Sor Mag Interviews Donna (Me)

LaShaunda Hoffman of SorMag.com was kind enough to want to interview me for her Featured Author Blog. So here is what I had to say. Hope you enjoy. And be sure to support SORMAG and LaShaunda as she supports us!!

Seduction and Lies

In Book 2 of The Ladies Cartel Series, Danielle Holloway is the newest member of the group. Her first assignment: infiltrate a ring of identity-theft criminals. With cool wit and seductive charm, Danielle uses her skills to piece together the clues, and she's shocked to discover that a cloud of guilt hover over her beau, the very sexy and charismatic Nick Mateo. Listen to an excerpt http://gabcast.com/casts/26123/episodes/1231736582.mp3

What would you like readers to take away from your book?

I would hope that readers come away with the notion that in order to love anyone else and give yourself to them completely, you must love yourself first and foremost. Often to do that, it requires looking at places inside of yourself that you don't want to see and come to terms with them.

What is your favorite scene from your book?

The last scene, which I cannot, of course, reveal!

What did you learn while writing this book?

That writing a romance is still hard work!

What one thing about writing do you wish other non-writers would understand?
I wish that they would understand that writing is like any other craft, it takes practice and patience. You have to study and you have to read.

What is the best lesson you have learned from another writer?

I learned from Sandra Kitt years ago that editing isn't as awful as you think and it makes for a better book.

What is the toughest test you've faced as a writer?

Making the transition from a romance author to a mainstream fiction author and having reviewers and readers accept that I could write other types of books.

How long does a novel typically take for you to complete?

Usually about 3 months. That's once I actually start writing and all of the pre-work has been completed.

What is something readers would be surprised you do?

My own laundry! LOL

What are three things you wish you’d known before you reached where you are now?

Find a way to maintain and store the tons of reader addresses I'd gathered over the years. Invest my writing money wisely. Checked my earlier contracts for those movie rights.

How do you reach new readers?

Well, now it 's much easier than years ago with the internet. I use my blog, myspace, website and fanclub site. I do a newsletter, as well as virtual book tours. And I have my own weekly internet radio show on Sunday evenings. I'm on Facebook and I "Twitter" as well. LOL

If you could have dinner with 3 authors to talk with about their writing (living or deceased) who would you invite and why?

James Baldwin. I would want to ask him to what place did he go inside himself to bring his stories and characters to life. James Patterson. I want to sit down and pick his brain on marketing. He is a whiz. Toni Morrison. I'd really like her to tell me how she is able to use words the way she does.

Can you give us one do and one don’t for those aspiring to be a writer?

Do your research and reading if you want to be a good writer. Don't think that a publisher or a publicist can make you famous!

Our theme for this month is Family Literacy, what do you do to promote literacy in your family?

Short of hitting my sixteen year old son overt the head with a book to get him to read.... I try to always keep plenty of books and magazines around, invite my kids to events, keep them abreast of what I'm doing. Hopefully it will encourage them to believe that this reading and writing thing is worthwhile. My son seems to be interested in the electronic readers and even said he "might" be more interested in reading if he had one. So, guess what his Xmas present is going to be!

How can readers get in contact with you? (mail, email, website)

My email is writerdoh@aol.com, donnahill.com, dhfanclub.ning.com,

Can you give us a sneak peek of your next book?

Anyone who picks up a copy of Seduction and Lies, available now... will get the first three chapters of Temptation and Lies in the back! Temptation and Lies hits bookstores in February 09.

New Novelist Sponsor Short Story Contest

Short Story Challenge 2009

The Short Story Challenge 2009 is an international creative writing competition, now in it's 3rd year, that challenges participants to create original short stories in as little as 24 hours. The event is organized by NYC Midnight Movie Making Madness, an organization dedicated to discovering and promoting a new wave of talented storytellers. NYC Midnight aims to provide the exposure necessary for writers to take their next big step towards writing professionally.

Writers compete to see who can produce the best short story (2,500 words max.) on an assigned genre and subject in one week. Winners advance to compete for thousands in cash and prizes by writing a short story in just 24 hours. The Final Entry Deadline is January 14, 2009. Space is limited, so register today! To register or learn more, visit http://www.nycmidnight.com/2009/SSC/challenge.htm (copy and paste this link or click on the title of this article)

Special Discount - use the discount code STORYTIME for $5 off the entry fee.

Best of Luck!

Claire

CALL FOR PAPERS

Event: Call For Papers-ON THE WORK AND LIFE OF OCTAVIA E. BUTLER
"CALL FOR PAPERS!!! On Octavia E. Butler"
What: Lecture
Host: Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, NY
Start Time: Thursday, January 15 at 4:00pm
End Time: Thursday, January 15 at 7:00pm
Where: Medgar Evers College, CUNY

To see more details and RSVP, follow the link below:
http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=48318658071

Intimate Monday with Anna Dennis

Anna, thank you so much for taking time to chat with me. I know my readers will enjoy getting to know you.

1. What is a typical writing day like for you? Anything but typical. I seize the opportunity to write whenever I can.
2. Do you need anything special to write? Quiet, music, a special place? Not necessarily, just motivation. Often times, I like to write in long-hand first, though.
3. What is the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?That I wanted to be a newscaster when I was in high school.
4. What is your writing process? How does a novel begin for you? A lot of mental formulation. I go over the beginning, middle and end, over and over again in my head. Once it is relatively clear, then I begin writing.
5. Where did you grow up and do you think it has impacted/influenced your writing? I grew up in San Francisco, California a place rich in diversity, creativity and expensive rents, (Ha, ha, ha!) But it absolutley had an impact on my writing because half of what we write about is what we see, i.e., our experiences, conversations, etc.
6. Do you have siblings? And if so where do you fit into the mix? I have one sister and I'm the oldest.
7. If you could choose a profession other than writing, what would it be? Something deeper into the entertainment industry...like a radio personality or talk show host.
8. What is your definition of success? Being good at what you do and happy doing it.
9. Who did you share your first kiss with and when? My first real kiss was with my husband, then boyfriend, in 1984. Whew!
10. If you could have dinner with someone living or dead, who would it be with and what would you want to know? I envy those who attended the Last Supper with Jesus. There are so many questions about life, death, pain and suffering that I would ask. But, I would ultimately want to know what kind of job am I doing right now, here on earth.
11. Your favorite past time? Unquestionably, spending time with my husband and children.
12. What is your greatest fear? One day, not being able to spend time with my husband and children.
13. What writers have influenced you and in what way? Mary Morrison, E. Lynn Harris and J. California Cooper. But more than any of them, was Donna Hill. She creates rich characters and develops tasteful love scenes. She is a true romance writer. She is also very real and down-to-earth and always willing to help in any way she can to help writers grow in their craft.
14. What is one book that you would insist that everyone read? (other than your own) And why? The Bible, no other book will edify you the way it will.
15. Your favorite fictional character from someone else's book. My favorite character is Reese Delaware from Donna Hill's Intimate Betrayal. She was a strong, grounded, inspiring character.
16. Who is your favorite character from one of your novels? It is actually Veronica Webb, from the novel I'm currently working on. She's strong, confident and charismatic. I must say that my previous characters have not been as stong.
17. What do you want readers to take away from your work--other than being entertained? A closeness with the characters and a feeling of saying goodbye to a friend at the conclusion of the book.
18. Your favorite saying? When someone shows you who they are...believe them the first time. Oprah Winfrey
19. Your favorite curse word? I don't swear anymore, so I don't have one.
20 What is the best advice you've ever received? It was from my mom, "Friends are great, but don't mind spending time alone...because you will never disappoint yourself."
21. One thing that always pisses you off? Haters!
22. What are you currently working on and when can readers expect to see it? First, there's On The Line, a compilation with you and 17 other authors (I'm so excited!) that will be due out in January 2008. I can't wait to see the final product myself. Then, I'm not sure, it will either be Memories or the sequel to Who Will Hear My Screams. I think it depends on which one I finish first, but I anticipate mid-2008.
23. Where do you see yourself in five years and how do you plan to get there? With a nice book deal and a good relationship with a reputable publishing house. I don't think that's too much to ask.
24. If there was only one thing in the world that you could change what would it be? I would erase the word Cancer and have it be a disease that never existed.
25. If you had the chance to go back and do something over in your life, what would it be? I thought long and hard about this one and the answer truly is...nothing! I am blessed and I believe that it is both the good and the bad that brought to me to where I am today.

