing up my creative projects and recooperating from the successful Los Angeles Black Book Expo. However, thanks to Diane of the Black Author Showcase, I have an interview coming up on Wednesday. Here are the details:

Time: June 25, 2008 at 7:30pm
Location: Online and Telephone Conference
Organized By: Black Author Showcase

Event Description:
This months Member Interview is with Charles Chatmon, founder of the LA Black Book Expo (LABBX). He's taken a little rest and will fill us in on the left coast happenings of the last few months along with news on his recent titles. Of course there will be live discussion and honest . . . Ms. Snoggles may read a bit from some of her works in the last hour. Drop by, announce your events and release dates, ask questions and just have fun. 06/25/2008 07:30 PM EDT.

The interview is by telephone and you can listen in at (724) 444-7444, Call ID: 11955 or listen in at www.talkshoe.com and and type in 'Black Author Showcase' in the site search box.

See more details and RSVP on Black Author Showcase:

http://blackauthors.ning.com/events/event/show?id=837758%3AEvent%3A71306&xgi=6cUbLJY

Recap of the L.A. Black Book Expo 2008

2008-06-19T14:51:00.000-07:00

Now that it’s over……

The fourth annual Los Angeles Black Book Expo is history complete with authors, panel discussions, spoken word and we even snuck in a children’s writing workshop for the literary zone. On a whole, it was a good event. Authors networked, sold books and for the most part, made connections that hopefully benefit them in the long run.

Many thanks for the authors and exhibitors who attended starting with our featured guests; Bern Nadette Stanis, Bruce George, Dr. William D. Wright, Alretha Thomas, Sardonyx Jade, Terry a O’Neal, Terry Moore, Erica N. Martin, and everyone else who were a part of the black book expo. Our committee did an outstanding job this year handling the needs of the exhibitors and making sure their experience was a good one. I’d like to thank Sheila Harris our associate director for her hospitality, Jennifer Harris for providing us with volunteers and my family members for providing the food.

We can't forget our sponsors; KPFK 90.7, L.A. Watts Times, 626 Art Gallery, Copy City, and eBiz Marketing for their support.

As for the expo itself, we kicked it off with our annual Friday night pre-expo reception. This is a time when authors and exhibitors come together to network, share ideas and just have fun. It also provides everyone in attendance to learn more about the other person sitting next to each other, breaking the ice. Based on the number of smiles, it looked like a successful evening.

Expo day started strong with the public passing through the gates of the Ahmanson Senior Center stopping by an exhibitor’s table checking out what they had to offer. Our panel discussions provided lively conversation on topics from publishing to cultural matters. The Poets Jazz House presented another solid Spoken Worlds program with featured guest Terry Moore sharing his pieces with the L.A. crowd and in turn, they enjoyed what they heard. Other talented artists had their turn on the mic and we even had a local singing group perform for us. Charles Campbell, author of The Magic Coin, presented a reading and writing workshop for our Children’s Literary Zone. In our first Teen Poetry Fest contest, author Ben Foster took home the grand prize or a free computer. Now that he’s the reigning champion of our first annual contest, I can’t wait to see whether or not he defends his title next year. Before I forget, I'd like to thank our panel moderators, authors Lutishia Lovely, Frederick Williams who filled in at the last minute, and Na'Kisha Crawford. All of them did a splendid job.

What I hope the authors and exhibitors take away from the fourth annual L.A. Black Book Expo is that our committee worked to have a great event and we’re looking to make it bigger and much better for next year. As I’m writing this out, plans are already being made to evaluate our progress for 2008 so we can move ahead and make 2009, our fifth L.A. Black Book Expo the best it’s ever been. Due to our reception with the Book Expo America African-American Pavilion participants, we expect a larger turnout and possibly a brand new venue for the next time.

On a side note, talks are underway to plan a possible series of discussions year round with the black book expo authors. It’s still in the planning stages but news will be out shortly.

Again, I thank you all for coming out and supporting us whether you were an author, exhibitor, or public guest. Enjoy the rest of your summer.

Charles Chatmon
Executive Director
Los Angeles Black Book Expo

More pics found here.

More interviews from the Black Writers on Tour

2008-05-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

This week, more interviews from the Black Writers on Tour are now on Empire Beat Magazine.

This week:

T. Smith
Linda Coleman-Willis
Frederick Williams
Audrey Muhammad

Check out our previous chats with:

Tracy D. Morrison
Cheryl Love-Queen
Derrick O’Neal

More on the way and please visit the magazine after Book Expo America as the BEA/L.A. Black Book Expo reception will be shown on the web site.

Click on http://empirebeatmagazine.blogspot.com to watch the BWOT interviews!

How To Survive A Trade Show

2008-05-28T10:37:00.000-07:00

This is addressed to all the new and aspiring authors reading this. Of course if you’re a veteran writer, you’re welcome to read this too.

When you look at the picture, what do you see?

Opportunity?
Sales?
Networking?
A big headache?
All of the above?

I prefer all of the above because while trade shows like the one in the picture provide a great opportunity for exposure and a chance to make sales and even network with fellow authors on site, it can be a big headache and more often than not, a sizeable blow to your ego – especially if you’ve made meager sales in an 8-10 hour period standing around, promoting your book at the show. All of the guerilla marketing techniques you tried haven’t worked, and you’ve had enough of strangers passing by your table, picking up your book only to see it back on the stacks with gratuitous words such as ‘nice.’

Don’t worry, I can relate. I’ve been there in that small corner where after the show was over my book selling partner and I vent all the way home about anything that comes to mind, especially when you notice a fellow author ‘clean up’ in a booth several feet away from you. Hey, you’re just getting started right? You’re not as popular as Author X across the way. But how can you get a few customers on your side? What can you do to help yourself get that added exposure you need? Here’s a few tips that I think could enhance your chances the next time you step out in a trade show, hoping to sell a hundred, no thousands of books which realistically almost never happens.

The first thing you have to do is to look at the trade show as an opportunity for maximum exposure, not for sales.

I know, you’ve heard the ‘exposure’ thing many times before and what I see young and new authors make is a basic mistake that I too, in my first year had to learn. Plain and simple, you want an audience right? The way to go about that is to not only have your business cards, flyers and perhaps banner ready to go, but you need a sign up sheet as well. Anywhere that creates graphics such as Kinko’s, Staples, or even your neighborhood copy shop is a good place to build your standing. The graphics won’t do it every time, but if you want to stand out in a sea of thousands, a good 3X6 banner should attract at least one person’s attention. When that person walks by and they don’t have the money to buy a book right now, you should have that sign up sheet ready and take down their information to place on your spreadsheet at home.

“But Charles, what if I’m just walking around and don’t have a table?”

Simple. Buy a note pad, preferably a large one, and take down an interested customer’s info. You should always use the power of the sign up whenever you have a book signing, workshop or event. As I’ve found out, it’s not making the sales that day but it’s a different set of numbers as far as signing up as many people as you can. Maybe you sign up a hundred people, but ten are genuinely interested in your book and plan to buy it. That’s ten more customers you would have missed had you not taken advantage of taking names down with email and snail mail addresses. So start making up your lists and check them twice, three times. You’re building your audience.

Another major tip is to seek out your audience by leaving your table and taking cards from other vendors or exhibitors. From my experience, I found that the person selling clothes across from you may be an avid reader or the seller on the other side of the isle is part of a book club. In other words, you’ve got to go to them rather than they come to you. You can’t just stand there in your booth and expect the entire crowd to flock to your table. They don’t know you; you’re just a rookie unlike Author X on the other side. It also helps to introduce yourself, be friendly and even have some of your own cards on hand to pass out, even a copy of your book. When you become the assertive author, it shows potential customers you’re serious about your work and in turn, will convince them to buy. One word of caution though; if a fellow vendor acts if they’re not interested, leave. They’re doing the same thing you are and that’s selling product. Your day is too short to focus on just one person, so move on and speak to someone else.

Here’s the most important tip of all, and crucial if you want to be successful in a trade show. SMILE! A fellow author once kidded me when he said “you’re always smiling.” You have to if you want to make a sale. Look, would you rather approach a table with a vendor with a big frown on his face looking as if he/she is about to jump you at any second or would you rather approach a table with an exhibitor with a big smile on their face, kicking back and fancy free? Your attitude affects your volume. I remember during a two day period at a business expo I was so frustrated with not making a single sale in the six hours I was there, I developed an attitude. A fellow author pointed this out and I quickly had to regain myself. It does happen though, you get frustrated and ready to whoop some a – but you have to grow a thick skin and realize that not every event you to go, you’ll have as many sales as Author X. The next day I was determined to enjoy my time, no matter what. As you probably can tell, I sold a fair amount of books and added a few contacts for future networking opportunities. Whatever the experts say about the power of positive thinking, it does work especially if you’re a new author trying to get that foot in the door.

It’s hard with as many writers publishing books as there are vendors and patrons at a trade show and the picture above shows again, it’s an opportunity and a challenge at the same time. My last advice is to go out and have fun, no matter how much you paid for your space. Yeah, I know the return won’t match the payment but if you want to take those baby steps, ‘pay your dues’ and all that, you have to start somewhere and if you work a trade show, take a deep breath and vow not to get discouraged but look at it as an opportunity to talk up your book and build a new audience. Do that, and you’ll stop reaching for the Advil less.

Good luck!

Charles Chatmon
Authors N Focus

Derrick O'Neal: The Game is Ova

2008-05-16T10:15:00.000-07:00

Author Derrick O'Neal is from Oakland, California. His debut book, The Game Is Ova is a ‘true to life’ tale of Derrick’s experiences growing up living the life of a multi million dollar drug dealer, but able to turn his life around for the better. I had the pleasure of interviewing Mr. O’Neal during the recent Black Writers on Tour and you can catch the interview here on Empire Beat Magazine: The Derrick O'Neal Interview

It’s good to see Derrick rising up in the literary world and it’s my hope if you really want to see a positive, well-written story, please buy his book. I’m also not alone in praise of this talented author. Check out the following links to read and see for yourself:

Bernard's Bookshelf
http://www.youtube.com/TheGameIsOva

Always in focus, Derrick has a website:

The Game is Ova

The Game is Ova on MySpace

Please support Derrick in his efforts to bring a positive message to our youth.

Black Writers on Tour 2008: Recap

2008-05-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Once again, it’s a wrap.

The thirteenth annual Black Writers on Tour is done, completing a day of workshops, seminars, contests, speeches and most of all, authors and networking.

I have to commend Dr. Rosie Milligan and her staff for hosting another outstanding writers conference that some may argue was the biggest in quite some time. This year I served more as a spectator than an actual participant, but I found myself very happy to be among my literary colleagues regardless. Although I wasn’t selling books this time around, I contributed by conducting video interviews with authors in attendance such as Derrick O’Neal, Audrey Muhammad, T. Smith, Linda Coleman-Willis and Frederick Williams for Empire Beat Magazine and Mixed Matters. Various seminars of how to write a best selling novel, what you need to know when writing poetry, creative writing class for beginners, how to market via the internet, and turning your book into a movie script were given by seasoned professionals throughout the day capturing the ears of many new and aspiring writers in attendance.

There were other activities including a open mic for poets, and a children’s writing contest. But it was the many authors and exhibitors who appeared at the tour that makes it worthwhile every single year. Bern Nadette Stanis signed copies of her book “Situations 101” while taking pictures with her many fans who watched her on Good Times, former Compton mayor Omar Bradley signed copies of his book “The King of Compton” and spoke with fellow authors during the day, and friends of mine who I haven’t seen in a while made a reappearance. There was CC Taylor, a local author who used to frequent Willmax Bookstore before it closed down, poetess Lily holding her little girl in her arms greeting potential customers and authors who plan to attend the L.A. Black Book Expo in June. It was a pleasure meeting them and I’m looking forward to seeing them in a few weeks.

You know, when you attend these conferences or festivals, it’s the same story of how you paid for a table, sat there all day and get bored. You do get a few feel good stories out of it though. I had finished an interview with one of the authors when Linda Coleman-Willis, a best-selling writer on how to self publish your book met the author and the author’s face lit up. This author told Linda when she bought her book, tried the steps in the book and even followed Linda’s advice when they had conversations over the phone. After eight years, that author finally had her book published and thanked Linda for helping her every step of the way. I don’t know how it feels to be T. Smith right now, the author of Miracles of My Mistakes, but I hope this encourages every new and aspiring author that if T. can make it through all her troubles (read her book to find out), then you can make your dream come true no matter what the circumstances.

Truth be told, I guess that’s why we have events such as the Black Writers on Tour, Harlem Book Fair, expos, festivals around the country. It’s not just about sales and platitudes, but it’s about dreams coming true, legacies created and most of all, helping to at least contribute to something that you can look on years later and pick up someone who doesn’t have a way of dealing with their daily problems, or not enjoying their life’s situation or better yet, needs a break from the everyday stresses of life. Maybe that’s too deep but judging by the faces of new and established authors, talented poets and interested attendees, I’d think for that one day, someone’s dream came true or is on the way to becoming reality and you can’t argue with that.

Charles Chatmon
Executive Director
Los Angeles Black Book Expo

Empire Beat/Mixed Matters at the Black Writers on Tour

2008-05-09T16:57:00.000-07:00

Hey Mixed Matters fans!

We’re back live on tape partnering up with Empire Beat Magazine!

Recently, we attended the thirteen annual Black Writers on Tour in April and had a fun time interviewing several authors who attended. Let’s show the names of who we spoke with so far:

Derrick O’Neal

Cheryl Love-Queen

Tracy Morrison (with Brandon White)

More authors to come! We taped a lot of folks!

If you think we had fun at the Black Writers on Tour, you’re right! I know we’ll have just as much fun interviewing more up and coming authors at Book Expo America and the Los Angeles Black Book Expo in June.

Watch the interviews here: http://empirebeatmagazine.blogspot.com

Keep it locked, logged and loaded for the best in up and coming authors, writers and poets!

Mixed Matters
North Bay Media Review

Empire Beat Magazine

Charles Chatmon (Chazz)
Just plain busy, forget the titles!

T. Freeman: The Organization

2008-05-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

I'm always glad when I receive emails from publicists about a certain new author they're working hard to promote. Here's one of them:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May, 2008

Media Contact:
Thomas Freeman Jr.
Sleepy Eye Publishing
1130 Sunset Rd. #3N
Burlington, New Jersey
Phone: 609 920 3338
Email: harpodoe@yahoo.com

Controversial Novel Detailing Camden's Biggest Drug Ring Hits Shelves

ISBN:978-1434847591

Camden, NJ - In The Organization, a novel by T. Freeman Jr. The mayor of Camden New Jersey is also aligned with the biggest drug organization. Amongst crooked cops and political corruption the drug empire was able to flourish for over a decade. The main Character Simon is a young drug lieutenant, who runs one of the crew's drug operations. His account details the rise and fall of the powerful organization that he had been a part of since his teenage years.

The Organization is set in the streets of Camden during the "crack era" of the late eighties and early nineties. The novel gives the reader a look into one of New Jersey's biggest drug rings from the inside.

About T Freeman Jr.

T. Freeman Jr. is a 28- year old father of four originally from Pennsauken, New Jersey. He graduated from Burlington City High School in 1997 and then went on to Fairleigh Dickinson University, where he received an associate's degree in 1999. In 2003 he started a hip-hop record label called Sleepy Eye Entertainment. After releasing a few independent albums Freeman decided to right a realistic novel about Camden's underworld called The Organization.

Media:

For review copies, interview requests or general information contact Thomas Freeman Jr. via email at harpodoe@yahoo.com or tfreemanjr@tmail.com or call (609) 920 - 3338 .

* * *

To subscribe to our book blast, send an email to: publicist@platinumbookpr.com

Platinum Book PR | 80 Decker Rd, Craryville, NY 12521 | 518-851-9415

http://www.platinumbookpr.com/

Tekila Nika is the real thing!

