Meet Ella at Capital BookFest '09— Author Schedule

Capital BookFest '09—Schedule
Author signings will follow each presentation
October 3, 2009, 10am – 7pm
Borders Largo, Maryland

Bookclub preidents Meet Ella at Capital BookFest to receive gift bags of review books! Let us help you select your next book of the month. We have several awesome books for your club to preview and to review. Look for the EDC logo on the table.

Pastor Jamal Bryant. Marita Golden. Omar Tyree. Shane Evans. E. Ethelbert Miller. Tim Reid. Charisse Nunes. Liza Mundy. Connie Briscoe. Victoria Christopher Murray. These are just a few of the amazing authors who will participate in the fifth annual Capital BookFest.



CAPITAL BOOKFEST 2009 CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS;
FEATURES OVER 80 NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED AUTHORS



The popular, family-oriented Capital BookFest returns to the National Capital area this year on Saturday, October 3, 2009. Festivities are spread among four different zones in and around the Borders Books and CafĂ©, 931A Capital Centre Blvd, inside The Blvd at Capital Centre Mall in Largo, Maryland. The fun starts at 10:00 a.m. and lasts all day until 7:00 p.m. In addition, and in response to President Obama’s call to service, the Capital BookFest and the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services partner up to promote healthy homes for children in foster care.

The fifth annual Capital BookFest, presented in partnership with the Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning Commission, features author readings/signings, teen authors and programs, poetry, exhibitors, children’s storytelling, writers’ and publishers’ workshops, and discussion forums for parents and children alike. The first 1000 early birds even receive book giveaways! “…the Capital BookFest was born out of this desire to motivate and educate parents and children to enjoy a good book…together”, states Kwame Alexander, award-winning producer, publisher, poet, and co-creator of the annual BookFest. Hence the mission: Strengthen Families through Reading.

Please go to the Capital BookFest website www.capitalbookfest.org for more information about the festival, including the list of authors, exhibitors, forums, and the proposed schedule of events.


MAINSTAGE (Inside Borders)

11:00 am - 6:30 pm Ella Curry of EDC Creations has Intimate Conversations Interviews with featured authors.

11:00 – 11:45
Fiction Reading: Donna Hill & Tinesha Davis, Holler at the Moon

11:50 - 12:40
Talk: E. Ethelbert Miller, The 5th Inning: A Memoir

12:50 – 1:40
Reading & Talk: W. Ralph Eubanks, The House at the End of the Road: The Story of Three Generations of an Interracial Family in the American South
Jennifer Bazille, Black Girl Next Door

1:50 – 2:40
Talk: Liza Mundy, author Michelle Obama

2:50 – 3:50
It’s About Love Reading hosted by Marita Golden

4:00 – 4:50
Reading: Connie Briscoe, Sisters and Husbands

5:10 - 6:10
Talk: Conversation with Tim Reid, Comedian and author of Tim and Tom

6:20 until
Reading & Talk: R. Dwayne Betts, A Question of Freedom: Memoir




WRITE ON (TENT BEHIND BORDERS)

10:20 - 11:00
Talk: David Johns, The State of Black America "Message to the President”

11:10 – 11:45
Talk: Kimberly Seals Allers, author of The Mocha Manual to a Fabulous Pregnancy

12:00 – 1:00
Teen Authors Spotlight: Book-in-a-Day & Write-a-Book Programs

1:10 – 1:50
Talk & Tasting: Chef Gillian Clark, Chef and author of Out of the Frying Pan

2:05 – 3:00
Talk: Omar Tyree, The Equation & Kathryn Freeland, Navigating Your Way To Business Success

3:10 – 3:55
Talk: Jewell Powell, Marriage 101 & Tameesha Tucker, Single & Saved in PG County

4:00– 5:10
Poetry Reading: Deanna Nikaido, Le Hinton, Rebecca Gonzalez, Van Garrett, Sami Miranda, Barbara DeCeasare

5:20 – 6:15
Talk: Alicia Crowe, REAL DADS STAND UP! What Every Single Father Should Know About Child Support, Rights and Custody
David Miller, Raising Him Alone:Things Black Women Can Do to Raise Boys to Be Men

6:25 – 7:15
Ministers Panel: Jamal Bryant, pastor of Empowerment Temple, World War Me
Charlotte Avery, No One Ever Told Me




KIDS ZONE

Hosted by Dwe Williams, Storyteller
10:00 DWe Williams
10:35 Cassandra Hill, Shyann the Cat
11:10 Barbara Alexander, Papa’s Penny Party
11:45 Omar Tyree, 12 Brown Boys
12:35 Ashti

Hosted by Sylvia Dianne Beverly
1:15 Shane Evans
1:50 Ralph Burgess, Cool Calvin
2:30 Lori Nelson, Hillary's BIG Business Adventure
3:10 Charisse Carney Nunes, I am Barack Obama
3:55 Shane Evans
4:30 Tiffany Alexander, Braided in my Hair




BORDERS CAFE (Inside Borders)

10:15 – 11:15 pm
Talk: Dr. E. Curtis Alexander: Civil War
Stolen Honor: Afro-Union Medal of Honor, Gilmore Medal and Army of the James/Butler Medal Recipients

11:25 – 12:10 pm
Talk: Toni Cade Bambara Panel: Linda Holmes/Cheryl Wall, authors of Savoring the Salt

12:20 – 1:20 pm
Everything You Wanted to Know about Getting Published: Kevin Johnson, Donna Hill, Charisse Carney Nunes, Ananda Kiamsha Madelyn Leeke

1:30 – 2:10
Fiction Reading: Monda Webb, 7:33 am & Wendy Thompson, triptych

2:20 – 3:10
Fiction Reading: Victoria Christopher Murray, Lady Jasmine & Stacy Hawkins Adams, The Someday List

3:20 – 4:00
Fiction Reading: Booker T. Matison, Unsigned Hype

4:10 – 5:00
Talk: Pamela McBride, author of The Mocha Manual to Military Life: A Savvy Guide for Wives, Girlfriends, and Female Service Members

5:10 - 6:10
Panel: A Woman's Guide to Soulful living
Moderated by Dr Anita Davis Defoe

6:20 – 7:10
Talk: Valencia Campbell, Advice from the Top: What Minority Women Say about their Career Success; Kimberly Seals Allers, author of The Mocha Manual to Turning Your Passion into Profit

Living in a Bubble by Moses Miller


LIVING IN A BUBBLE




I sometimes wonder if many of us are living in a fragile little bubble, so caught up in our own lives that we fail to realize what's really going on around us. Our kids are killing one another at an alarming rate, but some of us only seem to care when it's one of our own who are victimized. Many of our communities are becoming dangerous wastelands, compelling the vast majority of us to strive to move out and never look back. I wonder, does that make us any better than those Caucasians who vacate a community as soon as a minority family moves in?

