Friday, January 30, 2009

Mary Morrison Joins Me on Blogtalk



Please join me and my co-hosts Debra Owsley, Marc Lacy and Joy as we meet and greet NYT Bestselling Author Mary Morrison aka Honey B on BlogTalking on Sunday with Donna Hill & Friends.

Known for her spicy hot stories, an off the chain website,and true freedom of expression, Mary will talk to us candidly about her career and her alter ego Honey B. Be sure to set your reminders for Sunday, February 1 at 6 pm EST. To call in and speak to Mary dial 347 426-3649 or visit us in the chat room

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Celebrate Black History 365 Days Per Year

http://www.ls.cc.al.us/blackhistory/blackhistory.html

PLEASE ENJOY THIS PHENOMENAL ARRAY OF OUR MAGNIFICENCE (CLICK HERE)

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Does Reading Make You a Better Writer?

I recently devoured three books in the past couple of weeks. To voracious readers this may sound like “so what.” But for me, as a writer, finding the time to read is like taking a mini-vacation. And I need to make the most of my time. As a result I have more books in my house than I will ever read (I’m always compelled to buy at least one book everytime I pass a bookstore!–It’s an illness). So when I do get that rare break in my hectic schedule I have to find a book that hooks me from the beginning, that is intriguing, enlightening, and exceptionally written. Needless to say I have tossed many books aside that don’t live up to that criteria.

In any event, I’ve recently read ORANGE MINT AND HONEY by Carleen Brice. A damned good book on all levels and a must read. Then I read SCARPETTA by Patricia Cornwell one of my favorite authors. I followed that up with the master of the short chapters James Patterson’s CROSS COUNTRY. And I just picked up Eric Jerome Dickey's DYING FOR REVENGE, the latest in his Gideon series.

I say all of this to bring me to the point of this post. When we as writers read good work it can only enhance, stimulate and encourage us in our own solitary endeavors. After reading a good book I feel charged and want to up my writing level. Do I? Hmmmm, only a reader will know for sure, but I certainly hope so.

Although my motto is “A writer writes” my other one is, “Any writer worth a damn reads.”

Thursday, January 15, 2009

When Writing is No Longer Fun

When I first started writing back in the early 90's (ouch that sounds so looooong ago), I was totally fascinated by the process, of seeing my ideas unfold on the page, of breathing life into inanimate folks. Over time, when contracts and deadlines continued to loom in front of me, that spontaneity and zest for the written word at times gets sucked out of me.

I never want to be a writer that simply grinds words out on the page. I want to have the time to write the book of my heart, not just the book that will pay the bills. So often I find myself at a crossroad between art and survival. And that's when it stops being fun.

What to do? When moments like that hit me, I think about all the wonderful readers that I have met in person, through snail and email and how much joy the words that I've poured onto the page have given them. And ya know what--it ain't so bad afterall.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

PR Workshop for Writers--Register NOW

PR Workshop Email Announcement:


SELF-PROMOTION: Does the very term make you cringe? Do you suffer from "Not-Doing-Enough-Self-Promotion" guilt? Do you think self-promotion is something you'll have time to learn AFTER getting The Call?

In February, PR consultant Marcia James and over TWENTY promotion-savvy guest lecturers will present "PR Is NOT a Four-Letter Word", a month-long, online workshop that will provide insider tips, hard-won knowledge, and tools to pick the PR options right for YOU.

The speaker fees for this workshop will be donated to Best Friends Animal Society (http://www.bestfriends.org/), which runs the largest no-kill animal shelter in the U.S.