2008-04-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

One of our many Authors N Focus, Ms. Heather Covington has the following information regarding her new book; Tekila Nika: The Forbidden Bronx Video Diary Tales by Babe Charisse Worthington. (more on that later) Instead of me telling you how wonderful her latest work is (and she has many), let's have Heather tell you in her own words:

HOW TO ORDER TEKILA NIKA AND BOOK EXPO INFORMATION

Tekila Nika:The Forbidden Bronx Video Diary Tales by Babe Charisse Worthington, my pseudonym urban thriller pen name, is available at www.Amazon.com and www.bn.com online stores on April 27th through Ingram, but you will need to type the complete title as highlighted.

Disilgold Publishing's Distribution Center and Bookstore at www.DisilgoldBooks.com also, fulfills multiple to bulk orders and gift wrap items.

Personal autographed copies are available directly from me at www.Heather-Covington.com. Free shipping is available for autographed copies through my author site and books ship within 3- 7 business days. For ONLINE PAYPAL orders, just send $15 and $4 ship to Disilgold@aol.com or call the Disilgold Publishing order hotline at 1.718.547.0499 to process Mastercard, Visa and Discover payments.

Your order secures placement in my SPONSOR BOOK GIVEAWAY CONTEST at www.Heather-Covington.com. Just click on my BOOK PARTY LINK. You'll be able to claim any book available for free when you answer any 10 survey questions in TEKILA NIKA: THE FORBIDDEN BRONX VIDEO DIARY TALES BY BABE CHARISSE WORTHINGTON. This lets me know you read the book and once you have entered this contest, you'll be automatically entered in my annual Disilgold Grand Prize Jackpot where a winner earns $1000. The winner is featured New Year's Eve on the Literary Legends Ball Online at www.Disilgold.com.

I will send you a YGA nomination application with your order for those supporters who may fulfill criteria for available YGA Award Categories.

Pre-orders can also be mailed upon request and I'll send you a billing invoice if preferred and if you are not satisfied, you can return the book within 14 days of purchase. Pre-orders may not be requested with an autograph.

For mail order, request a Disilgold Publishing promotional catalog mailed to you in advance for free by emailing me at Disilgold@aol.com or submit a check or money order by mail for $15/ plus $4 shipping for non-autographed copies or free shipping with requested autograph copies payable to:

Heather Covington Publicity

P.O. BOX 652

Baychester Station

Bronx, NY 10469

Order links are now available on Heather Covington's official MYSPACE page at www.myspace.com/HeatherCovington. For mass publicity and media promotions of your book, cd or film, please visit www.Disilgold.com.

Just a little about me. I am the nation's TOP 5 MEDIA MOGUL nationwide who rode to the top with integrity so I can be as sexy as I want to be. LOL! Most folks support me, but for those who don't you can see why! Use to just be a solo picture on line, but I am coming out because a business without a face is no business online. This is me and my poses for my upcoming movie debut in a book called Tekila Nika as Babe Charisse Worthington. Yeah, I know I should be on KING, THE SOURCE AND VIBE, but they can't pay me enough for what I am worth. LOL! Kidding fam!

Stay tuned for DisilgoldSOUL TV Online Book Parties and media and book lover reviews, plus helpful tips post booksigning for writers, self-publishers and publishers at www.Heather-Covington.com. The show premieres on Sundays at 10pm right before you start a new week. In all seriousness, I want to motivate you. If you are in New York, ask me for self-publishing consultation. I now give one-to-one sessions for only $150. I want you to become a YGA member so consider consultation a good deed by me and really free. Take care.

Remembering Toni Brown

2008-04-22T15:00:00.000-07:00

It's always a sad occasion when you hear the news of a fellow writer and/or poet passing away. I received this email from Dr. Niama Williams:
Poets, Writers, Colleagues in Philadelphia, Boston, New York, and beyond: Please join me this coming Monday, April 28th, 2008, from 6-7 p.m. EST on BlogTalkRadio.com to honor the passing of Toni Brown, a personal friend and stunning poet. I will spend the time between now and Monday searching for Toni's work on the web, and I would love it if you would call in and share with my listeners your Toni poems and your Toni memories. If you plan to call in, please email me BEFORE 4 P.M. ON MONDAY WITH YOUR NAME AND THE NUMBER YOU WILL BE CALLING FROM. Otherwise, I will not know that it is you on the line (BlogTalk's switchboard only gives the number). I look forward to your participation as we honor a truly talented voice now speaking only within our consciousnesses and memories. Sincerely, Dr. Ni

If you knew Ms. Brown or just want to offer your condolences, please call the program and I'm sure Dr. Niama will certainly appreciate it.

Here are a few places where you can see Ms. Brown's literary legacy:

http://www.amusejanetmason.com/Toni_Brown.htm
ReggieH's Tribute
Springer's Journal

- Charles

Tanya White: Relationship Reruns and Dealing With A Difficult Woman

2008-03-30T21:42:00.000-07:00

Tanya White is described as a go-getter, trailblazer, visionary, and trendsetter. She is also the author of “How To Deal With A Difficult Woman” and her new book, “ Relationship Reruns; How to break the cycle of choosing the wrong people for the right relationships.” This author, life success coach and empowerment speaker certainly has a lot to share and we’re thankful she’s on Authors N Focus.

Charles: Tanya, what was your inspiration to write “How To Deal With A Difficult Woman”?

Tanya: As a life coach, confidante and being a woman myself I noticed that when people have conflict or encounter a difficult woman the common response is to avoid, ignore or argue with her. But these strategies can quickly become cumbersome and make the situation worse. There a healthier and more effective ways to deal with a difficult woman and probably rescue the relationship if time is taken to calmly address the issue and establish boundaries and expectations. My book gives you the whys and hows of dealing with difficult women in your family, in your church, on the job and in your social circles.

Charles: What in your opinion is a difficult woman? Can you provide us with some examples?

Tanya: A difficult woman is someone who frequently tries to control, manipulate, sabotage and belittle others’ dreams and endeavors. A difficult woman creates strife between family and friends, is selfish, negative, very pessimistic, rude and uses people for their power, money and position. She’s that woman that nobody really celebrates just tolerates. I have over 55 examples in my book How To Deal With A Difficult Woman.

Charles: On your website, you list a few questions for readers who may need the book. From your experience, what has been the response from people who have read “Difficult Woman”?

Tanya: Men love the concept. At most events/signings their first reaction is "I NEED THIS BOOK!" However, it never fails if they are with a woman-wife/girlfriend she begins to say things such as "Why do you need this book? Are you saying that I am difficult?" The woman's reaction causes the man to change his mind about purchasing a book he really needs. Some women are apprehensive about buying for some reason. A few women have taken offense to the title but that is okay. But mostly when the women read the profiles, someone they know comes to mind or they see themselves.

Charles: What do you feel readers should get out of your book?

Tanya: There is not a single solution but a combination of how to deal with a difficult woman. The first solution is to look within yourself. If you have a lot of difficult women in your life, the only common denominator is you. Secondly, if you have not established relationship boundaries and expectations do so. Tell people your boundaries and establish consequences. Let people know your expectations. Finally, the most important solution is honest communication. In relationships especially when conflict arises, the natural tendency is to think that people know what you are feeling without you telling them. You must communicate when people have offended you, hurt you, crossed your boundaries, when you feel neglected and rejected, etc. Being afraid to tell people how you truly feel creates more tension and difficulty.

Charles: Tanya, you’ve come out with a follow up book, “Relationship Reruns”. What was your reason for writing this book and how does it differ from your first literary work?

Tanya: As a life success coach I help people to overcome the obstacles and barriers that have previously hindered them from achieving their goals. And it was interesting to see that when we uncover the barriers almost 90% of my clients attributed it to a bad dating, friendship, business or professional relationship choices.

Charles: In the beginning I mentioned you’re a life success coach. Why do people need coaching in being successful in life and how many clients have been changed as a result?
Tanya: If you really want to go to the next level in any career or goal then you will definitely benefit from a coach. Coaching is having a personal accountability team, resource outlet, cheerleader and guide to help you achieve success in various areas of your life. Many times we have all of the skills and the pieces to our dreams but have no idea how to connect them. A coach helps you connect those pieces. I have several coaches myself.

Charles: When did you start your speaking career? What is the joy you find in being in front of a large group of people? Ever get nervous? (smile!)

Tanya: I’ve been speaking in church, in school clubs at community events etc all of my life. But in 2006 is when I actually decided to pursue speaking as a career. The joy is to witness the excitement and hear the audience feedback afterwards. Yes, I always get nervous whether it is 5 people or 500 people.

Charles: Where can our readers find you?

Tanya: Website and other contact info. Readers can sign up for my free weekly e-newsletter called Tanya’s Tips via my website at www.tanyawhite.com, they may visit me on myspace at www.myspace.com/tanyawhiteky or feel free to e-mail me at tanya@tanyawhite.com.

Charles: Finally Tanya, what advice can you give to the aspiring writers out there who want to make a difference like you?

Tanya: 1) Be willing to sacrifice and change your schedule. Writing requires a lot of focus and time. 2) Start finding an audience so that you may get your writing before readers. 3) Be confident that you have a voice that will reach someone. There is always room for new writers in the industry so do not be afraid to launch out and share your writing with others. 4) Be unique and think outside of the box. 5) Connect with other writers and learn the craft. 6) Expect rejection and criticism. But do not let it paralyze you. Learn from it and press forward.

Charles: Tanya, thanks for your time.

Tanya: Thank you for this opportunity.

Los Angeles Black Book Expo 2008

2008-03-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

LOS ANGELES, CA March 2, 2008 - The fourth annual Los Angeles Black Book Expo (LABBX) will be held Saturday, June 14, from 10 A.M.. until 6 P.M. with a two hour after party featuring networking and live entertainment on the Ahmanson Senior Center, Exposition Park.

Applications for authors and exhibitors can now be accessed at the Los Angeles Black Book Expo website: www.labbx.com

Admission to the Los Angeles Black Book Expo is free.

The black book expo will feature book signings, panel discussions, a spoken word event featuring poetry readings and the first annual LABBX youth poetry slam contest with expected participation from local schools, a children’s area complete with storytelling and a young author forum.

General event information including author and exhibitor applications are available online at www.labbx.com or by calling 323-385-7103. Detailed information on all festival activities will be posted in the LABBX blog, www.labbx.blogspot.com We can also be reached at P.O. Box 44600, Los Angeles, CA 90044.

Expo sponsor and volunteer information is also available on the Los Angeles Black Book Expo website.

About the Los Angeles Black Book Expo

Touted as best Black book expo west of the Mississippi, the Los Angeles Black Book Expo originated in 2004 to celebrate the written word, promote literacy and to showcase new and established authors, storytellers, spoken word artists, children's book authors, emerging writers, publishers, booksellers, editors and book reviewers local and nationwide.

Black Writers on Tour 2008

2008-03-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:
Dr. Rosie Milligan (323) 750-3592
drrosie@aol.com

Thirteenth Annual Black Writers On Tour Conference Is Larger Than Ever! Bring The Whole Family- There's Something For Everybody

Dr. Rosie Milligan once again brings the Black Writers On Tour Writers' Conference to Los Angeles on Saturday, April 26th, 2008 - 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - at the LAX-Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5985 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90045-and it will be more dynamic than ever, with more than 300 Black authors, agents and editors gathering for a one day event. This year's theme is, "Literacy is Everybody's Business-Who Will Tell Our Story?" 2008 Literary Award Recipients: Bilbrew Public Library, Esowon Books, Zahra's Books, Smiley's Books, Shore Books, Word of Life Christian Bookstore, Windsor Hills Christian Bookstore, and Nu Lyfe Books and Art.

The renowned Dr. Claud Anderson, author of "PowerNomics, Black Labor White Wealth," and "More Dirty Little Secrets," will be the keynote luncheon speaker. Local participants-Dr. Maxine Thompson, Attorney Joe C. Hopkins, Anthony Asadullah Samad, L. C. Green, BernNadette Stanis (Thelma from sitcom "Good Times"), Marion McNair, Bishop L. J. Guillory, Rita Hall, and Parry Brown-Abraham. Out-of-state participants-Erick Henderson, Contessa Walls, Don Spears, Professor Walter Williams, Andre Eggelletion, David Coleman, Attorney Clara King, Honorable Judge Susan Washington, and others.

This year's highlight: "Children Writers" and African-American writers age 65 and older in a forum called "Let the Elders Speak." We encourage your youth to come and listen at the feet of these elders as they share wisdom and life lessons.

General Admission is free. There is a free writing class for children. Chat with fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children and Christian writers. Attend the Poetry Jam Competition-WIN CASH! There will be open exhibits and authors signing throughout the day.

The conference has been designed to provide writers with the practical information they need to work in the literary industry. Publishers, as well as agents will attend. Nine (9) writer's workshops will be held throughout the day and will cover a variety of topics from: How To Publish and Promote Your Book-How to Write a Best-Selling Novel-a Free Writing Class for Children 10-15 and much more. Authors wishing to gain exposure, attract new readers, and sell books, and for all wishing to participate in the Poetry Jam Competition visit www.blackwritersontour.com or call (323) 750-3592.

Seminar Topics
>How To Write A Best-Selling Novel
> How To Write, Publish, And Sell Your Book
> What You Need To Know When Writing Poetry
> Protecting Your Writing Rights, Trademark And Patent Rights
> Learn What Black Newspapers Can Do For Black Authors And What Black Authors Can Do For Black Newspapers
> I Am Published Now…Now What?-Learn Strategies To Get Noticed, Sell Books, Save Tie, And Earn Thousands Of Dollars In The Process
> How To Market Via The Internet, Internet-Radio, And Maximize Sales
> Turning Your Book Into A Movie Script
> How To Develop Characters That Leap Off The Page
> Survival Strategies and Success Tools For Today's Teens
> What Parents and Educators Must Do NOW To Make Black Children Feel Good About Themselves
> Health and Wealth Seminar
> Healing Hurting Women

Wave article: Extending their shelf lives

2008-03-04T20:08:00.000-08:00

Rosie Milligan, a South Los Angeles-based publisher and bookstore owner, wants to see large publishing houses support more serious-minded literature by African-American authors.

BY LEILONI DE GRUY, Staff Writer 21.FEB.08
Whether getting their work out through major publishing houses or small boutique publishers, L.A.’s black authors are determined to be seen by the book-buying public.

A literary shift has taken place since the days when W.E.B. DuBois became a best-selling author, a time when most black scribes wrote books that challenged racial inequalities, delved into African-American roots and encouraged movements for social justice.

But over the decades, as more liberties opened for people of color, their writings began to reflect a change as well. In today’s marketplace that means more street fiction, mysteries, thrillers, books on personal finance, romance novels and erotica.

With so many restrictions — marketing concerns, fierce competition and cultural disconnects among them — defining today’s publishing industry, many of L.A.’s contemporary black authors have either self-published or linked up with small, local publishing houses in order to get their work in front of the book-buying public.

Rosie Milligan, publisher of Milligan Books and owner of the South Los Angeles bookstore Express Yourself Books, is among those paving a pathway for local black authors — many of whom are novices.

“In the past few years, mainstream [publishers have] tried to dictate to African-Americans what we read … to dumb us down, to set an image … [creating] a paradigm shift. What they’re looking at is street fiction now, so good literary work has no balance,” Milligan said. “They want to give large advances for street fiction, for someone who’s not using proper English, for someone who’s using a lot of profanity, in the street and in the gutter. That’s the tone they are trying to set for us, so when you send them good literary pieces … they’re really trying to drive you into what they think you need to read. There’s been a big shift.”