Now, tell us a bit about your current book on the shelves and why should readers buy it?

The Purest of Pain is truly a touching and real story that focuses on an upper class, married couple. They are having problems, but then 9/11 happens and that's where the story really takes off. Readers should buy it because 9/11 affected absolutely everyone and with each anniversary, continues to do so as well as remind us of how fragile life can be. That, is what I hope readers can take away from it. The book also serves as a memorium to those who lost their lives and continue to lose their lives as a result of that day.

SOR Mag Online Conference

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On the Air with Books!!!

'OFF THE PAGE'

Bringing the book world to life on the airwaves

WBAI99.5FM: FRI JAN 02 09 @11AM

WHAT? Off The Page is the provocative, powerful radio talk show about the world of books. This week is a FIRST TIMERS special. First time authors tell all about their powerful debut work. We delve between the sheets of two very special literary virgins and their must read work on controversial histories. Tune in!

WHEN? Friday January 02 2009 @ 11am til 12 noon. Check out Off The Page every FIRST and THIRD Friday of each month.

WHO? Your host? International award-winning journalist, playwright and author Esther Armah. Off The Page's special guests? KAREN CHILTON and FRANK WILDERSON III in a FIRST TIME AUTHORS special.

WHY? Off The Page brings the book world to life. Tune in and hear from those who write, critique, publish, profit, publicize and organize - with a particular emphasis on people of color, nationally and internationally.

ON FRI JAN 2ND SHOW? A FIRST TIMERS Special.

First Timers Literary virgins hit the airwaves and reveal all about their debut work. Our theme? History brought to life on the page. Hear about one of the most famous black couples in Hollywood and political history - known only by their first names; HAZEL & ADAM. Pianist, activist, the first black woman to have her own tv show, HAZEL SCOTT; and controversial congressman and activist ADAM CLAYTON POWELL JR from debut author KAREN CHILTON. Tune in to FRANK WILDERSON III dubbed a threat to Mandela and South Africa as he scoops the 2008 American Book Award with his powerful literary debut Incognegro: A Memoir of Exile & Apartheid .

TUNE IN! JOIN US!

OFF THE PAGE with ESTHER ARMAH!

FRIDAY JAN 2ND 2009 @ 11AM ON WBAI 99.5FM.

MISSED THE SHOW? LISTEN AGAIN

www.wbai.org ARCHIVES

Want to comment on or contact Off The Page?

Email: estherarmah7@gmail.com

Check out 'BOOKTALK' the regular debate section on books by Esther Armah in New York's weekly newspaper theAmsterdam News;

Becoming a Better Communicator

As a writer, my job is to communicate with readers. Communicate ideas, images, people and places. And for the past 18 years I've been doing a fairly good job of it. (I hope) But as 2008 came to a close and shouts of joy was heard around the world as we heralded in 2009, and all of the perfunctory calls were made, something hit me deep in my spirit.

I'd been for so long, especially this year, tied to social networking sites, twitters, and facebooks, and podcasts and email and texting that I'd forgone the art of real communication: picking up a phone and talking to someone live.

I'd gotten into the ugly habit that if someone was not on my buddy list, or in my social network, or autosaved in my email address book, I didn't connect with them, I didn't communicate. And on the eve of a new year, I received calls from two of my dear friends who aren't in my networks or on my buddy lists, and something inside of me shifted. I missed my friends. Deeply. I loved hearing their voices. I enjoyed the exchanges and I realized how much I'd convinced myself that I didn't like the phone, so much so that I'd neglected some of my friends.

So in 2009, I am not resolving to lose weight, save money, stop smoking or eat healthier. I resolve to be a better friend and communicator--the old fashioned way. Technology is a wonderful thing but it has made us strangers. As much as we connect with people on the other side of the world in an instant, we really are not connected at all.

This year I'm going to work hard to step out of the cyber world every now and again and in to the real world with flesh and blood people who talk on the phone, pay each other visits and ... I might even write a real letter!

Tuesday's Tip

Writers tend to focus on the creative process and creative people can be all over the place with ideas and projects. Inspiration will come at you anytime and anywhere, so it is important to be ready for the charge of creativity and have a place to put it all!

One tool that I have found to be incredibly helpful was a 3 ring binder.My novel notebook. Sound simple? It is. A three ring binder with dividers and loose leaf paper in each section.

For the purposes of novel writing, I divide my binder into synopsis, characters, locations, research, chapters, notes, misc. Based on each section is where I store and compile my information. I also find pictures that remind me of my characters, news articles, magazine pieces and info from the internet all put in their appropriate section for easy reference.

My character bios would be included in the character section and so on. My short descriptions of what occurs in each chapter would be included in that chapter section.

This way all of your information for your novel is always in one place and when your are done with your novel, you can take all of the inserts out, file them away, and your novel notebook is ready for your next masterpiece.

And that's Tuesday's Tip

Intimate Monday with Victor McGlothin

Victor, thank you so much for being part of Intimate Mondays. I know that readers will enjoy getting to know you and your work. So let's get started.






1. What is a typical writing day like for you?

I generally write three to four days a week, starting with a workout while I read over the previous chapter written to stay in the zone. Then, I’ll lock onto the computer from 3-5 solid hours until either my head pops or I finish a chapter. If there is any time left, I catch a movie.

2. Do you need anything special to write? Quiet, music, a special place?

I write to music, usually soundtracks or female vocalists because their pain and growth comes in crystal clear.

3. What is the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?

Uh… that I get up at 6:30, fix breakfast and get the boys off to school, no matter what time I got to bed the night before.

4. What is your writing process? How does a novel begin for you?

I bang out a one page storyline (what it’s about and how it should affect the reader), then I bang out an outline which usually takes about an hour. Before I write the first word, I know how it begins and ends (in between, things tend to move around a bit).

5. Where did you grow up and do you think it has impacted/influenced your writing?

I grew up in Oak Cliff, Dallas… very humble beginnings. It did allow me to see several layers of life from too much illegal money to boosting chickens from the grocer. Also, it taught me too respect people despite their hard times or mine.

6. Do you have siblings? And if so where do you fit into the mix?

I have two sisters, one older and one younger. They really dig my work and hype it every chance they get but both of them are terrified that their personal business will end up in my novels. Never happen… I can lie too good on my own without heisting second-hand dirt.
7. If you could choose a profession other than writing, what would it be?

I’m looking forward to teaching creative writing on the college level.

8. What is your definition of success?

It used to be getting a book deal and keeping the lights on. Ten books later, it’s staying in the game without missing a beat… and keeping the lights on.

9. Who did you share your first kiss with and when?

Ooh, for real… first kiss? Fifth grade behind the elementary school with Bobbi Eatman… it lasted 2 minutes. I was timed by my best friends who both wanted next up. Yeah, Bobbi was a hottie.

10. If you could have dinner with someone living or dead, who would it be with and what would you want to know?

I would love to sit down with Jesus, break bread and ask him how hard it was knowing that Judas would dime him out to the Roman soldiers.

11. Your favorite past time?

I really dig old movies… good movies.

12. What is your greatest fear?

My greatest fear is not being able to look out for and provide for my children.

13. What writers have influenced you and in what way?

Valerie Wesley Wilson, Walter Mosley and John Grisham because of the way they tell a story by making you walk in the character’s shoes. Regardless of the characters status or lack thereof, readers get something from each of them. No wasted words. No fluff.

14. What is one book that you would insist that everyone read? (other than your own) And why?

Every reader should read Walter Mosley’s “Little Yellow Dog” because it’s a masterpiece and the best of his ‘Easy Rawlings’ series.


15. Your favorite fictional character from someone else's book.

Easy Rawlins.

16. Who is your favorite character from one of your novels?

Baltimore Floyd for “Borrow Trouble” and “Ms. Etta’s Fast House.”

17. What do you want readers to take away from your work--other than being entertained?
I’m a teacher at heart so I want my readers to be enlighten while entertained.

18. Your favorite saying?

When a man is ready to marry, no one can stop him including his mama. If he isn’t ready to marry, no one can make him including his mama.

