Welcome to the Black Pearls Magazine Blog

Black Pearls Magazine is a free digital magazine committed to inspire, encourage and empower a international group of readers. Our mission is to provide information that is essential, enlightening and entertaining. The information we publish helps to empower our BP readers, therefore enriching their lives and benefiting the communities in which they live.

The words black pearl has become a metaphor for something very rare, very admirable and very valuable. We are here to bring you those literary jewels, Black Pearls, that are sure to bring you and your love ones much pleasure and empowerment. Every issue of this monthly published magazine will celebrate the accomplishments of authors and writers from around the globe, honoring proud traditions and spotlighting ways to enhance the reader's everyday life.



To join the community please click on the "Follow Us" tab and enter your information. In order to post to the topics, click on the green boxes next to the title and a comment box will open.

Authors, if you’re seeking an exciting magazine to educate, entertain, and connect with thousands of professional, multi-cultural readers, with diverse backgrounds, then Black Pearls is for you! For our advertisers, we commit to high standards of quality and service. We strive to maintain a high level of integrity as a positive, inspiring and progressive presence. To be showcased in this magazine, contact the editor Ella Curry at: edc_dg@yahoo.com All interviews in the Black Pearls Magazine and blog are conducted by Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations Media Group.

Visit the Black Pearls Magazine to explore the featured authors and the books we are showcasing this month. Enter here, Black Pearls Magazine

Black Pearl Literary Leader

Black Pearl Literary Leader
Black Pearls Featured author Michele Andrea Bowden

Congratulations New Book Club Partners!
I am proud to announce the creation of 9 new book clubs in the EDC Creations network. I had the pleasure of setting up all 9 bookclubs with private blog websites, newsletters, email accounts and gave them their first suggested reading material. This was such an awesome project! The readers range from age 19-77!

Each bookclub was given a "Book club to Go Bag", filled with books, bookmarks, promotional material, EDC Creations hat, EDC Creations Catalog, and Godiva Chocolates. Each bookclub was given a folder with all kinds of suggestions for rules, setting up meetings and how to select the book of the month. EDC Creations has a book club reading room, created for all book clubs to find new books to explore.

Here are the names of our new book club partners:


1. MLK Blvd Readers from Atlanta, GA (27 male and female readers; no Urban Lit)

2. SapphoAngel Sisters from Hattisburg, MS (reading only Erotica and Urban Lit)

3. Garrett Swain Legacy from Annison, AL (reading only Faith based books)

4. 7th Ward Reviewers from New Orleans, LA (42 women and 3 groups;largest of the 17 Wards of New Orleans)

5. Delta Divas Wine and Books from Tuskegee, AL (hosting formal gatherings every 3 months; no online meetings)

6. Mocha Sister Runners from Jackson, MS (exercise club of plus sized sisters; prefers Romance novels)

7. SCLCC Reader's Group from Marietta, GA (all over 40; no Erotica; no poetry)

8. Mt. Moriah Reading Rainbow from Clanton, AL (only reaing Black Authors; no Urban Lit)

9. Daughters of Toni and Maya from Houston, TX (9 teen readers; 14 adult readers; Faith based books)

All 9 bookclubs and 5 groups would like to have reading conference calls with authors. If you are interested in contacting any of these groups to review your books, email Ella Curry at: edc_dg@yahoo.com with a pdf of your first chapter EXCERPT and your professional email coverletter. I am the sole public relations person for these groups and they will select all reading material from EDC Creations magazine, radio show and personal newsletters. Each group will be given a choice of 3 books to read each month. They will discuss the books on their private blogs as well as monthly conference calls with me. I will pull the best of their blog post out and put them in Black Pearls!

Enjoy and tell at least 10 people about this wonderful list of leaders!

Ella Curry, founder of the Sankofa Literary Society
EDC Creations Website: http://www.edc-creations.com
Email me at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
Sankofa Literary Watch Summer 2009
Website: http://blacklitmedia.wordpress.com/


The Sankofa Literary Society Review is focused on the issues and lifestyles that define the avid American Reader -- what they read, what they want out of their careers, how they connect to each other, what motivates them and how they feel about the community as a whole.

Many have stated that "there is no African American village...it's dead," we don't feel that way. The Village is here, the village in now! Expand your horizons!
Join us today to add your voice and experiences to our union. While showcasing our heritage, our experiences and delivering our voice--we remain anchored to the spiritual, emotional and practical realities of our entire global community, supporting all races. We are not limited solely to AA authors; we hope to educate our readers by offering a variety of literature and resources. We are offering you the best in literature period, from our perspective. Come on in and join this movement to Give the Gift of Knowledge!

Listed below are some of the best community forums, blogs and websites representing the literary world and the arts. Please take your time and expand your reading territory by saluting the literary greats and leaders listed below. This list is not in any certain order of importance, all the sites listed below are 5 stars! If you are on the list below, please tell us your latest news. Make sure you tell any of your friends if they are listed too. We will post new lists every 3 months.

Best New Book Covers
01. The Birthday Storm (Sassy) by Sharon Draper
02. The Listeners by Gloria Whelan
03. In the Land of Cotton by Martha Taylor
04. America I AM Legends by Smiley Books
05. Prize of a Lifetime by Donna Hill
06. Snapped: A Novel by Tracy Brown
07. Another Memory by Pamela Ridley
08. Too Much of a Good Thing Ain't Bad by Clarence Nero
09. Kissing The Man Next Door by Devon Vaughn Archer
10. Hideaway (Jammed Up) by Stirling Noh


Books to Watch
01. Raising African American Girls by Linda Ellis Eastman
02. Junebug by Alice Mead
03. November Blues by Sharon M. Draper
04. Coming Across Jordan by Mabel Elizabeth Singletary
05. Naughty 2 by Brenda Hampton
06. Holy Seduction by Jessica A. Robinson
07. Somebody's Sinning in My Bed by Pat G'Orge-Walker
08. A New Kind of Bliss by Bettye Griffin
09. Lovers & Liars by Teri Denine
10. Unsigned Hype: A Novel by Booker T. Mattison



Authors You Should Know

01. Anthony Asadullah Samad
02. Bernice L. McFadden
03. Candice Poarch
04. Angela Nissel
05. Angie L. Jennings
06. Nikki Jenkins
07. Christine Pembleton
08. Jacquelin Thomas
09. Sherri Lewis
10. Hank Stewart
11. Rochelle Alers
12. Rachel Kramer Bussel
13. Marie Mutsuki Mockett
14. K'wan
15. Gail McFarland
16. Stacey Covington-Lee
17. Diane Martin
18. Lisa G. Riley
19. Valerie Joyner
20. Bette Ford


Best Author Websites
01. James McBride '
02. Miasha
03. Hank Stewart
04. Noel Jones
05. Tomi Akinyanmi
06. Lamar Ariel
07. Omarosa
08. Wahida Clark
09. Donna Hill Fanclub
10. Pamela Samuels Young


Best Social Networks
01. Sistah Faith
02. SORMAG
03. APOOO
04. The GOOD GIRL Book Club™
05. ISeeColor
06. Essence Community
07. Tyra Banks Community
08. Shepreneur
09. Black History 365 Network
10. Real Urban Fans


Best Amazon Reviewers and Listmania Creators
01. Sistagirl
02. Urban-Reviews.com
03. Sistahs on the Shelf
04. ABookGroupie
05. Cydney Rax
06. PrinceLuva
07. Urban Fiction Queen
08. RAWSISTAZ Reviewers
09. Yasmin Coleman
10. OOSA Online Book Club
*** Note: EDC Creations CEO Listmanias


Top EDC Creations Networks
Sankofa Literary Society Bookclub
01. EDC Creations Billboard
02. Black Authors Network
03. EDC Creations Sunday News
04. Ella at Twitter
05. Ella at BlackPlanet
06. Black Authors on Facebook
07. SLS Bookclub Center
08. EDC Creations Bookstore
09. Ella at Myspace
10. Ella at LinkedIn


Literary Blogs to Watch
01. The Crime Sistahs
02. The Book Slut
03. Black Book Blog
04. Tayari's Blog
05. Profiles in Black (BAN)
06. The Lo Zone
07. Cortney Gee
08. Chocolate City Blog
09. Black Voices Blogs
10. Kaye's Book Blog


Bookclubs and Reader's Groups to Watch
01. African American Book Clubs
02. Divas Inc.
03. OOSA Online Book Club
04. DrumBeats Book Club
05. Book-Clubs-Resource.com
06. Forbidden Fruit Book Club
07. Books of Soul
08. Books And Beignets
09. Sankofa Literary Review
10. Sistahs on the Shelf


Best Online Magazines
01. BlackExpressions.com
02. Black Singles Magazine
03. Black Pearls Magazine
04. Faithwebbin Online Magazine
05. Affair de Coeur Magazine
06. Emerging Minds, Inc
07. Black Wealth and Fortune Magazine
08. Words without Borders
09. Faith Filled Stilettos
10. Chocolate Singles Magazine
***Note: EDC Literary Magazine


Best MySpace, Twitter and Facebook Sites
01. Azarel and Life Changing Books
02. LifeCoach2Women
03. Joey Pinkney
04. Sassy Stilettos
05. Tweet Bookclub
06. FB African American Books
07. FB African American Authors
08. FB African American Fiction
09. Peace In Pages
10. Dynah Zale


Best Community, Family or Literary Forum
01. Raising Him Alone
02. Commute Reading Co-ed Book Club
03. Black Barbershop Health Outreach Program
04. FB African American History
05. Heal a Woman to Heal a Nation
06. Open Society Institute
07. A New Conversation with Men
08. Daughter, Sister, Friend
09. ESpiritE Radio Broadcasters Network
10. Kenneth E. Pollock


Best Literary Resource Site
01. Publishers Marketplace
02. Hurston/Wright Foundation
03. Urban Reviews
04. Romance in Color
05. Black Writers On Tour
06. BookTalk.org
07. Book Reporter
08. Reader to Reader
09. Black Writers On Tour
10. Book-Remarks.com

Enjoy and tell at least 10 people about this wonderful list of leaders!

Ella Curry, founder of the Sankofa Literary Society
EDC Creations Website: http://www.edc-creations.com/
Email me at: edc_dg@yahoo.com

9:48 AM | Posted in
Intimate Conversation with author Robin R. Robinson

Robin R. Robinson was born in Sacramento, California and she moved to LA in 1980 to pursue a career in front of the camera. She lived in LA for 17 years and returned to northern California in the summer of 2000. While living in LA she worked for Eddie Murphy Productions, Keenen Wayans, Wing Records, Sony Pictures, ABC and Motown Productions. Robin was one of 15 selected out of a field of 300 plus to attend the prestigious Guy Hanks/Marvin Miller Screenwriting class at USC where she developed a comedy pilot as well as spec scripts.

Robin has been journaling since she was 12 years old and has been an avid reader since she was 8 years old. Robin reads at least 2 novels a month.