Countless school districts (partly) responsible for educating our children are inadequate, but what do we do? Most do nothing. A few complain and blame the overburdened teachers, while some others who can afford it go the private school route. I wonder how many of us recognize a need and educate our own children at home, sacrificing our own time and energy to ensure their success? How many of us mentor a child who isn't our own but has a need for guidance, in order to give someone else a chance at success?

Many parents today don't know the first thing about raising a child. A lady told me the other day that she wouldn't be able to get her son to put down his videogames long enough to read my book, The Barack in Me. Meanwhile, when she was talking to me, she was clutching a Game Stop bag in her hand, with more videogames tucked inside. Who's the parent? Who's determining what's vital in your young child's development? Derrion Albert was an honor student who was murdered for no reason whatsoever, by four children. These four children will undoubtedly get charged as men and spend a good portion of their lives rotting away in prison like so many other African American boys.

However, between now and when (not if) the next Derrion Albert is killed, we need to honestly ask ourselves some questions. What are we doing to keep our own children safe? Are we playing an active role in their development? Are we willing to be hard on them if it is for their own good, or do we defer to them when a tough decision has to be made? Also, are we actively engaging other children and young adults who desperately need our guidance?
Our communities were once built on the concept that it takes a village to raise a child. Where's the village? Where are the leaders? As a matter of fact, where are the black owned businesses in our neighborhoods-another issue altogether, but a burdening concern nonetheless.

Hopefully none of our children will be impacted by violence brought upon them by a child who belonged to someone else. Hopefully none of us will ever have to wonder what we could have done differently, what we could have said, or what more we should have done? Five lives ended on the day Derrion Albert was killed. One was lost involuntarily. Four other misguided children figuratively committed suicide that day as well, when they took his life. Sure, they will live on, but trust me, their lives are over. Where were their parents? Where were their advocates and mentors when they needed them? Hopefully the day will never come when we're sitting in a room teary-eyed asking these same questions and receiving no response.

The unfortunate reality is that unless we figure out a way to restore our village through hard work and commitment on all of our parts, one or more of us may be faced with the same pain Derrion's loved ones are undoubtedly plagued with now. A child's life taken by the child of someone else. When will we realize that they're all our children? When will more of us step up and play our part in helping to mentor and guide them all? Today more than ever, it takes a village to raise a child. Please, stop living in a bubble.



Moses Miller Mind Candy, LLC.
View his new book, The Barack In Me, at http://www.mindcandymedia.com




Chicago Defender Book Review
Richmond's Urban Views Weekly Book Review

The Barack In Me
$10.99--Two Copies For The Price of One!!!!!
For the Month of September Only

"Moses Miller's The Barack In Me shows his compassion for young black males and his desire to give them information that is both positive and relatable on a personal level. Instead of preaching while wagging his finger in the reader's face, Miller uses The Barack In Me to sit down beside his reader and teach from his heart." -Joey Pinkney (Journalist and book reviewer)


"Moses Miller provides readers with priceless advice that not only males can benefit from, but females as well..." -Sister Tea (ARC Book Club)


"Miller's concern is sincere and earnest. Hopefully, young readers will connect with that and understand how decisions - good or bad - can change your life."-Ms. Toni (OOSA Online Book Club)








The Survival Bible: 16 Life Lessons for Young Black Men

Greetings Bookclub Member,

I’m sure like most book clubs, your club is into reading fiction. But as lovers of the written word, I wanted to introduce you to my nonfiction book, The Survival Bible: 16 Life Lessons for Young Black Men.

I’m not expecting you to choose it as a book club selection (although that would be nice), but I’m hoping that as mothers, educators, community leaders, and someone who cares about the future of young people, you will help spread the word to someone you think might benefit from the book, especially in light of all the craziness going on with our young Black men.

There are very few books aimed at young black men, and even fewer written by someone who has seen the ugly side of walking the wrong path. I’m lucky that I lived to tell about my life in the streets. I’m even luckier that I learned some valuable lessons from my journey and it’s now my hope to spread those lessons to young black men across the county.

Just a little bit about me…I am the author of five socially-conscious, thought-provoking, novels, including Baby Girl, Riding Rhythm, MVP, PreacherMan Blues and Wild Cherry. A single father who resides in Atlanta, I am most proud of my latest book, The Survival Bible: 16 Life Lessons for Young Black Men. You can find out more about me at my website at www.jihadwrites.com.

You can order the book directly from my website and I do offer special discounts to school, churches and community organizations. Or you can order at Amazon.com and give as gifts to the community.

Please help me spread the word to others – male and female – who can make our young black men aware of this book! As always, I appreciate all that you do for African-American authors.

Sincerely,

Jihad
jihadwrites@bellsouth.net

Black Men Where Are You?! by Brenda Hampton

Black Men Where Are You?!

by Brenda HamptonBy now, I’m sure that many of you have heard about the recent beating of the teenager in Chicago, many have seen the school bus incident where two Black teenage students attacked a white student, and just last night in my hometown, another 16 year old was gunned down by his peers. This is happening everywhere, and unless we begin to address the real reasons as to why this is happening, more of our children will be killed. Just think, what if something like what happened to Derrion Albert happened to your sons or daughters?

I’ve thought about it, and the thought pains me. I can’t even imagine what the mothers and fathers go through after losing their children, but after watching the video of Derrion Albert being beat, I can’t rest peacefully and I’m literally sick to my stomach. I can’t stop thinking about how anyone can cause such harm to another person. What’s going on with you, where you feel proud about stomping someone to death or bashing their head in? Right now, I won’t even comment on what I feel for those who were arrested, but I will tell you that I have very little remorse for them. Maybe I should feel sorry for them too, after all, they were taught how to approach life by their mothers, or maybe…fathers?

By the way, Dad, where are you? Your sons NEED you! Don’t you get it? They…we are all crying out for your help! Mom just can’t do it alone anymore, and even though many women do a great job raising their children as single parents, obviously, some women don’t! Either way, Dad, when are you going to take responsibility for bringing a human being into this world? You just can’t walk away and think that your kids do not need you. Your daughters NEED you too, and every time she searches for love in the wrong place, she’s really looking for you. Your sons…oh, my God, please help your sons!

Go get them from our streets, and stop them from killing each other. Stop them from overcrowding our prisons and being made examples of. Let them know there’s a sensible way to approach life. Put your arms around them and tell them that you’re sorry for abandoning them. Tell them that you love them, that you’re proud of them and that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to make their lives better. Don’t wait for another man, a mentor, the president, or any other male figure to do it.

Think about it…he’s got your blood running through his body, and he will carry on the legacy that you taught him. Have you asked yourself what you want your legacy to be? Please, give him a chance that you are failing to give him. Wherever your children may be, find them. Connect with them, talk to them, be there for them, please! There is no other way for anyone to correct what is going on, if you do not make an effort to do your part.

What we’re watching play out in the streets of our cities are the results of continuous neglect from parents, particularly fathers. Now is the time, and we can’t afford to wait another hour, day or years for certain individuals to step up.