19. Your favorite curse word?

Ass: as in big and dumb.

20 What is the best advice you've ever received?

Be significant and success will follow.

21. One thing that always pisses you off?

Somebody lying on me. If I didn’t hit it, don’t go around saying I did!

22. What are you currently working on and when can readers expect to see it?

“Women of Newberry” is the current name. It’s my eleventh book and the prequel to my very first. I know, that’s a trip that my career has come full circle. I’ll be finished with this novel by Christmas but it won’t hit the shelves until some time in ‘09. Look out for “Sinful Too” in Oct. 08.


23. Where do you see yourself in five years and how do you plan to get there?
I plan on sitting on at least 5 movies sold by then. Starting this January, I will start writing screenplays.

24. If there was only one thing in the world that you could change what would it be?

Laws about men walking out on their children. There aren’t any.

25. If you had the chance to go back and do something over in your life, what would it be?

I would have taken the movie role offered in “Any Given Sunday” rather than the management position with AT&T that happened to be a joke (that’s why they bombed). Yes, I landed a speaking role with one month of guaranteed pay to shoot on location.





Victor McGlothin lives in the Dallas area with his wife and kids. He left a Vice President position with a bank to pursue writing. So far, so good.

Happy Kwanzaa

Greetings One & All,

I do hope that those of you who celebrate Christmas had a joyous one and that we all will have health, happiness and at least some prosperity in the new year.

Today, December 26 is the first day of Kwanzaa. For the next six days, each of the principles are celebrated. And even if we do not "officially" celebrate Kwanzaa, the principles that it represents are worth living on a daily basis.

NGUZO SABA
(The Seven Principles)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Umoja (Unity)
To strive for and maintain unity in the family, community, nation and race.

Kujichagulia (Self-Determination)
To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.

Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
To build and maintain our community together and make our brother's and sister's problems our problems and to solve them together.

Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics)
To build and maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together.

Nia (Purpose)
To make our collective vocation the building and developing of our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

Kuumba (Creativity)
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.

Imani (Faith)
To believe with all our heart in our people, our parents, our teachers, our leaders and the righteousness and victory of our struggle.

Tuesdays Tip

Hello,

Today's writing tip is, to me, one of the basics that any author should master and that is the synopsis. I've often heard aspiring writers say that a synopsis will stifle their creativity. I say, not having one is like taking a trip to a place you have never been without any direction on how to get there.

The synopsis is not meant to chain you to every word or every scene. Rather it is your road map, your guide to take you through your story without multiple detours and distractions.

A synopsis can be as tight or as loose as you wish. But there are some basics that should be included:

The names of your major characters and their role
The theme or thread that holds your story together
The high points/crisis of your story
How your major characters are going to overcome the obstacles you've put in front of them
How you envision your story beginning and the road to resolution

A synopsis is written in present tense. The opening paragraph(ideally) should read the way you would want the blurb on the back of your book to read.

A synopsis tells your story to its conclusion

It should be no more than 3-5 double-spaced pages (for the average commercial fiction novel--longer for sagas)

For anyone thinking about sending their manuscript to a traditional publishing house, mastering the art of the synopsis is crucial. It is the first thing the editor looks for to decide if they want to read your manuscript. It should be your best writing.

For those who go the self-publishing route, the synopsis still serves the purpose of a guide. It will give your story form, and a line to follow which helps to keep you, the writer focused on the chronological progression of the story.

Don't be put off by the thought of the synopsis. You can adjust it as you make adjustments in your novel. Think of it as your road map to your ultimate goal: a completed novel that works!

Intimate Monday with author Taressa Stovall

Taressa,
Thank you so much for being part of Intimate Mondays. I know readers will love getting to know you.

1. What is a typical writing day like for you?
When time permits, I take time to look over what I've written the day before, then at my outline/note cards, and spend a few minutes meditating (either sitting quietly or while walking the dog) on what I want to write for the day. What challenges are my characters facing, how will I make their dilemmas compelling, etc.

2. Do you need anything special to write? Quiet, music, a special place?
Mostly quiet, sometimes music. No special place, just anywhere people won't talk to or bother me.
3. What is the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?
That although I'm not Christian, I love and collect Christmas music. And sometimes play it throughout the year!
4. What is your writing process? How does a novel begin for you?
A novel (or any writing project) begins as an itch, a burning question, an annoyance and/or an attitude of "I can tackle that subject better" than another writer has. Also something I want to play with, explore and tease people's minds with.
5. Where did you grow up and do you think it has impacted/influenced your writing?
I grew up in Seattle, Washington. Seattle is a great place for any creative person--the city itself is eccentric, moody, very creative, funky, diverse and challenging. Also, very literate: every few years some survey is released that says folks in Seattle drink more coffee (home of Starbucks), see more movies, read more books and wear more sunglasses than the rest of the country. Seattle is full of quirks and ironies, which I hope describes my writing.
6. Do you have siblings? And if so where do you fit into the mix?
I have a younger brother and an older half-sister, but my sister is like 20 years older than me with kids my age so I'm a VERY typical first-born child of a single mom!
7. If you could choose a profession other than writing, what would it be?
Producing for TV, film & radio.
8. What is your definition of success?
Doing what I love, living on purpose, with enough money/wealth/resources to enjoy people and writing and dancing and appreciating life. Being able to immerse myself fully in my creative endeavors.
9. Who did you share your first kiss with and when?
Ray Taylor. I was about 14. He was a local boy who professed to like me a lot. The kiss was nothing interesting, but I felt I'd reached a milestone.
10. If you could have dinner with someone living or dead, who would it be with and what would you want to know? Nelson Mandela. I'd want to know anything he chose to share. He's my favorite living hero, because of how he has lived his life and the fact that he walked out of prison to lead his nation and in so doing, changed the world.
11. Your favorite past time?
Reading, writing, dancing, hanging with my kids and friends.
12. What is your greatest fear?
The same as any parent: losing a child.
13. What writers have influenced you and in what way?
Ntozake Shange: The sheer force and genius of her wordplay never ceases to amaze. Langston Hughes: my first Black poet, demonstrated the music in words and the power of simplicity. Gwendolyn Brooks: Class, brilliance, such talent. And subtlety in writing. Pearl Cleage: Her unwavering sense of purpose, quietly powerful voice, sense of humor, politics and her steadfast belief in the wonders of true love. Donna Hill: Writing that is stylish, sexy, romantic and funny. David E. Kelley (TV): The way he dives into complex issues and character contradictions is simply the best.
14. What is one book that you would insist that everyone read? (other than your own) And why?
Every Black person: The Spook Who Sat by the Door by Sam Greenlee. Everyone in general: The Prophet by Khalil Gibran.
15. Your favorite fictional character from someone else's book.
Only one? C'mon! OK, um.......Janie Crawford, "Their Eyes Are Watching God" by Zora Neale Hurston.I'd love to hang out with her for awhile.
16. Who is your favorite character from one of your novels?
I only have one novel, THE HOT SPOT, that's been published. So let's see...I think my protagonist, Kendra D. Harrell, because she's a very entertaining mess and I loved having her in my head.
17. What do you want readers to take away from your work--other than being entertained?
This varies with each work. With THE HOT SPOT, a sense of fun and sensuality. In general, I want people to feel or think something specific, and to feel uplifted in each way and happy to have hung out with my characters for awhile.
18. Your favorite saying?
How can I not be aware of this? I should ask my children. OK, I think it's "Thank God!" Seriously.Then again, I'm always reminding folks of all races of what Malcolm told us: "South of Canada is South." And lately I've taken to quoting Jay-Z: "Only God can judge me, so either love me or leave me alone."
19. Your favorite curse word?
The one I use most often and can't live without? Shit. The most fun to say? Ri-damn-diculous.
20 What is the best advice you've ever received?
Turn a negative into a positve.
21. One thing that always pisses you off?
People who deliberately harm others, especially children and women.
22. What are you currently working on and when can readers expect to see it?
When? Not sure. The sequel to THE HOT SPOT. More hilarious and sexy troubles for Atlanta's most divalicous sistahs.
23. Where do you see yourself in five years and how do you plan to get there?
Writing my books and and producing (TV, film, radio, theater).
24. If there was only one thing in the world that you could change what would it be?
In the world about the world? That we humans had been living more in concert with Mother Nature and were not busy destroying the planet. So that's the main thing I'm ready to work to change on a global scale. 'Cause if we can't live here, nothing else really matters much.
25. If you had the chance to go back and do something over in your life, what would it be?
I would be better at setting boundaries and standing up for myself in relationships with men. Oh, and I would have invested my divorce money into something like a Curves franchise.
Now, tell us a bit about your current book on the shelves and why should readers buy it?
OTHER PEOPLE'S SKIN: Four Novellas, with Tracy Price-Thompson, Elizabeth Atkins and Desiree Cooper, presents four very diverse tales of how the skin/hair thang affects Black women and ways in which we can begin to heal this left-over legacy from slavery. Readers should buy it because, unfortunately, this is still very much an issue for us as a people, it's genuinely entertaining and uplifting, and we need to resolve this issue and get to the really urgent things facing us as a people, a nation and a world.