At the same time, Milligan added, African-Americans today live in a markedly different social climate — one that in clear ways inform the types of books being written and published. “Fifteen to 25 years ago people were into being free, they were into their civil liberties, and they were interested in integration,” Milligan said. “Now we feel that we are free, like [we] no longer have to fight for it. That’s ironically been a big mistake that we’ve made as African-Americans … We’ve gotten away from trying to learn about the historical [aspect]. Some people wanted to get away from it because they felt like, ‘Why do we keep talking about slavery?’ ‘Why do we keep talking about these things? Let’s move on to something lighter, that’s in the past.’”

Though self- and independent publishing certainly defines much of L.A.’s black literary scene, hopes for going mainstream have not been completely lost. Authors like Terry McMillan and Eric J. Dickey, both of L.A., got their start by marketing their books in African-American bookstores. Others, like the single-named erotica sensation Zane, successfully used the Internet to promote their work. Now, all are mainstays on the New York Times bestseller list.

“Black bookstores have the greatest ability of breaking [in] new authors. Fifteen to 16 years ago we got a book called ‘Tapping the Power Within: A Path to Self-Empowerment for Black Women’ by Iyanla Vanzant and the black bookstores knew immediately this was going to be a great book. It did very, very well and she ended up signing with Simon & Schuster and becoming a bestselling author,” said James Fugate, owner of Eso Won Books. “It may not have happened if you hadn’t had black bookstores.”

Fugate recalls when McMillan began contacting black bookstores in the late 1980s about “Mama,” her debut novel. “That helped pass the word along,” he said. “Even with Zane, or the ‘Coldest Winter Ever’ by Sista Souljah, I think black bookstores knew well before anybody else that [these] were going to be big books and really promoted them.”

Charlene E. Green, a 38-year-old L.A. black author, is all-too-familiar with the waiting process. Her manuscript, “One Man’s Treasure,” sat on the shelf for four years while she and Milligan attempted to sell mainstream publishers on the material.

It was not until she submitted her book to Urban Soul, an imprint of New York-based Kensington Publishing that is now releasing the novel, that she saw any progress. Still, her story illustrates the sort of obstacles faced by black authors whose names aren’t among the handful familiar to the mainstream market, and therefore find it virtually impossible to attract interest from major publishing houses.

“Street fiction … has actually been out for a long time and it’s hard to get a book of substance out there when you’re not known,” said Green, who originally self-published her tome. “When shopping ‘One Man’s Treasure’ … I found it very difficult because [publishers] were saying, ‘It’s a good book but it’s just not what we’re looking for.’ That was frustrating.”

In a very big way, publishing houses who give opportunities to black authors of all ages are helping to bridge a gap between the generations. The elders can share the wisdom of age with younger generations, while youth offer insight into the modern-day black experience.

“We need to bridge the gap. Listen to the children, they have a lot to say, they can teach us something, then listen to the elders … and learn because they can tell you what this role has been like, climbing the hill,” said Milligan, who has published authors as young as seven years-old. “That’s been a market that was totally omitted from mainstream publishers because they didn’t dare look at our seniors [or youth] and say ‘do they have a story?’ ‘What can they write about?’ ‘Do people want to read their stories?’ The answer is yes.”

Having published more than 50 books by black authors from L.A. — including 14 that she wrote — Milligan is also the founder of Black Writers on Tour. The annual event assembles an average of 400 black authors from around the country to conduct readings in different cities throughout the year, offering yet another tool to get the word out about their work.

“The days have come and gone where you need to depend on mainstream publishers,” Milligan said. “[Today], you can publish your own books and market yourself.”

Credit: Los Angeles Wave

BEA/LABBX Reception

2008-03-04T16:16:00.000-08:00

On Friday, May 30th from 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, the Los Angeles Black Book Expo in association with its newest sponsor, 626 Art Gallery in Studio B, will host a Book Expo America/LABBX reception. This meet and greet invite is open to authors attending the BEA as well as booksellers, book clubs, and avid readers. Those in attendance will find out the goings on at this year's LABBX and future plans. This kickoff reception is free and open to the public. Food and refreshments served.

Spoken word performances, a ‘He Said, She Said’ relationship forum and more activities are in the works for a memorable evening! If you plan to attend BEA, then please reserve the date of Friday, May 30, 2008 on your calendar. The 626 Art Gallery is in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and minutes away from the L.A. Convention Center.

BEA/LABBX Reception
Friday, May 30,2008
5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M.
626 Art Gallery @ Studio B
626A S. Spring St
Los Angeles, CA 90014
www.626artgallery.com

For more info, contact the L.A. Black Book Expo at (323) 385-7103

Email: labbex@gmail.com

Take care,

Charles L. Chatmon
Executive Director
Los Angeles Black Book Expo

Community Day 2008 ( Los Angeles)

2008-01-03T21:37:00.000-08:00

Here's a flyer for Community Day 2008 in Los Angeles.

We'll have a Literacy Awareness Pavilion with over 100 authors expected, a citywide youth essay contest and representatives from local libraries will be in attendance.

Check it out!

http://communityday.net

Authors N Focus: the website!

2007-11-18T23:53:00.000-08:00

This message is for all new and established authors who need a bit of support and encouragement……

Authors N Focus is back and in a BIG way!

The blog which features up and coming authors along with bestselling veteran writers is now a website. Yep, Authors N Focus.com is now on the web!Past archived interviews of authors who appeared on the blog are featured as well as writing and media resources for new authors in need of that first guest spot. There’s also a calendar of events (although that’s still in progress) for the new and aspiring authors to promote, network and connect with each other.The new Authors N Focus.com, check it out!

We'll be back with more improvements soon!

Putting Chazz in Focus!

2007-10-28T15:34:00.000-07:00

xHere's a video from my February 2007 trip to Berkeley, CA for the Black Writers Festival up there. Click on the photo to watch the clip.

~ Chazz

Introducing the New Image Writers....sort of

2007-10-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

Hello,

In case you haven't seen any posts here recently, I've been working on a few things, and preparing to be part of the New Image Writers tour starting Friday, October 12. It'll be a fun weekend with award-winning authors signing their books and promoting positive images for the community. On this blog, I wrote in detail about who the New Image Writers are, their mission and schedule. In future posts, we'll ask each and every author about their weekend experience and what can they expect in future tours.

Many thanks to Martha Tucker of Urban Classic Books for coming up with this great idea. She's definitely an author in focus and yes, she's been interviewed here before. Check the archives! :)

That's what networking is all about!

In Memory: My aunt, The Dee

2007-09-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'd like to offer a tribute to a very special person who left us recently, my aunt Delores. She was a talented poet and one of my favorite relatives. I feel numb writing this because I still can't believe she's not here anymore, but I'll always remember her.

Two years ago during our family reunion, she wanted to publish a book of her works that she shared with me. Unfortunately, we didn't make that happen and she left without seeing her dream realized. I want to share with you her poems, what I wanted to call "Words From The Dee". In the future, I plan on publishing the rest and honor it in her memory. She left so much for us, the family, and I'd like to share her heart with you. Thank you.

~ Charles L. Chatmon
A Few More Years

When your eyes can't cry anymore,
and you only have a few months to go.

The doc has put a hurting on me,
it's so plain to see.

Then you want to fall on your knees,
and cry, "God Please! Please!"

God, I know that I'm ill,
and I know it will be your will,
only you know, when it's my time to go.

Jesus I'd like to smile again
and be rid of my fears,
all I'm asking for is just a few more years.

Honey Tree

If I could climb a honey tree,
to see if our love was meant for me.

I'd send an echo out so loud,
to get attention from the crowd.

The crowd would listen and hear me through,
and they can tell I still love you.

My love is still the same,
even though it ended in pain,
I swore I'd never love again.

Written by The Dee

Copyright (C) 2007

I love you Auntie.

One Poetic Seasoned Sistah: Eve Hall!

2007-09-17T22:55:00.000-07:00

Evelyn (Eve) Hall is an author & poet, living in, Georgia. She has been writing for more than thirty-five years. She was born in Dayton, Ohio. Her work has been featured in several magazines including, “A Poet’s cut” “Skyline Publications” “South West Sentinel” “Purpose” & “Mature Living.”

She has won several writing awards, winning 1st-5th place.

She came in 5th place in a Boomer Woman Essay Contest with almost 400 entries. Two of her poems have been finalist for the, “Chicken Soup Series. Her poem, “Transformation” is in the anthology, “Life’s Spices from Seasoned Sistahs: A collection of life stories from Mature Women of Color.

She has been nominated for several awards including, “Poet of the Month” & “Poet of the Year” at: www.poetryinacup.org &“Poet of the Year” at: www.sormag.com. She has been interviewed by the African-American Children’s Writer’s & Illustrators.

She has appeared on television and was a featured guest several times on: www.artistfirst.com & kruufm.com. She has done several book readings & signings at libraries, bookstores and schools in Ohio & Atlanta. Eve attended the Hurston/Wright Writer’s Workshop at Howard Univ. in 2001. Alexs Pate, the author of “Amistad” was her teacher. One of her goals is to publish over a dozen books that she has written for children. She is available for readings and book signings.

Now that you know that much about Eve, let’s put her in focus!

Charles: Eve, why don’t you tell our readers something about you. Why do you love the art of poetry as much as you do?
Eve Hall: I was introduced to poetry in grade school, plus, Paul Laurence Dunbar attended the same grade school I did. It was only fitting for me to grow up reading and writing poetry. It gives me peace of mind.

Charles: Could you please share with us the name of your books and what our readers will find in these poetic treasures?
Eve: I have self-published three poetry chapbooks and five books entitled, “Dontay’s Alphabet Book of Color” “Dontay’s Poetry Playground” “Enter Eve’s Poetic Paradise” “Enter Eve’s Musing Moments” & “Dontay’s Dog.” In my poetry books you will find rhyme & free verse pieces that are from life’s experiences and have come deep down in my heart & soul.
Charles: As I understand it, you’ve been nominated for quite a few awards. How does it feel just to be nominated? How important is it to you to receive the attention that comes with it?
Eve: It feels great when you are nominated for the hard work you have done with, awards, and recognition. interviews, accolades, etc. These awards make the public more aware of your work and your presence.

Charles: Eve, you’re also a children’s book author. Now what made you get into writing books for the little ones? What future goals would you like to fulfill in this field?
Eve: When my first grandchild was born, it came easy for me to write about the things we did together. I saw him be born. They say it’s easy to write about subject matter you know about. This is so true! One of my goal’s is to see my books published by a traditional publisher.

Charles: What genre gives you the most joy? Poetry or writing children’s books and why?
Eve: I love the fact that I can write each just every genre, but my favorite is writing children’s books. I think everyone has written a poem or two, in their lifetime, but writing children’s books is something everyone can’t do. It is very difficult writing a book that children today will enjoy and read over and over again. I enjoy this challenge.

Charles: So what are your future plans? Anything in the works?
Eve: What I am doing now is entering all the ‘FREE’ writing contests I can find and submitting my work to magazines, mostly online. My future projects would include getting ALL the books I have written for children, published. I don’t want to self-publish anymore of my books, the work is just too hard.

Charles: Eve, do you ever experience writer’s block?
Eve: No, because I write in different genres. I will write new poems when I get tired of editing what I have written in a short story, article or essay.

Charles: Do you write everyday?
Eve: I am always writing and reading something, everyday, even if it is answering my e-mail, but I don’t pressure myself to come up with something to write everyday. I love to take mini vacations from my work, so that means leaving my work behind when I go on vacations to get away. I am editing things I have already written.

Charles: How can our readers contact you? Do you have a website?
Eve: Readers can contact me and order my books by writing me at:cagedbird2u@excite.com or by going to my website at: http://www.bradymagazine.com/gallery/evehall

Charles: What advice do you have for all the new and aspiring authors reading this interview?
Eve: Believe in your work. Be patient, persistent and preserve. Treat your work as a business. Proofread all your work. Edit, edit, edit!

Thanks Eve! Everyone please support her, I’m sure she’ll enjoy that!

Back on the Blog!

2007-09-17T22:21:00.000-07:00

Hey there, I’m back!

Yes, as promised it’s time to get re-Focused back on Authors N Focus. If you’ve followed me around the net, you know I’ve had a busy few months helping out with the Leimert Park Book Fair, then with a dedicated staff, revived the Los Angeles Black Book Expo and other projects, but I’m back home and it feels so good!

During my time off, I haven’t gone to sleep on interviewing new authors, not at all. In fact, you might see some authors from both events here on the blog, but our main objective is to open Authors N Focus to any writer regardless of where you are, who are you and where you might be, so there might be a surprise or two for you down the road!

Speaking of which, the authors after our brief reintroduction are those who I feel you will enjoy reading about and hopefully purchase their books. This site is designed to help promote authors, writers and poets get the publicity they should deserve. So with that being said, I felt it was time to take it to the next level. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the brand new Authors N Focus.com!

Yes, now there’s a webpage where new and established authors come to shine!

In the coming weeks you’ll hear more about the site, what’s featured and what links will be added to it. I hope you’ll enjoy what’s coming because big changes are happening for sure!

See ya then!

Charles

Jacqui Smith on Mixed Matters!

2007-06-01T22:23:00.000-07:00

As promised ladies and gentlemen, ANF is back!

New up and coming author Jacqui Smith’s Tennis Shoe Pimp is a book you have to check out! Ms. Smith weaves an urban lit tale that’s destined to be a classic! Jacqui also chats with host Charles Chatmon about how Tennis Shoe Pimp came to light as well as offer a few tips for new and aspiring authors in the literary world!

You can listen to the Jacqui Smith interview at North Bay Media Review.com, home of Mixed Matters, the place for Cool Conversation! (link on the side)

Thanks for all your support and I’ll see you at the Black Book Expo in L.A. this coming August (following the first ever Leimert Park Village Book Fair, Saturday June 30th)

Barbara Wright-Sykes: Good Writing Is Easy

2007-04-23T23:47:00.000-07:00

Acclaimed author and Los Angeles media personality Barbara Wright-Sykes has come out with a brand new novel entitled "Good Loving Ain't Easy"

Here's a description of the book taken from Barbara's website:

Men and women are redefining all the rules, because good loving ain't easy!Can a man be successful, handsome, sensitive and still be faithful to one woman? You'll find out when you read Good Loving Ain't Easy. Author Barbara Wright Sykes brings you a novel of love, fortune, family values and suspense. Good Loving Ain't Easy is an exhilarating read!

JD and Myrna Calhoun…Leaving the South behind, Myrna and JD Calhoun came to California, the land of opportunity, to pursue the their dreams. It wasn’t long, however, before JD fell prey to the oldest temptation. Now, with money rapidly disappearing, Myrna is forced to...........read more

Veda Marie Calhoun…Not born of wealth, but a product of wealth, JD and Myrna's daughter, Veda Marie Calhoun, an attractive, young woman, wise beyond her years, finds that life holds the beauty of love. For her, though, it comes at a price that would frighten even the most mature woman. When her fiancé's psychotic.........read more

Barbara Wright-Sykes is an outstanding woman and author with a wealth of knowledge any aspiring (and veteran) authors would be crazy not to pick up! There's so much to this amazing author and motivational speaker that you will have to find out for yourself! About Barbara

It wouldn't be a stretch to salute Mrs. Barbara Wright-Sykes, always an Author N Focus!

~Chazz

La Rhonda Brown: Freedom From Bondage

2007-04-02T23:11:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to a brand new up and coming author in the Los Angeles area. LaRhonda Brown attended the Calfornia Writers Collective workshop last summer. She pursued her dream and published her first book, Freedom From Bondage. It has exerpts, affirmations, and a positive message for anyone going through the trials and tribulations of this cold world.

LaRhonda is certainly an author who is not only living a dream, she inspires us all to live our best everyday!

And now we take a look at Freedom From Bondage by the talented Miss Brown and see what's on her mind!

Charles: Hi La Rhonda, thank you for allowing me to do this interview with you. Can you please tell our readers a little about yourself?
LaRhonda: I am a single mother with three daughters, and one grand-daughter and make my home in Los Angeles California. My hobbies are singing, reading and going to the park to pray and meditate. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human services and I am currently working toward a Master of Science Degree in Counseling with an emphasis on Marriage, Family and Child Therapy.