The mission starts with you and you know who you are. Close the doors to your weak ways of thinking and realize how much difference it would make if you gave your children the time they truly deserve. I know change isn’t easy, and it brings about many challenges. Set aside your fears, and to prevent us from losing more of our precious children, please, Black men especially, do the right thing. Because at the end of the day, Derrion Albert and all of the other innocent children who have lost their lives didn't deserve to be taken away from us by the young men some of us are creating. If any of these children belong to you, think about their futures, your future, and the future you could have allowed Derrion Albert to have, had you been there for your child. Remember, it's not too late to make sure this doesn't happen to another innocent victim.


Spread the word and help me get this message to resonate. As always, I welcome your feedback and can be reached at brendahampton_1@netzero.net Readers, please share your comments or suggestions here.

Brenda Hampton, Essence Magazine Bestselling Author
www.brendamhampton.com

Why Don’t African-Americans Go to Therapy?

Why Don’t African-Americans Go to Therapy?
By: Tonya Ladipo


There are many different ideas about why we don't seek therapy. Some believe that it is only for wealthy, White people, others believe that you don't go outside the family with your problems. Some of these thoughts keep us struggling more than we need to. Here are some of the more prevalent ones.

"But I'm not touched"
Many of us think you have to be "touched" or "crazy" to go to therapy." While it's true that some people with mental health issues seek therapy, it's really a service for anyone. Therapy is a paid service that connects you with a trained professional who provides you with the support you need to live a healthier and happier life.

When I first met "Andre" he was apprehensive about seeking therapy. For many months, he questioned whether or not he should be in therapy. Overall, he felt that his life was manageable and that he did not have enough problems to go to therapy, after all he had a job and people who cared about him. He certainly was not "crazy". After several discussions about the purpose of therapy and its benefits to him as a rationale person, Andre accepted his desire for therapy. In fact, in a recent session Andre said that the healthiest people he knows are all in therapy. He realizes that therapy is a place that can benefit everyone, not just a small segment of the population. Andre further explained that the people he knows who have the most problems aren't in therapy. Of course, as a therapist, this makes perfect sense to me. Recognizing that your life is not how you want it to be or that you need additional support takes a lot of courage and self-reflection. These are not the thoughts of a "crazy" person. Rather, this is the thought process of someone who has a sense of who they are and wants more from their life and themselves.


"I can talk to my friends and family"
Why do you need to go outside of your family/church/friendship circle to get the help and support you want? Sometimes, you don't. But sometimes, going outside of that comfortable and familiar circle will propel you to make the changes that you want to. When people talk with their family or friends, many times they don't tell them everything that's going on in their head or in their lives. This isn't to be deceptive, but because you care about your family and friends and you care what they think about you.

Keisha came to see me because she was thinking about leaving her husband. She recently found out that he had an affair. Her family adored her husband and she was afraid of what they would say. She hadn't made up her mind about leaving, but she needed someone to talk to, someone who wouldn't immediately tell her what to do, whether that meant leaving or staying.

When you're concerned with what the other person is thinking and feeling, you cannot focus on yourself and your own needs 100%. That's the benefit of therapy. You can share all of your thoughts and feelings without being concerned about the therapist. In doing this, you can focus on you, what you need, what you want, and ways to accomplish that. Sometimes people are more honest when they go outside their circle of family and friends. As backwards as it may sound, it can be easier to talk to a stranger, easier to share your feelings, fears and pleasures with someone who you do not see everyday.

Keisha was relieved to talk about her marriage, what her husband did wrong and what she did wrong with someone who did not judge her or tell her what to do. This freedom allowed her to be honest with herself and decide what she believed to be best for her. Ultimately, she decided to stay and work on her marriage. Keisha said that she was glad that she used therapy to help her sort this out. Had she gone to a friend, they might have told her to leave "that no good . . . ." And her family may have told her to stay in the marriage, to stick it out "for better or worse". Keisha realized that she needed to come to her decision on her own, not to be told by others what to do.

Does this mean that your family and friends aren't helpful to you? Absolutely not. Instead, it means that therapy can add to the support that they provide, by giving you support in a very different way. Therapy can provide you with an objective person who can help you review your options as you decide what is best for you.


"It's just another racist system"
As African-Americans, we are aware of the persistent racism in our country. This is true on a large scale as well as in our daily interactions. We have many reasons to be suspicious of outsiders, to be distrustful of their motivations and actions. The Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment is a perfect example of why we are wary of outsiders.

Our schools consistently peg our children as aggressive, out of control, and low achieving. We have to fight to receive the same service as our White counterparts, whether it's in our schools, hospitals or office. Going to therapy poses another opportunity to encounter racism and discrimination if you're met with an insensitive or ignorant therapist.

When I worked in an agency, I often saw African-American clients who said in the first session, "I'm so relieved that you're Black." Some said that they felt more comfortable with an African-American therapist because they could talk about life and their culture without having to teach or explain the basics. Others did not like the racism they encountered with White therapists.

"Ayanna", an African-American woman in her 30's with two children, previously met with a White therapist before coming to see me. She was put off when the therapist began asking questions. The therapist wanted to know about her educational history and was surprised when Ayanna said that she went to college. She then asked how many years of college Ayanna completed, rather than assuming that Ayanna had a college degree, as she does. When the therapist asked about Ayanna's children and family, she asked if the children had the same father and where was he? At this point Ayanna knew that she wouldn't be comfortable with a therapist who assumed that she was not formally educated and had children with different men simply because she is African-American.


Why African-Americans can benefit from therapy?
"So why bother?" With all of the struggles and oppressions that we face on a daily basis we need an outlet. We need a comfortable environment where we can talk about the impact oppression has on us and talk about healthy and productive ways to deal with it. Holding in the pain, frustration, anger, and sadness eats at you, leaving you feeling angry and dissatisfied, not a rewarding way to go through life.

When you find an effective therapist, therapy can be a place to gain support and find more satisfying ways to live life. It is the one place, perhaps the only place, where you don't have to have all of the answers and you don't have to worry about the person sitting across from you. It is a place where you only have to worry about yourself and your needs. Therapy provides an objective perspective from a trained professional. The therapist's objectivity comes from not having a personal relationship with you. The therapist knows you now, as you are, not as you were. They can provide feedback based on what they see now, not based on how you used to be. Although our family and friends may love us and provide us with support, they cannot be objective like an outsider. Unlike personal relationships, a therapist has no ulterior motives; the only motive is to make the changes in your life that you decide to make.


How can African-Americans find a therapist?
First, figure out what is important to you. Do you care what race your therapist is? What about gender? If you think that seeing an African-American therapist is necessary for you to be open and honest with them, then look for that. If you're not sure, then try a few different therapists out and see what feels right to you. Also, don't be afraid to ask for what you want. Remember, this is a service that you're paying for; you are the client. As a paying customer, you have the right to ask for what you want. From there, the therapist can tell you if they are able to provide that service. If they cannot, ask them to give you referrals until you find what you're looking for.

