Tahitian Pearl by Esauren Phyer

Tahitian Pearl by Esauren Phyer
From The Gritty Dune To An Oasis In The Sun


 Explore the pages of this wonderful, witty, sometimes gritty novel. Follow Naiyah Harland and her family through life's many challenges (Infidelity, Deception and Much More...) and see where they end up. If you know God is always around and will show up on our behalf - good, you won't be surprised. If you don't - good, you'll be blessed. This story is one of redemption.

We find at times, Life to be a real messy mess. It is, has been or will be. There’s no escaping it. We all experience on one level or another, the untidiness, disorder and dirt of life - Life’s Messes! Some of us don’t mind the drama, trauma and maladjustment of the mess, but many of us recognize the need to be “set free” therefore, realizing that in doing so, love wins. Tahitian Pearl (from the gritty dune to an oasis in the Sun) is a compelling story of family drama, where the messes of life (infidelity, drugs and more) demonstrate how we judge, misjudge and drift.

However, grace and mercy can set us free and let love win. This book, because of its multidimensional and complex characters is ideal for book clubs as it provides endless discussion possibilities.

Esauren Phyer is available for Book Club Discussions and Speaking engagements. Contact her at: Ephyer@envisionsofesauren.com  or visit her website at: http://www.esaurenphyer.com/


Tahitian Pearl 5 Star Amazon Reader Review
I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Naiyah. Your book gave me reason to pause and evaluate my life expereinces and my reactions to them. After reading the book I had dinner with a friend who was having a personal crisis. She expressed how she was trying to put her faith in the Lord and then the words from your book just started to spew from my mouth. I told her to quit trying to give up the issue and just do it.

Let the Lord take control of the situation and accept the direction that was presented to her. After much discussion, she realized the error of her way of processing her situation and decided then and there that she would follow the Lord's lead.

Funny how there is this trickle effect in life, you affect readers who affect those around them. You are the embodiment of following the direction the Lord has presented and for that I thank you. -- Reviewed by Nancy - The Blonde One (Catonsville MD)



About Esauren Phyer, author of Tahitian Pearl
Meet Long Island, New York native Esauren Phyer. She's a prolific writer of fiction, short, stories, newsletter bylines and personal journaling. She graduated from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania and holds a degree in sociology and a certification in Christian counseling. By day she's an information technology specialist and a creative writer by night.

Ms. Phyer, an avid reader for most of her life, dreamed of becoming a published and well read author long before her Humanities Pro-fessor at Lincoln University in Pennsylvania suggested she do something with her writing over thirty years ago. Ms. Phyer is committed to living free, free from other people’s opinions, free from drama, free from sickness, free from her own prejudices and hang-ups and has written a novel that is replete with messages of “setting oneself free,” particularly when we find ourselves immersed in the grit and messes of life.

Her book, Tahitian Pearl, focuses on a young woman named Naiyah, whose life is fraught with personal traumas designed to keep her from the joy and blessings God has for her. The moment Naiyah is born, her grandmother knows that God is going to work in her life in a special way, but the enemy of God has other plans.

From The Gritty Dune To An Oasis In The Sun
ISBN-10: 0984218807
ISBN-13: 978-0984218806



Intimate Conversation with Nikki Coe

Intimate Conversation with Nikki Coe


Join me in welcoming author Nikkie Coe. Nikki Coe began writing as a hobby. Employed by the USPS for nearly twenty years in several different capacities and locations, Nikki Coe is an expert on the postal experience. An avid reader, Nikki is familiar with the types of literary works that appeal most to women and she writes to that appeal.

Nikki has created characters that people talk about; characters that endear and emotionally involve the reader. Her characters experience common problems that are solved in unorthodox ways. Visit her website at: http://www.nikkicoe.com/.  

Please read the interview below and consider giving this book as a gift this holiday season. Are you a bookclub, think about making this a book-of-the-month!


BPM: Introduce us to your latest book Rain, Snow, Sleet or Hail.
What's really going on at the Post Office? The main characters in Postal Blues meet at a safety briefing and form an unlikely friendship that working together night after night reinforces. Bailey Jenkins, Lisa Johnson, Tonya Elson and Jackson Andies, take the reader on an amusing trip thru the United States Postal Service as they deal with irritating co-workers, inept management and postal violence. In their private lives, newly found love, single parenting, an adoption gone wrong and broken hearts keeps the reader turning the pages.