Charles: La Rhonda, as an ordained minister, what has been the benefits/frustrations of your mission?
LaRhonda: As an ordained Minister the benefits have been seeing individuals and their families receive renewed hope, peace, strength and acceptance. God has given me a mandate to “Serve the Community by attending to the cry of God's People and bringing soul's out of prison through Christ Jesus”. Some of the frustrations of my mission are not allowing anyone to stop me from speaking the truth and being transparent so that I can really help individuals with root causes of various behavioral problems such as: alcoholism, drug addiction, co-dependency, obsessive behaviors, and sexual addictions. Additional frustrations include balancing ministry, career, education and being a single parent.

Charles: Let's talk about your book, Freedom from Bondage. In your first excerpt, you describe Bondage as a prison of the soul. Were there moments in your life you felt that way?
LaRhonda: Yes, I often have felt like I was literally in a prison with invisible bars. It was my own self-imposed prison. It was a place of silent suffering. Webster's Ninth Collegiate Dictionary states that, “Bound consists of having limitations or restrictions”. I found that I was limiting myself by being stuck in my past which distorted my view about how I saw myself and how I perceived others saw me.

Charles: In excerpt two, you share a part of your personal experience. Was it painful writing about it as you relived the most painful moments of your life?
LaRhonda: Yes, it was painful re-living those moments of my life. It took a lot of fasting and prayer to give birth to this book. I shed many tears as layers of years of bondage were stripped away. As a matter of fact this book is still continuing to transform me from the inside out and is a healing journey that consists of dieing of my old self daily and a re-birth into the woman I was created to be.

Charles: Were the affirmations on your page a result of your freedom from bondage?
LaRhonda: Yes, I've learned that my thoughts are who I am. I use to look to others to validate who I was until I looked into the mirror of God's word and saw the image and likeness I was made in and then I began to proclaim who God said I was and not who society says I am.

Charles: What else can our readers expect from reading your book?
LaRhonda: The readers can expect to be healed from the inside out because this book is designed to assist them with introspection through journaling and is a way of uncovering, discovering and then discarding the past. It allows an individual to examine their relationship with self, with their parents, children, and significant others. It also assist the reader with letting go and letting God have his way, by relinquishing control and trusting the process. It helps the reader examine what is driving their behavior. It also allows the individual to take responsibility for where they are in life and not allow the past to define them. And to recognize that the mistakes they made are not who they are. In addition, it demonstrates that relationships mirror who we are. If we are attracting un-healthy relationships we have to examine how we see ourselves. People treat us how we treat ourselves. For example when I saw myself as unlovable I attracted individual's that treated me that way. Finally, this book will help readers develop a more intimate relationship with God, with themselves, and with others.

Charles: How long did it take for you to complete Freedom from Bondage?
LaRhonda: It took me a 1 ½ years to complete, but in reality it took all my life experiences.

Charles: In the summer of 2006, we met during the California Writers Collective writer's workshop, which I'm glad you attended. How much of the information passed on helped you publish your book?
LaRhonda: The information I learned at your Writer's Collective Workshop was revolutionary. You showed me cost effective ways to self-publish. You showed me the pros and cons of getting a publisher and the benefits of self-publishing. The workshop inspired me, gave me hope and courage to complete my book. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and knowledge it is greatly appreciated.

Charles: How can our readers reach you and buy a copy of the book?
LaRhonda: Readers can correspond with me by contacting me at (323) 481-3606 or email me at: http://us.f318.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=larhondambrown@yahoo.com and they can visit my website to order the book at: www.freedomfrombondage.info.

Charles: La Rhonda, any last words, advice to new and aspiring authors out there?
LaRhonda: I advise aspiring authors to work on their dream daily, not to let anyone kill or steal their dream, pray for their dream daily, believe in their dream, and never quit on their dream and affirm daily that, “I will realize my dream”. Be Blessed!

Charles: La Rhonda, thank you for sharing your freedom with us! Much love and success to you in the future!

L.Taylor's Best Days Is Your Worst Nightmare

2007-03-15T02:36:00.000-07:00

L.Taylor, a Southern author is on focus. His novel, "My Best Days, Your Worst Nightmare" is a tale worth reading.

"Corey Foster is a young medical student with a full football scholarship. The world is at his feet and his prospects are limitless. Then, one fateful day, he becomes entangled with a psychotic woman and her scheming family. As Corey attempts to devise a plan that will allow him to escape, the woman and her mother frame Corey with false child assault and drug dealing charges.

"As his world lies in ruins, his future is dark.Corey becomes consumed by thoughts of revenge, and a most horrible revenge it is. We watch him as he slowly and artistically arranges the fate of his antagonists. Not death – death would be too quick and easy. No – Corey uses his specialized knowledge to arrange a twisted, chilling reward for their evil schemes and carries it through with a fiendish delight.

"A murder mystery of epic proportion, My Best Days, Your Worst Nightmare uncovers the brightest thoughts born in the darkest corners of the human mind; “A place in which your thoughts are truly your own, not to be discovered, discussed, or argued by anyone other than you.”

Check out L.Taylor's hot novel at The Dorrance bookstore

Barbara Stevens: A Wedding Made In Hell

2007-03-15T02:15:00.000-07:00

I apologize (again) for not keeping up with spotlighting new up and coming authors here on the blog.

Now that I got that out of the way.....

Barbara Stevens is the author of an interesting novel: A Wedding Made In Hell: One Woman's Story. Without giving too much away, the novel is described as : "a tale of betrayal, witchcraft and loss of human spirit. The story vividly reveals what REALLY goes on when naive American women travel alone and, fallinto the hands of unscrupulous con men."

You can read an excerpt from Barbara's book as well as finding out more about Barbara herself on her website.

Kamryn Donovan is Getting Lucky!

2007-03-01T23:46:00.000-08:00

There is a new author on the scene that I like to tell you folks about. Her name is Kamryn Donovan, and her soon to be released book, Getting Lucky is a book of different tales set in an apartment complex. I think you'll find Kamryn's stories in Getting Lucky quite different than what you're used to, that is, if you've read the excerpts on her home page.

She's also in the world of MySpace!

Stop by and show her your love!

Chazz

Black Writers On Tour 2007

2007-02-18T21:43:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:

Dr. Rosie Milligan(323) 750-3592drrosie@aol.com

Twelfth Annual Black Writers On Tour Conference Is Larger Than Ever!Bring The Whole Family—There's Something For EverybodyDr. Rosie Milligan once again brings the Black Writers On Tour Conference to Los Angeles on Saturday, March 17th, 2007 – 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. – at the LAX-Crowne Plaza Hotel, 5985 West Century Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90045—and it will be more dynamic than ever, with more than 400 Black authors, agents and editors gathering for a one day event.

This year's theme is, "Literacy is Everybody's Business—Who Will Tell Our Story?" 2007 Literary Award Recipients: Mr. Hardy Brown – Publisher of Black Voices, Ms. Melody Polk – Publisher of LA/Watts Times, and Ms. Theresa Price – Founder/CEO The Black College Expo.The renowned Dr. Claud Anderson, author of PowerNomics, Black Labor White Wealth, and More Dirty Little Secrets, will be the keynote luncheon speaker. Participants—Dr. Maxine Thompson, Attorney Joe C. Hopkins, Kola Boof, and Rita Hall. Out-of-state participants—Erick Henderson, Contessa Walls, Don Spears, and Professor Walter Williams, Andre Eggelletion, and Jeremiah Camara and others.This year's highlight: Black Newspaper Publishers African- American writers age 65 and older in a forum called "Let the Elders Speak."

We encourage your youth to come and listen at the feet of these elders as they share wisdom and life lessons.General Admission is free. There is a free writing class for children. Chat with fiction, non-fiction, poetry, children and Christian writers. Attend the Poetry Jam Competition—WIN CASH! There will be open exhibits and authors signing throughout the day.

The conference has been designed to provide writers with the practical information they need to work in the literary industry. Publishers, as well as agents will attend. 12 writer's workshops will be held throughout the day and will cover a variety of topics from How To Publish and Promote Your Book, How to Write a Best-Selling Novel, Legal Aspects of Writing and Publishing, a Free Writing Class for Children 10-15 and much more. Authors wishing to gain exposure, attract new readers, and sell books, and for all wishing to participate in the Poetry Jam Competition visit www.blackwritersontour.com or call (323) 750-3592.

What's next on Mixed Matters

2007-02-07T20:23:00.000-08:00

Nina Corbett will be on hand to discuss her romantic novel, Standing in the Shadows of Love. Miss Corbett also share her experiences as a television show producer and lends advice to new and aspiring authors in the literary world.

Anna Christian shares her fondest memories with the late actress and activist Frances E. Willams from her autobiography, Meet It Greet It and Defeat It: The Biography of Frances E. Willams, Actress/Activist. Anna will also discuss her newest book Mrs. Griffin is Missing and shares with the audience about her days back in her hometown of Harlem, New York.

Jerry Royce Sampson is the Co-Publisher and Senior Vice President of Rock Publications. He's also the founder of the Rock eNewsmagazine. In this in-depth interview, we'll learn more about Jerry: his background, how the Rock transformed from a print newspaper to an online site, gives insight on Rock Publications and their services, and even shares a bit of wisdom here and there.

All interviews will be posted on the North Bay Media Review

Celebrating our first year online!

Mixed Matters: The Place for Cool Conversation!

Tova Talks Lady B Moore on Mixed Matters!

2007-02-07T20:08:00.000-08:00

Tova talks about her debut novel Lady B. Moore with Mixed Matters host Charles Chatmon. This talented author discusses her book, other projects she's currently involved in and even have a laugh or two. Tova's interview is found exclusively on the North Bay Media Review. Click the link to visit the site.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-06T12:38:00.000-08:00

Hey there!

Man, I've been so bad! I've neglected this site for such a while but there's been some good reasons why. In case you've been checking out my other blog site, Thoughts On A String, I've been involved in finishing up my first novel, It's All About Fate due later this year as well as my third book of poetry, and my collection of short stories/novellas. So I've been on the move and on top of that, I'm now the new Executive Director for the Los Angeles Black Book Expo so there will be news shortly about that.

More author interviews to come!

Lillian Cauldwell: Thief in the night (poem)

2006-12-03T18:55:00.000-08:00

This week on ANF, we'll feature the poetic works of one Lillian Cauldwell. Lillian was my former producer of the 'Chandra and Charles Presents' Show on InternetRadioVoices.com which she created this year and still going strong! She is quite the poet as you will find out from selected pieces I've picked from the stack she's given me. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have. This particular poem is called Thief In The Night.


Thief in the Night

I can't see
what's behind your words,
taunting lies
or misrepresentations.
Colored facts,
outrageous statements
ugly brooding of
crude nicknames.

What are you trying
to tell me?
I don't understand
why you said that.
Defiant tones.
Racial comments.
Slurs upon our identity.
Ethnic mayhem
between our neighborhoods.
Sudden starts.
Abortive halts.
Raised fists
half drawn clubs
hidden guns
with pepper sprays
the can of worms spills.

Blood seeps through the cracks.
Soaks the pavements
and disappears from view.
All
because
of a few mis said words
consonants and vowels
taking a stand
rearing their heads
fanned out behind
the naked hood exposed,
foreign tongues uttered.
Fangs rip through flesh
man against brother.
The war of mass utterance begins.

A thief in the night
it steals
our promised freedoms
and liberties.

Claudia Brown-Mosley has her cake and she's eating it too!

2006-11-28T21:17:00.000-08:00

It’s been over six months since I’ve started this Authors N Focus blog and have interviewed up and coming authors from around the country, but you know there comes a time when you have to promote your hometown writers and Claudia Brown-Mosley is one of them. She’s a rare L.A. native with a hot new book and creator of a brand new magazine you’ll find out later on. Telling us why we should have our cake and eat it too, is Claudia!

Charles:Claudia, I'd like to talk about your latest and greatest book entitled, "I Can Have My Cake and Eat It Too" Can you tell us what it's all about and could you tell us about the main character in the novel?
Claudia: It'sThree best friends who share a special bond, the bond of sisterhood.

Charles: There are two other characters named Sabrina and Ebony. How do their stories related to what Taytana is going through with her husband?
Claudia: Taytana is the one who head is on straight and she helps out the other two.

Charles: Are there any other characters we should look out for when we're reading this fine book?
Claudia: Watch out for Ebony who will smile in your face, but you better not turn your back to her!

Charles: What was your inspiration for writing the novel? You're a married woman so I assume you can speak for Taytana's perspective but what about Sabrina and Ebony's?
Claudia: I wasn’t married all my life so I can relate to all of the women problems that all three goes through. LOL

Charles: I understand you wrote a previous novel before "I Can Have My Cake and Eat It Too". Would you please share with our readers what your first book, "One Time Too Many" is about?
Claudia: It’s a mystery that this man has skeletons in his closet and as his girlfriend gets closer and closer they slowly comes out.

Charles: "One Time Too Many" is a suspense/mystery novel. What particular genre do you love to write? The mystery or the romance or it doesn't matter?
Claudia: Mystery is my first love that is what I started reading first and than slowly moved to the romance.

Charles: How do you feel about the reactions to "I Can Have My Cake and Eat It Too"?
Claudia: It feel good for people to read my writing and enjoy it and make it into something that they might have experience or going through.

Charles: Has it been encouraging?
Claudia: Yes, it encourage me to keep writing and writing. Challenging? It’s challenge me to keep writing and don’t stop.

Charles: Claudia, you're not only a rising star in literature, but you're also a publisher as well. One of your projects is a new magazine called Big Time Publishing. What convinced you to produce a magazine focusing on other up and coming authors?
Claudia: We as authors don’t get the attention that we deserve. So what the magazine do is get us out there and to promote literature in every way.

Charles: What are your goals for Big Time Publishing? Do you see it on the racks of the independent and bigger name bookstores?
Claudia: Yes I do see this in the future.

Charles: What challenges have you faced so far?
Claudia: The bigger name bookstores like what I write but don’t want to put it on the self because I’m self-published. But that is not going to stop me because I have to show them better than I can tell them.

Charles: Who are the authors featured in your first issue?
Claudia: Gena Garrison, the author of Baring It All

Charles: You also hold online chats featuring different authors, is that right? What do you discuss in those chats?
Claudia: Anyone can join the chats and we discuss from the author book to whatever else to help promote the author him or her.

Charles: Claudia, what advice can you give new and aspiring authors who hope to follow in your footsteps?
Claudia: Just keep writing and your dream will come true.

Charles: How can our readers get in touch with you? You're on MySpace aren't you? :)
Claudia: Yes, you can find me at www.claudiabrownmosley.com or http://www.myspace.com/claudiabtp

Charles: Claudia, anything you would like to say before we close?
Claudia: I would like to thank you for all your luv and support you have showed me.

Charles: Well Claudia, thank you for a very interesting interview. Maybe I'll see you at the grocery store or at the park, but hopefully during another event real soon. You keep at it girl!

She was always N Focus: Bebe Moore Campbell

2006-11-28T20:54:00.000-08:00

Note: Sometimes it hurts when one of your own leaves this earth much too soon, or maybe we should accept the fact that when it's our time, it's our time and what you've done in between birth and death can have an impact on others. Bebe Moore Campbell was one of those individuals. May her family find peace in this difficult time.

BEST SELLING AUTHOR AND MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATEBEBE MOORE CAMPBELL DIES AT AGE 56“
Writer Fought Valiantly to the End in Battle Against Cancer”

Washington, DC – Today at 12:15 a. m. PST, internationally acclaimed best selling author, writer, and mental advocate, Elizabeth Bebe Moore Campbell Gordon died peacefully at her home in Los Angeles due to complications related to brain cancer. Campbell was diagnosed with a neurological condition in late February by world renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Keith Black who led her medical team. “My wife was a phenomenal woman who did it her way,” said husband Ellis Gordon Jr. “She loved her family and her career as a writer. We enjoyed life together as a team and we will miss her immensely and will lover her forever.”