WHY DO YOU WRITE? WHAT DRIVES YOU?
I write because it's a very easy way to express myself on paper and it comes easy to me. I don't have any problems expressing myself orally; however, writing allows me to imbue characters with traits that I possess or have read about, and it allows me to be more bold. Some of the things that Renee says in my novel, I wouldn't dream of saying; at least not now - 15 years ago yes, but not right now. I've mellowed a bit so I'm not as raunchy. But I can go there if I have to. Good dialogue that believable, funny, and very conversational is what drives me. I believe dialogue should be written the way that people speak. At least that's what I attempt to convey in my writings.


WHAT LEGACY DO YOU OFFER FUTURE READERS:
I believe that my writing is a continuation of the extremely talented, down to earth, ain't taking no mess, author Terry McMillan. I remember reading Waiting to Exhale and saying often that "I really like the way she writes, it reminds me a lot of my writing style."

My book would appeal to most women, most races, who have been scorned by a man that they thought was "the one." Any woman who has (had) body image issues, hair issues and who has lived in a city would relate as well. Also, the book is very funny and most of us enjoy laugh out loud humor.


INTRODUCE US TO CHOCOLATE LEMONS AND PEPPERMINT TEARS: The Bittersweet Life of Xena
Imagine if you will an attractive, successful, never been married black woman in her mid-30's who lives in one of the biggest cities in the world; yet, she is desperately trying to unwrap her brain around Adam, a man (who lives almost 400 miles away) - a married one at that who ripped her heart out of her chest, threw it to the ground and then stomped on it. Xena Quay Vaughan is a strong, determined, ain't taking no prisoners, very cerebral, sho 'nuff sister who wears a short 'fro in a city full of women who buy their hair. Xena also secretly wants Adam to come back in her life (but she would never admit it), she wants to shed 10-15 pounds that nobody can see except for her, and she wants to meet a wonderful, handsome, sexy black man who loves her - faults and all - so that she won't have to grow old alone, which is a big fear of hers.

Readers, this story is relatable on so many levels because:
-- There are so many successful, attractive black women who have never been married.

-- There are many black women who harbor distorted body images - especially if they live in Los Angeles. A city that is powered by aesthetics - what you look like, who you know, where you live, what you drive, who you're ballin'.

-- There are many black women who wear their hair in a natural style (braids, twists, fro) who sometimes feel invisible by (some) men who pay sisters who buy their hair way more attention. Some black men prefer black women to have hair that moves. Some black men feel that women who wear their hair in a short 'fro are gay. I think that misguided belief is not only juvenile; it's ludicrous to boot.


WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A NEW WRITER?
I tell folks who have asked me about writing the same thing:
A new writer has to read - a lot. I read at least 2 novels a month; as well as magazines, newspapers, the net, etc. Reading is very important. And I also suggest keeping a journal (I've been journaling since I was 12). I also read autobios, some self-help and some non-fiction, although, I prefer fiction.


WHAT BOOK ALREADY PUBLISHED IS SIMILAR TO YOUR BOOK IN ITS WRITING STYLE?
I absolutely love The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah and I think my book has a bit of that flavor. Also, Waiting to Exhale by Terry McMillan and I also think Lolita Files' latest, Murder, Lies, Sex, Fame has a similar tone. No nonesense, good dialogue, the sense that you don't want to put the book down, and the fact that you laugh out loud.


WHERE CAN WE BUY THE BOOK?
Chocolate Lemons and Peppermint Tears: The Bittersweet Life of Xena (Xpress Yourself Publishing, LLC; ISBN-10: 0981809421 and ISBN-13: 978-0981809427) is now available on www.Amazon.com.

Visit my website: http://www.robinrrobinson.com/. You may also get more information at the publisher's website: http://www.xpressyourselfpublishing.org/xyphome.htm


Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
Black Authors Culture Center-- Twitter with Ella--Black Pearls Mag
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11:02 AM | Posted in
Join Black Authors Network host Ella Curry and author Carleen Brice on BAN Radio, June 20 for lively discussion about her new book Children of the Waters.

Black Authors Network Talk Show
Saturday Night, June 20, 2009 at 8-10pm EST
Live Chat: www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network
Fans call into at: (646) 200-0402
Gifts given out to live callers and registered BTR chatters.




Book Discussion and Live Reading from Children of the Waters by Carleen Brice

The author of the #1 Denver Post bestseller and Essence Book Club Pick Orange Mint and Honey explores the connection between love and race, and what it really means to be a family. Children of the Waters (ISBN: 978-0345499073) is a story about two long lost half-sisters, one white and one black, who find each other possibly with the help of their grandmother’s ghost.

Book Introduction

Trish Taylor’s white ancestry never got in the way of her love for her black ex-husband, or their mixed race son, Will. But when Trish’s marriage ends, she returns to her family’s Denver, Colorado home to find a sense of identity and connect to her past.

What she finds there shocks her to the very core: her mother and newborn sister were not killed in a car crash as she was told. In fact, her baby sister, Billie Cousins, is now a grown woman; her grandparents had put her up for adoption, unwilling to raise the child of a black man. Billie, who had no idea she was adopted, wants nothing to do with Trish until a tragedy in Billie’s own family forces her to lean on her surprisingly supportive and sympathetic sister.

Together they unravel age-old layers of secrets and resentments and navigate a path toward love, healing, and true reconciliation.



What are some of the topics addressed in Children of the Waters?
--- Paths toward love, healing, and true reconciliation
--- Feeling secure in your own identity
--- Surviving a messy divorce
--- Raising teenage sons
--- Generational racism
--- Handling of Lupus
--- Hidden secrets and adoption
--- Embracing a bi-racial heritage
--- The importance of sisterhood

"In Children of the Waters, Carleen Brice highlights the effects of America's complicated relationship with race and identity on three generations of two families in a clear and insightful depiction of what it means to be American at the dawn of the twenty-first century. Brice knows how far we have come and how far there is left to go, and in Children of the Waters she deflty lays it all out for the reader to see." - Matthew Aaron Goodman, author of Hold Love Strong

More about Carleen
Carleen Brice’s debut novel, Orange Mint and Honey (One World/Ballantine), was an Essence “Recommended Read” and a Target “Bookmarked Breakout Book.” For this book, she won the 2009 First Novelist Award from the Black Caucus of the American Library Association and the 2008 Break Out Author Award at the African American Literary Awards Show. Her second novel, Children of the Waters (One World/Ballantine), a book about race, love and family, is available now where ever books are sold. If you don't see it at your local retailer, please go to the representive and request it. You can read an excerpt at her website http://www.carleenbrice.com/.

She also edited and contributed to the anthology Age Ain’t Nothing but a Number: Black Women Explore Midlife, which was published in the U.S. (Beacon Press) and the U.K. (Souvenir Press). She is author of Lead Me Home: An African American’s Guide Through the Grief Journey (Avon/HarperCollins). Her book Walk Tall: Affirmations for People of Color, an Essence bestseller, was in print with traditional publishers for 10 years and sold 100,000 copies. It is currently available through iUniverse and Louis Gossett Jr.'s Eracism Foundation. Carleen and her husband live in Colorado.

Children of the Waters, Carleen Brice
ISBN: 0345499077
ISBN-13: 9780345499073
Pub. Date: June 23, 2009

Shop for the book at Barnes and Noble

Shop for the book at Amazon.com





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8:38 AM | Posted in
Intimate Conversation with author Patti Lacy

Hello Patti! Welcome to Black Pearls, tell us a little about you and your family.
I’m Patti Lacy, a displaced Southerner who was gifted with teacher parents and a passion to read. In 2006, I left my beloved community college halls to set up a writing “room of my own” in the home I share with my teacher husband and a dog named Laura.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I was born in the back seat of a Buick in Waco, Texas , grew up in the South, and now live in Normal, Illinois. I devour literary fiction, penned by Austen, Kingsolver, Morrison, Dostoevsky, Stegner, Hemingway, Gaines, and many, many more. Unlike many writers, I didn’t put anything on paper, except maudlin poetry and embarrassing love letters, until 2005, when Mary’s story refused to settle into my brain and keep quiet.

Ella: Tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
In 2005, God gifted me with a wonderful story about Mary, a brave Irishwoman who’d for years kept the secret of how she’d been betrayed by not one but two dysfunctional families.

I became obsessed with the secrets women keep and why they keep them. When the Still Small Voice kept whispering for me to capture Mary’s story on paper, I finally obeyed and penned my first novel, An Irishwoman’s Tale.

Why do I write? Because I HAVE TO! Stories and images bang on my skull and refuse to stop until I release them into a computer file. Hey, I’m 54 and want to share these stories for as long as God allows. That may be for another thirty years. Or it may be one…more…day.

Ella: What Legacy do you want to leave future readers?
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers: When a heart festering with pus-laden secrets is cut open and exposed to light and air, healing begins. Healing brings health. Healthy women can share with others to promote well-being.

Ella: Give us the synopsis of the book being discussed, What the Bayou Saw.
Sally Stevens, a chatty Midwestern college instructor, smothers her secrets with drawly talk, chocolate, and big-toothed smiles. Then the she-devil Katrina threatens her brother and Ella Ward, Sally’s former best friend, and three of Sally’s students are accused of assaulting a fourth student, Shamika Williams.

When a bigoted cop, Shamika’s mama tiger aunt, and Sally collide in Shamika’s hospital room, the past, which has been buried under Louisiana bayou mud, begins to bubble to the surface. Racism, sexual dysfunction, and the traumatic aftermath of assault reach across the span of time and threaten to destroy Sally’s tranquil life in Normal , Illinois . Dare Sally share her secrets with a hurting Shamika and risk exposing her own prejudices?

Ella: Who are your two main characters and what do you like most about them?
Segregation and a chain link fence separated twelve-year-old Sally Flowers from her best friend, Ella Ward. Yet a brutal assault bound them together. Forever. Thirty-eight years later, Sally, a middle-aged Midwestern instructor, dredges up childhood secrets long buried beneath the waters of a Louisiana bayou in order to help her student, who has also been raped. Fragments of spirituals, gospel songs, and images of a Katrina-ravaged New Orleans are woven into the story.

Sally Stevens, the 52-year-old college Humanities instructor whose friendly drawl and bubbly personality mask deep-rooted scars from a childhood rape. I admire Sally’s fierce devotion to her family and to her students.

Ella Ward, Sally’s middle-aged childhood friend who teams with Sally to kill a rapist and later faces betrayal at the hands of Sally. I love Ella’s professionalism, gift of healing, and ability to forgive an awful wrong.


Ella: How does this book shape or add value to the reader's life?
What the Bayou Saw emphasizes the importance of exposing the prejudice all of us harbor, in varying degrees, to the light of truth so that healing can begin. This my second novel also deals with the terrible aftermath in the souls of young girls because of sexual assault and the chilling statistic that even in homes with “good” communication, many crimes continue to go unreported. I also hope my book entertains the reader with a good story and a satisfying ending.


Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
The need for dialogue about race issues in America to continue. The terrible human stain left by racism, sexual assault…and lies.

Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
My target audience is readers, especially women, between the ages of 25 and 100! Women have traditionally stoked the home fires, have shouldered abuse and misuse throughout the ages. By bonding with other women and honestly sharing our past, we put our heads together to better problem-solve. Think of cultures where women gather at the well to chat and chew. I hope to “chat and chew” with my readers!


Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
The humbling opportunity to reach out to one reader at a time. I love each one of you and appreciate your investment of time and money in my book.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
Write for the Audience of One. Write because you’ve been given a talent. Work at it with your heart, your soul, and your mind. Read books. Study the great writers. Become a professional writer, no matter what other people say. Yes, you can.

Ella: Name three things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion.
The blessing of God. A crazy passion to read and write, knowing this passion will cost you dearly in other areas of your life but will give tremendous joy and sense of purpose. A solid foundation in crafting words, whether self-taught, through reading the works of literary giants (hopefully a combination of both).

Ella: What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
It’s hard to know something like that about one’s own work. I like to think that my voice is fresh and can’t be duplicated. That idiotic thought off my chest, perhaps the frame idea and regional dialect of Fried Green Tomatoes by Fannie Flagg and the visual imagery of Ella Cather.

Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
My Name is Sheba, another framed story that begins in the rollicking Age of Jazz in New Orleans and ends in the red light district of Bangkok.

Ella: Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
An Irishwoman’s Tale, my debut novel, finaled in the Foreword Magazine Book of the Year contest. Winners will be announced at the Book Expo in New York City on May 29th. Wouldn’t it be cool to see y’all there???

Contact information:

Patti Lacy

patti@pattilacy.com
www.pattilacy.com

Books can be purchased anywhere books are sold, including Barnes & Noble, Borders, LifeWay Christian stores, and http://www.amazon.com/.










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5:31 AM | Posted in ,
EDC Creations 2009 First Quarter Literary Hallmarks

Ella Curry and EDC Creations are proud to announce the books that created an impact, for readers and the EDC Creations network. Our “literary hallmarks” indicate excellence in writing and storytelling. These are the books we want to feature to the world. Each year thousands of people — educators, concerned parents, community leaders, authors, poets and publishers — devote their time and resources to presenting the reader with great books! However, too many outstanding books do not get the attention and reader support that they deserve, they float just under the radar. It is our mission to connect readers with these hidden gems and bring them books that will change their lives.

Readers please take a moment and examine the list below. There is something for most book lovers! The books ARE NOT listed in any order pertaining to the quality of the literaturethey are ALL 4-5 star literary gems. Each book on this list will bring something of value to enrich the lives of the readers, make you sit up and take notice, and to help to strengthen our future generations. If you are a fan of Erotica or Urban Literature, there is a list for you. If you are more in tune with books of a Spiritual or Motivational nature, there is a list for you. Christian Fiction lovers, we have books listed that you are sure to love. Like to live life on the edge and walk on the dark, mysterious side—we have a selection for you too. We have a special section for books that share in the African American experience, in a fictional setting, be sure to check the out.

We have reviewed all of the books below and these are just a few of the magnificent books we love. Keep in mind we reviewed some of these books for the publishers and they might be on pre-order status. Other lists will be posted of our fantastic literary finds. You are invited to explore the shelves of our book store where most of the books are listed: http://astore.amazon.com/edcmagazine-20. Enjoy!

Authors, if you see your book listed, please leave a comment with your website address, book seller links and any news about you and your books! Ask your network to stop by and share their reviews of your books too. Make sure you tell your friends if you see their names listed. Follow this blog on the right hand side of the site, to keep up with the comments.

The authors listed below have all won the EDC Creations Top Books Award.
Next selections posted in November, 2009. Based on books submitted to EDC Creations.






Books Change Lives—Young Adults/Our Experiences
Young Readers and Teen Literature
1. Chicken Soup for the Teen Soul by Jack Canfield
2. Love, Ocean by Celia Anderson
3. Unsigned Hype by Booker T. Mattison
4. Step To This: So For Real Series by Nikki Carter
5. Prayers That Avail Much for Teens by Germaine Copeland
6. How to Win Friends and Influence People for Teen Girls by Donna Dale Carnegie
7. Me, Just Different by Stephanie Morrill
8. Shrinking Violet by Danielle Joseph
9. Learning to Love by Stephanie Perry Moore
10. Friends 'til the End by ReShonda Tate Billingsley
11. The Black Male Handbook by Kevin Powell, Hill
12. Letters to a Young Sister by Hill Harper
13. That Life by A.R Hilton
14. Profiles in Black: Phat Facts for Teens by Marvin A. McMickle
15. Catwalk by Deborah Gregory


On the Shoulders of Giants —Faith Based Books
1. Somebody's Sinning in My Bed by Pat G'Orge Walker
2. Practicing What You Preach by Vanessa Davis Griggs
3. Any Minute: A Novel by Joyce Meyer and Deborah Bedford
4. Guilty of Love by Pat Simmons
5. Somewhat Saved by Pat G'Orge Walker
6. Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murray
7. Heaven Right Here by Lutishia Lovely
8. Up at the College by Michele Andrea Brown
9. The Enclave by Karen Hancock
10. Take Two by Karen Kingsbury
11. Par for the Curse by Toyi Ward
12. I Know Why The Angels Dance by Bryan Davis
13. Deliver Me From My Enemies by Sharon Oliver
14. Beautiful Ugly by Shelia E. Lipsey
15. The Last Woman Standing by Tia McCollors
16. The Devil Is a Lie by ReShonda Tate Billingsley
17. Keep Your Enemies Closer by Sharon Oliver
18. Mom's the Word by Marilynn Griffith
19. God is in Love With You by Valerie Love
20. The List by Sherri Lewis
21. June Bug by Chris Fabry
22. Behind the Seen! by Phyllis Kennedy Brown
23. Reflections of a Quiet Storm by Patricia A. Bridewell
24. Ashes, Ashes They All Fall Down by Anita Ballard Jones
25. Inherited Sin by Wanda Manning
26. Menu for Romance by Kaye Dacus
27. Little Pages of Love by Edward C. Clark
28. Worth a Thousand Words by Stacy Hawkins Adams
29. Journey to Jordan by Donna Deloney
30. The Word: Poetry Connection by Arnita L. Fields
31. Trouble in My Way by Michelle Stimpson
32. The Cooling Board by Tamara Angela Grant
33. Sinful Too by Victor McGlothin
34. Half Minister/Half Mistress by Nicole Morgan
35. The Friends We Keep: How Women Navigate the Delights and Wounds of Friendship by Sarah Zacharias Davis



Our Literary Legacy —Historical Based Ficton/Historical Black Ficton
1. A Song for Harlem by Patricia C. McKissack
2. In the Land of Cotton by Martha A. Taylor
3. What the Bayou Saw by Patti Lacy
4. A Worthy Legacy by Tomi Akinyanmi



Our Literary Legacy —Non-fiction/Motivational/Poetry Books
1. Women of A New Tribe from Jerry Taliaferro
2. Grandpa Does Grandma: The ABCs of Senior Sex by Phil Parker
3. From Incarceration 2 Incorporation by J.M. Benjamin & Randy Kearse
4. Hope on a Tightrope: Words and Wisdom by Cornel West
5. Almost Persuaded, Now to Believe by Joshua McClure
6. America I am Legends by Smiley Books
7. Family Affair by Gil L. Robertson, IV
8. No Matter What by Lisa Nichols
9. Raising Boys to be Like Jesus by Sharon Norris Elliott
10. Ministry of Motherhood by Cheryl Lacy Donovan
11. Prairie Tale: A Memoir by Melissa Gilbert
12. Content...Right Where I Am by Joy Turner
13. Red and Me: My Coach, My Lifelong Friend by Bill Russell
14. Remember What Your Mamas Taught You by Brenda Hill
15. The Only Way Out is In by Daya Devi-Doolin
16. What's It All About Nesheba? by Nesheba
17. Living Check to Monday by Lynn Richardson
18. Empowered to Birth Naturally by Patrice A. London
19. J.D.'s Groove by poet John D. Evans
20. From the Land of the Lost by poet Eric Vance Walton
21. Beautiful: Nudes by Marc Baptiste
22. Metu Neter Vol. 3 by Ra Un Nefer Amen
23. Black Beauty: A History and a Celebration by Ben Arogundade
24. 10 Bad Choices That Ruin Black Women's Lives by Grace Cornish
25. Blessed Assurance: Success Despite the Odds by Jacquie Lewis-Kemp
26. Wisdom for Women of Worth and Worship by Natalie A. Francisco, ED.D
27. If God Does Not Permit A Woman to Preach, Then God Must Be a Sexist by Min. Lamont McLaurin
28. How to be Highly Favored and Empowered to Prosper in Your Job Search by Kimberly A. Benjamin, PHR
29. Stolen Women: Reclaiming Our Sexuality, Taking Back Our Lives by Gail Wyatt
30. Why Men Marry Bitches: A Woman's Guide to Winning Her Man's Heart by Sherry Argov



Living on the Edge— Thrillers/Mystery/Fantasy Books
1. Deadly Intent by Lynda LaPlante
2. Immortal I and II by Valjeanne Jeffers
3. The Defector by Daniel Silva
4. The Neighbor by Lisa Gardner
5. Swimsuit by James Patterson
6. Black Water Rising by Attica Locke
7. The Whiskey Rebels by David Liss
8. Who's Been Sleeping in Your Head by Brett Kahr
9. The Thirteenth by L. A. Banks
10. Ashes of Midnight by Lara Adrian
11. Soul Deep by Lora Leigh


Our Passions— Mixed Genre Fiction/ Erotica/Urban Literature
1. Children of the Waters by Carleen Brice
2. Life is Short But Wide by J. California Cooper
3. Chaser by Miasha
4. Alibi by Terri Woods
5. And Mistress Makes Three by Frances Ray
6. Single Husband by HoneyB
7. Lies of Blue by Lynne Forde
8. A Lova' Like No Otha' by Stephanie Perry Moore
9. Reality Check by Eric Pete
10. Temptation and Lies by Donna Hill
11. A New Kind of Bliss by Bettye Griffin
12. Quieting the Storm by Shelley Parsons
13. Private Lives by Gwynne Forster
14. B as in Beauty by Alberto Ferreras
15. Thug Lovin' (Thug ) by Wahida Clark
16. His Invisible Wife by Shelia M. Goss
17. Hungry Woman in Paris by Josefina López
18. Body By Night by Zuri Day
19. A Private Affair by Donna Hill
20. Sisters & Husbands by Connie Briscoe
21. Maneater by Mary B. Morrison
22. Nothing but Trouble by Bettye Griffin
23. Bliss Inc. by Chamein Canton
24. The Highest Price for Passion by Laurinda D. Brown
25. Keeping Secrets and Telling Lies by Trice Hickman
26. Song of the Siren by Avah LaReaux
27. In Her Mind by Renee Daniel Flagler
28. Loving Simone by Jessica Tilles
29. Unexpected by Tinisha Nicole Johnson
30. Carbon Copy by Azarel
31. When Life Becomes a Love Story by Sonia Matthews
32. How I Made the Angels Cry by Meleisa Betts
33. That Devil's No Friend of Mine by J. D. Mason
34. Murder on the Down Low by Pamela Samuels Young
35. Disappearance of Irene Dos Santos by Margaret Mascarenhas
36. He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not by Tracy Darity
37. Keith's Story by Nikkea Smithers
38. Attitudes of a Woman by Nikkea Lewis
39. Serving Justice by Jacqueline D. Moore
40. Are You Satisfied Yet by M Bridges
41. Turned On: Summer Series by Angel Hunter
42. The Georgia Avenue Bus by Henri Edmonds
43. Sweet Destiny by Bernadette Watkins
44. Reality Check: Stepmother Chronicles by Anjalon D. Edwards
45. Make Me Whole by Roishina Clay Henderson
46. Nina's Got A Secret by Brian W. Smith
47. Good Girl Gone Bad by Danette Majette
48. Ready to Male by Lamar Ariel
49. Hiding in the Shadows by Claudia Brown Mosley
50. When Lightning Strikes by Keya
51. Intimate Accusations by Nyra Knight
52. What Doesn't Kill You: A Novel by Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant
53. Vixen Icon by Buffie
54. Scream My Name by Kimberly Kaye Terry
55. Freedom's Fight by Gary Phillips
56. The Right Wedding Gown by Shirley Hailstock
57. It's Morning: Torn Lovers and Their Stories by Elaine Flowers
58. Sinnamon by Wasiim-Kenny Young
59. Kissing The Man Next Door by Devon Vaughn Archer
60. Road To Seduction by Ann Christopher