Here's the workshop's topics and presenters:

Introduction & "What's Your PR Personality" Quiz by Marcia James, Berkley/Cerridwen author

Promotion According To Deadlines, Paydays, And The Real World... by Kate Douglas, Kensington author

Promoting Yourself Before "The Call" by Beth Morrow, Wild Rose Press author & workshop presenter

Author Branding by Jenn Stark, Golden Heart winner & workshop presenter

Web Site Design by Karen McCullough, Cerridwen author & Karen's Web Works designer

Chats, Reviews & Banners by Marcia James

Online & Print Press Kits by Patricia Sargeant, Kensington/Berkley author

Introduction To Co-Promotion by Dianne Castell, Kensington, Berkley & Harlequin/Silhouette author

Co-Promotion Through Group Blogs by Donna MacMeans, Berkley author

Cross-Promotion by J.C. Wilder/Dominique Adair, Samhain/Ellora's Cave author

Author Promotion Sites by DeNita Tuttle of AuthorIsland.com

Advertising In RT, RWR, Etc by Janice Maynard, NAL author

Print & Trinket PR Materials by Marcia James

Public Appearances/Public Speaking by Karen Harper, MIRA author

Promoting To Acquaintances by Laurie Kingery, Steeple Hill/Love Inspired author

Networking I: Power-Schmoozing by Susan Gee Heino, Berkley author

Networking II: Mentoring & The Farleyfile by Jennifer Stevenson, Ballantine author

Social Media Sites I: Navigating the Galaxy of Social Networks – Kathy Kulig, Ellora's Cave/Cerridwen Press author

Social Media Sites II -- Social Networking: A Curse or the Great Coming? – Donna Hill, Harlequin author

Author Newsletters by Kay Stockham, Harlequin Superromance/Berkley author

Readers' Loops by Carol Ann Erhardt, Wild Rose Press author

Published Author Contests & You by Jenna Petersen/Jess Michaels, Avon author & workshop presenter

Books, Shelves, and Signings by Linda Keller, RWA Bookseller of the Year & Barnes & Noble CRM


Interviews by Marcia James

Book Videos by Barbara Satow, PPA author & owner of NovelTeaser

Podcasts by Melissa Alvarez w/a Ariana Dupre, Nonfiction/Cerridwen Press author

Thinking Outside The Heart-Shaped Box & Wrap-Up by Marcia James

The workshop is sponsored by the Yosemite Romance Writers (YRW) RWA chapter, and registration information can be found at their site: http://www.yosemiteromancewriters.com/6.html The fee is $25 for non-YRW members, and the deadline for registration is 2/1/09.

"PR Is NOT a Four-Letter Word" is a fun, informal workshop, and attendees are encouraged to print out the lectures for a binder of PR tips. In addition, Marcia James offers a 200-page Microsoft WORD file, filled with detailed information on all types of promotional options, to all attendees.

Published and aspiring authors: Learn to love (okay, LIKE) self-promotion. ;-) And banish the guilt of not doing enough PR. Join us online in February! See you there!

Tuesday's Tip

Every writer whether seasoned or a newbie can use a little help in sharpening their skills. Frederick Douglas Creative Arts Center (in New York) is gearing up for the Winter Classes. Check them out below:

Saturday, January 17
3:00 to 6:00pm
Winter '09 Open House
An opportunity to learn more about the 8-week workshops and classes being offered this winter beginning the week of January 26th and meet some of the instructors.
more info at www.fdcac.org


Thursday, January 29
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Crafting the Novel-From Concept to Publication by Donna Hill
This class is for those who have a story concept or draft of their novel and those who wish to flesh out their novel in progress. Made possible in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.


Wednesday, January 21st
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Free Staged Reading of seed By Radha Blank Directed by Niegel Smith at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture located at 135th Street and Malcolm X Boulevard.

More Info at http://www.classicaltheatreofharlem.org/future-classics.html
Monday, January 26
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Writing and Re-Writing the Novel
Led by the award winning author Grace Edwards
An emphasis in this class on those who have already their first draft but also open to those looking to get started. Sponsored in part by NYSCA/ Literature Grant.

Monday, February 2
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Advanced Acting Workshop
Led by the award winning director/co-founder of the Classical Theatre of Harlem
Alfred Preisser. Monologue, scene study, and audition technique. Includes play and character analysis, and uses of improvisation and theatre games to explore character and encourage creative freedom.This workshop is sponsored in part by funding from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.


Monday, January 26
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS

Writing for Daytime Television
Sojourna Collier
A workshop for those interested in drafting a daytime television pilot or with an interest in learning to write for that field. This workshop is made possible in part by support from NYSCA/Electronic Media and Film.