On behalf of Authors N Focus, let's honor Bebe by reading her legacy to us. We owe that much to her.

-Charles

Mixed Matters: October 2006

2006-11-01T22:13:00.000-08:00

The Chicken Soup Tour, Tureeda the poet, W. Eric Croomes

Food for the Soul on North Bay Media Review

Since we've had the pleasure of meeting many of the distinguished contributing authors of Chicken Soup for the African American Woman's Soul, we just can't get enough of their positivity and spirit! So naturally Mixed Matters on North Bay Media Review is pleased that Charles Chatmon was able to catch up with Sheila Spencer, Linda Coleman-Willis, Berthena Kemp and Traci Clausell-Alexander. Where, you might ask? At Smiley's Bookstore in Carson, California, co-owned by Pamela Pollard and her sister Lori. Listen in and feel the positive vibes as each author shares some of her work and talks about the best-selling new addition to the Chicken Soup series.

Have you ever attended a poetry event or poetry reading and asked yourself how one person can have so much energy? Tureeda, in person, is brighter than a thousand light bulbs and you can catch a glimpse of her warm spirit as Chandra Adams talks with her about her poetry.

W. Eric Croomes brings it home to the fellas with Brotha 2 Brotha -- Becoming Healthy Men from the Inside Out. Brotha 2 Brotha is a roadmap for African-American men who want to improve their own lives as well as their communities. For more information about Brotha 2 Brotha by W. Eric Croomes, check out our review of his book at North Bay Media Review.North Bay Media Review

© 2006 NorthBayMediaReview.com

Chandra Adams: Podcast article

2006-10-17T00:09:00.000-07:00

Author Chandra Adams (Shades of Retribution - April 23, 2006 ) was featured in the Vallejo Times Herald earlier this year. Here's a brief section of the article which describes Solano County residents who are taking up podcasting as a way to reach out to a vast number of people. Here is the section:

On the air
Podcasting is another avenue for a first-time author seeking publicity, said Chandra Adams of Vallejo. In 2004, she released a suspense novel called "Shades of Retribution" through Adrolite Press, her publishing house.
"I remember how hard it was to get on the radio," Adams, 38, said. "So when I found out how easy it was to do a podcast - and I've always had a secret desire to be a talk show personality - I put up a Web site."

She's been podcasting her show interviewing authors since February. So far, she's hosted more than a dozen other writers, letting them promote their books, the way she wished she had help promoting hers.
Adams' shows, available at northbaymediareview.com, have pulled in as many as 82 listeners each, she said. That adds up to hundreds of listens, she added. The publicity helps sales of her book, which has sold more than 1,000 copies, she said.

Adams said she has a list of authors seeking a slot on her show to talk about their book. The podcast is getting her more attention in her field.
"It's establishing me as someone to go to," Adams said. "If you need help promoting your book, obviously you want to get an interview."

The next frontier

Adams, the author, said she already had a computer and Internet connection. All she did was buy a microphone for less than $20 at RadioShack, plug it in and begin recording her talk show podcast.
It's been fun, but it's also taxing, she said.

"It's definitely responsibility," Adams said. "At first, kind of nerve-racking because I felt I had to have everything just right."
Now, she's looking at the next level of podcasting - video blogging.
"I'm going to see if I can start recording interviews on video and putting them on in place instead of just audio," Adams said.

The complete article can be found here.

The Boston Book Bazaar is on!

2006-10-16T11:12:00.000-07:00

The following is from Nishawnda Ellis, author of Wives and Girlfriends:

Greetings!
It's finally here! The Third Annual Book Bazaar opens it's doors this Saturday October 21, 2006 from 12- 7pm at The Roxbury Center for Arts at Hibernian Hall 182-186 Dudley St, Roxbury MA 02119. Dozens and dozens of authors are here and ready to meet with you. Pick up Mind Games by the Urban Legend herself, Kashamba Williams. Listen to the spoken word of Vasco Pires's A fraction Of Me. Ever felt Mis- Guided by Renee Flagler? Or does your soul need saving in Devil's Orchestra by Sydney Molare?
Excited? You should be! New England is about to indulge in the hottest literary scene ever to hit the pavement! Don't be left out. Come on down to the BBB, admission is FREE!

It's going down! Don't miss New Englands largest Author Expo this Saturday October 21 from 12-7pm. Get there early for door prizes, raffles and free giveaways! See you soon.
PEACE

To all you on the East coast who can afford to travel to Boston for one day, please support this event and meet some great up and coming authors with their latest and greatest! If you're interested or would like more information, please contact Nishawnda at:

email: nishawnda@yahoo.com
web: http://www.kindleeyesbooks.com

Previous Bazaar pictures: Check them out!

Exclusive: Tangelika Bolen speaks her mind

2006-10-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

Once again, we continue our exclusive interviews with the former authors of Black Pearl Books. "Former" due to the contraversy surrounding the company alledgely not paying royalties to its authors. So far we've heard from Brenda M. Hampton, Rahsaan Ali and recently, Tia Hines. Tangelika Bolen requested this interview sorely because she felt the need to warn others about purchasing her novel, Sensation. As requested after each exclusive interview, Authors N Focus welcomes a response or even a rebuttal from Black Pearl Books in the comment section. For now, let us hear what Ms. Bolen has to say.

Charles: Tangelika, thanks for agreeing to this interview. Please share with us how you were first involved with Black Pearl Books. Wasn’t your novel Sensation written under a different title? Why the change?
Tangelika: Destiny was first self-published through a company formally known as Bookman Marketing Publishing Company. After receiving my first ordered copies of “Destiny”—I was breathless when I saw that my covers were all blurred. I immediately sought out several publishing companies, via a website search, which is how I came across BPB. I queried Black Pearl via email and Felicia Hurst requested two published copies of my novel for review. After sending my copies to Felicia, Bookman Marketing self-publishing company agreed to a reprint at my expense to make cover corrections, which is how I ended up having two very different covers for Destiny! Despite the shameful flawed book covers, Destiny was moving at an extremely fast pace. The reviews were wonderful, including the email that provided me with direct contact to Felicia’s Hurst phone number and requesting me to call her during a holiday weekend, night or day and collect if necessary. Her words were “My Editors loved your book” and of course I had a million-dollar-smile, assuming that I was on my way to making one-tenth of that. (lol)

Charles: For the readers out there who are not familiar with your work, what is Sensation about? What was the initial response from BPB?
Tangelika: Sensation tells the tale about a young girl named Teresa Tucker who dreams of getting married, yet she’s caught up in a non-committing relationship. She and Delvin, her so called boyfriend whose eleven years older, continues to cheat and play games with each other’s hearts. Feeling undeserving of Delvin’s love, her life takes a plunge for disaster once she allows herself to get caught up in the world of exotic dancing. Sensation is a romantic suspense novel with a twist of mystery. The impulsive drama throughout will have you laughing, shaking your head and biting at your fingernail tips.

Charles: Did BPB make any promises regarding release date, promotion, etc?
Tangelika: SEVERAL! It was told to me over the phone, when I advised that my mother was a Paralegal and wanted to look over the initialed offered emailed contract, that I had “72 hours” to sign and return my contract immediately via fax being that the seventy second hour would end on a Sunday. The smoke blown in my ears were glamorized. I was told that I had a best-seller, and that if I signed right away I could have my novel by mid fall (sometime in October) was her exact words, and this conversation took place back in July of 2005. I was promised a travel table with a table cloth personally designed to advertise my novel. I was told by Felicia Hurst, that she would issue books and make schedules to bookstores for book signings and send out advertisement of my comings. I was told that my book was going to be sold world wide and would be in all the major bookstores as well as a few Ma & Pop stores too. When I asked about self Marketing, and Press Release—Felicia told me not to worry that Black Pearl Books will handle everything and that there was no need to involve a publicist, and that she would be keeping me so busy with promotional tours/book signings etc. Felicia requested that I obtain in writing a cancel agreement from the publishing company in which I had no contract with. She insisted that they send her a letter stating that our business was done, and that they will not reproduce my novel formally titled as Destiny. Therefore stopping it’s availability to the public when it was selling at a fast pace.

Charles: What aroused your suspicions about BPB? What was the first sign something wasn’t going right?
Tangelika: Absence! Being a new Author on the rising, I didn’t want to seem antsy—I wanted to give BPB the space to do what publishers do best. October had passed, no email, no contact. I started contacting Felicia via phone, and she would answer the phone back then, but in less than a second, she’d have me off the phone promising to call me back, seeming as if she was so busy. When we did talk, she told me to look for my novel to be released in December. Nearly the end of December, and over 180 days which immediately breached our Contract, I called again. This time she was prepared for me. Felicia told me that my novel was ready and would be coming out along with Brenda M. Hampton’s novel this past month of March. I was promised to finally have books in my hand on February 28, 2006. My novel never came!! I called again, and I was told that there were printing issues, and that she would be sending my novel out soon, and to please bare with them. Nearly the end of April, after leaving several voice messages, I received an email stating that she was finally sending out Sensation to me via UPS. More than likely, if I would have received my books, I probably would have slept with them, that’s just how thrilled I would have been. Needless to say is that I received a 3 ring binder note book instead, asking me to do an overview of the final layout and any final changes if necessary. At that point receiving an unpublished manuscript instead of a hardcopy galley clearly indicated that my work was never submitted to a printer press. One year three months later, still no novel.

Charles: When you found out BPB had released Sensation without your knowledge, what was your reaction? Were you informed about the pre-order of your novel beforehand?
Tangelika: Well, that situation is stickier than we may think! They were entitled to at one point! Black Pearl Books posted my newly titled novel “Sensation” on many, many websites. So many that I’m not even aware of all of them even to this day. On ALL of the websites, my novel was and still is available for pre-orders. From my perception on Amazon showing a release date for March 2006 and available for pre-order, and back when Amazon use to show the before and after rankings, it was moving around quite a bit to the point that Amazon changed my release date to May 2006 and posted beside my novel “currently unavailable”. I noticed that on the Barnes and Noble website it now post an August release date. The novel “Sensation” is still posted on all the other websites for pre-order even to this date! It’s truly one big mess. Even after I canceled my Contract Agreement back in July, BPB continues to advertise and I assume accept money for my unpublished work!

Charles: So does this mean I order Sensation from Amazon.com, as a reader will not get a copy of the book? If I do receive it, does it mean I’m reading a novel you didn’t authorize publication for?
Tangelika: I noticed last month, that after posting copies of my images for my upcoming works, that Amazon is now accepting pre-orders again for my novel. This to me indicates that BPB has something to do with that. I questioned them via email, and have not gotten a response. I am truly hoping that BPB did not publish my work without contacting me or without my written authorization, and I would hope that they would use any printing monies towards royalty payments for their very patient Authors first! (That would be the sensible thing to do.) To publish my work would be considered “Theft by Taking” and stealing is against the law! Black Pearl Books are in breach and have been notified accordingly.

Charles: Did anyone in the company make any intent to contact you or were you able to contact them?
Tangelika: Black Pearl Books did not try and contact me to explain anything regarding my novel whatsoever! I contacted them many of times, only to receive no answers to my questions.

Charles: Tangelika, when did you find out other BPB authors weren’t being paid? What was the reaction from your fellow authors who went through the same experience?
Tangelika: I am an Author who loves to read. I support my family first. I made it a point to start purchasing all of Black Pearl Books titles. As I started posting reviews, I’ve became acquainted to many of their Authors. Being that I didn’t have printed work and not due any royalties, I was the last to be conversed with. However talking to the other Authors and finding out the bad news about Black Pearl Books was sickening to my stomach. I became depressed—I wanted this nightmare to end quickly.

Charles: Regarding the Essence.com comments, how shocked and/or disappointed were you reading them?
Tangelika: A lump welled up in my throat, I perspired, profanity spieled out of my mouth word for word and then I cried. I could not believe that that could be. How does a Publisher that wants to make a name for their business, stoop to such trifling low levels.

Charles: Did you feel it was a ‘slap in the face’ to you personally, especially after you and the other authors were told to be quiet about the royalty issue?
Tangelika: Yes I felt it was a smothering slap across my face! The attack was personal to me, Sensation is about an exotic dancer, and there was a negative comment about strip clubs written in one of the comments but aimed at another author. Yes it was very personal for me irregardless to the statement. It was my Publishers that were behaving badly publicizing conflicts on a public website that reaches out to millions, and prior to that we received threatening letters, telling us either “Snitch” on other authors and not to talk about Black Pearl Books or we would be prosecuted.

Charles: Amazingly, this issue has been going on since August. Why hasn’t there been a public outrage over BPB’s treatment of the authors in your opinion? What have you’ve heard from your fans so far?
Tangelika: What I have been hearing from fans and other Authors (shamefully) is that Black Pearl Books is not the only company that is not paying their Authors and this does not make it okay! Authors are afraid of ruining their reputation, and don’t won’t to risk having other Publishing companies turn their nose up to them, thinking that they are just trouble makers. We have a voice inside and someone enjoyed hearing us, we sat down and put it on paper, and that took courage in itself. Therefore standing up for oneself, we should not be afraid of being heard-out-loud.

Charles: I assume like all the other authors I’ve spoken with, that you’ve moved on from Black Pearl Books. What’s next on the horizon for you?
Tangelika: Most definitely! I have re-edited and I am doing the first print run ever for “Sensation” something BPB never did. And I am also doing a double release because my novel Justifiable Behavior will accompany Sensation this coming December and just in time for Christmas. My novels will be published through my own publishing company in the name of my daughter.

Charles: Tangelika, what would you like to say for all the new and aspiring authors out there?
Tangelika: I always believe in second chances, not all publishers are out to get you. Don’t let my experience steer you away from submitting to anyone. Just be careful. If you are rushed to sign an agreement then there must be something in it to worry about. Keep writing, and keep believing that your work is marketable.

Charles: In closing, this is your chance to say what’s on your mind. Please share with us how are you feeling now. Are you still hurt over the whole ordeal? If Ms. Hurst or Mr. Chapman read this right now, what do you want to say to them?
Tangelika: After moving on and continuing to work on my third novel Harmony, I became at piece again and fell back in love with writing, and in the process I gained long lasting friendships. Having to write my real-life-pain in this interview, reminded me of the suffering that I still endure, (its too incomplete to bury). Felicia Hurst painted me a beautiful rainbow when she blindingly seduced me to sign with her company so quickly, going against my better judgment, and pulling Destiny a fast selling novel off the market shortly after its release.
Mrs. Hurst and MR. Chapman…Please send me my null/voided contract agreement which was signed for by someone in your establishment. I am still waiting for it after three months! And please do not attempt to publish my work. To all readers, please do not purchase the novel Sensation, published through Black Pearl Books. I sincerely thank you in advance for supporting me!

Charles: Tangelika, thank you so much for this interview. I wish you much success to you in the future.
Tangelika: You are welcome. Thanks for the opportunity for my voice to be heard.

~Tangelika Bolen
Author of Sensation and Justifiable Behavior
http://www.tangelikabolen.bravehost.com/
http://www.kendallpublication.bravehost.com/
tammywritesbooks@yahoo.com

Tia Hines: coping with the DRAMA and Black Pearl

2006-10-10T01:19:00.000-07:00

We now continue our exclusive interviews with the former authors of Black Pearl Books. "Former" due to the contraversy surrounding the company alledgely not paying royalties to its authors. So far we've heard from two of them, Brenda M. Hampton and Rahsaan Ali. Now another author steps forward to tell her side of this complex tale. As always, Authors N Focus welcomes a response or even a rebuttal from Black Pearl Books. In the meantime, here is the interview.