TaRessa Stovall, a writer since age 7, has been a writer all her life. In addiition to honing her skills in such positions as Director of Public Relations for Spelman College; Speechwriter for former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Louis Sullivan; and Director of Communications for the Children's Defense Fund Black Community Crusade for Children, TaRessa has authored an eclectic array of books. These include co-editing and contributing to Other People's Skin: Four Novellas; contributing to the upcoming On the Line by Donna Hill; her debut novel, The Hot Spot; co-editing the short story anthology Other People's Skin; co-authoring A Love Supreme: Real Life Stories of Black Love; authoring a children's history text, The Buffalo Soldiers; and co-authoring a health book, Catching Good Health: An Introduction to Homeopathic Medicine. A native of Seattle and graduate of The Evergreen State College, TaRessa also published Soulsong, a collection of poetry, in her teens.Today, TaRessa is Community Editor of The Montclair Times newspaper and lives with her family in Montclair, NJ. Visit TaRessa at taressa.com, and learn more about Other People's Skin at empowerourselves.org.


Love, gratitude and blessings,
T

I'm Sorry ... It's Still Funny..

From My Favorite New Channel MSNBC

Publishing Certificate Program

The Publishing Industry is Looking for You!

Certificate in Publishing Program
Adult and Continuing Education (ACE)
School of Professional and Community Development
Sponsored by the Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College
For INFORMATION or REGISTRATION: 718.270.6400 – Adult and Continuing Education

Publishing Certificate: The Publishing Certificate Program, created by the Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, provides students with an awareness of the publishing industry in totality and the skills to obtain an entry level position. Students will have an opportunity to take courses with experts in the field. Required courses include an overview of the publishing industry, online publishing, copyediting, the role of the agent and graphics and typography. Students are also encouraged to take an internship. The Program is designed to increase the percentage of writers of color in the publishing industry.

Admissions Criteria: A minimum of a high school diploma is required and an AA degree or the equivalents are desirable. Students should be motivated and highly proficient in English and should be interested in the book business. All students admitted to the program will be required to submit with their registration an essay describing their interest in the program.

Course Requirements: Students must complete required courses 1) Introduction to Publishing 2) Online Publishing/New Media Workshop 3) Fundamentals of Copyediting 4) Role of the Agent to attain certification.* Students may enroll in individual courses, ranging from 2 to 7 sessions.

Introduction to Publishing $295
____________________________

This course will introduce students to the world of book publishing. Students will study the current issues in the publishing world, including the impact of bookstore chains, consolidations and international conglomerates, and alternative publishing ventures. Students will also examine the economic, financial, and marketing issues related to publishing and the role of the editor, agent, author, and graphics designer in the publishing industry.

ED-PC100 March 20th Friday, 6:00– 9:00 p.m. ( 7 sessions)


Online Publishing/New $150
Media Workshop
____________________________

This fast-paced, hands-on workshop will be an introduction to basic skills in online journalism for media and non-media professionals. The two-hour, once a week course will allow students to upgrade or learn new skills through group discussions, case studies and hands-on sessions. In addition to ethical and theoretical issues in online newsgathering and the changing media landscape, the course will focus on the basics of Web design using standard industry tools. (Students will be required to work in the computer lab).

ED-PC101 March 24th Tuesday, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. ( 5 sessions)



Fundamentals of $150
Copyediting
____________________________

The course will help students develop the editing skills required for trade, reference, and other types of print work, as well as those of online editing. The course will cover standard proofreader’s and copy editor’s marks; common word usage problems; style sheets or house styles; use of reference works; and the interrelationship of copy editor and editor to production editor.

ED-PC102 March 25th Wednesday, 6:00 – 9:00 pm ( 3 sessions)


Role of the Agent $150
____________________________

The literary agent has become one of the most important players in the book-publishing world. Topics include an overview of the agent’s role and functions; how to become an agent; steps in the acquisition process; specifics of contracts and contract negotiations; subsidiary rights; genre publishing; packaging; and the editor’s perspective on the agent’s role.

ED-PC103 April 24th Thursdays, 6:00pm – 9:00 pm ( 4 sessions)


Graphics and Typography $150
____________________________

This course will examine how books are designed both from the inside typeface and flaps to the outside covers and flaps; the reasoning behind key decisions on author’s photo placement, cover lines and use of fonts and color.

ED-PC104 April 1st Wednesdays, 6:00 – 9:00 pm (3 sessions)



History of Blacks in $100
Publishing
____________________________

This elective course is an overview of the role that blacks have played in both the established publishing industry, and the black owned press.

ED-PC105 Tuesdays, 6:00 – 8:00 pm (2 sessions)


Publishing Internship $295
____________________________

This internship provides an opportunity for students to apply their skills in the workplace or in an organization related to publishing. Students are supported by scheduled meetings with the Publishing Certificate Program Director.

ED-PC106


TOTAL: (Publishing) $895: Total cost if paid all at once, including processing fee and certificate fee. Courses may be taken on an individual basis without applying to the Certificate Program.

Registration is on a first come first serve basis. Non-refundable $25 application fee applicable. For Certificate Program Candidates: At the time of registration, bring a copy of a GED or High School Diploma.
Visit us online at www.mec.cuny.edu/spcd/ace to print out the registration form and send it by mail, fax or email.

FIVE EASY WAYS TO REGISTER
Phone –In: 718.270.6400 – Register by phone with Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card or American Express
Walk-In: Register in person at Medgar Evers College, 1150 Carroll Street, Room 111
Fax: 718.270.6187 – Register by fax with Visa MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express
Mail –In: Register by mail by completing the attached registration form
Online: Visit our website at www.mec.cuny.edu/spcd/ace to print out the registration form and send it by mail, fax or email.
By Mail:
Medgar Evers College
The City University of New York
School of Professional and Community Development
Adult and Continuing Education
1150 Carroll ST., Room 111
Brooklyn, NY 11225
Contact ACE For information or registration: 718.270.6400

MAIL SUBMISSIONS TO:
THE CENTER FOR BLACK LITERATURE
Dr. Brenda M. Greene, Executive Director
1650 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11225
Phone: 718-270-6976
WRITERS@MEC.CUNY.EDU

Holiday Contest Winners!!!

The winners of my first ever holiday contest were selected today. I was so very pleased by the number of people who sent me the proof of purchase for SEDUCTION & LIES. I only wish I could give out prizes to every one who entered!

Well here we go.....
1st. Prize Linda Allen, from Baltimore Maryland--Victoria Secret Gift
Certificate
2nd Prize Michele Asbury from Conway, S.C.-- Gift Basket of Body Products from Sand & Silk
3rd Prize Danyell Legaux from Stanton, CA-- Autographed copies of 3 of my hardcover novels.

Thanks to all who supported me during the release of Seduction and Lies and throughout the years and thanks to everyone who participated in my very first holiday contest! Congrats to all the winners.

Happy holidays!

TAKE THAT! AND BEAT IT

This will NEVER stop being funny

A Holiday Puzzle

TO HAVE SOME HOLIDAY FUN CLICK HERE



http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=ER13610552

BUSTED!