Authors, if you see your book listed, please leave a comment with your website address, book seller links and any news about you and your books! Ask your network to stop by and share their reviews of your books. We would like to have you all on the BAN Radio Show, so leave your contact information in the comments for Ella Curry and her interns. Email: edc_dg@yahoo.com


Readers, if you have read any of the books listed, please share your reviews. If you would like for any of these authors to speak with your friends or book clubs, please leave your request and email address in our comments section. We will try to pass them on to the publicists or the authors. Request the authors for a phone chat and live reading with you and 10 friends: Email: edc_dg@yahoo.com


Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations
http://www.edc-creations.com/


Black Pearls Magazine
http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/


Shop at our Book Store
http://astore.amazon.com/edcmagazine-20


Note: EDC Creations does not accept payment for book reviews. Our team reviews books for BAN Radio Show, publicists, publishing houses and independently published authors. We have rated all of the books on this list as 4/5 or 5/5 stars. They are all fabulous reads, recommended by Ella Curry, AJ Curry (Teen reviews), Jackie Lawson (Sweet Soul Sisters), Casino(Sankofa Literary Society), Carolyn Morrow (Sankofa Literary Society), Gwendolyn Garrett (Sankofa Literary Society), Rhonda Seals, Monica Givens, Lois Spanks (Sankofa Literary Society), LaTisha Knight (BMore Moms), Cheryl Rhodes, Marvin Sparks (Journalist, AL), Gene Garrett, Vontessa Lewis (Sisters Networking and Reading), Katona Swain, Tonya Marks, Katalena Dubose, Maggie Dubose (Moms Rock, Dothan Chapter), Jennifer Tolbert, Rita Mae Riggins, Audrey Riggins (Sankofa Literary Society), Marion Teagues, J-Jigger (Journalist, AL), May Sanders-Dubose, TaSherra Curry (Teen reviews), RaLeigh Curry, Minnie B. Swain and our fans in the United States and abroad.

All of the books are kept by the reviewers, given away to book clubs, donated to literary event grab bags, used as prizes in EDC Creations, Sankofa Literary Society and BAN Radio contests and gift bags. EDC Creations does not sell review copies online or at events. All books are given away in the hopes that the readers will spread the word.....
3:43 PM | Posted in
The Man Plan by C. J. Jeep

Aimee Christensen and her friends (Amara, Bev, Katie and Lisbeth) are all thirty-five and still single. Although none have been willing to admit it they all long to get married. On New Years Eve they make a resolution that one of them will be married by the following year.

With years of unsuccessful luck in love behind them they’ve got to create a “plan” to find him. But the “plan” is not exactly what they bargained for as unexpected events occur and secrets are revealed while they meet and date a number of “ideal” men. BUY THE BOOK HERE


Chapter 1 of The Man Plan
New Years Eve 1999

“I think I’m going to seriously lose weight this next year. I don’t want to exist in a new century heavier than I am today,” I said as the five of us drove to the party.

“You don’t need to lose weight Aimee, you look good girl! You may just want to tone it up a little and turn it into muscle,” suggested Bev.

“So you’re saying I am fat!?!”

“No, but a little exercise never hurt anyone.”

“Oh don’t listen to the exercise guru, Aimee, you know Bev just wants you to join her aerobics class,” laughed Lisbeth.

“Hey I know I look good!”

“And we know you think you do!” said Amara. “But if you look so good why are you without a man?”

“I told you I don’t need a man. I am perfectly content all by myself.”

“Yea, right.”

“Look Amara not everyone thinks they have to be in a relationship to be content like you. Some of us can be alone and not lonely.”

----
C.J. Jeep lives outside of Atlanta Georgia with her husband and their dog. C. J. Jeep has worked in the field of Social Work as a Therapist. This is her first novel.


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3:07 PM | Posted in
My Husband's Fiancee

National Best Selling Author Kaira Denee is known coast to coast for her fantastic novels Take it There and Sugar's Daddy. Her fans have been all over her blog demanding she put out another novel. Well, your wait will come to an end Oct 21, 2009. Her Anexander Books debut, My Husband's Fiancee is sure to have her fans lined up at the book store to purchase their copy. Visit Kaira at www.kairadenee.com To read My Husband's Fiancee's synopsis click here .


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3:03 PM | Posted in
Secrets, Sins and Shameful Lies
Love, Lust and a Whole Lotta Distrust

Best Selling Author DeiIra Smith-Collard jumped on the scene with her self published debut novel Love, Lust and a Whole Lotta Distrust and became an instant star in this industry. Book Clubs from all across the country invited her to visit with them to discuss her phenomenal novel. In April of 2009, Anexander Books published the much anticipated sequel Secrets, Sins and Shameful Lies.

Both of DeiIra's novels can be purchased in book stores all over the country as well at your favorite online book provider. To visit DeiIra online, stop by her website www.deiira.com To read Secrets, Sins and Shameful Lies synopsis click here .


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2:59 PM | Posted in

One Life for One Night

Jerald Howard is no rookie to the literary world. He's a very successful poet and author. His first novel with Anexander Books is titled One Life for One Night , has his fans pre-ordering the book months in advance. One Life for One Night will be available in stores and online July 21, 2009. Be sure to get your copy of what's sure to be the hottest book of the summer. To read One Life for One Night's synopsis click here



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2:55 PM | Posted in
To My Dear Author Friends,

I won Mrs. Oklahoma Plus America on May 2, 2009. As a result, I will participate in the National Miss Plus America Pageant July 6-11, 2009 in Monroe, Louisiana. I come to you requesting sponsorship in this pageant. My total entry fee and expenses are $3,500 of which any generous contribution would be greatly appreciated. Your support will be recognized in the official program book on my delegates’ page and on my blog – www.mrs.oklahomaplusamerica2009.blog.com for an entire year. This great offer will expire on June 15, 2009.

The Miss Plus America Pageant is committed to excellence in pageantry. Holding the crown provides full-figured woman the opportunity to share and promote those community causes closest to her heart with a pageant title worthy of her representation. With the title of Mrs. Plus America, I will represent through my platform the importance of civic engagement and service to the community. I personally have a special place in my heart for getting Americans involved in the community and connecting them with services they need. If we step up to the challenge that President Obama has given and get involved in what our communities, we will see change. I truly believe that to whom much is given much is required. I pray that you support my quest in helping others help themselves.

You can make your generous donation to Monique Miles Bruner. All donations can be paid via paypal by clicking the donation button on my blog or sent via money order/check to: Monique Miles Bruner, PO Box 13204, Oklahoma City, OK 73113. I look forward to winning the National title and representing you and Oklahoma well.

Thank you for your consideration,

Monique Miles Bruner (Deltareviewer)
Mrs. Oklahoma Plus America 2009
www.mrsoklahomaplusamerica2009.blog.com


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2:48 PM | Posted in
June is National Safety Month
by "Fabulous Black Woman"

Article shared from the June's Spotlight, Women's Safety, Summer Hair Tips, Hot Jewelry, and MORE! Newsletter. Visit their website and subscribe for more great news.

Women's Safety
What you can do to stay safe!


How to stay safe in a car
Often we feel safer in our cars or taking a taxi. This frequently is true, but it is good to have some strategies in mind for defense from a car. Keep in mind that you are more vulnerable if the attacker is successful I relocating you to unfamiliar territory. Some choices you have are: offering your wallet, jumping out at a stoplight, doing something to cause an accident, signaling to other drivers. For physical defense you can poke the attackers eyes or keep your powerful feet between you and the attacker. Aim kicks for the head or groin. Remember, there is no "right way" to defend yourself.

Getting help from strangers
Getting help from strangers is not as easy as it once was. People typically respond to a direct instruction more readily than to a general plea for help. So, to get someone to call the police for you, it is more effective to yell, "You in the blue shirt, go call 911 right now!" than it is to scream "Police!" Another important tip is to make it clear to anyone who can hear you that you do not know the person who is bothering you. (You can lie about this one if needed - most people will not think a domestic fight is any of their business.)

Targeting vulnerable points
Every attacker has vulnerable areas on his or her body. The four primary targets on a male attacker are eyes, groin, throat, and knees. On a woman, there are three: eyes, throat, and knees. Women who keep in mind that an attacker is not invincible are also using the idea of vulnerable targets to form an emotional defense. Psychological defenses such as this also prepares a woman for good physical defense. When she decides to fight, she will know exactly what to aim for.

Somebody's watching me...
When you think someone is following you, turn around and look to make sure. Looking at a person, especially if you make eye contact, gives you important information about his appearance and intent. It also sends him the message that you are alert and therefore will not be an easy target.

Projecting a tough demeanor
If you have a quiet nature or a non-threatening personality type, to be convincing and effective, you MUST be dramatic to project a 'Tough Demeanor'. A 'Bad Guy' needs to be clear about your intent. You want him to back off or leave you alone, and you want to leave absolutely no room for doubt as to that intention. But remember, you don't have to actually BE a 'Tough Target', you only have to be perceived as one! Smaller animals when approached by larger predators in the wild 'puff' themselves up by posturing, movement, noise, etc. The Blowfish actually blows up it's body and makes itself larger, less easy to attack. We too have strategies to implement to get the same effect, warding off our potentially 'Bad Guy' predators.

Visit the website: www.fabulousblackwoman.com


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2:44 PM | Posted in
Tallahassee Authors Network Ning

If you’re a published or unpublished writer, poet, editor, illustrator, or book reviewer in the Tallahassee area, you’re invited to join the FREE online social networking group for Tallahassee authors.

You can learn about writing contests, editing techniques, publishing trends, writing styles, book reviews, literary events, marketing strategies, post blogs, read blogs posted by other writers, and more. For additional details, please visit: www.Tallahasseelocalauthors.ning.com


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2:24 PM | Posted in
Marketing Ethics addresses head-on the ethical questions, misunderstandings and challenges that marketing raises while defining marketing as a moral activity.