Before scheduling an initial session, determine the therapist's fee and make sure that you can afford it. Therapy is a useful tool that helps people in times of crisis and fosters growth in times of reflection. However, it is not as useful if you are not committed to it. So make sure that you can afford the therapist you choose. If you have to alter your budget to afford it that's fine; if it obliterates your budget then look for someone with a lower fee. If you have to cut out dining out 3 times a week or paying for your morning coffees, that's altering your budget. If you cannot afford to pay your rent/mortgage, that's obliterating your budget. Finally, don't forget what you already know. You get what you pay for. Do higher prices mean better service? Not necessarily, but a quality and effective therapist will charge within the average range for the area. When you're ready to enhance your life or get help with a current crisis, a therapist might be just the one to call.

About the Author:
Tonya Ladipo, LCSW, is therapist who practices in Philadelphia and specializes in helping Black women learn new ways of interacting with people so that their own needs are considered and met. Tonya is available here: Good Therapy and Therapist Winter Springs. Website: http://www.goodtherapy.org/winter-springs-therapy.htm





The Manual: Sherryle Jackson Online Book Tour


Join author Sherryle Kiser Jackson on her virtual book tour to meet the characters of The Manual. Sherryle Kiser Jackson is a fresh voice in Christian fiction. Her style reflects an honest commentary on her life with Christ. Soon and Very Soon is her debut novel. She anxiously awaits the publication of her second novel, The Manual, October 2009. Experience her too real to be preachy, Biblically based, out-the-Christian-box fiction at www.sherrylejackson.com or on www.Myspace.com/sherrylejackson

For more information about Sherryle Kiser Jackson go to
http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/sherrylejackson.htm


Sherryle Kiser Jackson author of The Manual
Website: http://www.sherrylejackson.com
Join her at the Fanclub on Facebook

Twitter: http://explore.twitter.com/sherrylejackson
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/sherrylej
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/sherrylejackson
Shoutlife: http://www.shoutlife.com/sherrylejackson

Purchase Copies from Amazon.com: The Manual (Urban Christian)



The second novel, The Manual from author, Sherryle Jackson who brought you Soon and Very Soon will be released in October 2009. With a chance to confront their past with the hindsight of adulthood, The Manual, takes a realistic look into the lives of two unequally-yoked high school sweethearts who must forgive and forget to raise their teenaged son. Follow the author as she chronicles the journey from conception to the printed page.

Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-10: 1601629354
ISBN-13: 978-1601629357




The Manual Book Tour Events
Buy Books by author Sherryle K. Jackson at Amazon


Live Radio Interviews

September 17, 2009 Guest-AAMBC Showcase Radio Show
www.blogtalkradio.com/AAMBC

September 24, 2009 Black Authors Network
www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network

September 20, 2009 Guest-Urban Literary Review
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/urbanliteraryreview

October 13, 2009 Black Authors Network
Bookclub Chat and Contest
www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network

October 21, 2009 Off the Pages with LaTricia Smith
http://www.offthepagespodcast.com




Book Signings
-- October 3, 2009 Border’s Book in Largo @ 2pm
-- October 10, 2009 Border’s Books in Columbia, MD @ 12 noon
-- October 17, 2009 Border’s Express 62904 William Co Parkway, Woodbridge VA 22912 @ 11am
-- October 24, 2009 Border’s Express BS 725 Springfield Mall, Springfield VA 22150 @ 12 noon
-- October 31, 2009 Exhibit of Church Lady Ways memorabilia collection @3 pm
-- November 15, 2009 Literary Tea; By invitation only Royal Tea Room, LaPlata, MD


Special Event for Booklovers

-- December 5, 2009 Area-Wide book discussion at 7-9pm.
It will be at the picturesque Village Commons Community Center in Crofton MD.

-- April 17, 2010 Readers With Attitude Book Club
Authors Pavilion at Virginia Center Commons Mall, Richmond VA.
r more info: http://www.rwabookclub.com/3073.html

-- June 18-19, 2010 at Faith and Fiction Retreat
Date: Location: Atlanta, GA
For more info: www.faithandfictionretreat.com



Manual Meet and Greet
Black Pearls Magazine

Guest Blogger with Shelia M. Goss

Guest Blogger with AAKultureZone.com

Guest Blogger with Books and Beignets BookClub

Sankofa Literary Society Bookclub

LindarInsights Guest Blogger with Arlinda McGlothin

Guest Blogger with Authors Supporting Authors

SLS at Shelfari-Video Spotlight

AAMBC Radio features Sherryle K. Jackson

Sankofa Literary Review

BAN Radio Profiles in Black

Shortbooks Showcase

Unika Molden The Unique Reviewer

AAMBC Book Tours Spotlight

Create A Unique Xperience with Unika Molden

The Distinct Ladies Book Club



Facebook Groups Meet and Greet


EDC Black Authors Network
125 Members

PSMGConnect: Write With Me
131 Members

Facebook's Poets & Writers Registry
30,098 Members

The Writers & Readers Lounge
183 Members

Reading is Sexy
78,198 Members

Passion for Books
10,689 Members

Genre Book Club
1,730 Members

Girls Gone God!
6,425 Members

Urban Reviews Facebook Group
666 Members

UrbanWritten Coalition
342 Members

African American Authors
397 Members

FB Book club
1,713 Members

African American Relationships
132 Members

African American Fiction
121 Members

AA Facebook Bookclub
481 Members

Black Author Showcase
115 Members

African American Authors (Book Club)
146 Members

Aspiring Black Authors
354 Members

The Ebony Book Club
24 Members

African American Opinions
318 Members

Phenomenal Women of Color: Moving from Good to Great
33 Members

Sankofa Literary Society

SLS Paradigm Shift



VOX Groups Meet and Greet

The Thinking Woman

The Book Club at Vox

Social Media Group

The Inklings

The Beautiful People

Verbal Penetrations

African American by Association

Monthly Book Club

Girl Talk

BeYourOwn.Personal.Library

Mahogany Book Club

Moms Who Shop




Connect Groups Meet and Greet

BlackAuthorsConnect.com

BlackWomenConnect.com

DMV Black Group

Young, Black, and Gifted Journalists!

Mothers of Wisdom

MyBrothersKeeper.com

Crucial Diva

We Are One

Each-One-Teach-One

African Americans.NET

Chocolate Pages Network

Black Internet Marketers

Black In America.com

Black Journeys.com

Black History.com


For more information about Sherryle Kiser Jackson go to
http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/sherrylejackson.htm

Sherryle Kiser Jackson author of The Manual
Website: http://www.sherrylejackson.com



Excerpt Chapter 1: The Manual by Sherryle Kiser Jackson

"Blessed are the children, for they shall inherit the earth."

Need a manual on raising children and having healthy relationships? Refer to the Bible. That's what Deidre Collins' inner spirit is telling her to do now that Andre, her son's father, is back in town after deserting them eight years ago.

At fourteen years old, her son, DeAndre, is struggling with his own issues-peer pressure, problems at school, and figuring out how to navigate his first crush.

When DeAndre gets suspended from school for ten days, Andre sees it as the perfect opportunity to get to know his son-and to get closer to Deidre. Can this couple overcome the past for the sake of their son's future?