There are no secrets in the post office. Yes there is, and Lisa, Tonya and Jackson guard Bailey's at all cost. The sequel to POSTAL BLUES, RAIN, SNOW, SLEET OR HAIL takes over where Postal Blues leaves off while remaining a stand-alone book in its own right.

RAIN, depicts a more mature Lisa as she becomes a full-time student while still working hard at the post office. Her first day in class she's shocked to find out that her 'harrrd' law professor is no stranger.

Love and Jackson have changed Bailey but their relationship is everything but smooth because his ex refuses to let them live happily ever after. A now expectant Tonya will soon be the mother of two but her adopted three year old is not feeling her...at all.

Tonya wants to send her back but she is the apple of Michael's eye and he's having no part of it. And yes, the irritating co-workers have pushed it up a notch and are more irritating.

BPM: What specific issue or crisis in society prompted you to write Rain, Snow, Sleet or Hail?
Two things prompted me to start writing. I was growing tired of reading books that left me disappointed at their completion. Tired of hearing me complain about the books I'd read, my husband urged me to "write something better" so I began taking writing classes. The first thing that you learn in writing classes is to write what you know. Being a postal employee, (a stressed out one) I began writing what I knew. That solved two problems; one, what to write about and two, it released a lot of work related stress.

BPM: Who are your favorite characters in your books?
It's unusual but my favorite character in both books, POSTAL BLUES and RAIN, SNOW, SLEET or HAIL is actually a side-bar character whose name is Carla. She has been on every diet known to mankind yet she continues to gain weight and she doesn't know why. Carla can always be found with a muffin or a fast food bag in her hand. Sweet as the donuts that she can't resist, she takes the constant ribbing about her diets with a smile. I like her because she doesn't take herself too seriously and because she represents the inner struggle that a lot of us have with will power.

BPM: Are your characters derived from real people?
No. I've developed my characters around events rather than actual people.

BPM: How much of what you write reflects your outlook on life?
A lot. There is plenty of humor in my books. I hear all the time that, "this had me cracking up" or "I couldn't stop laughing when I read that." There isn't too much life that I can't find humor in. My writing reflects that.

BPM: What do you think of the increasingly gratuitous sex in African American literature?
I think it takes away from the talent of the author. Not only is there too much gratuitous sex, but the over abundant number of sexual book covers depress me. When I see those covers on book shelves it makes me realize that some of my people are still falling in line with the perception that other races have of us. It makes me wonder if the author is aware of the impact that their cover may have on us as a race. But sex sells and this is a hard business to break into so I understand the method behind the madness, I don't agree, but I do understand which leads me to my next answer.

BPM: What was the most powerful chapter in the book for you to write?
Difficult not powerful ... In POSTAL BLUES one of the main characters goes through a "transformation" in the bedroom to make her husband think that she's having an affair. In order to accomplish that, I had to write some pretty graphic sex scenes. It was difficult for me. I had to pump myself up, lock my office door and forget that my brother may someday read what I had written. Even after having three children I didn't want him to know that I knew how to have sex.

In RAIN, SNOW, SLEET or HAIL I didn't put myself thru that torture; I wrote about making love without actually writing a 'How to' manual on it.

BPM: Ultimately what do you want readers to gain from Rain, Snow, Sleet or Hail?
People read fiction for entertainment. Does my book have any life changing revelations? No. If my writing prompts readers to consider a new way to handle a common problem, great, but I write to entertain. When someone finishes POSTAL BLUES or RAIN, SNOW, SLEET or HAIL I want them to think, "Wow, that was entertaining, or "Wow, that's a book I wouldn't mind rereading..."