-A substantial introduction to the ethics of marketing, exploring the integral relations of marketing and morality

-Identifies and discusses a series of ethical tools and the marketing framework they constitute that are required for moral marketing

-Considers broader meanings and background assumptions of marketing infrequently included in other marketing literature

-Adds direction and meaning to problems in marketing ethics through reflection on concepts such as individual choice, freedom and responsibility, desire satisfaction, noncoercive exchanges, and instrumental efficiency

Authors bio:
George G. Brenkert is Professor of Business Ethics at the McDonough School of Business, Georgetown University. Former Editor-in-Chief of Business Ethics Quarterly, he has published numerous articles on ethics, business ethics, and social and political philosophy. Among the books he has published are Political Freedom (1991) and Corporate Integrity and Accountability (2004).

Publisher: John Wiley

For more information please click on:

http://www.researchandmarkets.com/product/3a6639/marketing_ethics


Title Index:

1. Marketing, Ethics, and Morality
The Ethical Challenges Marketing Faces
Thinking about Ethics and Morality

Defining Marketing
Marketing as a Practical Activity
Towards a Marketing Ethics Framework
Conclusion

2. Marketers and their Markets
Introduction
Marketing and the Marketing Concept

Marketing Research
Competitive Intelligence
Segmentation and Target Marketing
Conclusion

3. From Product Development to Distribution

Introduction
Product Development
Packaging and Labeling
Pricing
Distribution
Conclusion

4. Promotion: Advertising, Retailing, and Customers
Introduction
Advertising
Retailing
Customer Responsibilities
Conclusion

5. Marketing in a Global Society
Introduction
Marketing and Other Societies

The Expansion of Marketing Within Society: Social and Political Marketing
Fostering Ethical Marketing
Conclusion
Appendices
I. AMA Statement of Ethics (adopted in 2004)
II. The Hunt--Vitell General Theory of Marketing Ethics
III. SCIP Code of Ethics for Competitive Intelligence Professionals
Bibliography
Index

Best Regards,

Laura Wood
Senior Manager
Research and Markets Ltd
laura.wood@researchandmarkets.com

Subscribe: Click on http://www.researchandmarkets.com/register.asp You can subscribe free for regular details on new research in your sector.

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2:12 PM | Posted in
VICTORIA CHRISTOPHER MURRAY wants to SKYPE with YOU!

Hello Everyone!
Well....she's back! Lady Jasmine is in stores now! And she's trying to hide the biggest secret of her life. Read the prologue at http://www.victoriachristophermurray/ to find out her secret!

Check out if I'm coming to your city (see below!) and if not, maybe I can visit your book club.

As you know, first week sales are the most important to an author, so I appreciate your support and passing the word.

I cannot wait to hear what you think of Lady Jasmine!

Thank you so, so, so, so much!


Blessings,
Victoria




Book Club Contest
This contest is for book clubs in the continental United States with seven or more members. (Don't have seven members in your book club? Call up a few friends for the occasion!)


What is Skype?: Skype is a program that uses the internet to make video-calls to chat. With Skype you can call any other Skype user in the world connected to the internet, landlines and mobile phones. To start, you only need to download the free software from www.skype.com, and follow the simple instructions to install. There are no activation costs. Best of all you'll be able to see Victoria Christopher Murray from your location in real time!


To enter:
Purchase copies of Lady Jasmine for all members of the book club between Tuesday, June 2nd and Tuesday, June 30th. Purchases of Lady Jasmine can either be all on one receipt or separate receipts; HOWEVER, if purchased separately, all receipts from the book club must be submitted in one envelope by one person with the entry form. Only original recei pts will be accepted, date of purchase must be clearly shown on receipts, and all entries must be postmarked by July 1st. Only purchases of Lady Jasmine are eligible for this contest.

All book clubs are winners: With proof of eligibility, Essence magazine bestselling author Victoria Christopher Murray will visit each book club via Skype to discuss Lady Jasmine! So wherever you are, Victoria will attend your meeting to discuss the latest antics of Jasmine Cox Larson Bush!

Grand Prize: For the winning book club (which will be randomly drawn on July 15th) Victoria will fly into your city to attend your book club meeting in person! (The date and time will be determined once book club is selected.)

For further information and entry form, visit http://www.victoriachristophermurray.com/.

AM I COMING TO YOUR CITY?
The tour begins...


LYNDHURST, OH

Sunday, June 7th
Joseph-Beth Booksellers/Legacy Village
24519 Cedar Road
Lyndhurst , OH 44124 2:00 PM - 3:30


PITTSBURGH, PA
Monday, June 8th
Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh
Homewood Branch
7101 Hamilton Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15208 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
*Signing - hosted by the United Black Book Clubs of Pittsburgh


RICHMOND, VA
Tuesday, June 9th
Barnes & Noble
4600 Commonwealth Pkwy
Richmond , VA 23112 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM


AUGUSTA, GA
Wednesday, June 10th

Barnes & Noble
3450 Wrightsboro Road
Augusta , GA 30909 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM


TALLAHASSEE, FL
Thursday, June 11th
Borders Books & Music
1302 Apalachee Parkway
Tallahassee , FL 32301 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM


Friday, June 12th
HUNTSVILLE, AL

Shower Center Library
4600 Blue Spring Road , Auditorium
Huntsville , AL 35810 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
*Signing, hosted by Sister2Sister Brother2Brother
African American Authors Book Club.


MEMPHIS, TN
Saturday, June 13th

Borders Books & Music
6685 Poplar Avenue
Germantown , TN 38138 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM


JACKSON, MS
Sunday, June 14th

Savvy Book Club
Willie Morris Library 4912 Old Canton Road , Conference Rm.
Jackson , MS 39211 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM


ST. LOUIS, MO
Monday, June 15th

Wal-Mart
10741 West Florisant
Ferguson , MO 63136 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM


KANSAS CITY, MO
Tuesday, June 16th

Wal-Mart
6709 Blue Ridge Blvd
Raytown , MO 64133 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM


CHICAGO, IL
Wednesday, June 17th

Waldenbooks/CitiCorp Center 500 West Madison Street
Chicago , IL 60661 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM


ROCKFORD, IL
Wednesday, June 17th

Rockford Public Library Montague Branch @
1238 Winnebago Street
Rockford , IL 61102 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM


MILWAUKEE, WI
Thursday, June 18th

Barnes & Noble 2500 N. Mayfair Rd , Suite 196
Wauwatosa , WI 53226 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM



Washington D.C./Maryland
Tuesday, JULY 21st

Borders Books and Music
931 Capital Centre Blvd.
Largo, MD. 20774 7:30 PM - 9:00PM




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1:27 PM | Posted in
5 Very Important Reasons You Must Be Aware Of Your Social Networking Etiquette.
Posted by Marjorie Janczak on March 11, 2009

Website for original source:
http://sta.rtup.biz/profiles/blogs/5-very-important-reasons-you

Social Networking today has become like the life blood of many businesses and with the economy taken a down turn, many more people are likely to start their own businesses and obviously take advantage of the power of social networking to grow their businesses in their efforts to lower costs on marketing and promotion.

It is easy to join and try to leverage these media but how you leverage social media with the proper etiquette in such a way that it sets you apart and exponentially grow your business is the question many overlook and are still overlooking.

Knowing why you are joining the groups and having a clear plan is the best place to begin. But that would not be the means to the end.

The people you would be associating and holding conversations with on these media are, for starters, human beings and would like to be treated with some respect and consideration so remember that and avoid any aggressive or impolite interactions.
Why must you care at all you may ask? Below are some very important reasons you must be aware of your social networking etiquette in order to create a positive and a know-like-trust factor in your social networking journey:

It helps you to project a professional, yet a human image when you tell people in plain language about you.

Use decent language.

Have a professional picture of you instead of your logo, pet or group.

Make it easy for people to find out more about you by having your website or Blog link on your profile. You will never know who wants to contact you for what. After all, you are there on the social networking site for a reason right?

It helps you to establish yourself as, not just another expert in your industry, but a RESPECTED EXPERT in your field when you contribute in your capacity to other people's questions about a topic you can confidently and professionally answer;
Respond to friends' messages. The most valuable people in your group of friends are those who keep contacting and catching up with you.


It helps you to increase or lower your credibility with the kind of impressions you put across to your friends.
-- Do you engage in decent conversations;
-- Do you choose appropriate applications that portray your professionalism?
-- Do you keep to your word when you promise someone something?
-- Are you always ready to give a lending hand?

It helps you to attract and maintain quality friends with whom you can build mutually beneficial, and long term relationships because in as much as you are free to chat on a friendly and in a fun way, you are also aware that you need not offend them or criticize that in a way that can hurt their feelings to result in an unwanted affair. Respect for self and others are the basis of etiquette and it is in your interest to remember this if you are to succeed in any venture. And last but not the least...

It helps you to build a strong word-of-mouth buzz for both you and your business. There is nothing as priceless and more powerful than having a third party talk so well about you and your business to others who can benefit from your offerings. Also, remember that it is more expensive to acquire a new client or customer than to maintain old ones who can evangelize for you at no cost to you.


You may download a free copy of the " 5 Ways To Use Etiquette To Boost Business." Just click the link below: http://www.etiquetteequities.com

Happy reading!
Marjorie Janczak

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1:17 PM | Posted in
Dear Book Lover,

New York Times bestselling author Connie Briscoe is back with her much anticipated sequel, SISTERS & HUSBANDS.

USA Today http://www.usatoday.com/life/books/news/2009-05-06-summer-books-briscoe_N.htm featured Connie in their summer books round-up in May.

AOL Black Voices proclaims a hit! http://www.bvonbooks.com/2009/06/04/bestselling-author-connie-briscoe-returns-with-summer-sizzler/.

In her ’94 fiction debut, Briscoe introduced the world to literature’s savviest and sweetest sisters. Each was the quintessential modern woman—beautiful, smart, loaded with energy and sass, and woefully beset with man trouble. Set a decade later, SISTERS & HUSBANDS still finds the women fascinating: Baby girl Beverly has continued on her marriage-phobic way. But now she’s 39 and has snagged Julian, a brilliant, gorgeous man who is actually dependable and trustworthy. Yet the sister’s got issues; she’s plagued with doubts.

Will this skittish young lady’s third engagement be the charmed one that actually gets her down the aisle?

Connie Briscoe has been a full-time published author for more than ten years. Suffering from hearing loss since birth, Connie never allowed that to stop her from pursuing her dreams…writing. Briscoe stormed onto the literary scene in 1994 with Sisters & Lovers, selling over 700,000 copies. The book eventually became the basis for a television miniseries. Since she left the world of editing to become a writer, Connie’s work has appeared on the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, Boston Globe, Boston Herald, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. Briscoe lives in the Maryland area.

Connie is touring this week and next. Stop by and visit if you can! See her schedule below.

Thanks!