Read the first chapter
Facebook readers click here to read

Read the Excerpt Chapter 1: The Manual by Sherryle Kiser Jackson -
ISBN: 1601629354
ISBN-13: 9781601629357

About Sherryle
Sherryle Kiser Jackson is a child of God seeking to edify the world. She is blessed to be a educator, wife and mother of two (One girl, one boy). Sherryle Kiser Jackson strives to be a fresh voice in Christian fiction. Her writing style reflects a honest commentary on her personal life with Christ. Soon and Very Soon was her debut novel, which is a Black Christian Book Distributor's Best Seller. Her second novel, a Urban Christian title, The Manual, is slated for release in October 2009.

To schedule speaking engagements, book signings, online/telephone conference contact Author, Sherryle Jackson at sherrylek@aol.com or visit her website at: http://www.sherrylejackson.com
Shop at EDC Creations Book Stores for The Manual

Black Pearls Magazine Gift Shop

Black Authors Network Book Store

Events: Capital Book Festival--Oct. 3, 2009

Capital Book Festival--Oct. 3, 2009
Capital BookFest (Author signings will follow each presentation)
Time: 10am – 7pm


MAINSTAGE (Inside Borders)

10-10:50
Slideshow & Talk: The Muslim World: Alexandra Avakian, author of Windows of the Soul: My Journeys in the Muslin world

11:00 – 11:45
Fiction Reading: Donna Hill & Tinesha Davis, Holler at the Moon

11:50 - 12:40
Talk: E. Ethelbert Miller, The 5th Inning: A Memoir

12:50 – 1:40
Reading & Talk: W. Ralph Eubanks, The House at the End of the Road: The Story of Three Generations of an Interracial Family in the American South
Jennifer Bazille, Black Girl Next Door

1:50 – 2:40
Talk: Liza Mundy, author Michelle Obama

2:50 – 3:50
It’s About Love Reading hosted by Marita Golden

4:00 – 4:50
Reading: Connie Briscoe

5:10 - 6:10
Talk: Conversation with Tim Reid, Comedian and author of Tim and Tom

6:20 until
Reading & Talk: R. Dwayne Betts, A Question of Freedom: Memoir


WRITE ON (TENT BEHIND BORDERS)

10:20-11:00
Talk: David Johns, The State of Black America "Message to the President”

11:10 – 11:45
Talk: Kimberly Seals Allers, author of The Mocha Manual to a Fabulous Pregnancy

12:00 – 1:00
Teen Authors Spotlight: Book-in-a-Day & Write-a-Book Programs

1:10 – 1:50
Talk & Tasting: Chef Gillian Clark, Chef and author of Out of the Frying Pan

2:05 – 3:00
Talk: Omar Tyree, The Equation & Kathryn Freeland, Navigating Your Way To Business Success

3:10 – 3:55
Talk: Jewell Powell, Marriage 101 & Tameesha Tucker, Single & Saved in PG County

4:00– 5:10
Poetry Reading: Deanna Nikaido, Le Hinton, Rebecca Gonzalez, Van Garrett, Sami Miranda, Barbara DeCeasare

5:20 – 6:15
Talk: Alicia Crowe, REAL DADS STAND UP! What Every Single Father Should Know About Child Support, Rights and Custody David Miller, Raising Him Alone:Things Black Women Can Do to Raise Boys to Be Men

6:25 – 7:15
Ministers Panel: Jamal Bryant, pastor of Empowerment Temple, World War Me
Charlotte Avery, No One Ever Told Me


KIDS ZONE

Hosted by Dwe Williams, Storyteller
10:00 DWe Williams
10:35 Cassandra Hill, Shyann the Cat
11:10 Barbara Alexander, Papa’s Penny Party
11:45 Omar Tyree, 12 Brown Boys
12:35 Charisse Carney Nunes, I am Barack Obama

Hosted by Sylvia Dianne Beverly
1:15 Shane Evans
1:50 Ralph Burgess, Cool Calvin
2:30 Lori Nelson, Hillary's BIG Business Adventure
3:10 Ashti
3:55 Shane Evans
4:30 Tiffany Alexander, Braided in my Hair


BORDERS CAFE (Inside Borders)

10:15 – 11:15 pm
Talk: Dr. E. Curtis Alexander: Civil War
Stolen Honor: Afro-Union Medal of Honor, Gilmore Medal and Army of the James/Butler Medal Recipients

11:25 – 12:10 pm
Talk: Toni Cade Bambara Panel: Linda Holmes/Cheryl Wall, authors of Savoring the Salt

12:20 – 1:20 pm
Publishing Central: Kevin Johnson, Donna Hill, Charisse Carney Nunes, Ananda Kiamsha Madelyn Leeke

1:30 – 2:10
Fiction Reading: Monda Webb, 7:33 am & Wendy Thompson, triptych

2:20 – 3:10
Fiction Reading: Victoria Christopher Murray & Stacy Hawkins Adams

3:20 – 4:00
Fiction Reading: Booker T. Matison, Unsigned Hype

4:10 – 5:00
Talk: Pamela McBride, author of The Mocha Manual to Military Life: A Savvy Guide for Wives, Girlfriends, and Female Service Members

5:10 – 6:10
Panel: A Woman's Guide to Soulful living
Dr Anita Davis Defoe

6:20 – 7:10
Talk: Valencia Campbell, Advice from the Top: What Minority Women Say about their Career Success; Kimberly Seals Allers, author of The Mocha Manual to Turning Your Passion into Profit

Distinct Ladies 3rd Anniversary Party Oct. 10, 2009



Distinct Ladies 3rd Anniversary Party Oct. 10, 2009

The Distinct Ladies extends an invitation for you to celebrate this milestone with us. We have Memphis' Own Recha G. Peay, Best Selling Author Jihad and HollyGrove President and the Nation Best Selling Author Brian W. Smith.

When: October 10, 2009
Time: 4pm till 8pm Doors Open @ 3:30pm
Where: St. Paul Lodge on 423 East Georgia Street, Memphis, TN
Cost: $10 Per Person
Door Prizes, Food, Poetry and More

If you would like to purchase these books in advance or for more info, please email distinctladies@yahoo.com


The Distinct Ladies Bookclub
P.O. Box 271415
Memphis, TN 38167
Tiffany Rainey-President
Josula Williams-Vice President

www.distinctladies.com
http://dlbookclub.webs.com
http://www.myspace.com/distinctladiesandgents


Intimate Conversation with the Distinct Ladies Bookclub

EDC: Share with us the history of the organization and President's biography.
DLBC: Tiffany Rainey is currently the President and one of the founders of Distinct Ladies Book Club. She was born and raised in Memphis, Tn and currently still resides there. Not only is Tiffany a member of DLBC but she is also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Sirius Ladies Social Club, and she is also a usher in her church.

DLBC was founded in October of 2006 with 4 women who shared a passion for reading. When we first started little did we know we would grow to be such a tight knit family. DLBC doesn't just read books, but we attend movies, plays, book signing, and we just love to fellowship with one another.