Tia Hines is an Essence best seller. Her novel DRAMA finished in the top ten of the magazine’s list. She is also one of the authors who wrote for Black Pearl Books, but now demands her royalties which she has not received from the publisher. In another exclusive interview for Authors N Focus, Ms. Hines will share with us her feelings about her former company, her books and what she has learned from this experience.

Charles: Tia, thank you for agreeing to do this interview. I guess like in the title of your recent book, this ongoing dispute with Black Pearl Books has been nothing short of DRAMA, hasn’t it? Now that you’ve had some time to think it over, what are your thoughts of not being paid for your work even to this day?
Tia: Yes, it has been nothing but DRAMA with BlackPearl. I’m actually at a lost for words to speak on them. I work hard to put my creative work on paper. I thought I had a hustle on the side bringing in some extra money but apparently not. I got hustled! Shoooot, I got school loans I need to pay. Why they playing?

Charles: When did you suspect you weren’t being paid for your work?
Tia: When June 1st rolled around and Felicia said nothing to me about a check, no phone call of an update and no letter of any sort.

Charles: Tia, you wrote another book for Authorhouse before Drama. Could you please tell us what it is and what led you to Black Pearl in the first place?
Tia: Well the book I wrote and self-published under AuthorHouse is the same book under BP. They just changed the name. I had never heard of BP but one day got this email from a Felicia Hurst asking if I would be interested in a book deal. Excited, I emailed her back like, of course. We spoke eventually and she told me whoever in her company read the book and loved it and things flew from there. I got my contract through email, let a lawyer look over it and bam signed it like I was on my way to stardom.

Charles: If you could tell us, what did BPB promise you when you signed your contract?
Tia: They promised great promotion, many book signings and nothing would be done without consulting with the author because the author’s feedback is important.
They weren’t dishing out cars or anything like that so nothing too far fetched.

Charles: How did you feel about the success of DRAMA when it came out?
Tia: At first I wasn’t feeling anything. I hated my book cover and was told it could not be changed because the book had already gone to print and Borders and other stores have ordered it. This was a shocker because what happened to the whole nothing without author consultation but whatever. The book was not released on the date promised which was September 30th. It was more like November. I asked for several signings to be set up at chain bookstores and it was not done. One of the local bookstores here I did do a signing but was told to set it up myself. Can you believe that? I actually ended up finding a publicist to help me out. It was disappointing.

Charles: When it was time for you to receive your royalty check and it didn’t come on time, did you contact BPB at all? What was their initial response?
Tia: Yup, I called FH and asked what’s up with the check and she said she was just waiting for the rest of the numbers from Borders and other bookstores and the checks would be out soon. Yeah right! A week or two went by and nothing. I called her up like what’s the deal with the check and she gave me some sob story about a legal matter she couldn’t get into. I asked what did that have to do with my money and she simply said a lot but she would let me know more detail soon. Then called her like a week later and she didn’t answer. I left a message. She never got back to me. Then I get some stupid letter in the mail basically asking me to snitch some "legal matter" that I had no idea what she was talking about.

Charles: When was the last time you heard from BPB about your royalty check? Did anyone give you a satisfactory accurate date?
Tia: No date, no valid explanation, nothing, only soon. Promising huh? That was through an email because of bickering and so forth and she wanted to clear her name of not being a bad person or whatever. Besides that though, she hasn’t like personally called to say hey this is what the deal is. She doesn’t answer the phone and she doesn’t respond to specific emails requesting explanation of this matter. Even with the letters of exchange with herself and my lawyer, she responded but by not answering the pertinent questions only badgering and trying to threaten the lawyer.

Charles: What would you tell a new or beginning author who may consider a publishing house like Black Pearl Books?
Tia: Don’t do it. Don’t you dare unless you are trying to get some community service points or an award of that sort. Nosa, but really do extensive research and get references on the company. Speak to their clients and authors. Negotiate the contract. Get what you want.

Charles: Tia, have you ever wondered if signing with Black Pearl Books was worth it?
Tia: I’m not going to sit here and say the whole thing was garbage because that’s not true. So far, I made a name for myself with the help of BP. I’m pretty sure later down the line I could have done the same but the process was speeded up. It’s cool though. I ain’t bitter. I’m learning. The company is mud not me. It was an honor to make Essence Magazine April Best Seller’s List.

Charles: Although this has been a difficult process for you, what have you learned from all this? Are you planning another book in the future?
Tia: Oh definitely, the writing does not stop. I plan to write until I make the New York Times and I will. I’ve learned that people will be people, you know. No matter how many times you look at a contract, you will always find a problem after you sign it. You just have to deal with problems as they are thrown your way. Like I said, I’m not bitter, disappointed yeah, but not bitter. I’m leaving this in the Lords hands. He works things in mysterious ways. BP knows what they did was shady and they will get theirs. I’m not worried. This is just a bump in the road and they will not stop my success, check or no check.

Charles: Tia, in closing, do you have anything you would like to say to your fans?
Tia: Don’t worry, I’ll be back on the block very, very soon with so more Drama that will blow your mind. I live and write, my fans. You give me inspiration. Thanks a million.

Charles: Tia, thank you for taking the time for the interview. I wish you continued success in the future.
Tia: Thanks a lot for giving me a chance to speak my voice.

Contact Tia at TiaHines.com

Mixed Matters on the road: LABBX 2006

2006-10-09T23:55:00.000-07:00

Charles Chatmon makes the rounds at The Los Angeles Black Business Expo 2006 on September 25th and interviews several authors including Pearl Jr., J. Duval, and several authors published by Milligan Books

Mixed Matters on the road at the BBX!

Check it out!

Exclusive: The Rahsaan Ali Interview

2006-09-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

Another best-selling author has spoken out against Black Pearl Books's reluctance to pay their authors royalty checks for their works. You’ve heard from Brenda M. Hampton, now Mr. Rahsaan Ali, another Black Pearl author and subject of a very heated exchange on a message board, has agreed to be interviewed for Authors N Focus as we continue to hear from the authors who help generate the interest in ‘Ghetto Lit’ and now find themselves part of a much larger, tragic story. Mr. Ali has agreed along with me to conduct a ‘no holds barred’ interview where anything goes! As always, Authors N Focus welcomes a response from a representative of Black Pearl Books to share with the readers their side of the story. We appreciate hearing from all sides of this very difficult issue.

Before we start, let me just add this: there are no winners here. Period.

Charles: Mr. Ali, how are you doing sir?
Rahsaan: Hello Charles and all supporters of urban lit and any other type of genre that exceeds the plight of the hue-man race.

Charles: Rahsaan, thanks for agreeing to post your side of the story. Tell me, how did you get involved with Black Pearl Books and when did you find out you were not receiving your royalties from them?
Rahsaan: I discovered Black Pearl through a book vendor on Jamaica Avenue, based in New York City. I’d been trying to get a book deal for many years and didn’t quite know how to go about it. Getting signed that is! Any which way, this particular book vendor in which I worked with told me he knew of a credible publishing company looking for fresh, solid, new material. Two weeks after sending my copyrighted manuscript off to God knows where, Winston Chapman showed up. We began talking before either one of us knew who the other were. The next night, over steak, potatoes and Gin & Juice, I became part of the dysfunctional Black Pearl Family. That was June 26, 2005. I received my first royalty check for one thousand six hundred and sixty three dollars, oh let me not forget the fifty four cents. Ahem. I got that on the first or second of February. That’s the last royalty check I’ve seen up to date. The explanation for that were private legal matters which were not divulged to any of us. Up to this day, I still do not know.

Charles: In an email you sent me, you said you gave up ninety three percent of your sales to Black Pearl? That’s an unusual percentage for a publisher – author relationship. I don’t know if any publisher would take that much. I have to ask you point blank, why did you accept that in the first place?
Rahsaan: I have to laugh at that one Charles. My contract stated that I was receiving ten percent and them ninety, but when my masters went on a rampage to publicly decimate my character and sales for themselves, it was stated I was only seeing seven percent. Low blow. As far as why I’d settle for such robbery? I’m still asking myself that very same question but I will tell you this…you can only be hungry, but before long, you’ll soon eat what’s on that plate in front of you. For instance, remember when you were a child and big momma would make liver for dinner and you’d just sit at the table staring at it. Then she’d say that plate will be there Monday-Friday until it’s cleaned off. Sooner than later, you will eat that liver if there is nothing else. I’d been hungry for far too long.

Charles: Rahsaan, I have to ask you the same question I asked Brenda M. Hampton, as many authors as BPB has in its stable, why are there a small percentage of you, maybe one or two authors, speaking out about this? Have other authors you know of expressed the same complaints as you?
Rahsaan: I can’t speak for the rest of my fellow authors. I myself have not spoken but to a few. Those are the one’s who are speaking now.

Charles: What is your response to those individuals who say, ‘you should have done your homework, you should have checked out BPB a bit more closely’? What do you say to that?
Rahsaan: I say everybody gets in a predicament in which if you would’ve done this, that, or the other, things would be different. There’s not one author out who hasn’t experienced a similar scenario. Whether it be through literary or the legal system, we all make mistakes. So I say to them, in the process of leaving the house in the morning, looking at the fuck up’s of others, be sure to pack your pocket mirror cause often you may find your own reflection.

Charles: Let me play Devil's Advocate Rahsaan and ask how did you know if a poster who called you a ‘slave’ on Essence.com’s message boards was really Ms. Hurst? Could it be that you just overreacted to that comment?
Rahsaan: You make a very valid point. But!!!!!! Certain people have outstanding characteristics in their verbal and written responses. Only someone trying to hide would initial their full names. If it were an imposter trying to stir trouble, better yet bring turmoil, they would’ve maliciously wrote out Felicia Hurst@Winston Chapman, instead of W.C.

Charles: Do you think that the company should get some type of credit? I mean, after all, didn’t they help you become the best selling author you are today? Aren’t you ‘biting the hand that feeds you’?
Rahsaan: At the end of the day, they did provide me the spring board to bounce into a world I once only dreamed of. I believe in dreams and this one finally came true. But does that give them right to now not only hold me hostage in a contract that is bullshit, but also attempt to black ball me before they kick me off the contract? Hell no! If you owe, you owe. Pay that man what he’s worked for. So you’re damn right I’m going to continue bitching and moaning about monies owed. Maybe the IRS is saying the same thing to them too. Monies are owed. Pay us!

Charles: This ongoing conflict with Black Pearl would cause someone to say ‘this is all a publicity stunt. There aren’t any problems with royalties being paid to BPB authors. I imagine if Chapman and Ali saw each other, it’ll be all cool’. What do you say to that?
Rahsaan: I wish it were only a publicity stunt, but then I’d only be participating in the same nonsense as they. Which would be making money off of lies, manipulation, fraud and hold up’s on the freeway. That means highway robbery.

Charles: What has been the response so far from your fans as far as telling them not to buy any more copies of your work via Black Pearl?
Rahsaan: I can honestly say that there has been no response.

Charles: What is the future of Rahsaan Ali’s writing career? I assume your association with BPB is over and done with.
Rahsaan: Me and Black Pearl Books are a wrap. Their aluminum plans have been foiled. My new book titled “CARMELLO” A FAMILY AFFAIR will be out by mid October. Early November.

Charles: I’m going ask you another question I asked Brenda earlier. You are a best-selling author, yet does it feel like all that you’ve accomplished means nothing at this point?
Rahsaan: I feel like I still may have a while to go because the fans are looking forward to the next book and I do not posses the essentials to get it popping the way they have. But fortunately, some deals are in the works. And in the infamous words of the last man standing, you have not heard the last of me.

Charles: Rahsaan, based on your experience, what advice can you give to the new and beginning authors out there? What are the signs to look out for when you deal with a company such as Black Pearl?
Rahsaan: To all the up and coming authors, please try to self publish. You will never see a company like Black Pearl coming. But you will see your money going toward their summer vacation in Rome or wherever
thieves stash stolen money in their dens. Just always continue to write and always remember that dreams do come true.

Charles: Like I told Brenda, I wish this interview was under better circumstances but I do wish you well in your future projects and thanks for the interview. I’m sure a lot of folks know your story now, as well they should.
Rahsaan: Thank you for providing us the opportunity to share this insightful exposure. Readers, Brenda and I love you all and thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You can see more on www.rahsaanali.blogspot.com
email rahsaanali_longisland@yahoo.com
website: rahsaanali.bravehost.com

Ladies and gentlemen, there you have it. It is my understanding that this issue will be solved through different channels outside the internet but as readers and supporters of urban literature, you have the final say with your pocketbooks. That's how it should always be.

Exclusive: Brenda M. Hampton Speaks Out

2006-09-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

It has been said writing is a business. While that may be true, there are cases when business doesn’t go smoothly, especially in the case of payments. For a month now there is a growing (but quiet) conflict between Urban Literature publisher Black Pearl Books and its authors who accuse the company for withholding royalties owned them. Let me just say this topic is nothing new nor is this an indictment of Black Pearl. This is however, a chance for one well known best selling author who contributed to the company to speak her mind about this very heated issue. Authors N Focus welcomes a response from Black Pearl Books for their side of the story. For the time being, Brenda M. Hampton, an Essence Magazine Best Selling Author, shares her discontentment with Black Pearl Books.

Charles: Brenda, thank you for agreeing to this interview. For the past few weeks there seems to be a conflict between Black Pearl Books and its authors who claim the company has been denying them royalties. What led you to believe that BPB wasn’t paying you on time if at all?
Brenda: Charles, let me start by saying that this conflict has been going on since June 2006. When my royalties didn’t come in the mail, I suspected something was wrong. Actually, I suspected something before June 2006 because the President, Felicia Hurst, seemed a bit out of character. Meaning, she’d been ignoring emails and phone calls from her authors, and if she did reply, her comments were short and she failed to address the concerns in the emails pertaining to: book signings, book releases, future submissions, etc.

Charles: Did the company send a notice to you by email? Snail mail? What has been their response as far as the delayed checks?
Brenda: In mid June, through a phone call I received, and an explanation I’d previously heard before, was the reports from a major book store chain were not available. When I asked if I could receive royalties for my other sales, I was told that as soon as ALL of the reports came in, my royalties would be mailed to me. A few weeks had passed, and a trusted source, which will remain anonymous, informed many of Black Pearl Books authors that through contacting the chain directly, they were told no such reports existed. At that time, Felicia Hurst was confronted and her story changed. My last communication with her was on July 3, 2006, and she informed me of some type of conspiracy against Black Pearl Books. Basically, she said that there were many individuals out to defame Black Pearl Books, and once the “issue” was resolved, which would be soon, then she’d mail royalty checks. She also mentioned that she’d obtained assistance from well-known African American leaders and that much of this information was confidential.

Charles: Brenda, one look at your website, (brendamhampton.com) shows the covers of your BPB books crossed out and alternative covers are displayed. Why did you choose to show the BPB covers with the X instead of just showing the alternative covers?
Brenda: Charles, my reason for displaying the BPB covers with an X is because I am showing individuals the BPB covers I do not want them to support. If individuals see only the new covers, some may assume that I’ve released a new book. There is a sequel to Naughty by Nature, and I want my readers to be clear that the new cover is only a revision and not the sequel. In the past, I’d had major issues when Black Pearl Books changed the cover and title to the exact same book and my readers were furious. This time around, I don’t want any confusion and I’m basically saying…these are the previous covers, and here are the new ones.

Charles: Also on your site you mention two names associated with Black Pearl Books. What was your reason for ‘going there’ in calling them out?
Brenda: I can only say, why not call them out? The founders of Black Pearl Books, Felicia Hurst and Winston Chapman, have betrayed many of their authors. They should be held accountable, and if they feel as if they’re operating a reputable and righteous company, then why crawl under a rock and hide out? On a daily/weekly basis, BPB are contacted by their authors, pleading for royalty payments and demanding some type of response. The only responses we’ve gotten are letters that have attacked and threatened us for speaking of this matter and they often refer to us as being “weak minded” for walking away from BPB. If that hasn’t insulted me enough, implying that we’re “victims” of other’s agenda certainly is. No doubt, we are victims, but only victims to the pain they’ve inflicted upon us. Never, ever have these letters offered a solution to the problem, offered an apology, or made mention of our seriously delayed royalty payments. So, yes, I have to call them out by names. I don’t want anyone else to get burned, and if an aspiring writer is contacted by this company, I at least want them to know whom and what they’re dealing with.