Linda A. DugginsDirector, Multicultural PublicityHachette Book Grouplinda.duggins@hbgusa.com


SISTERS & HUSBANDS
Summer Tour 2009
Connie Briscoe


· Friday, June 5, 2009
Barnes & Noble #2831
4300 Montgomery Road
Ellicott City, MD 21043
7:00 pm- 9:00 pm
410-203-9001


· Saturday, June 6, 2009
Borders #542
931 Capital Centre Blvd.
Largo, MD 20774
4:00 pm- 6:00 pm
202-466-2152


· Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Hue Man Bookstore & Café
2319 Frederick Douglass Blvd.
New York, NY 10027
6:00 pm
212-665-7400


· Thursday, June 11, 2009

Free Library of Philadelphia
1901 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
7:30 pm- 9:00 pm
215-567-4341

· Friday, June 12, 2009

Borders Express #0791
The Gallery at Market East
Philadelphia, PA 19107
1:00 pm- 3:00 pm
215-922-3647

· Saturday, June 13, 2009
Barnes & Noble Camp Creek
AKA Sorority Benefit
3685 Marketplace Blvd.
East Point, GA 30344
4:00 pm
404-349-0359


· Sunday, June 14, 2009
Written Magazine
Thirty Books in Ninety Days
Hammond House Galleries
503 Peeples Street SW
Atlanta, GA 30310
2:00 pm- 4:00 pm
404-755-4445


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12:52 PM | Posted in
Join host Nesheba of ESpiritE Radio (http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ESpiritE) as she interviews Ella Curry of EDC Creations. Nesheba and Ella share a pot of tea while discussing the book publishing industry.

Interview Show Link:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ESpiritE/2009/06/05/Enjoy-an-Evening-with-Ella-D-Curry-of-Black-Authors-Network


Event Description:
Ella D. Curry is the owner and CEO of EDC Creations, a marketing and branding firm in Prince George’s County Maryland, a radio show producer, marketing director, Internet publicist and literary advocate. She is also the founder of Sankofa Literary Society which empowers independent and/or self-published authors through mentoring programs, Internet workshops, marketing and brand coaching.

The Sankofa Literary Society sponsors the popular Black Authors Network radio program which offers new authors a chance to showcase their books and articles on Internet radio, on the Sankofa Literary Society’s site, along with book and branding coaching that will help them present themselves as professionals as they enter literary circles. In addition Ella has been blessed to interview authors like Maya Angelou and several successful published authors. Ella is also the Host of Black-Authors-Network here on BlogTalkRadio.

Ella's support for her clients and potential client includes shows to educate authors by having showcases like, what do book club look for when reviewing potential authors to include in their club. She's also involved with supporting spoken word & poets by having series allowing their to share their gift of words via showcases.

Ella D. Curry is an entrepreneur on the move, she is very inspirational, spiritual, and has a deep passion for her clients and the importance of encouraging literacy across the global. So, sit back relax have a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of wine and enjoy some good conversation and music...


Email: ESpiritE-Inspirations@espirite.net
Website: http://www.espirite.net/
ESpiritE Ning Business Social Network: http://espirite.ning.com/
ESpiritE Radio Broadcasters Network: http://radiobroadcastersnetwork.ning.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/espiriteblog


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12:49 PM | Posted in
Mom Writes Book to Help Change the Direction Of Cancer

Author, Lacha' J. Mitchell featured in the new anthology, Never Would Have Made It


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(LOS ANGELES, CA,) -- eMediaCampaigns!-- JUN 18, 2009 -- Can inspiration change the direction of cancer? Some might scoff, but author, Lacha' J. Mitchell knows better. Often referred to as a "cancer survivor," Lacha' J. Mitchell is in truth, a cancer thriver. That's because there's no stopping her. After battling and winning a 5-year bout with cancer, she is making an indelible mark to encourage and enlighten others on the subject with the written and spoken word.

Readers will find Mitchell's journey particularly inspiring. After being diagnosed at 32 years-old with stage I Invasive Carcinoma, she went through the grueling, painful, and long suffering treatments most cancer patients do. However, while being treated she faced a terrifying and unexpected obstacle. Her then, 10-year old daughter was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma, a type of cancer that starts in lymphatic tissue.

Today, Lacha' Mitchell is making waves as a inspirational speaker and contributing author of the soon-to-be-bestseller, Never Would Have Made It: A Testimony of What God Has Done In My Life (Tranquil Moments, 2009). Her powerful testimony is entitled, Restoration. It chronicles how faith and a partnership with God lead to a mother daughter beating cancer. Never Would Have Made It is available for purchase at www.lachajmitchell.com Ms. Mitchell can be contacted at lachajmitchell@gmail.com

SOURCE: eMediaCampaigns!
REPORTER: Fran Briggs

Become a NWHMI Lifetime Partner of Prestige http://neverwouldhavemadeit.4t.com/index.html

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4:53 AM | Posted in
The American Dream Redefined

Used to be in the fifties
"A car in every carport, a chicken in every pot"
For the man without color
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the fifties
Till the ground; plant, reap and share the crop
For the man with color
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the sixties
Graduate from high school, go to Ivy League College
For the man without color
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the sixties
Graduate from high school, go to City College
For the man with color
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the seventies
Graduate from high school, get drafted into war
For the men with color and without
Oh-Oh, dream deferred

Used to be in the seventies
Graduate from high school, go to war, come home sick from war
For the men with color and without
Dream becomes a nightmare

Used to be in the eighties
Music changed, people changed
Drugs and thugs ruled the streets
For the gang members and young recruits
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the eighties
Sports players got paid big
For the young kid in school wanting to be "like Mike"
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the nineties
Rappers get paid big cause Hip-hop made the scene
For the young teenager trying to find himself
That was the American Dream

Used to be in the nineties
Corporate bosses called the shots
Winter and summer homes, tropical vacation spots
That was the American Dream

Twenty-first century has arrived
People take the Country back
Man of color is the Boss
The people and the Man turn things around
This is the American Dream redefined


Keep Looking Up - SomeOne's Coming Back Soon
1st Irma 1:27

-----------------------------------------------------
Join the Conversation, leave questions or comments below. Thank you!
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9:44 AM | Posted in
You Weren't There / Remember When

You weren't there
when I sold Girl Scout cookies,
nervously knocking on the doors of strangers,
hands shaking as I counted change.

You weren't there
when I graduated from High School
after struggling through each semester,
spending many late nights studying for tough final exams.

You weren't there
to question my fiance' about his intentions,
or to walk me down the aisle
on my wedding day.

You were'nt there
for the birth of your grandson,
whose long fingers and big feet
make me think he'll grow up to be as tall as you.

***
Remember when
you were nervous about selling Girl Scout cookies
and a little voice inside whispered,
"You can do it"?

Remember when
you didn't think you would graduate
because the finales were too difficult
and a little voice inside whispered,
"Study a little harder"?

Remember when
you were walking down the aisle
to wed the man of your dreams
and a little voice inside whispered,
"Maybe he's not the right guy"?

Remember when
you were giving birth
and a little voice inside whispered,
"Stop all that screaming and PUSH"?

Well, that little voice inside was me.
I was there with you all along baby girl,
guiding you from up above.

by Linda Hayes

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9:07 PM | Posted in ,

Intimate Conversation with Dr. Natalie A. Francisco

Dr. Natalie A. Francisco serves as Co-Pastor alongside her husband, Bishop L. W. Francisco III, and Minister of Music at Calvary Community Church (Hampton, VA). She is author of Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory and founder/executive director of the Women of Worth & Worship (WOWW) Conference and Institute.


Ella: Dr. Francisco, tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What drives you?
I developed a love for reading and writing in grammar school and excelled at it throughout my educational pursuits and career. My passion has always been centered around educating and empowering others, particularly women, and my writings have been in alignment with my heart's desire to serve others.


Ella: A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. Finish this sentence: My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...
My writing offers the following legacy to future readers... Women of all ages who read my book will discover it to be a resource that will motivate them to uncover their dreams and desires in order to live a quality of life that is honorable to God, self-fulfilling and of service to others.



Ella: Please introduce us to your book Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship.
Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory is a wealth of information tailor-made to address the questions that women have regarding spirituality, relationships, marriage, parenting, maintaining balance and so much more. I share the triumphs, tragedies, and lessons learned from my life to captivate women and catapult them into their destiny. Biblical principles, self-reflective journal exercises and practical wisdom intermingle to create a mentoring memoir that readers will enjoy time and time again.






Intimate Interview

Ella: Where are you from? What is your favorite genre? How did you start your journey?
I am a native of Hampton, Virginia who loves to travel. Being in full-time ministry has afforded me the opportunity to visit many nations as well as to establish and assist ministries across the United States and around the world for which I am extremely grateful.

My favorite genre of books to read would be the categories of Inspirational and Self-Help. Michelle McKinney Hammond, who happens to be one of my favorite authors and a personal friend, inspired me by her own writings to launch out and do the same. I have helped to write and edit books as well as church, leadership and Christian school manuals for our church, Christian schools and other organizations, but had never given much thought to publishing my own works until I was encouraged to do so by another friend, Rev. Connie Jackson. I will be forever grateful to her, Michelle and my family for the gifts in me that they have helped to nurture.


Ella: Who are the main characters in your book? Can a non-fiction title have a character?
I am the main character and serve as the storyteller to introduce the reader to the profound moments in my life that helped to define who I am and what I was created to do. The transparency and candor utilized allow women to see themselves within the pages as they identify with real life issues that we often face. I have even included anonymous women who have asked questions of me concerning relationships, parenting skills, career choices and the pursuit of purpose in their own lives. I love the fact that the lessons I've learned and the wisdom shared have proven to be helpful in the lives of countless women, and men for that matter, that have benefited from reading my book.


Ella: How does you book shape or add value to the reader's life?
Many who have read my book have already expressed how it has impacted them to the core, causing them to re-evaluate their perspective, relationships and habits while rediscovering who they are and pursuing what brings them joy. Here are just a few comments from others:

"In a time when many have abandoned the call to “teach the younger women…” Natalie Francisco emerges as a true Titus woman. As a modern day Proverbs 31 woman, she proves we can all be the women God created us to be if we are armed with the right truths to work with. So take the time to read, to absorb and then apply these rich lessons to your own life. But don't just stop there. Share the wealth with others. Wisdom for Women of Worth and Worship is a jewel of a book that has the potential to change the world one home at a time." - Michelle McKinney Hammond

"Your book is really wonderful. To be honest I have so many friends releasing books that I just had the opportunity to read yours. I thoroughly enjoyed it!! This is not a read through in a few sessions. It is a life manual that one needs to take the time to soak in. Kudos my dear! Love it! Love it!" - Pastor Tracie Davis

"I have been truly blessed by this book. It has helped me to understand that some of the things I felt I was dealing with alone, I'm really not alone. It helped me to realize that you have to let go of any fears that you have and be able to step into whatever your calling is with boldness, knowing that your worth and value as a woman of God is very important. The lessons in the book help to strengthen you and help you to be able to deal with some of the issues that are going on in your life. Also, I think men can read this book. The principles don't change. The lessons can help men understand what their wives or significant others are going through." - Rita LaVeist

"Your book is a wonderful resource for all women -- the cover alone is very impressive. I've added it to my collection of suggested reading for the women's groups that I facilitate weekly. I'm running a series of therapeutic support groups called Healthy Women/Healthy Relationships. We are delving into a lot of the topics that you cover and I'm sure that the ladies' experience will be enhanced by reading this book. I especially like the moments of meditation -- they really help to re-focus the mind and deepen self-awareness. GOD has blessed you with great insight and a beautiful gift of expression through writing. May the LORD continue to richly bless all that you do for HIS glory. May HE enlarge your territory and keep you in HIS perfect peace." - Minister Pamela LaVeist-Bell, LCPC




Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
My greatest accomplishment would be for my book to contribute to the positive transformation of women who are empowered to excel beyond their wildest dreams personally, spiritually and professionally after reading it. God-consciousness, self-discovery and service to others would be the three-fold cord that I would desire for readers to hold onto without ever letting go.