EDC: What is the vision for your organization?
DLBC: Our vision for our sisterhood is to continue to promote authors who are not as well known as some of the greats like Eric Jerome Dickey or Kimberla Lawson Roby. We want to continue to give back to the kids in our community.

EDC: Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes...
DLBC: Living your best life includes being with our children.

On your nightstand now: We are currently reading The Dopeman's Wife

Book all readers should own besides the bible: The Survival Bible by Jihad

Book you've bought for the cover: Casanegra by Blair Underwood

Favorite genre, series or sequels: Urban, Erotica, Christian Fiction

EDC: Your top three authors. Why?
DLBC: Brian W. Smith, President of Hollygrove Publishing is one of our favorite authors. Brian is a very down to earth person. He keeps your interest is his books from the beginning to the end. He also brings new talent to his company, that makes you just wanna read everything he has written.

Memphis Own Sheila Lipsey, author of Beautiful Ugly is also one of our favorite authors. Sheila is a Christian fiction author who always makes you wondering what's going on next. She brings everyday problems and drama into her books.

Jihad, bestselling author of Wild Cherry is a favorite author. Jihad brings erotica to street to "I am gonna keep it real" to you in his books. He always makes you wondering which direction he's going to write in. We have a few more that we love, but since you only asked for 3. I think I am going to leave it at that.

EDC: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
DLBC: Kimberla Lawson Roby, Wahadia Clark, and Jane Jordan

EDC: Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group?
DLBC: DLBC is planning their 3year Anniversary Celebration. It will be held on Oct. 10, 2009 from 4-8. We will have Jihad, Brian W. Smith, Recha G. Peay, and other authors will be stopping through as well. DLBC will be having spoken word, music, and giving way door prizes. Admission is $10 and seating is limited. For more info you can contact us at distinctladies@yahoo.com

You can find us at:
www.distinctladies.com
http://dlbookclub.webs.com
http://www.myspace.com/distinctladiesandgent

We are also on Facebook and Twitter!!


Sonia Sanchez featured speaker Bennett College for Women


In recognition of the 30th anniversary of the “Greensboro Massacre”, Bennett College for Women will host a Community Activism Forum —“From History to Healing” on Saturday, October 3, 2009 from 9:30am – 2:30pm.


The Forum will pay special tribute to Bennett Alumna Sandra Neely Smith, Class of 1973 and former Student Government AssociationPresident, who was killed in the 1979 massacre while organizing mill workers.

The Forum will be held at the Sheraton Four Seasons (3121 High Point Road, Greensboro, NC 27407) and will include a recognition luncheon. The luncheon will acknowledge a student and several local community activists.


Renowned poet, Sonia Sanchez will be the featured speaker at the luncheon. Bennett College President, Dr. Julianne Malveaux along with local activists, Ms. Joyce Johnson and Mr. Lewis Brandon of the Truth and Reconciliation Project, along with Bennett alumnae, Ms. Maxine Bakeman, Dr. Myra McCoy Pope, Ms. Gladys Robinson and friends of Sandra Neely Smith will participate in this important Forum.


Congressman John Lewis of Georgia, has also been invited to participate. This event is a demonstration of how Bennett College celebrates, educates and transforms women into 21st century leaders and global thinkers.



The Community Activism Forum—“From History to Healing”, will be held during Bennett’s Annual Family and Friends Weekend, October 1-4, 2009.
Early registration is $75.00 and includes a continental breakfast, workshops, luncheon, registration materials and a campus tour. Seating is limited so registration is encouraged before September 25, 2009.

After September 25th registration will increase to $90.00. Luncheon only tickets are $50.00.

Bennett College will provide free transportation for campus tours immediately following the
Forum. For additional information, please call (336) 517-2196.

Purchase tickets on-line by going to the Bennett College web site:
www.bennett.edu click on-line giving, and complete the form.
In the notes section, indicate “Forum” with $75 or $90 or “Luncheon” with $50. If you
prefer, please mail your check payable to Bennett College with the memo stating either “ 10/3 forum” or “10/3 luncheon only”.

Send to Bennett College for Women – Institutional Advancement;
Race Hall, 900 E. Washington St., Greensboro, NC 27401.

Book Review: Somebody's Sinning In My Bed




Don't Point Fingers, September 21, 2009
By Shelia M Goss (Entertainment Writer & Author of Young Adult Books & Women's Fiction) - See all my reviews


Somebody's Sinning In My Bed


Pat G'Orge Walker's latest book is filled with characters that jump off the page. The books opening sets the tone for the fast pace story. Chyna feels her current tragedy is just payback for the sins she committed. The stress leads her sister Janelle to come to her rescue. There's several twists and turns in the story that will not let you put the book down.

Chyna is the first lady and has to deal with several church members who are determined to get rid of her. Those same church members have a past that would make Chyna's seem meek and mild. Pat G'Orge Walker has a way of showing us our flaws in a humorous manner. She reminds us through her writing that all of us have sinned and shouldn't point fingers at others. I highly recommend this book.


Shelia M Goss, Author of the YA series
The Lip Gloss Chronicles: Splitsville (Sept 29, 2009)
The Ultimate Test (available now)
Paper Thin (Jan. 2010)
www.thelipglosschronicles.com

Black Writers as Cultural Activists & Gatekeepers of History



The Congressional Black Caucus Author Pavilion is presented by The Renaissance Group, LLC, The Hurston Wright Foundation, Say It Loud Readers & Writers Series! and Howard University Bookstore www.trgpronline.com

Mind Readers and Wealth at CBC

Black Writers as Cultural Activists


Black Writers as Cultural Activists & Gatekeepers of History

Moderated by Marita Golden Thursday, September 24th


4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Walter E. Washington Convention Center
Washington, D.C. Exhibit Hall E --- Booth 819

Panelists: Paula Giddings Ida Sword Among Lions; Ralph Eubanks The House at the End of the Road: A Story of Race, Identity, & Memory; Howard Dodson In Motion: The African-American Migration Experience; Annette Gordon-Reed The Hemingses of Monticello; David Levering Lewis W.E. B. Du Bois: The Fight for Equality & the American Century, 1919-1963



Teen Girls, Arts and Education at CBC

The Congressional Black Caucus Author Pavilion is presented by The Renaissance Group, LLC, The Hurston Wright Foundation, Say It Loud Readers & Writers Series! and Howard University Bookstore www.trgpronline.com

Forsaken Blog Tour 9-28 to 10-2



Forsaken Blog Tour (September 28 - October 2, 2009)

RADIO SCHEDULE


September 28 - Black Authors Network (8-10 pm EST)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network


October 1 - Chocolate Pages Show (4 pm EST)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/chocolatepages



October 1 - REAL TALK WITH TANYA WHITE Radio Show (7 pm EST)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/realtalkwithtanyawhite


October 1 - WordThirst Literary Online Radio Show (8 pm EST)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ashea-goldson