This is just for laughs. Sent to me by my good friend Gwynne Forster

A Southern preacher said to his congregation, 'Someone in this congregation has spread a rumor that I belong to the Ku Klux Klan. This is a horrible lie and one which a Christian community cannot tolerate. I am embarrassed and do not intend to accept this. Now, I want the party who did this to stand and ask forgiveness from God and this Christian Family.'

No one moved. The preacher continued, 'Do you have the nerve to face me and admit this is a falsehood? Remember, you will be forgiven and in your heart you will feel glory. Now stand and confess your transgression.' Again all was quiet.

Then slowly, a drop-dead gorgeous blonde with a body that would stop traffic rose from the third pew! . Her head was bowed and her voice quivered as she spoke, 'Reverend there has been a terrible misunderstanding. I never said you were a member of the Ku Klux Klan. I simply told a couple of my friends that you were a wizard under the sheets.'

The preacher fell to his knees, his wife fainted, and the congregation roared!

www.gwynneforster.com

Virtual Tours and Events

As we depend more and more on technology to keep us connected, there are many groups and individuals who are using technology to the utmost. I had the pleasure this past week of participating in The Grits.com and All the Buzz Book Reviews "Santa Baby tour." It was fun, professional and in addition Marlive Harris (Ms. Grits) actually gave all the participants a breakdown of how many hits the site received, unique page views and more. Which really shows the effectiveness of virtual tours when they are promoted well and folks participate.

Simultaneously Tee Royal of Rawsistaz was hosting an online conference that was fabulous to say the least. The level of information and interaction was amazing. Even, for me, having been around for a minute learned a bunch of stuff. It was great.

The links to both of these wonderful online events are located here on my blog in earlier posts. I'm sure if you check them out you will still be able to see some of the information, listen to some spicy reading and learn tons about the industry.

LaShaunda Hoffman of SOR Mag is also a major player in online promotion and workshops, as well as Yasmin Coleman of APOOO and of course Ella Curry of EDC Creations. Ella also hosts coaching classes for those who want some one-on-one info on promotion. (Check out Rawsistaz Affair on line conference to download Ella's tips)

So please be sure to support these dynamic women who are doing the damn thing!!

Rawsistaz Online Writers Conference!!

Hey hey everyone! Don't forget our readers & writers conference going on this week ONLINE. We have a well-rounded group of participants, great panels & workshops, as well as book discussions, spotlights and more. This is our first event being held online, but hopefully it'll be just as much fun as our other six offline events have been. Hope you can join us!



RAWSISTAZ Literary Group presents
their 7th Annual Readers & Writers Conference
The RAW Affair 2008 ONLINE
December 8-13, 2008
http://www.rawsistaz-affair.com

Marlive Harris of The Grits.com

Marlive Harris founder of The Grits.com took time out to share some of her internet wisdom with me and my readers on the benefits of virtual marketing. Check it out.

My First Holiday Contest

Greetings Book Lovers.

As many of you know,SEDUCTION AND LIES my second book in The Ladies Cartel Series hits bookstores nationwide on Monday, December 1, 2008!!! I'm psyched. And to celebrate I am launching my first holiday contest. In order to be eligible to win, you must send me a copy of your proof of purchase of Seduction and Lies, by December 14, 2008.
You will be eligible for:
1st prize A Victoria Secret Gift Certificate
2nd Prize A Basket of Scrumptious Body Products
3rd Prize Autographed copies of 3 of my hardcover novels.

I must receive your proof of purchase no later than December 14. Winners will be announced on my blog, my fanclub page and my newsletter.

Send a copy of your receipt to:
D. Hill
232 Macon Street
Brooklyn, NY 11216

And December is a great month of fans of my work! If you missed the hardcover version of Wicked Ways, don't despair. The trade paper version will hit stores nationwide on December 9th!!

So I do hope you will add Seduction and Lies and Wicked Ways to your holiday shopping list. A book makes a great gift and it always fits!!

Happy reading

Santa Baby 2008 Virtual Book Tour for Hopeless Romantics

The Santa Baby 2008 Virtual Book Tour allow hopeless romantics to flex their very vivid imaginations and soar as they hear from ten beloved romance writers just in time for the holidays!

All The Buzz Reviews and The GRITS COM Literary Service have teamed up to host the Santa Baby 2008 Virtual Book Tour headlining some of today’s exciting African American romance writers, December 1-12, 2008!

This exclusive ten-day virtual book tour will give romance readers, and new readers to the genre, a chance to hear from ten popular writers about their new and upcoming book releases just in time for the holidays!

This virtual book tour is inspired by the sultry sex-kitten, Eartha Kitt. Her Christmas song, “Santa Baby,” topped the charts in 1953 making her one of the most popular entertainers in the world. The same sensuous mix that Eartha Kitt brought to this Christmas song many years ago, is the same sensuous mix - Gwyneth Bolton, Niobia Bryant, Dyanne Davis, Gwynne Forster, Bettye Griffin, Donna Hill, Andrea Jackson, Deborah Fletcher Mello, Farrah Rochon, and Stefanie Worth - bring to their work and to this tour!

Romance novels made an astonishing $1.4 billion last year, making the romance genre one of the top sellers in the publishing industry. Though some complain that the formulaic plot and “happily-ever-after” endings in romances aren’t always indicative of real life; the staggering number of romances sold each year is testament to its popularity and staying power!

The Santa Baby 2008 Virtual Book Tour begins Monday, December 1, 2008. So join the tour at AllTheBuzzReviews (www.allthebuzzreviews.com) or TheGRITS.com/virtualbooktour (www.thegrits.com/virtualbooktour)

About All The Buzz Reviews
All The Buzz Reviews is the book reviews and literary event blog of Renee Williams, the CEO & Owner of Literary Signature Service, an event planning business specializing in literary events for authors of every genre.

About The GRITS COM Literary Service
The GRITS COM Literary Service is an online book promotion service that specializes in serving the unique web publicity needs of authors and publishers.

CONTACT:
The GRITS COM Literary Service
526 Kingwood Drive, Suite 404
Kingwood, TX 77339

281-973-6919

A Gift that Fits Everyone

Hello Book Lovers,

My name is Debra Owsley and I am the owner and creator of Simply Said Reading Accessories www.simply-said.net. I create by hand a full line of bookmarks, and book thongs, for book lovers. As an avid reader myself, I have designed this line with us in mind. They come in many categories, such as motivational, provocative, wit and wisdom, I love my pet, and a children's line and more.

During this holiday season what would more perfect and fitting to give your fellow book lovers? They also are great gifts for teachers, your children's classmates, your church congregation, your co-workers, or and one else you want to give a thoughtful and useful, inexpensive gift to for the holidays. If you have a lot of people to buy for, you can buy assorted packages, mixed and matched for your needs .I also can create mini packages for specific people on your list by request, to make it even more special. I also do custom work if you want to create bookmarks for your book club.

They are wonderful stocking stuffers and they will fit into a holiday card for easy mailing. Please visit my site www.simply-said.net as well as my www.myspace.com/odebsimplysaid

 

Let's make your shopping for the holiday, Simply Said !

www.simply-said.net

www.simplysaid.ning.com

www.myspace.com/odebsimplysaid

www.simplysaidreadingaccessoies.blogspot.com

odebdeb@aol.com

Debra Owsley

Custom Orders Portfolio --showcase of customized items
http://photobucket.com/customworkportfolio

Full Bookmark Catalog --full bookmarks displayed
http://photobucket.com/fullbookmarks

Halfmark Catalog --half bookmarks
http://photobucket.com/halfmarks

Book Thong Catalog --book thongs in various colors
http://photobucket.com/bookthongs

Notecards-Bookplate Catalog--reading accessories
http://photobucket.com/notecardsbookplate

 

odebdeb@aol.com

Twitter or Not to Twitter... That is the Question

Twitter is a nifty little thingy to take more time out of your day to send short messages out to the world... a way to stay connected.

Me, being somewhat of a techy nerd and always looking for the next thing decided to try it out. I try to post something worthwhile or at least amusing and I actually have people interested enough in what I do or say during the course of a day to actually "follow" me.

Unfortunately, the stream of info that comes into my "twitter box" is confusing at best, at least for me, as I have no idea what people are commenting on or why. Sigh...

I'm determine to get the hang of it and find some valuable use for twittering.

I'm totally open to suggestions!