Charles: I noticed on your site there are other authors mentioned. However, someone may say ‘well you’re the only one talking about this.’ Have any of the other BPB authors spoken out about this issue and from what you can tell, what steps have they taken to inform the public?
Brenda: The individuals who feel as if I’m the only one talking about this haven’t done much research on the Internet. I have a huge base of readers, and therefore, my voice has appeared to make the much noise. However, through posting reviews on Amazon, many of us have asked our readers not to support our titles. Some of us have informed readers through our websites and on message boards, and there are press releases circulating on many popular websites too. I often speak to the other authors, and for awhile, our tactics had been to keep this issue low-key and give BPB an opportunity to settle. As of September 1st, and due to no legitimate response from our publisher, we don’t expect for there to be any type of resolution. You will notice more authors speaking out, but please know that our attorneys have asked us to be careful in our approach, be factual and be prepared for BPB to possibly respond.

Charles: I understand this conflict has been going on for about a month and not much has been said about it. Why do you think that is?
Brenda: Charles, I think you’d be surprised to know that this happens more often than you think. For whatever reason, many writers feel as if they’re exempt and nothing like this could ever happen to them. And, for the ones that it has happened to, they don’t want others to know they’ve been “burned.” Yes, it’s a shameful thing, and it says we made a bad choice, we didn’t do our homework, and we failed to get an attorney’s advice. All of which I had done, but nothing prepared me for the “master plan” that BPB had in place. As shameful as it may be, I personally feel the need to talk about this issue. However, many authors don’t. When we first realized we’d been duped, many BPB authors, and myself, had agreed to immediately contact the media. We did so, and not one person responded! It seems as if it’s not news worthy to discuss a company who robs their authors of royalties. Maybe, to some, it’s not, but the only way to stop this from happening over and over again is to put it out there. Let’s face it…this issue didn’t start with Black Pearl Books. And, with all of the new publishers sprouting up, it won’t end there either. No matter how bad the situation may be, we have to first take responsibility for our own mistakes through choosing these kinds of publishers, and then, be willing to discuss it with others so that they won’t make the same mistakes. Since this incident, I’ve received numerous emails that secretly imply…“I’m not alone in this matter”, or they’ll say, “I’m going through the exact same thing with my publisher,” yet, there’s nothing being said or done. For me, personally, my writing means a lot to me. It is my passion and I will not stand back and let anyone take advantage of my hard work.

Charles: Brenda, let me play Devil’s Advocate for minute and take the view from the other side. Why are you complaining so much about a missed check? Since you run a business yourself, don’t you know that BPB is a business and sometimes there are delays and there will be times your check won’t come when you expect it?
Brenda: Charles, I wholeheartedly agree. Through emails and phone calls, I’ve pleaded with Black Pearl Books for a resolution. I’ve said, and I quote, “if you are unable to pay, make some kind of arrangements with me. I understand that sometimes things happen, but please, just let me know what I can do to help settle this awful situation.” For nearly one month and a half, no response was provided. That was until I sought legal representation, and that’s when the threatening letters started. At this point, it’s not about receiving a check. It’s about the principle of this matter and how BPB has unprofessionally conducted itself. Through it all, I’ve been very patient, and BPB has had every opportunity to contact their authors and tell us if they’re experiencing financial difficulties. Instead, they’ve taken a cowardly approach, which has caused everyone a bunch of head and heartaches.

Charles: What do you say about to those individuals who feel that because you’re speaking out against Black Pearl Books that it’s bad for ‘our’ people? Shouldn’t you just keep quiet about this and let things be?
Brenda: Bottom line, having a Black owned business does not give the owner(s) the right to run a cut-throat business. Nor does it imply that just because you’re Black, people of your race have to support. Through my experiences, in order to call myself a successful Black business woman, I’ve had to work harder, go over and beyond for my clients, and always, conduct myself with extreme professionalism. Black Pearl Books failed to do those things, and in doing so, they failed their authors. Whether Black, White, or owned by any other race, if a company conducts themselves in such a negative way, people should know about it.

Charles: Brenda, what have your fans said about your decision to revise Slick and Naughty By Nature?
Brenda: Since there have been so many gripes about ALL of Black Pearl Books covers, and one website in particular nominated them for having the worst covers in the business, to say the least, my readers are pleased to see new covers. I am too, as it certainly gives me a feeling of having a fresh new start.

Charles: Let me ask you this. You’re a best-selling author yet you have a conflict with your company. It’s not supposed to happen this way, right?
Brenda: Charles, I wish it were that simple, but it’s not. Being a best-selling author is a nice title to have, but when you’re not getting paid for having such a reputation, it can be rather hurtful. I’m saddened that it’s come to this, and I truly hoped for a long-lasting relationship with Black Pearl Books. However, when the “real” president of Black Pearl Books showed her true colors by attacking me for demanding what is rightfully mine, I was shocked and knew this relationship had to cease.

Charles: Is this the last we’ll see of Brenda Hampton writing books under Black Pearl?
Brenda: I can sum that question up quickly…ABSOLUTELY YES! Currently, they are infringing on my copyrights. They have no shame for continuing to sell my work and pocketing the money for themselves.

Charles: In closing Brenda, what would you like to say to the new and beginning authors out there who haven’t faced this issue before? What would you like to say to the other BPB authors and your fans?
Brenda: Pertaining to my readers and BPB authors, I’ve confidentially addressed them through email about my concerns and about what the future holds for Brenda Hampton. I’ve ask that they not be saddened for me because this situation has only opened the door for bigger and brighter things to come. As for beginning authors and those who haven’t faced this issue before, please do not consider yourself exempt. There are so many scams in the publishing business, and scammers have the ability to make a deal sound extremely good. Before you know it, your dreams can come crashing down, but always have a back-up plan if this happens to you. Knowing the publishing industry is a plus, and learning how to self-publish your work is even a bigger plus. Certainly, you have to educate yourself on the process, but remember, having knowledge means having power.

Charles: Brenda, thank you again for this interview. I wish it could have been under more pleasant circumstances but I do wish you continued success.
Brenda: Charles, I thank you for giving me this opportunity and I am grateful to you for allowing my voice to be heard. I am open to any comments, suggestions or concerns that anyone has, including a possible reply from Black Pearl Books. Always, much love to you as well and I wish you all the best with your literary endeavors.

DeWayne McCulley says 'Death to Diabetes'

2006-08-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

On the recent Chandra and Charles Show, I interviewed Mr. DeWayne McCulley,an engineer who almost died of a diabetic coma when his blood sugar soared to over 1300, more than 1200 points above normal. When he left the hospital 13 days later, he was on insulin (4 injections a day), Coumadin (to break down2 major blood clots), and other drugs to stay alive. However, DeWayne was able to use his engineering and biochemistry background to reverse his diabetes in less than 4 months; and, then, because of requests from the American Diabetes Association diabetic support group, DeWayne wrote a book titled “Death to Diabetes” about his experience and how you can defeat your Type 2 diabetes. Here is some excerpts of the interview:

Charles: How did you use your engineering background to beat your diabetes? Did it help you to write such a comprehensive book about diabetes?
DeWayne: I’ve spent more than 30 years in engineering developing failure analysis models, diagnostic tools, designing and implementing product technical training programs, spent time answering technical phone calls to solve machine problems at customer sites. I was able to use my engineering skills to define operational models, failure modes & effects analysis (FMEA) models, and various flow charts to support a diabetes wellness model. And, I am now expanding the model into an overall wellness model.

Charles: How did you discover that you were a Type 2 diabetic?
DeWayne: I woke up in a semi-paralyzed state March 2002, called 911. I found out later that I had a non-ketotic hyperglycemic hyperosomolar coma, with a blood glucose level of 1337.

Charles: What were the key foods/nutrients that you ate?
DeWayne: Brussel sprouts, broccoli, spinach – green food (chlorophyll – cleansing agent); filtered water, raw vegetable juices, fish (wild salmon), beans, chicken/turkey without the skin, organic whole grains (sprouted grain bread, no wheat bread). The high quality (low glycemic, fiber-rich) vegetable, plant-based carbohydrates provide key saccharides that help to reduce the insulin resistance and cellular inflammation. The high quality fats help to keep the cells supple. The high quality protein foods don’t have the toxins from the conventional animal meats.

Charles: What were the key foods that you avoided?
DeWayne: Refined carbs: especially flour, wheat bread, grains, macaroni, white rice, potatoes, cakes, pies – these refined foods cause sustained glucose spikes. Processed foods (hydrogenated oil) – clog the insulin receptors. I also, avoided bottled juices, soda.

Charles: What are the keys to beating this disease or, at least, getting it under control?
DeWayne: Nutrition, exercise, spiritual health, knowledge/education, glucose testing, drug weaning.

Charles: What are some of these specific foods?
DeWayne: Brussel sprouts, broccoli, wild salmon, extra virgin olive oil, filtered water. These foods help to repair the cells.

Charles: Why is it so important to understand that Type 2 diabetes is more than “just high blood sugar”?
DeWayne: High blood sugar is a symptom, not the cause of the disease. If you fix the symptom, you haven’t addressed the root cause. That’s one of the reasons why diabetics will have good control for a week or so, and out of the clear blue, they’ll have a very high reading and they don’t know why.

Charles: What’s the super breakfast?
DeWayne: 1-2 cups Brussel sprouts, broccoli, or spinach; 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil (put on top of the spinach), 2 oz. baked wild salmon (or an Omega-3 organic egg), a glass of filtered water.

Charles: That’s breakfast?
DeWayne: Yes, the key is to give the body what it needs as soon as possible, first thing in the morning. Many diabetics either don’t eat breakfast or they eat a grain such as cereal for breakfast – both of these scenarios don’t help. No breakfast doesn’t provide the body any critical nutrients. A grain-based breakfast leads to excess insulin production triggering that vicious cycle I mentioned earlier.

Charles: What’s your key message?
DeWayne: You can get better control of your diabetes – at a minimum with small nutritional-based changes. And, you can tighter control, from resistance to repair, to recovery, and to reversal – the 4 R’s.

Charles: What are the 4 R 's again?
DeWayne: It’s a diabetics roadmap to health: from resistance to repair, to recovery, and finally to reversal. I define this recovery process in my book, Death to Diabetes.

Charles: Why did you feel the need to write a book?
DeWayne: I didn’t – my mother did, so did my daughter. And, when people from the ADA , from work, from the local churches, kept encouraging me to write the book, I finally gave in. I didn’t really think we needed another book about diabetes, but, my mother felt that God prepared for this moment – to help so many people who are suffering needlessly from this disease.

Charles: Why a DVD and an audio CD?
DeWayne: It's for people who don't have the time to read the book. It's also for diabetics and others with eyesight problems.

Charles: Give us 1 or 2 things that they can do to get better control of their diabetes and blood sugar?
DeWayne: Stop eating the bread, pasta, cereals, rice, and potatoes – replace them with green vegetables and other bright-colored vegetables. Exercise every day, even if it’s only 5-10 minutes – consistency is the key, not intensity. And read more – educate yourself – knowledge is power.

Charles: How can my listeners obtain more information?
DeWayne: Go to my website – it’s the same name as my book Death to Diabetes -- http://www.deathtodiabetes.com/ for information or to contact me via email or my business address. Or, attend one of my workshops if they live near the Rochester , Upstate NY area. In the meantime, I am developing a diabetes training kit, based on my workshop – it will contain a couple DVDs, job aids, workbook, and other wellness information.

Check out the rest of the interview on InternetVoicesRadio.com!

My night with the Chicken Soup authors

2006-08-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

On Friday evening, August 25, 2006, I was a guest of Ms. Carolyn West, one of the contributing writers of Chicken Soup for the African-American Woman's Soul inside the confines of Staples Center (yes, that Staples Center) in downtown Los Angeles. In the VIP Lounge, there was an abundance of contributing writers there, including Nancy Gilliam, one of the editors of the book, and Lisa Nichols, who's credited as one of the authors on the title. Believe me, she's done so much more for not only the series of African-American titles for the Chicken Soup series, but also for presenting positive stories with positive messages for Black women. As I told her to her face last night, I'm proud of her, very proud.

Nancy was given a plaque and a sizeable check for her editorial contributions for the book. Needless to say, she was very appreciative of the gifts.

Many of the writers who contributed to the book were in attendance. It was a great sight to see as they took out their pens and signed copies. There were women from all walks of life, diverse backgrounds, etc, all together on a night they were one, sharing stories and establishing friendships that will last a life time.

Of course, there were other contributing authors on hand signing copies of the book to interested readers. I saw Linda Coleman-Willis, a very successful self publishing author and dynamic speaker autograph a copy, other authors who I can't name from around the country signing books as well. I ran into people who bought The Depths of My Soul and telling me how much they enjoyed it, and I even shook hands with local long time newscaster and reporter Larry Carroll, who has plans for Lisa's other projects relating to the African-American Woman's Soul. After meeting Mr. Carroll, I can say he's a great guy and definitely a fitting role model for most of us in the city growing up watching him.

It was a great night at Staples, a place known for champions but on that night, the writers for Chicken Soup for the African-American Soul were the real winners. If you want to know when these fine ladies will visit your city, please log on to africanamericansoul.com

Here are the pictures from the big night! Chicken Soup for the African-American Woman's Soul Book Signing

Lexi Davis: Pretty good for being Evil

2006-08-21T22:07:00.000-07:00

There is an up and coming author who some will say, her writing style is 'supernatural'. If that's the case then perhaps Lexi Davis is responsible for the buzz surrounding her debut novel, Pretty Evil. She explains the premise of her book in this brief synopsis:
When three playboys anger a sexy, supernatural she-devil, she morphs into each man's fantasy woman to seduce and destroy them. It's a sexy, racy, funny story with a supernatural twist!
Ms. Davis has won critical acclaim for Pretty Evil including encouraging words from authors Mary Monroe, L.A. Banks and Zane - yes that Zane! Let's find out about this fresh new talent who will certainly cast a spell of excitement in the literary world to come!

Charles: Hello Lexi, how are you? Thanks for stopping by!
Lexi: It's my pleasure.

Charles: Okay Lexi, what inspired you to be such a talented writer and come out with a tale like Pretty Evil?
Lexi: I wanted to burst on the scene with something different; a story unlike any you've ever read before with characters that are absolutely out of this world—literally.

Charles: Why haven't you gone the same route as many of your peers who are either writing erotica or 'Gangsta Lit'?
Lexi: I have no desire to follow the crowd or follow a current trend. Whatever I do has to come from my heart.
I love being different and offering something. I'm being very true to my nature to write sexy paranormal satire, with lots of drama and twists thrown in. I've always been fascinating with the supernatural and spiritual realm, and mixing those themes up with real life, day-to-day drama just makes it all the more fun—especially when you throw in a few playboys, a devilish diva, some relationship drama, witty dialogue and a lot of fast-paced action. How often does a reader get to read that sort of stuff? Not often. And so far, judging by the emails and reactions I'm getting, they love it. (Thank God!) So I love bringing it.