October 15 - Inspiration Station (6:30 pm EST)
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/InspirationStation



BLOG TOUR

September 28

All the Buzz Reviews
http://www.allthebuzzreviews.com

Rhonda McKnight
http://www.urbanchristianfictiontoday.com

Patricia Woodside
http://readinnwritin.blogspot.com



September 29

RAWSistaz Literary Group
http://www.rawsistaz.com

Tia McCollors
http://www.tiaspen.blogspot.com

Wanda Campbell
http://www.wandabcampbell.net/blog.html



September 30

SORMAG
http://sormag.blogspot.com

Joey Reviews
http://www.joeypinkney.com

Angela Benson
http://theamensisters.com/wordpress



October 1

Book, Cook, and Craft
http://bookcookcraft.com

Linda Beed, D.R.Ed
http://lindabeed.blogspot.com

Debra Owsley
http://www.simplysaidreadingaccessories.blogspot.com


October 2


APOOO Books
http://www.apooobooks.com

Paulette Harper
http://pauletteharper.blogspot.com


Victorious Cafe
http://www.victoriouscafe.com


Written Voices Blog
http://www.writtenvoicesblog.com

Making The Manual: Book Video Preview

Making The Manual: Book Video Preview
Website: http://makingthemanual.blogspot.com

Facebook Readers--Link to view the book video full screen.


The second novel, The Manual from author, Sherryle Jackson who brought you Soon and Very Soon will be released in October 2009. With a chance to confront their past with the hindsight of adulthood, The Manual, takes a realistic look into the lives of two unequally-yoked high school sweethearts who must forgive and forget to raise their teenaged son. Follow the author as she chronicles the journey from conception to the printed page.

Paperback: 304 pages
ISBN-10: 1601629354
ISBN-13: 978-1601629357

Sherryle Kiser Jackson is a fresh voice in Christian fiction. Her style reflects an honest commentary on her life with Christ. Soon and Very Soon is her debut novel. She anxiously awaits the publication of her second novel, The Manual, October 2009. Experience her too real to be preachy, Biblically based, out-the-Christian-box fiction at www.sherrylejackson.com or on www.Myspace.com/sherrylejackson


Buy Books by author Sherryle K. Jackson at Amazon

Featured Book: The Manual by Sherryle Kiser Jackson




Excerpt Chapter 1: The Manual by Sherryle Kiser Jackson

"Blessed are the children, for they shall inherit the earth."

Need a manual on raising children and having healthy relationships? Refer to the Bible. That's what Deidre Collins' inner spirit is telling her to do now that Andre, her son's father, is back in town after deserting them eight years ago.

At fourteen years old, her son, DeAndre, is struggling with his own issues-peer pressure, problems at school, and figuring out how to navigate his first crush.

When DeAndre gets suspended from school for ten days, Andre sees it as the perfect opportunity to get to know his son-and to get closer to Deidre. Can this couple overcome the past for the sake of their son's future?


Read the first chapter to see how fourteen years old Andre and his parent deal with the issues at hand.
ISBN: 1601629354
ISBN-13: 9781601629357
Genre: Christian Fiction
Facebook readers, click this link to read excerpt full screen


Excerpt Chapter 1: The Manual by Sherryle Kiser Jackson -


About Sherryle
Sherryle Kiser Jackson is a child of God seeking to edify the world. She is blessed to be a educator, wife and mother of two (One girl, one boy). Sherryle Kiser Jackson strives to be a fresh voice in Christian fiction. Her writing style reflects a honest commentary on her personal life with Christ. Soon and Very Soon was her debut novel, which is a Black Christian Book Distributer's Best Seller. Her second novel, a Urban Christian title, The Manual, is slated for release in October 2009.

To schedule speaking engagements, book signings, online/telephone conference contact Author, Sherryle Jackson at sherrylek@aol.com or visit her website at: http://www.sherrylejackson.com

Buy Books by author Sherryle K. Jackson at Amazon




Book Tour- How I Made The Angels Cry by Meleisa Betts



Book: How I Made The Angels Cry by Meleisa Betts

Website: www.myspace.com/433250625
Email: molly.betts@yahoo.com
Publisher: Neighborhood Publishing
Pub. Date: April 2009
ISBN-13: 9780615290508

Molly is a woman who has lived the equivalent of two lifetimes, a life filled with at times hardship, struggle, triumphs but many challenges, sometimes of near epic proportions. In spite of this, she has never backed away from a situation or conflict despite the consequences, many of which have been enormous and there were great prices to be paid. This memoir, "How I Made the Angels Cry" is her struggle with spirituality, sexuality, corruption, injustice, and murder.

"It will take you from desperation to inspiration. What a liberating ride!"

Buy the book at: Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com or order from your local bookstore, distributed by Ingram Book Group.

Follow Author Meleisa Betts on her Internet Book Tour

Week 1

EDC Creations' Social Networks

http://blackhistory365.ning.com/
http://slsbookclubcenter.ning.com/
http://paradigmshiftaap.vox.com/
http://www.facebook.com/EDC.Creations
http://www.myspace.com/edc1creations
http://edcvirtualtours.spaces.live.com/


EDC Creations Sunday News Email Newsletters
18,000 Members: http://www.feedblitz.com/f/f.fbz?html=352823
2, 654 Members: http://www.feedblitz.com/f/f.fbz?html=301498


EDC Creations Facebook Features

Black Pearls Audio Book Preview




Week 2

The Thinking Woman

The Vox Book Club

Social Media Group

Book Reviews

The Inklings

The Beautiful People

Verbal Penetrations

African American by Association

Monthly Book Club

Girl Talk

BeYourOwn.Personal.Library

Mahogany Book Club

Young, Black, and Gifted Journalists!




Week 3

Mothers of Wisdom

MyBrothersKeeper.com

Crucial Diva

WeAreOne

Each-One-Teach-One

AfricanAmericans.NET

Chocolate Pages Network

Black Internet Marketers

BlackInAmerica.com

BlackJourneys.com

BlackHistory.com

BlackAuthorsConnect.com

BlackWomenConnect.com

DMV Black





Week 4

The Writers & Readers Lounge
183 Members

Reading is Sexy
78,198 Members

Passion for Books
10,689 Members

Girls Gone God!
6,425 Members

Urban Reviews Facebook Group
666 Members

African American Authors
397 Members

FB Book club
1,713 Members

African American Fiction
121 Members:

AA Facebook Bookclub
481 Members

Black Author Showcase
106 Members

African American Authors (Book Club)
146 Members

Aspiring Black Authors
354 Members

African American Opinions
318 Members


How I Made the Angels Cry Book Video




Meet Author Meleisa Betts
I am Meleisa Betts, an author and owner of my own publishing company "Neighborhood Publishing". I am single, currently living in New Orleans La., however, I was born in a small town in the state of Alabama called Monroeville. My only child is my darling dog, my peekapoo, MaryBell.