Welcome White Folks

Yeah, I thought the title would get your attention! Well, do check out this very interesting blog that attempts to demystify black books for potential white readers. December is get white folk to read black books month!

Enjoy. Click on the link below

Welcome White Folks Blogspot

Obama's Use of Complete Sentences Stirs Controversy

The following was sent to me in an email and I felt compelled to share with my readers!!!


Obama's Use of Complete Sentences Stirs Controversy
>
>
In the first two weeks since the election, President-elect
Barack Obama has broken with a tradition established over
the past eight years through his controversial use of
complete sentences, political observers say.
>
Millions of Americans who watched Mr. Obama's
appearance on CBS's 60 Minutes on Sunday witnessed the
president-elect's unorthodox verbal tick, which had Mr.
Obama employing grammatically correct sentences virtually
every time he opened his mouth.
>
But Mr. Obama's decision to use complete sentences in
his public pronouncements carries with it certain risks,
since after the last eight years many Americans may find his
odd speaking style jarring.
>
According to presidential historian Davis Logsdon of the
University of Minnesota, some Americans might find it
"alienating" to have a president who speaks
English as if it were his first language.
>
"Every time Obama opens his mouth, his subjects and
are in agreement," says Mr. Logsdon. "If he
keeps it up, he is running the risk of sounding like an
elitist."
>
The historian said that if Mr. Obama insists on using
complete sentences in his speeches, the public may find
itself saying, "Okay, subject, predicate, subject
predicate -- we get it, stop showing off."
>
The president-elect's stubborn insistence on using
complete sentences has already attracted a rebuke from one
of his harshest critics, Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska.
>
"Talking with complete sentences there and also too
talking in a way that ordinary Americans like Joe the
Plumber and Tito the Builder can't really do there, I
think needing to do that isn't tapping into what
Americans are needing also," she said.
>
>
>
> Andy Borowitz is a comedian and writer whose work appears
> in The New Yorker and The New York Times, and at his
> award-winning humor site, BorowitzReport.com.

It's Almost Heeeere!

SEDUCTION AND LIES, Book 2 of my exciting and sexy new series, "The Ladies Cartel" is scheduled to hit bookstores nationwide on December 1st.


SEDUCTION AND LIES features Danielle Holloway, fashion photographer and Cartel member who gets pulled into an identity theft case that not only has her tracking down the ring leaders but examining her own identity. To compound problems, she must of course keep her activities secret from her live-in lover Nick Mateo who is also her business partner! Dani definitely has her hands full, but of course she will have the help and assistance of her girls Savannah and Mia, with a few surprises thrown in as well.

I do hope readers will enjoy it and for a special treat. Once you finish SEDUCTION AND LIES you get a three chapter preview of TEMPTATION AND LIES which will be available Feb. 1 2009!!!

So please be sure to get your copy during the first week of sales. That is so important. If your bookstore does not have it, please insist that they order it for you.

I know things are tight in this economic times, so I deeply appreciate your support!

Happy reading
Donna

Hurston Wright Legacy Award--Deadline Approaching

Please forward to appropriate lists. Deadline is next week!!!


> 6525 Belcrest Road, Suite 531, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Phone (301) 683-2134
> E-mail: info@hurstonwright.org Website: www.hurstonwright.org
> A Resource Center for Writers, Readers & Supporters of Black Literature Since 1990
>

We are in the process of excepting books for the 2009 Hurston/Wright Legacy Award. Often publishers overlook submitting quality books by black authors and to compensate for this oversight we are asking that you provide us with the titles of any books you think should be included in this years contest. We except submissions in the categories of debut fiction, fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. All submissions must have a publication date of 2008. Books written by multiple authors are ineligible. For more information about the Legacy Award click here.
>
> Please send the titles of your suggested books to info@hurstonwright.org by November 24.
>
>
> Thanks,
> Elizabeth
>
> Elizabeth Williams
> VP Programs & Communications
> Hurston/Wright
>
>
> Email Marketing by
> Hurston/Wright | 6525 Belcrest Road | Suite 531 | Hyattsville | MD | 20782

=

What a Wonderful Week

I remain elated and hopeful as the most historic week in U.S. and World History as drawn to a close. The first Black president, not only of the United States but the world. He is the only black man of that level of power who has been elected to office in a non-black country. That in and of itself is phenomenal.

My hopes and dreams for a better place have been renewed. Yet, I am realistic as well. I understand that as much as we have virtually sainted this man, we must remember that he is still only a man. He has been put int this place at this time in our history to lead and guide. But it is up to us, all of us, in our homes, our jobs, our schools, our communities to do our part. He cannot do it alone. And we can not sit back and let him take on that weight and expect him to multiply the loaves of bread to feed us all.

There are many opportunities for each of us to participate in this great new world, beginning in our homes and in our relationships. Strengthen those first and foremost. Go out into the community with perhaps nothing more than a "good morning" to a stranger. Stay connected to the process, watch the news instead of the night time dramas and daytime soaps. Hold your local officials accountable, attend the neighborhood meetings, go to your child's school, hold the teachers accountable for educating your child. Mentor at least one young person. Just one and see what an amazing difference it will make not only to them but to you.

We are all part of this great turn in American History. Barack Obama is at the head of the table and it will be up to each of us to earn the priviledge of sitting at that table. Let's all do our part.

From the Shores of Antigua

I writing to one and all from the sunny shores of Antigua in the Caribbean Islands. What a beautiful place. I guess you're wondering what I'm doing here and not at home glued to my computer finishing up my book. Well I actually am working. I'm attending the third annual Antigua Literary Festival. Just to give you a taste of who is here:
Tiny McElroy Ansa, Victoria Christopher Murray, Eric Jerome Dickey, Tannarive Due and her husband Steven Barnes, Mary Morrison, Troy Johnson (AALBC)Victoria Rowell (of Soap Opera fame) and a host of others!

This is my second year and it is even better than the last time. Well, gotta run. They're handing out free Pina Coladas! Bottoms up.

Rock the Vote

Kimberla Lawson Roby

Romance Slam Jam 2009 CANCELLED

Due to the uncertain economy and the looming recession, Romance Slam Jam 2009 will not be held this coming year. As much as we hate to cancel, we cannot proceed at this time. Everyone is tightening their belts and preparing for the worst.

The Romance Slam Jam has been an honored tradition and celebration for readers and writers alike, and to have to make this decision was extremely hard. The Slam Jam 2009 Committee has talked all week about ways to continue and cut costs and found it impossible to do so.

Those of you who have registered for the conference and/or purchased ad space in the program will receive a full refund, which will be mailed out by Nov, 3, 2008

Reading is food for the soul, and we know people wonʼt stop reading. We urge you all to remember the commitment Slam Jam has to readers and writers alike and to consider this year off a bonus to save money for the Romance Slam Jam Anniversary Cruise in 2010.

See you in Miami!

The 2009 Slam Jam Committee
Kelley Vitollo
Miriam Pace
Jacqueline Hamilton
Shae Williams
Passion 4 Reading

Call For Young Women Writers

Request for Young Women Writers

"Together we promote unity through experience and show young women of color they are not alone in their daily struggles. Most importantly, we are creating a legacy to pass on to the next generation." -- Dawn Daniels and Candace Sandy, Publishers of Souls of My Sisters Books

National bestseller SOULS OF MY SISTERS: Black Women Break Their Silence, Tell Their Stories, and Heal Their Spirits would like you to join us in healing young women of color.

Souls of My Sisters written and edited by Dawn Marie Daniels and Candace Sandy, catapulted to the #1 spot on the Essence Best Sellers List, now in its fifteenth printing, with over 100,000 copies in print, is seeking young writers for a new volume Souls of My Young Women (Souls of My Sisters Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.)

The young women in this new volume ages 18-30 will recount their stories of obstacles and triumphs that run the gamut from searching for self to the power of choice, career, sexuality, addiction, relationships, self-esteem, body and self-image, friendships, religion, health and dealing with death. Many of them only offer themselves the least in life afraid to fail and unaware of their own abilities.