Charles: In the opening, you explain the basic premise of Pretty Evil, but I'd like for you to explain more of your interesting tale. Who are these playboys and who is this 'sexy, supernatural she-devil' that teaches these players a lesson?
Lexi: These playboys are three interesting, complex, multi-dimensional single men living in Los Angeles and trying to get their piece of the proverbial American pie. The problem is, they're all about living in the fast lane with no thought or regard for consequences—spiritual, physical or psychological. When they come upon this very lucrative investment property, they jump on it. Little do they realize that the property is already owned by a sexy demonness that lives in the cellar. She is determined to keep hold of her property, by any means necessary. The three guy's best friend –a woman with the supernatural ability to detect evil beings –tries to warn them to back off this property, but they don't listen. They proceed with their plans, not realizing that they are playing with fire. The sexy she-devil, Vixx, begins her devilish plot to seduce all three men by becoming whatever they like in a woman. She assumes three different personas—each one tailor made to be each man's fantasy woman. While seducing them, she also learns their weaknesses and fears, and then she uses those weaknesses and fears against them to destroy them in very clever, very cunning ways. And that's where the sexy, fast-paced fun begins!

Charles: If you remember years ago there was a movie called 'Def By Temptation", where a beautiful devilish woman causes havoc. Did that enter your mind as you were writing the novel?
Lexi: I've never seen or heard of this movie, but I'm going to look it up on the internet. It sounds like fun. But no, I didn't have any movie or book in mind at all. What I had in mind was my own "What if…?" I asked myself, what if the ultimate playboy finally met his match in a woman who was everything he ever wanted in a woman, yet she outplayed him at his own game. I thought to myself –that woman would almost have to be supernatural. Bingo! Thus, Pretty Evil was born. I wanted to show how a woman (in this case, a she-devil) could flip the script using nothing but lust and brains. Vixx is more than just sexy, she's super-smart and figures out exactly how to get to each man in the way that would hurt him the most. I had never read or seen a story like that, so I wanted to write it.

Charles: What has been the result of writing a fresh, funny and exciting book like Pretty Evil? Any accolades or award you've received since you wrote the novel?
Lexi: I get a lot of email from people who've read the book and loved it. That a big reward for me. But in addition to that, Pretty Evil has been number one on several best sellers lists, such as Cushcity for the months of November, December and January, 2006.
Pretty Evil was nominated for "Best New Fiction" by the Romantic Times Book Club in the African American category in their Reviewers Choice Awards. That was quite an honor. I won "2006 Best New Author Award" sponsored by Cushcity.com which includes a cruise to Jamaica. I was very blessed to get great blurbs and support from such well-known authors like Zane, Mary Monroe, L.A. Banks, Cydney Rax and others. I've also received very positive reviews by Black Issues Book Review, FreshFiction.com, The Rawsistaz Book Reviewers, Paranormal Romance Reviews, and many more. Black Expressions Book Club also featured Pretty Evil as a selection of the month. I really appreciate all of these recognitions and they inspire me to keep doing what I'm doing.

Charles: What's your reaction to the overwhelming positive response so far?
Lexi: I love it. Writing novels is a very tedious, competitive and at times complicated business. So whenever you're acknowledged, you really appreciate it.

Charles: What was it like to meet the great L.A. Banks, author of the Vampire Huntress series and to receive much love from her?
Lexi: Ms. Banks is a warm and gracious person. She has a supportive and encouraging spirit. I really appreciated the fact that, before I was even published, she encouraged me and offered her help. As soon as the book came out, she read, loved it and wrote a very powerful endorsement which we put on the cover of the trade paperback. I really appreciate and admire her as an author and a person. What she's accomplishing in the publishing world is phenomenal. That is one busy lady!

Charles: Lexi, where can your new fans get a hold of you? Do you have a website?
Lexi: Of course, I do! Tell everyone to hop on over to www.LexiDavis.com right now. They can read reviews, get detailed info., and send me an email through the website. People can also email me directly at Lexi@Lexidavis.com. I love getting email and I do try to answer each one.

Charles: What can we expect next from you Lexi? Another 'humorous, paranormal, page-turning novel'?
Lexi: Exactly! How'd you guess? I'm busy right now working on my next novel, titled The After Wife. It's every bit as fun, crazy, sexy and fast-paced as Pretty Evil. I think people are going to enjoy it, and it will also bring me new readers, especially when people see there's no limit to how far I'll go to entertain them. It's definitely out of the box – a little fun, a little spooky (no gore, though), a little crazy –and even thought-provoking in that it deals with themes such as mortality, valuing one's time here on earth, and learning what's really important in life. That's the joy of writing—to be able to do all those things while having some crazy fun telling a story.

Charles: Lexi, in closing, what advice would you like to offer to the new and beginning authors out there?
Lexi: Keep writing. Write what you love. Don't follow trends. Be unique and just "do you." At the end of the day, no matter what happens, you can say at least you kept it real.

P.S. –Look for the mass market edition of "Pretty Evil" by Lexi Davis to hit stores in October. It has a sexy new cover and I can't wait for more people to pick it up and have some fun!

Charles:Hey Lexi, thank you so much for the interview! Much continued success to you!
Lexi: Thank YOU, Charles, for this interview. It was a lot of fun! Be Blessed! Love, Lexi.

For being Pretty Evil, she's a very good interview! Please support Lexi and buy a copy because I have a feeling she's here to stay!

The Summer Sizzling Concert in Oakland

2006-08-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, my internetvoicesradio.com co-host Chandra Adams and I were part of the artists at the African-American Museum and Library's Summer Sizzing Concert featuring local spoken word poets and musicians. As you can see, all in attendance had a great time and it was a pleasant experience meeting all the new authors out there. In time, you'll definitely know who they are. Enjoy the pics!

Travis Watkins: His book is 4 U!

2006-08-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight on the Chandra and Charles Show, we heard the passionate words of Travis Watkins, spoken word artist and author of My Fear Is 4 U.

Travis shares his pieces, his opinions of his craft and his poetic journey, The Watkins interview can be heard on http://internetvoicesradio.com

Travis's website: http://laymanlyric.com

Support this awesome talent by going to his site!

This Interview belongs to Patricia Sargeant

2006-08-07T00:06:00.000-07:00

Alright Ladies and Gentlemen, we're back with a new interview and you're on time to witness an up and coming author who will make a name for herself when it's all said and done. Trust me, this maybe the first you've heard of Patricia Sargeant, but I guarantee it won't be the last. Her new book "You Belong To Me" will hit the bookstores soon, so let's get the scoop from Patricia and find out what new authors should look for when signing a contract.

Charles: Patricia, could you please tell us something about yourself. What convinced you that you were a fiction writer?
Patricia: I’m a journalist. Once a journalist, always a journalist. Although, I work as a writer/editor in the marketing division of a state agency. I’ve always enjoyed telling stories, creating characters and putting them into situations to see how they would react. I always knew I was meant to be a fiction writer because the stories wouldn’t go away. In fact, they keep coming even though there were times when I considered giving up.

Charles: What was the inspiration behind You Belong To Me?
Patricia: All of my stories start with the question what if. For You Belong To Me, the what if question was, “What if you got a second chance at your happily ever after?”
I have a personal connection with the core of the story. Like a lot of couples, my husband and I struggled financially until we were established in our careers. Those were hard times, but it seemed as though every challenge thrown at us brought us closer together, strengthened our relationship, instead of tearing us apart. Once we were on firm financial footing, I wondered what would have happened to us if we didn’t treat each other as equal partners?
However, through many rewrites of this story, I learned real-life goals, motivations and conflicts are rarely interesting enough to carry fiction. They often lack a universal connection.
I had a similar situation with the romantic suspense I’m working on now. Originally, the heroine faced a conflict between pursuing a career and getting married. The hero’s goal was to get married. I finished the rough draft and thought, “So what?” So I added an arson investigation and changed the characters’ goals and motivations. The story now has much more meat to it.

Charles: Please share with us a little bit about your main character Nicole Collins. Does she mirror Patricia Sargeant in any way? What do you think of Sci-fi since Nicole is an author of that genre?
Patricia: There’s a bit of me in most of the characters, actually. As writers, I don’t think we can help it because we live with the characters even before we write about them. They’re who we are and who we want to be. Nicole is an introvert, like me. And she exercises regularly. That’s who I would like to be. Malcolm Bryant, the hero, doesn’t like to ask for help. Sadly, neither do I. I like to imagine I have a bit of sass like Nicole’s friend and agent, and a bit of whimsy like Malcolm’s friend and business partner. I love science fiction, as well as fantasy and paranormals. I’m working on a three-part epic fantasy that I’m very excited about. I’ve put it aside for now, though, while I’m working on my second romantic suspense and starting a mystery series. I want to establish consistency in those genres before I introduce something as different as fantasy.

Charles: What about the other characters in your novel like Malcolm, his business partner and the stalker who puts Nicole's life at risk?
Patricia: The story’s themes are family and sacrifice. In addition to the question, what if you had a second chance at happily ever after, You Belong To Me also asks how do you define family? When you think of family, do you think of only relatives or do you expand the definition to include friends? How wide or how narrowly do you extend the net? Malcolm and his business partner, Tyrone Austin, aren’t relatives, but they’re as close as brothers. And the stalker identifies too closely with the characters in Nicole’s books.
How do you define your family and what are you willing to sacrifice to rescue them?

Charles: 'You Belong To Me' is described as a 'sensual, suspenseful romance'. What should the readers look forward to this first book of yours?
Patricia: I hope readers will connect with my characters and that they’ll remember my characters fondly even after they finish the book. I also hope I’ve done a good job with the pacing and that readers will have a hard time putting the book down. I hope the characters’ emotions resonant with the readers as Nicole and Malcolm try to break free of the obstacles that kept them apart. And I hope the suspense adds to the tension.

Charles: I understand your title wasn't your first and there was a change. What was it and why the reason for the switch in titles?
Patricia: Oh, this poor story went through a lot of changes. I love oldies songs, so the first title was Back In Love, because I was reuniting a divorced couple. Then I changed it to Family Matters because of the story’s family theme. But I didn’t think that was suspenseful enough, so I changed it to Alternate Endings to draw a connection with the movie industry as well as show the character’s relationship would have a new ending. One of the characters even makes a reference to alternate endings in the story. However, Kensington didn’t think Alternate Endings was sexy enough. The editors came up with You Belong To Me. I think the title suits the plot very well. It works for the stalker’s perspective and it works for the romance angle.

Charles: How do you feel about not only writing a first book but receiving the positive reactions to it?
Patricia: It’s a validation I thought would never come. For years, I’ve hunched over a computer creating imaginary people, places and worlds. As writers, we connect with our stories. We get them. But as the rejections seem to breed rejections, we wonder if anyone else will ever get them or if we’re writing for an audience of one. Then Karen Thomas, who’s no longer with Kensington, told me she enjoyed the story. I thought, wonderful. It will be on the shelf. Fantastic. It didn’t really hit me that she not only enjoyed it, but she got it, until I saw the cover image and read the back cover copy. I was floored. The cover image is perfect, and the back cover copy captures the story. Now I’m writing for an audience of two. If I could add a couple thousand to that, I think I’ll be set.

Charles: Patricia, I would like for you to tell all of our new and beginning authors about contracts and what should they look for before signing it?
Patricia: Question everything you don’t understand or don’t agree with. Even if you’re working with an agent, it’s *your* signature on that legal document. Contract negotiations start before you submit your work to an agent or an editor. Contract negotiations start with the writer deciding what he or she wants from his or her career. You hear it all the time, writing is an art, but it’s also a business. What are you willing to accept from a publisher? Are you prepared to walk away if you don’t get it? You have to answer all of these questions – and more – before you shop your work because you have to be prepared when you get the offer.One thing that comes to mind is the option clause in which the publisher reserves the right of first refusal for your next book. Whoa. For how long do you want to be tied to this publisher? There are a lot of reasons you and your agent must establish parameters for the option clause. My agent and I restricted Kensington’s option clause to something like, “next full-length work of contemporary romance suitable for Dafina.” That means, for example, Kensington doesn’t have first right of refusal for my three-part epic fantasy, since it’s not a contemporary romance.

Charles: Is there anything new on the horizon for you? Where can we find out more about the great Patricia Sargeant?
Patricia: I don’t know about that “great” part, but thank you very much for the compliment. There’s some information on my Web site, www.patriciasargeant.com, which I try to update regularly. I’m working on my second romantic suspense for Kensington’s Dafina line. The heroine is a newspaper reporter and the hero is a fire investigator. They start as enemies but become allies when a string of arsons becomes a series of murders. I’m enjoying the story and these characters.Once I submit the second manuscript to Kensington, I’m going to return to my mystery series. The series is set on a fictitious Caribbean island. It’s primarily a mystery, but it has romantic and paranormal elements. I’m very excited about it. It gives me an outlet to share my Caribbean culture, the legends and lore. And then, I’ll return to my epic fantasy, which takes place on planets in another galaxy. There are spiritual elements to this story, and it explores the cyclical nature of history and time.

Charles: It’s been a pleasure interviewing you Patricia. Is there anything you would like to say in closing?
Patricia: The pleasure has been mine, Charles. You ask great questions. I hope I’ve done them justice. I would like to say to aspiring authors, keep writing, keep studying the market and your craft, and keep submitting your work. Don’t ever give up on your dreams. And I would like to thank you very much for providing this platform on which authors can share experiences and goals. It’s true that art is a solitary expression. That’s why communities such as the one you host are so valuable. Thank you very much!

Mable Fuller destroys her Defiant Giant

2006-08-02T20:23:00.000-07:00

On the show last night.......

Chandra and I had the pleasure of interviewing Mable Fuller, the inspirational author of "You Can Destroy Your Defiant Giant: Battered Wife to 4.0 GPA Masters Degree in 8 months" Ms. Fuller explains that it's not hard to knock down your personal defiant giant, but during the course of the interview, she offers a detailed explanation on how you and I can claim the victory over the difficulties that hold us back.

The Fuller interview can be heard on the 'new' http://internetvoicesradio.com

New Interviews Soon

2006-07-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, but don't worry. This blog won't be silent for long. Other authors will be featured in the coming week so please come back for more of the best of the new and beginning (and current) authors in literature!

Poem: 1860

2006-07-13T22:00:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, I am pleased to post this poem written by a good friend, book reviewer and producer of many shows for the InternetVoicesRadio.com network (including my own!), Lillian Cauldwell and her piece entitled, '1860'.

Shafts of wheat
and whirling snow
covered them all.
The bodies, fallen
murdered and shot
as they stood,a
nd milled,
sat,
and slept.

Their fragile huts
and flickering fires
dying
as they,
died
from men with rifles.

A killing spree,
bloody land
filled with hate
and mountain snow.

He rode away
undeterred
from a slaughter
yet to be
a fallen people
captive and
harnessed
to a deadened land
striped
of its dignity.

The starving race
matched skins
with bleeding corpses
blanket strewn
twitching
bodies
had few chances
to make a stand
against the warriors
of a foreign land.

Give us this day
and grant us a life.
Our feeble struggles
like fish out of water
breathe our last
this dead-end place
supports us
no more.

Our tears,
run free
and unrestrained,
soaking the ground
sacred
to our Father and Mothers,
Sisters and Brothers.

Lillian Cauldwell
http://www.smallbusinessreferralnetwork.com/expo/?site=LSPEAKOUT
http://lilliandme.libsyn.com
AuthorBook Reviewer

Chicken Soup for the African-American Woman's Soul Interview

2006-07-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

Tonight, co-host Chandra Adams and I interviewed Nancy Gilliam and Carolyn West, two of the writers for the Chicken Soup For The African American Woman's Soul, part of the Chicken Soup For The Soul series of books. They shared their stories, experiences and revealed details of the big book signing event at Staples Center in Los Angeles, August 25-27, part of a weekend tour promoting the CSFTAAWS around the city.

More details of the book and the event are found on this website: http://africanamericansoul.com Our interview with Carolyn and Nancy can be heard now on http://internetvoicesradio.com (scroll down for our show). The archive on http://passionateinternetvoices.com will be up for two weeks so be sure to click on and listen for inspirational stories from a couple of inspirational women.

Thank you for your ongoing support! We definitely appreciate the love!