I have always had a need to share and communicate my thoughts to others. I am an accomplished member of "Toastmasters" which filled a need to convey my thoughts somewhat, yet it did not allow the opportunity for me to reach a broad audience. I felt as though I had an important message that could help people.

We all have stories and a belief that ours are capable of sustaining book and movies yet how many lives actually are living morals; examples of what NOT to do and the consequences of those actions? I felt and still feel that there are many people living secret lives with things that they dare not share for a fear of being judged. My mission is to prove to the reader that the best therapy for the soul is not a psychiatrist (although counseling is a necessary process in many cases) but rather blunt force honesty; a raw openness and truth.

Fundamentally a psychiatrist makes the patient talk about his or herself, and in revealing those intimate truths the patient feels better. Why must we wait until the psychiatrist asks us to before we can be honest with ourselves? We give ourselves aspirin for a headache or an antacid when our stomach is upset; then why can't we give ourselves a little "self-revelation" therapy?

That is my approach to "How I Made The Angels Cry". It is 100% truthful but I chose to use a principle of "shock and raw". What this means is, I wanted to leave my life exposed and threadbare, not filter or edit the book for an audience but to tell the honest truth.

Before I decided to always be forthcoming, I was living a shell of a life, frustrated, confused and basically a farce. However since changing my perspective to one of complete honesty and openness it has been an altogether different life for me, one which is free of pretense and pressure to be SOMETHING. I now simply am.

I want the book to stand as testimony to future readers that LIES only escalate, and have to be escaped, yet the truth has to be told only once, and it stands on its own. The best therapy for a troubled conscience is for one to be completely honest with the one person who matters most on planet Earth: Yourself.

"How I Made The Angels Cry" is a memoir based upon my actual experiences in an improbable life, and only the names have been changed to protect the anonymity of the persons involved in the book. It is indeed graphic and discusses sexuality and manipulation of people and circumstances in an open forum that many dare not to attempt. In fact few authors have written in such open and graphic detail, as I have left my life completely open to the judgment of others. I accept this wholeheartedly and if this method helps others to escape their own demons and unlocks the door of emotional imprisonment, then I have succeeded.

I hope that by writing such an open discourse that I can encourage others to be as open in discussing their own fears and desires rather than keeping them simmering below the surface like a pot ready to boil over. HONESTLY is liberating, LIES are condemning and things that are kept within are potentially maddening; Again, that IS why we have psychiatrists, is it not? Through my book "How I Made The Angels Cry" I hope to offer an example of how being honest can save a soul.

Meleisa Betts
Email: molly.betts@yahoo.com

Publisher: Neighborhood Publishing (April 1, 2009)
ISBN-10: 0615290507; ISBN-13: 978-0615290508

Audio Preview How I Made The Angels Cry by Meleisa Betts


How I Made The Angels Cry by Meleisa Betts
Neighborhood Publishing (April 1, 2009)
ISBN-10: 0615290507; ISBN-13: 978-0615290508

Listen to the audio preview from author Meleisa Betts
"Cleanse the Soul by Facing the Truth"
Click to listen:http://www.audioacrobat.com/play/Ww38R7bQ



How I Made The Angels Cry by Meleisa Betts
Website: www.myspace.com/433250625
ISBN-13: 9780615290508


Melesia Betts Online Media Center
http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/meleisabetts.htm


Book Reviewed By Heather Slocumb(Official Apex Reviews Rating: 4.5 Stars)

"Life to me is not like a box of chocolates, life is a Pandora's Box filled with 'what if's.' It doesn't matter how rich you are or how poor you are, you going to go through hell in some form or fashion unless you are just plain lucky."-- Molly, How I Made The Angels Cry

Molly Betts claims to have done two lifetimes' worth of living in her short time on Earth, and, by all accounts, such a remark is a stark understatement. Born and raised in the one-horse town of Marionville, Alabama, she quickly gets used to enjoying a life a relative privilege; her father, the town's largest employer, provides the family with many luxuries and pleasures that others would literally kill to obtain, fostering in Molly a strong sense of pride - and near conceit - early on. Of course, the flip side of her father's success is his numerous, careless dalliances with scores of women from all over the town, often leading to dangerous repercussions for Molly, her mother, and the rest of their family.

Torn between her undying love for her mother and her subconscious emulation of her father's ways, Molly's life soon becomes a reflection of the emotional dichotomy that lingers within her. As such, she begins dating men simply for the superficial thrill of what they can do for her, all the while secretly desiring women for the very same thing – only in the sexual, not the material. At an early age, she becomes aware of her affinity toward women, and her struggles to reconcile the resulting moral conflict yield often disastrous results for her over the course of the various relationships into which she enters to scratch her ever-present sexual "itch." At their beginnings, each of her involvements seem to promise the ultimate spiritual deliverance for which she constantly prays, but they, without fail, only lead her further down the path of confusion, loneliness, and pain.

Eventually, Molly begins to realize that only by searching within – rather than without – can she finally receive the peace for which she longs day in and day out. One would think that only a few episodes of heartbreak, rejection, and brutality would hasten such an epiphany, but Molly's tortuous journey toward ultimate truth serves as proof that the sojourn on the road to enlightenment - and the scope of its learning curve – truly varies from person to person.

How I Made the Angles Cry is one of those rare, invaluable finds that must be celebrated and shared widely once discovered. In it, Meleisa Betts takes the reader on a literal emotional rollercoaster of highs and lows, with all the typical jerks, false starts, and sharp curves caught in-between. At times overwhelmingly heavy and sad, her tome nonetheless offers just the right amount of insight and hope to ensure the reader that, no matter how dark or gloomy the circumstances, light truly resides at the end of the tunnel, and ultimate victory over such circumstances is assured – as long as you keep pushing through the tough times.

A stirring memoir of a life whose amazing story must be told and retold. Highly recommended.

Buy the book at: Amazon.com Barnes and Noble.com or order from your local bookstore, distributed by Ingram Book Group.

The Mosaic Literary Conference


The Mosaic Literary Conference presents creative ways for keeping books and reading valuable sources of knowledge and creativity.

This day of professional-development workshops will help educators incorporate literature into existing curricula to further explore course work that focuses on cultures, history, and social studies.

Official website: http://mosaicmagazine.org/literary-conference.html

Early Registration: $30 (ends Sept 23)
Regular Registration: $50

Listen to a interview with Ron Kavanaugh of Mosaic Literary Magazine- Interview on BAN Radio with host Ella Curry. Ron discusses this event and the need for the community to READ.
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network/2009/09/15/EDC-Literary-Spotlight

The Mosaic Literary Conference Details

Registration/Breakfast
Mosaic Workshop 2 concurrent workshops
Lunch/Vendor village
2 concurrent workshops 2 concurrent workshops

Registration includes gift bag, continental breakfast, lunch, and a 1-year subscription to Mosaic

Conference Date: November 7, 2009
Location: Hostos Community College
450 Grand Concourse at 149th St., Bronx, NY


Click here for information on past conferences

Download conference workshop RFP - Deadline Sept 29
http://mosaicmagazine.org/literary-conference.html