Chapter Topics include:
Finding happiness
Searching for self/self esteem
Relationships
Marriage
Careers
Overcoming life challenges
Health crisis
The Power of choice
Religion
Saying goodbye
I have had enough…
Understanding money

Young women encounter many daily struggles and obstacles and are interested in finding out from real life experiences how to navigate their often complex lives. In Souls of My Young Sisters will serve as the road map to and through life's ups-and-downs inspiring young women of color to achieve and succeed where they may have never saw hope.

Stories must be true (non-fiction), written in first person, and 1,000 words or less. Stories should invoke emotion and the message or should be clear. Please refer to Souls of My Sisters: Black Women Break Their Silence, Tell Our Stories and Heal Our Spirits.

You may submit more than one story. For each story selected, a 50-word biography will be included about the contributor.

The tentative submission deadline is December 1, 2008. If you are interested in submitting a story for this project please email at candacesandy@gmail.com or contact us via phone at 212.407.1581.

Brother 2 Brother Symposium

Ladies and Gentleman,

I am happy to announce that the Brother 2 Brother Literary Symposium (B2BLS) will be held this year at TSU University. The event is November 21-22, 2008. We are excited with this great opportunity and are moving forward with great purpose and direction to help the youth of the City of Houston. With your help we can make this event spectacular. We already have the commitment of four major publishing houses to put a book in every person's hand that attends our event. Remember the event is free and open to the public.

That's why we need your assistance. Your tax deductible contribution in the amount of $40.00 will sponsor 4 children. It costs $11.00 per day for our two day event for a child to attend. It costs $52.00 a day to incarcerate a person. Please make your donation by 11-10-2008. Save a youth from Dropping out of school. The drop-Out rate in Houston is 50% for young men and 37% for young women. Please go to www.b2bls.com and make your donation on the Paypal button or you can send it in to:

B2BLS
PO BOX 752481
Houston, TX 77275
You will get no return on your tax dollars from a person incarcerated. The 2400 youth attending our event, just working part-time at $7.00 per hour can bring into the Houston economy over $16 million dollars.

You can inspire faith, hope, education, and dreams by lending your support. Please give and show you care about our youth and Houston. I am here and dedicated to the Houston Community and to TSU University to shed a positive educational light that beacons our youth to opportunities and possibilities of a great future and productive life.

Don't just talk about it, be about it! Help us help our youth. Help us help Texas. Together we can make a positive difference and spread learning and literacy across this great state. Please feel free to forward to friend and other business owners that can help make this a remarkable event. Please help Houston youth.

Thanks and I can be reached at 816-914-1560.
Vincent Alexandria
Chairman B2BLS

It's Almost Show Time....

The following is a commentary from my fellow scribe, William Cooper. Read and process


THE CLOSING ARGUMENT: WILL THE TRUTH SET US FREE? By William Fredrick Cooper (Author Of THERE’S ALWAYS A REASON)



Seven long days until a truth is revealed to the world. Seven long days until the beginning of change, or a worsened chaos. Seven long days until a difficult choice between hope and fear is made. For better or worse, the judgment of a whole globe awaits the land of opportunity. Will the flowers that grow on November 5th be rosy red in truth, or wilted in despair? Will the world sing a joyful noise of praise, because America finally got it right; or in the alternative, will the bells toll a continued sorrow?



In this writer’s opinion, it’s a choice that screams common sense. Given the present legacy that has led to two reckless wars (Where are those weapons of mass destruction? Osama Bin Laden – we find him yet?) economic mismanagement (see Government Bailout) and blatant fraud (Why were gas prices so high in June/July, and so low now?), the light has turned green to forward, yet fundamental change. Out with the cold-war nationalism, the warhorse bullying tactics that transformed allies into adversaries, friends to foes that detest our present chief executive. In with the multi-polar world view and warm universal growth. Out with the argumentative, confrontational guard, for that approach leads to bullets and bombs. In with growth and change that starts within the stars and stripes and illuminates the outer continents. Out with the panic, in with the peace. Out with the infighting Republican Party worried more about the public infighting and the money it spends to dress is Vice-Presidential nominee than solving our fiscal crisis. In with a party demanding that parents focus more on education than MTV, video games and saving as opposed to spending on what cannot be afforded. Out with the spoiled “sense of entitlement” mentality that has crippled our economic core, and in with the hard-working mentality of generations past.



In short translation, Barack Obama should be the next president of the United States over John McCain, and the world is watching America closely, and what we tell our children:



“I’m sorry Maranda or Michael,” the bronze colored authority figure says to his eight year old, “But you can be anything in this country but it’s chief executive. Will equal opportunity be exposed as a myth? Will the land of free be truly labeled such if it fails to put the legacy of slavery, segregation and racism in the rearview mirror? Will the rest of the world embrace a country that couldn’t put its own self-preservation ahead of the race element that continues to make such an obvious choice confusing.



There, I said it. The Truth. Dress it up with foreclosures throughout the land, sprinkle in the fluctuating gas prices and other components of a major money crisis, add a pinch of war policies, job layoffs and economic bailouts, add a dash of 9/11 after a couple of rigged elections, and you now have, for your dining pleasure, the perfect recipe for a phony meal disguising the truth about traditional politics.



Is America ready for a person of color to run this country, or do the stars and stripes remain crazily irrational when the subject pertains to race? Ask yourself this: When a candidate like Barack Obama spends close to seven hundred million dollars to emphasize the need for change, does it make sense? To me, it further illustrates the “Twice as Good, to be considered equal” philosophy that can all change on November 5th. When he remains dead-even in states even after providing a logical blueprint for all to see and his opponent spends more time either 1) attempting to publicly humiliate him as opposed to establishing his own agenda – WAS THERE EVER ONE IN PLACE?- and; 2) Dresses up a honey pot named Sarah to distract voters from the ills shaping the country’s fabric?; that should speak volumes.



Strip away all of the pageantry that has you undecided, the political correctness so many hold dearly in their minds, and think about the truth. Is the country ready to progress forward in a way of complete change, or in the contrary, will the words of Jack Nicholson from the movie “A Few Good Men” about the core of this country ring painfully true?



Can we handle the truth?



Seven long days until it is revealed to all.



And I, for one can’t wait.

William Fredrick Cooper
www.myspace.com/wfcooper
AWARD-WINNING, BEST-SELLING AUTHOR of THERE'S ALWAYS A REASON
CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED AUTHOR of SIX DAYS IN JANUARY
COMING IN 2010: LOVE IS ALL WE NEED
www.blackplanet.com/wfcooper
obama.gif image by gorjis1

Authors For Change--Speak Out

As we draw closer to a turn in our history, we cannot leave any stones unturned. Some of your favorite authors speak out. Here's what they have to say.

Kimberla Lawson Roby

Victor McGlothin

Donna Grant & Virginia DeBerry

Marc Lacy

Gwynne Forster

William Frederick Cooper

Theresa Banks

Pharmacy Refuses to Sell Contraceptives

I ran across this article online, and felt it was worth sharing. The implications are frightening at best if this is a trend that can pick up and multiple across the country. Please either click on the link or copy and paste into your browser.

http://news.aol.com/health/article/pharmacy-refuses-birth-control-sales/220529

PHARMACY REFUSES TO SELL CONTRACEPTIVES

In Support of Breast Cancer Awareness

The following is being re-posted from an email that I recieved. Just remember, there but for the grace of God go I. Let's all try to do our part.

Dear Families and Friends
I have breast cancer again and I would like for you all to do what is ask of you at the bottom and pass it on to some one else in honor of me.
I have a favor to ask, it only takes a minute.... And it works.
Please tell ten friends to tell ten today! The Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day to an underprivileged woman. It takes less than a minute to go to their site and click on 'donating a mammogram' for free (pink window in the middle).

This doesn't cost you a thing. Their corporate sponsors /advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising.
Here's the web site! Pass it along to people you know.
http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/ Breast Cancer Site


Velma P. Mainor-Hamilton
Supply Technician
Trident Refit Facility
This is a friend and church member, please take a few minutes to help.

Thanks, Toni Bonita

John Kremer on Black Author Network Tonight!!

John Kremer is an acknowledged expert on book publishing and marketing. Besides being the owner of his own publishing company (Open Horizons in Taos, New Mexico), he was the editor of the Book Marketing Update newsletter for more than twenty years.