Ella: Who would this book really "speak to" and why?
I initially wrote the book as the curriculum for my Women of Worth & Worship Institute classes. I soon realized that women regardless of age, race, ethnicity or socio-economic status should read, learn from and enjoy it. I have even been told by husbands, fathers and brothers of those who purchased the book for the special women in their lives that they have learned much from reading it and that the principles I share are also applicable to them.


Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
I was pleased to find out that my book was listed as number 13 on Black Christian Book Company's Top 50 Bestseller List of Black authors and Independent publishers soon after its release. In retrospect, however, I would have to say that receiving emails and reviews from others concerning their perspective of my book and how it has left an indelible mark upon them, fills my heart with unspeakable joy.


Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
It is important to write about whatever moves you, for in doing so, others will be moved as well. I have found that people readily identify with fiction or non-fiction stories with subject matter that will speak to the heart and feed the mind. Writing then must be passionate and intellectually stimulating, and the writer must be first partaker of what he or she desires to communicate to others.


Ella: Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion.
In order to be a successful author, one must enjoy reading and writing, networking with others, and consistently promoting one's own book.


Ella: What book already published is similar to your book in its writing style?
A number of books written by my friend Michelle McKinney Hammond are similar to my own in that the writing style is transparent, candid and thought-provoking, causing the reader to have an epiphany of sorts after encountering the book.


Ella: What can we expect from you in the future?
My next published book will be my dissertation written in 2000 entitled The New Demand for Christian Education: Targeting the Urban, African-American Community. I am also planning to write a book about effective parenting in the near future. In the interim, I will continue to offer year-round mentoring classes and seminars both onsite and online, as well as annual conferences and community outreach efforts to educate, encourage and empower women as well as middle and high school young ladies.

For more information regarding Dr. Natalie A. Francisco and the ministries in which she is involved, contact:

Dr. Natalie A. Francisco, Founder/Executive Director
Women of Worth & Worship, LLC
P. O. Box 9853
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Email: wowwi@nataliefrancisco.com
Website: http://www.nataliefrancisco.com/





Book Details

Wisdom for Women of Worth & Worship: Lessons for a Life of Virtue, Value & Victory by Natalie A. Francisco, Ed. D.
(Foreword by Michelle McKinney Hammond)

Websites: www.wisdomforwomenofworthandworship.com or http://www.wowwithebook.com/

Purchase the paperback version or eBook format at: http://www.nataliefrancisco.com/.

(Also available at www.Amazon.com, www.Target.com, www.BlackCBC.com, and http://www.gospellightbookstore.com/. (Coming soon online to Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Borders and wherever fine books are sold.)


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Black Authors Culture Center-- Twitter with Ella--Black Pearls Mag
Black Authors Network Radio Show Hosts Christian Authors Reading Session
Listen below to today's most inspiring authors read live from their newly
released books. Some of the books aren't on the shelves yet!

Browse the EDC Creations Bookstore for the books showcased:
http://astore.amazon.com/edcmagazine-20



Authors Reading Schedule

Presentation: Sister Girl It's Not That Serious, Min. Celeste Kelley

Music: Russel Blake from the Quiet Strength CD
Music: A Better Place by June Rochelle

8-8:30pm EST (Fiction)--Victoria Christopher Murray
-- Marilynn Griffith
-- Pat G'Orge Walker
-- Pat Simmons
-- Kia Stokes


8:30-9:00pm EST (Fiction)
Music: God is Good by June Rochelle
-- Toyi Ward
-- Roishina C. Henderson
-- Monique Miller
-- Angela Benson


9:30-10:00pm EST (Non-Fiction)
Music: Beauty Designed by God by Stanice Anderson
-- Poetry by Russel Blake
-- Stanice Anderson
-- Paulette Harper
-- Cheryl L. Donovan
-- Tyora "Ty" Moody; upcoming blog tours


10:00-10:30 EST (Non-Fiction)
Sister Girl Series by Min. Celeste Kelley Narrative Exposition & Prayer
-- Sharon Norris Elliott
-- Min. Lamont Mclaurin
-- Sandra Hamer
-- Princess-`Odilia, SC


---------------------------------------------------------------------

Quiet Strength, CD by Russel Blake is available on iTunes, Rhapsody, and Amazon.com MP3 Downloads.

Play This, CD by June Rochelle is available on CD Baby, iTunes, Rhapsody, and Amazon.com MP3 Downloads.

-----

Russel Blake
Nearly everyone would agree that music is one of the most significant and enduring art forms ever created by mankind, though most people still view it primarily as entertainment. An astute few seem capable of looking beyond music's obvious entertainment value, and among these is bassist Russel Blake. He views music as both a tool for healing the spirit, and as a means of removing the cultural barriers which divide us, by serving as mankind's universal language.

Blake strives to convey this message not only through his music, but also through his words and actions. To Russel Blake, being a musician is a gift which carries with it a serious obligation.

------

June Rochelle
June Rochelle kicked off 2008 in a big way by releasing her new CD "Play This" and gaining the attention of President elect Barack Obama's Campaign for Change where she was the headliner for one of their events in the state of Indiana that went from red to blue. Hollywood star Sanaa Lathan used her star power to plug the event in Indianapolis and the rest is of course history.


Thank you for listening,
Ella Curry, EDC Creations



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10:10 AM | Posted in
Father's Day Salute


HONOR THY FATHER
by author and poet Mozell Fleming

These words are meant to honor you because I understand, all the lessons you taught to me. To help me to become a man.

Often look back into our past and I marvel at the years gone by. How time has had so little effect of the vision of me in your eyes.

You’ve often had to navigate treacherous waves left in my wake. You’ve manned the bilge and held the line in hopes…I’d get it right this time.

You taught me all I needed to know. You believed in work, you let it show. You’ve done your part at every turn. Now Dad I say I’ve finally learned…

Life’s to short to throw away.

With time and love and money too you’ve done your part to see me, through. The best things I’ve learned, I’ve learned from you.

To you….I owe my existence my dreams. Like all great men you’ve overcame great things. As your blood and genes do flow in me I promise to make myself happy. And should my glow reflect on you…….I hope to make you happy too.

Thank you father, this is to honor you.


Mozell Fleming author of Arrivals Departures and Flights of Fancy
PublishAmerica, 2008



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10:03 AM | Posted in
Meet Jonathan Z Queen, Author/Motivational Speaker



Jonathan Z. Queen, the oldest of five children, was raised in an impoverished neighborhood in Harrisburg, PA by a struggling, single mother. He began using and selling drugs at the age of 14. At the age of 23 he was arrested for the third time, labeled a Career-Criminal and sentenced to 10 years in a Federal Prison.

During the last four years of his 9-year prison sentence, Jonathan completed over 18 months of criminal behavior and drug education programs. He subsequently volunteered for the 500-hour Residential Drug-Abuse Program, where he became a Peer Counselor, Sponsor and Board Member on the Education/Tutoring Committee. Jonathan graduated first in his RDAP class and has become well-versed in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), ABC’s of Rational Self Analysis, Criminal Thinking Errors, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Victim Impact and Assertive Communication.

Today, Jonathan Z. Queen is an author, motivational speaker, playwright, actor, director, and poet. He is the co-founder of New Mindz Enterprises and Vice President of Asikari Publishing, LLC. He is a contributor to The Q Review and an editor/columnist for NY Gospel Magazine. He is an ordained deacon at First Baptist Church of Lexington, Va and works as a Government Contract Manager at Sayre Enterprises Inc. where he also directs the employee GED program. More importantly, he is a devoted husband, faithful father and community leader. He was recently featured in the Federal Prison Industry 2008 Annual Report to Congress in an article entitled The Power of One Success.

Jonathan is also a member of The National Exhoodus Council (NEC); a nationwide campaign comprised of formerly incarcerated professionals; all are former members of the criminal/drug/gang culture who now manage community based organizations in 50 cities. Their motto is: Serving Our Country After Serving Our Time.

Mr. Queen is a very energetic, effective and inspirational speaker who specializes in interactive workshops that include spoken word, improvisations and role playing. His experience as a GED Tutor in four different Correctional Institutions has made him very knowledgeable about the correlation between illiteracy and how the drop-out rate affects the crime rate; he especially enjoys sharing his experiences with at-risk-youth.

Jonathan Z Queen is the new example.

Jonathan Z. Queen is available for speaking engagements, school assemblies, book signings, interviews, reading group discussions, seminars and workshops. Capability Statement available upon request. Email requests to: info@asikaripublishing.com

Contact Jonathan
Jonathan Z. Queen
Vice President, Asikari Publishing, LLC
Motivational Speaker / Author
540-460-8899 Mobile
717-914-0948 Office
www.asikaripublishing.com

"To be a servant of God, is to be a leader of men."


Are You S.A.N.E. (Setting A New Example)

Changing Who You Are by Changing How You Think
ISBN: 9780977334797

Don't Blame Me: The Convict Chronicles
ISBN: 9781434305640



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8:35 AM | Posted in
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Peace In The Storm Publishing, LLC
Contact: Shayla Simone, Author & Public Relations
Post Office Box 1152
Pocono Summit, Pennsylvania 18346
www.PeaceintheStormPublishing.com, www.TheSoulofAMan.net
Email: Publisher@PeaceInTheStormPublishing.com
(862) 215-2980, Fax: (570) 643-6424


The Soul of a Man: A Triumph of My Soul Anthology debuts Father's Day 2009


What lies in the souls of men? author and publisher, elissa gabrielle posed the question and powerful, prolific and passionate men exposed their souls.

(Poconos, May 1, 2009) Passionate, Powerful and Prolific. The second book in the Triumph of My Soul series, The Soul of a Man takes a look into the hearts, minds and souls of men. From Elissa Gabrielle’s The Triumph of My Soul series, comes the second book in the series, titled, The Soul of A Man which promises to deliver powerful testimonies from some of today’s brightest male stars.

About the Book
The Soul of a Man: A Triumph of My Soul Anthology

What lies in the soul of a man? Love, laughter, heartache and sorrow? Pride, fear, rage and contentment? The true measure of a man lies in his heart and in his soul.

Trials are measured and grounded by inner feelings and the expectations placed on them and they persevere. The weights of the world sometimes are carried on their shoulders.

From socio-economic barriers, to racial tensions, broken hearts, to new found faith-experience the plight of man, as only he can explain it, told from his perspective and from his heart. Through expressions of the history of his past, the reality of his present, and the optimism of his future, these gifted men relate what stirs a man’s soul and ignites his actions and his thinking.

Men the world over have always been much maligned and strident ina how life portrays and prefaces their successes and failures. This collection of enlightening stories personifies the sentiment, faith, resilience and love embodied in the creation God made in His own image. The Soul of a Man is a Divine truth and an affirmation of the passion running through the minds of men where hearts and souls are bared.