Monday, January 26
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Advanced Playwriting
Leslie Lee
A workshop directed to those who have at least begun the first draft of their play or have a good idea of what they want to write and have finished a draft of a play previously. This class is supported in part by funding from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.

Tuesday, January 27
7:00 - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Creative Writing
Sherée R. Thomas
Prize-Winning author and editor and also former FDCAC student, Ms. Thomas takes the class through a selection of writing exercises that include the short story and non-fiction essays, with an eye to assisting in the process of selecting the style of writing most appropriate for the individual students goals. This workshop is sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.

Tuesday, January 27
7:00 - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Short Story
Nathasha Brooks-Harris
A workshop involved in not only writing and polishing your short stories, but also in offering guidance in where and how to get your stories published. This workshop is sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.

Tuesday, February 3
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Shakespeare Performance Workshop
Led by the award winning director/co-founder of the Classical Theatre of Harlem
Alfred Preisser. An intensive class dealing with Shakespearean text from the actor's viewpoint. Introduction to scansion and script analysis, the style and form of Elizabethan Theatre, and in-depth scene and monologue work.This workshop is sponsored in part by funding from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.


Tuesday, January 27
7:00 - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Childrens Books
Laura Pegram
This fiction workshop AND craft class includes a close reading of excerpts from diverse voices within the genre (e.g., Angela Johnson, Cristina Garcia, Sherman Alexie, Christopher Paul Curtis, Karen Hesse, etc.), as well as a structured written commentary. Emerging writers at all levels will learn to develop their craft and the language of critique during this intensive workshop. This workshop is sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.
Tuesday, January 27
7:00 - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Acting Jacqueline Wade
A workshop for all levels of actors. Sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.

Tuesday, January 27 (tentatively scheduled)
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Fusion Film Writing
Alan Zatkow
In this workshop for which the Screen 1 workshop is a prerequisite, the class will work on reworking their film scripts, and get an understanding of how the industry works. This workshop is made possible in part by support from NYSCA/Electronic Media and Film.

Wednesday, January 28
7:00 - 9:00 pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Poetry
Jacqueline Johnson
A workshop devoted to the structure and creation of the poem with insight on where and how to get published. Made possible in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.

Wednesday, January 28
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Screenwriting
Alan Zatkow
In this workshop the class will begin the first draft of their screenplay getting feedback from both the class and the instructor with insights into what to do once the screenplay is completed. This workshop is made possible in part by support from NYSCA/Electronic Media and Film.

Wednesday, January 28
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Beginning Playwriting
Sophia Romma
In this workshop the class will begin the first draft of their play getting feedback from both the class and the instructor. There will also be discussions of individual goals for the completed works. Sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.

Wednesday, January 28
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS

Literary Non-Fiction/Memoir
Michel Marriott
In this workshop the class will explore all forms of non-fiction writing, including journalism. Sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.

Wednesday, January 28
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS

Beginning your Novel
Jaira Placide
In this workshop the class will begin the process of taking that idea for a novel and transfer it onto the page. Sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Literature.


Thursday, February 5
6:00 pm - 8:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Directing
Led by the award winning director/co-founder of the Classical Theatre of Harlem
Alfred Preisser. An introduction to the role of the director in creating work for the stage. Covers choice and analysis of play, working with the actor to shape a performance, use of physical elements (scenic, costume, music) to strengthen interpretation and expression of the "director's voice". Sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.

Thursday, January 29
7:00 pm - 9:00pm
8-SESSION CLASS BEGINS
Advanced Screenwriting
Myla Churchill
In this workshop the class will edit their screenplay, getting feedback from both the class and the instructor with insights into what to do to improve their work. Sponsored in part by support from NYSCA/Special Arts Services.

Monday, January 12, 2009

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

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

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

Monday, January 05, 2009

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

SOR Mag has found a way to beat the financial challenges many of us face by hosting their online conference. All the info and entertainment of a conference without leaving home.

Follow this Link and Sign Up Now

Thursday, January 01, 2009

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!

Monday, December 29, 2008

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.

Friday, December 26, 2008

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.

Monday, December 22, 2008

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!

Sunday, December 21, 2008

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

Thursday, December 18, 2008

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