He is the author of 1001 Ways to Market Your Books. As a consultant, his clients include a self-published author who has sold over a million books, a new age publisher with 60 titles, and a $100,000,000 publisher with a rapidly growing list of 1,000 titles.

Book Marketing Network
http://www.bookmarket.com

What could you do with 10 million eyeballs?
http://www.tenmillioneyeballs.com


Literary Family,
Please join us Monday, October 20, 2008 as we meet author and speaker John Kremer!

New authors and authors who have questions about marketing their books, don't miss this defining moment in BAN history. Join us on the phone lines and in the chat room to ask those book marketing questions that might take you on to the bestseller's circle.

Readers, this is a one in a lifetime chance to ask those questions of John Kremer on BAN radio. Chat with John 2-hours about the publishing world up close and personal.

See you tonight at 8-10pm EST.

Ella Curry, EDC Creations
www.edc-creations.com

Black Authors Network Radio Show
www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network
Meet us at: 8pm-10pm EST
Authors dial-in number: (646) 200-0402

Chat live with Ella, John and the guests in our chat room during the show
www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network

Seduction and Lies

Well, I came home Friday afternoon and was met at the door by a box.... of books! LOL. Of course the last thing I need in my house is more books. However, it was my box of SEDUCTION AND LIES!! Wooo Hoooo. As you may know, this is book 2 of my Ladies Cartel Series. This book features sexy diva Danielle Holloway who has an identity theft case dropped in her lap. It's hot, action-packed and fun. Although the book does not officially drop until December, it is NOW available for pre-order. So I do hope you will put in your order now. Since it is a series book, the shelf life is short--very short. So order yours now to have it in time and before they are all sold.

And of course let me know how you like it!

Happy reading

McCain the the Making of a Financial Crisis

It's All Good

Today in New York is the Columbus Day holiday. Although we all know that he didn't discover anything... Mr. Man was lost and stumbled across a country that had been long been discovered, but that's another story. So the only thing I can thank Columbus for is this day off! Which I am determined to make the most of.

I am working on my new book. My first mainstream title in a while. I'm excited about it and I think/hope that readers will embrace it.

Yesterday, (Sunday)I had the pleasure of interviewing Bernice McFadden on my Sunday radio show. For those who missed it, you can listen to the broadcast.

Earlier on my blog I posted information for young women writers. Submissions are still being accepted. So check out the post and if it's not for you, please pass along to the young women that you know.

Well, back to work (writing work) for me. Have a great week!

And be sure to vote!

When the Ends Don't Meet

I am sure that there are millions of Americans that are asking themselves how much worst things can get. We are on the cusp of a new Great Depression. I don't know about you out there, but there is still a lot of it I don't understand. What I do understand is that it is getting harder and harder to get ends to meet. Cutting back on some things, cutting others, thinking of Plan B, exploring job and housing options are all part of the list.

As the business market shrinks and opportunities shrink as well, it is truly a time to band together, share ideas on how to get through this hopefully in one piece.

What are you doing? What are some of the things that you are considering? What steps have you already taken?

Would love to hear your comments.

WHAT THEY DON'T WANT YOU TO TALK ABOUT

GREETINGS FRIENDS AND FAMILY,

As typical of republican politics, things are getting dirty. McCain has publically declared that he will spend the rest of his advertising dollars to essentially smear Obama! They have dug up a "terrorist" that Obama was supposedly associated with before he was in office. This "terrorist" is now a professor at a major U.S. university. They don't want us to talk about the fact that McCain was all up in the mix of the collapse of the savings and loan and his partner was jailed and he was brought up on ethics charges!!!! It is this same "maverick" mentality and attitude that sunk the savings and loan costing Americans MILLIONS in losses that was all up in the mix again leading to the collapse of the stock market and the housing market.

Below is a link to some important information that we MUST spread to every nook and cranny we can find. The people need to know exactly who McCain is and why it is imperative that he NOT get into the Oval office, not even for a visit.

WATCH THE VIDEO



http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/keatingvideo

Request for Young Women Writers

Greetings One and All,

The dynamic duo of Dawn Daniels and Candace Sandy who launched the Souls of My Sisters phenomenon are ready for their next offering which is geared toward our youngs sisters. Below are the guidelines and contact information. If you think you have a story to tell, this may be your opportunity


Request for Young Women Writers


"Together we promote unity through experience and show young women of color they are not alone in their daily struggles. Most importantly, we are creating a legacy to pass on to the next generation." -- Dawn Daniels and Candace Sandy, Publishers of Souls of My Sisters Books



National bestseller SOULS OF MY SISTERS: Black Women Break Their Silence, Tell Their Stories, and Heal Their Spirits would like you to join us in healing young women of color.


Souls of My Sisters written and edited by Dawn Marie Daniels and Candace Sandy, catapulted to the #1 spot on the Essence Best Sellers List, now in its fifteenth printing, with over 100,000 copies in print, is seeking young writers for a new volume Souls of My Young Women (Souls of My Sisters Books/Kensington Publishing Corp.)

The young women in this new volume ages 18-30 will recount their stories of obstacles and triumphs that run the gamut from searching for self to the power of choice, career, sexuality, addiction, relationships, self-esteem, body and self-image, friendships, religion, health and dealing with death. Many of them only offer themselves the least in life afraid to fail and unaware of their own abilities.

Chapter Topics include:

Finding happiness
Searching for self/self esteem
Relationships
Marriage
Careers
Overcoming life challenges
Health crisis
The Power of choice
Religion
Saying goodbye
I have had enough…
Understanding money

Young w omen encounter many daily struggles and obstacles and are interested in finding out from real life experiences how to navigate their often complex lives. In Souls of My Young Sisters will serve as the road map to and through life's ups-and-downs inspiring young women of color to achieve and succeed where they may have never saw hope.

Stories must be true (non-fiction), written in first person, and 1,000 words or less. Stories should invoke emotion and the message or should be clear. Please refer to Souls of My Sisters: Black Women Break Their Silence, Tell Our Stories and Heal Our Spirits.

You may submit more than one story. For each story selected, a 50-word biography will be included about the contributor.

The tentative submission deadline is December 1, 2008. If you are interested in submitting a story for this project please email at candacesandy@gmail.com or contact us via phone at 212.407.1581.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month--Be Part of the Cure

Please follow the link below to get all the information you need about free mammograms. We want to hear from you NOT read about you.

The Breast Cancer Site

Peace and Good Health

Brooklynites Unite for Change

Black Americans fought hard for the right to vote, and in 2008 we'll need to fight harder than ever to defend that right. This year, you have an amazing opportunity to help -- and get paid for it. How? By becoming a pollworker.

http://colorofchange.org/pollworkers/?id=1971-468341

We're joining with CREDO Action to support the "Pollworkers for Democracy" project -- a nonpartisan effort to get more people involved in protecting our elections. After signing up, the folks at CREDO will provide you with information to supplement your pollworker training, and also a system to report and track any problems on and before Election Day.

Your county still needs pollworkers for the November 4th general election. By signing up as a pollworker, you can help make sure every vote is counted. Click here to sign up:

http://colorofchange.org/pollworkers/?id=1971-468341

In 2000 and 2004 we saw how efforts to suppress the vote can diminish Black Americans' political voice. As a pollworker, you'll be in the best place to support a fair election.

Thanks and Peace,

-- James, Gabriel, Clarissa, Andre, Kai, and the rest of the ColorOfChange.org team
October 2nd, 2008

A Note to my Fans & Friends

Greetings Friends,

I wanted to take this opportunity to send out my sincere apologies to any of you who attended the Baltimore Book Festival on Sunday, Sept. 28th with the hope of me being there.

Unfortunately, due to very personal circumstances I was not able to get to the festival. My understanding is that there were some readers who were upset, and rightly so. However, if I am ever invited somewhere and don't get there, it is not a lack of caring on my part, but circumstances that prohibit me. I did reach out to the organizers of the forum to advise them of the situation as soon as I knew.

It is never my intent to disappoint my readers as I am fully aware that if it were not for each of you, I would be unable to do what I do. Again, my deepest apologies for any inconvenience or disappointment I may have caused by my absence. I do hope at some point I will get to meet those that I did not see and make it up to them.

All my best and thanks for the support you have given me.

Donna