In continuation of the Triumph series, the second book, The Soul of a Man: A Triumph of My Soul Anthology, features these brilliant men; Joe Thomas, Jihad, William Fredrick Cooper, Alvin C. Romer, Marc Lacy, Maurice M. Gray, Jr., Brian Ganges, Jarold Imes, K.L. Belvin, Joey Pinkney, Thomas Ashburn, Jr., Clarence “Baba Simba” Mollock, Tyrell Floyd and Eddrick Dejuan.

“Our men are so much more than what society feeds us. They are powerful, strong; they fear, they rejoice, they love, they care. Our men are much more than criminals, rapists, pimps, and drug dealers. They are fathers, sons, brothers, ministers, teachers, friends, and confidants who have a soul, have claimed victory over their circumstances and they have a story to tell,” say publisher of The Soul of a Man, Elissa Gabrielle.

The Soul of a Man releases Father’s Day, June 21, 2009. More information can be found at www.TheSoulofaMan.net or www.PeaceInTheStormPublishing.com.


Sincerely,

Shayla Simone
Author & Public Relations
Peace In The Storm Publishing
www.PeaceInTheStormPublishing.com


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8:25 AM | Posted in

Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast in DC
Enjoy your stay at Akwaaba, Washington’s literary themed Bed and Breakfast at the heart of Washington’s treasured Dupont Circle. This 1890's historic townhouse mansion is located within walking distance of the White House, and the many fine restaurants, and shops of Dupont Circle. Enjoy the exceptional location, and Victorian charm of the Washington DC location of the Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast family of Bed and Breakfast's.


Located in the heart of one of Washington's best neighborhoods, Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast DC offers a choice of 8 guest-rooms; each uniquely decorated and tailored around African American authors and classic genres. Dupont Circle, offers visitors more than 80 restaurant choices, exquisite, boutique shopping, several excellent bookstores, movie theaters, hip night-clubs and the Improv comedy theater. From a romantic weekend, sightseeing tour of the Smithsonian's, or the professional business trip, Akwaaba Bed and Breakfast DC can make your stay comfortable, convenient and memorable.


Guests will find easy access to the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums and Monuments. The city’s Metro system is a short 10-minute walk, and additionally a major bus line passes directly in front of the home, taking you to the White House in less than 10 minutes. The business traveler will find quick access to Washington’s new Convention Center, MCI center, and conference hotels- the Hilton Towers, Marriott Wardman Park and Omni Shoreham. All are a short metro ride, or even walking distance as in the Hilton Towers.

All guests, with the exception of apartment guests who have their own kitchen, are treated to a Southern hot cooked breakfast each morning, served 8am weekdays and 9am weekends in the bright formal dining room. Afternoons, the Inn offers light refreshments in the parlor. Guests are always invited to relax in the formal living room, or adjacent parlor. To find out more about Akwaaba's DC retreat, please click here.



Meet the Owners Glenn Pogue and Monique Greenwood

Akwaaba Mansion (Brooklyn, NY), Akwaaba by the Sea (Cape May, NJ), Akwaaba at Buttonwood Manor (Cape May, NJ), Akwaaba D.C. (Washington, D.C.), and Akwaaba in the Bayou (New Orleans, LA) are a collection of upscale bed and breakfast inns owned and operated by husband and wife team Glenn Pogue and Monique Greenwood. Monique and Glenn fell in love with the idea of inns when they stayed at their first bed and breakfast back in the early '90s. As guests, they enjoyed the hominess and comfort of the bed and breakfast experience. Monique quickly discovered that innkeeping combined all of her personal passions – architecture and interior decorating, entertaining and meeting new people, and helping others create wonderful, lasting memories. Read the entire story behind this fantastic collection of retreats.



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8:09 AM | Posted in
How to Write a Tip Sheet
By Sandra Beckwith

A tip sheet is a news release that offers advice or tips in a bulleted or numbered format. It’s one of the hardest working and most useful tactics available for generating publicity. Use a tip sheet to generate short column notes in a newspaper or magazine or to interest a reporter, editor or producer in a feature article or talk show interview on the tip sheet topic.

Here’s how to create an effective tip sheet:

Use a press release format. The biggest difference between a tip sheet and a traditional press release is that the body of the tip sheet will include your tips or advice in a numbered or bulleted format.

Start with a headline that mimics those on magazine covers – “5 ways to lose weight before June” or “Top 7 mistakes shoppers make.” Here’s an example from a tip sheet promoting a women’s health and nutrition book to newspaper living sections:
Expert offers 10 nutrition tips for New Year’s resolutions

Write your first paragraph so it explains why the tips are necessary. The first paragraph and introductory text for the nutrition tip sheet was:

As any health club owner knows, “taking better care of myself” tops New Year’s resolution lists each year. Yet, many people – particularly women – don’t know exactly what it means to take better care of themselves.

Present a quotation in the second paragraph. This should provide more detail about why the tip sheet is necessary and establish the subject’s credentials. Here’s the second paragraph in the New Year’s resolution tip sheet:

“Traditionally, women have been caretakers of others in their lives – friends, family, neighbors, coworkers,” explains Susan Calvert Finn, PhD, RD, FADA, the architect of the American Dietetic Association’s Nutrition & Healthy Campaign for Women. “More and more busy women are realizing, however, that before they can adequately care for others, they must first care for themselves. It is clear that they must take charge of their own health. Nobody is going to do it for them.”

Set up your tips with a sentence – “Here are Smith’s tips for saving money at the supermarket” – or a short paragraph, as we have here:

Dr. Finn’s new book, The American Dietetic Association Guide to Women’s Nutrition for Healthy Living, provides women of all ages with nutrition information they can use immediately to eat right, maintain their health and prevent disease. Here are her top 10 suggestions from the book for women who need a healthier lifestyle this year:

Then list your tips with bullets or numbers. When tips are listed this way, rather than in traditional paragraphs, editors can quickly scan them to see if they would be useful to readers – or not. Make sure you write your tips in an active voice with strong verbs. And make sure they provide advice, not reasons to do something or product features. Here are a few of the tips in Finn’s release so you can get a sense of how this works:

• Make an appointment with a registered dietitian (RD) for a nutritional checkup. Call the American Dietetic Association at 800-366-1655 to locate an RD near you.

• Switch your thinking from “ideal” weight to “healthy” weight. Remember, you are unique. Your healthy weight may differ from your neighbor’s – even if she is your height and age – because of other variables such as genetics, fitness level and overall health.

• Look for “aerobic opportunities” every day. Park farther out in the lot at the mall. Take a brief walk at lunch or dinner. Think of the stairs as your friend.

Finally, add the concluding boilerplate paragraph that you put on most press releases. Here’s the paragraph for the nutrition book:

The American Dietetic Association Guide to Women’s Nutrition for Healthy Living, published by Perigee Books, is available in bookstores nationwide for $14. Book proceeds benefit nutrition research by the ADA, a national organization of 70,000 nutrition professionals, 98 percent of whom are women.

Look for ways to include tip sheets in your publicity plan; you’ll soon see how easily they generate results.

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Sandra Beckwith, the author of Streetwise Complete Publicity Plans: How to Create Publicity That Will Spark Media Exposure and Excitement, teaches the online “Book Buzz” class for Freelance Success. Learn more at www.sandrabeckwith.com.
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1:33 PM | Posted in

When Lightning Strikes by Keya
How can you have it all – education, personality, and beauty - yet your life is flooded with a sea of troubles?

Imminent, new author Keya answers this question and more in When Lightning Strikes, a novel about Ms. Taylor Devereaux, her three best friends, and her spiraling-out-of-control life. Taylor is on the road to happiness and success. She is a gorgeous and classy woman with a thriving career and a wonderful fiancée. One day, Taylor’s near perfect world is turned upside down when she discovers her future husband is cheating.

To make matters worse, while trying to put the pieces of her life back together, she finds out someone at her job has filed a sexual harassment complaint against her. She realizes someone is out to ruin her life. With Taylor’s personal life, profession, and overall reputation at stake, can she overcome it all? Or, will the stress of it all bring out another side of Taylor?

See how Taylor reacts “When Lightning Strikes.”



View the online Media Kit from Keya's site:
http://www.keyalit.com/mediakit.htm





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12:04 PM | Posted in


A BOOK RELEASE PARTY FOR AUTHOR: DAVID RIVERIA, JR.

The three divas glimpsed in The Last Prejudice find support in one another during the ups and downs of their juicy romances and chaotic lives. Noreen Klein is more than comfortable with smooth curves a size 24 frame enables. She never allows anyone to be her priority if she is only their option. Dahlia Hunt was married to a man with a fetish for abuse.

The gilded lenses she viewed him through are shattered, along with her self-esteem. She is left with a raging thirst for dominance. Kat Davis wrestles with releasing herself from a self-imposed emotional prison to embrace the love she deserves. Follow these three women as they fulfill their insatiable sexual appetites. They learn to be content with life, and most importantly content with themselves; to get in where they fit in – wherever that happens to be. He is also the author of Harlem’s Dragon, The Street Sweeper and Playing in the Dark.

View the author's website for excerpts and more details.


WHEN: Saturday, May 16th from 3:00pm – 7:00pm

WHERE: The Quality Inn at Andrews Air Force Base; 4783 Allentown Road, Camp Springs, Maryland 20746

Cost: $30.00 (includes meal and copy of The Last Prejudice) Deadline is May 14th.

To make payments via PayPal, send payment to: thesweetsoulsisters@yahoo.com
To make payments via certified check or money order, mail payments to:

Sweet Soul Sisters
P.O. Box 1728
Beltsville, MD 20704

For additional information, contact us at thesweetsoulsisters@yahoo.com


Meet the Author
David Rivera Jr., has been writing short stories for his own entertainment since high school. He has been inspired by the writings of the contemporary black male writers that have emerged in the past few years.

His first book, Harlem's Dragon, has been met with great enthusiasm by other writers – most notably by Zane, as well as literary critics. In a recent interview, David admitted that the sex scenes depicted in his writings are taken from some of his personal experiences and enhanced for the entertainment of his readers. He enjoys the erotic writing of Anne Rice and hopes to master a full spectrum of writing genres just as she has. As a man of color, David has taken on the task of showing African American men in a more positive light in his writing. He believes that every Black Man has the responsibility of contributing something of worth to his community. The proof that he is doing his share becomes apparent in his writing.

David, the youngest of three siblings, was born in the old Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx on January 14, 1965. He grew up in the South Bronx and graduated from Norman Thomas High School located in midtown Manhattan in 1982. David has lived in Harlem for the past 20 years. He holds a Bachelors degree in Sociology and a Masters of Science degree in Public Administration.



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11:42 AM | Posted in
The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum located in Baltimore, Maryland is currently seeking authors for booksignings and to host your book release party or social event, writers conference, bookclub meeting and more in our available space. If you have a book (fiction/nonfiction) about Black History etc. then we want to hear from you.

Please submit your book, along with marketing packet and contact information to us at the following address:

The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum
ATTN: J. Williamson - Gift Shop Manager
1601-03 E. North Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21213
julie@ngbiwm.com
www.greatblacksinwax.org

We are also available to bookclubs for meeting space etc.


PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT US! Once your book is received you will be contacted.




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