Postal Blues by Nikki Coe
GENRE: Fiction
ISBN: 9781934248591


Rain, Snow, Sleet or Hail by Nikki Coe
GENRE: Fiction
ISBN: 9780578040219









EDC Creations Holiday Gift Guide

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EDC Creations Holiday Gift Guide

Please take a moment and visit our holiday gift guide for suggestions on great books!  We have author interviews, holiday interviews, bookclub showcases and tons of inspiration for our readers. Our Thanksgiving issue of Black Pearls Magazin is one of our best ever!  Go to Black Pearls Magazine now


Intimate Conversation with Literary Legends
Go On Girl! Book Club



BPM: Share with us the Go On Girl! history and chapter details. Share your founder(s) introduction. 
Go On Girl! Book Club was founded in February 1991 by Monique Greenwood, Lynda Johnson and Tracy Mitchell, three co-workers from New York City. The organization grew as members moved to other states and wanted to begin GOG chapters in their new cities. Today, Go On Girl! Book Club is one of the largest national reading organizations in the U.S. for black women with over 300 members in 31 chapters in 13 states including New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, Illinois, Virginia, Indiana, South Carolina, Texas, Alabama, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.   (Photo taken by Ella Curry June, 2009 at Black Bookclubs Rocks Award. GOG won the Literary Legends award.)


 Meet Lynda M. Johnson, Co-founder Go On Girl! Book Club
Lynda M. Johnson is co-founder and chair of the largest national reading group for African-American women, the Go On Girl! Book Club. Lynda spear heads the organization and its popular annual traveling Author Awards Weekend taking place in Washington, DC in 2011.  In addition she co-authored The Go On Girl! Book Club Guide for Reading Groups by Hyperion with co-founders Tracy Mitchell and Monique Greenwood. 

Mrs. Johnson grew up in Syracuse, New York the city that helped nurture her love of literature, fashion and wanderlust. After graduating high school she studied fashion journalism and media studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Fordham University which led her to a career as a fashion journalist where she travels extensively covering fashion here and abroad. She has received numerous awards, including two Atrium Awards for her fashion journalism coverage and an Art Direction Magazine Award for her styling of fashion photo shoots.

Mrs. Johnson is a partner in an online content based website for the children’s industry with Go On Girl! co-founder, Tracy Mitchell called www.kidstylesource.com. She also teaches journalism and advertising and promotions at her alma mater, the Fashion Institute of Technology and works as a freelance fashion journalist/stylist. She lives in Harlem, New York where she is slowly restoring an 1892 townhouse with her husband, musician, Alonzo Wright.



Meet Tracy Mitchell,  Co-founder Go On Girl! Book Club
For nearly 20 years, Tracy Mitchell covered the children’s product industry in various editorial roles at Fairchild Publication’s Children’s Business magazine. From 1996 to late 2005 (when Children’s Business closed its doors), Mitchell was at the helm of the monthly magazine.

Under Mitchell’s direction, Children’s Business developed and produced a consumer shopper magazine as a viable supplement, entitled Spree, The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Kids; negotiated an agreement with Nordstrom to distribute Spree in 90 stores nationwide; introduced two quarterly supplements – Kid Luxe and Tween Business – in response to the lack of public information available on these emerging trends in the kids’ business; and launched a weekly e-mail alert service to provide additional information on fashion and market news to Children’s Business subscribers.

A children’s market expert, Mitchell has been quoted and interviewed by mainstream press, including: The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, L.A. Times, Reuters, Chicago Tribune and CNN, on children’s business topics, ranging from luxury children’s wear and tween style trends to plus-size children’s wear and industry developments. Mitchell straddles the other side of the fence as a major consumer of children’s products as well. Mother to a toddler, a tween and a teen, she is well acquainted with the issues and concerns shopping parents encounter in the aisles and online.

KidStyleSource.com   represents Mitchell’s second entrepreneurial endeavor. In 1991 she helped launch what is now the #1 reading club targeting African-American women – The Go On Girl! Book Club (www.goongirl.org). She co-authored The Go On Girl! Book Club Guide for Reading Groups for Hyperion in 1999.


BPM: What is the mission of the Go On Girl! Book Club? What are your group goals? 
Key among the Go On Girl! goals is encouraging the continued publication of works by authors of African descent. The reviews to the authors and their publishing houses ensure the club's message is heard: "African-Americans do indeed read, so keep the quality books coming. This is not just a trend!"

The mission of Go On Girl! Book Club is to support the development of literature by authors throughout the African Diaspora. To that end we maintain on-going communication with authors and publishers of each book on our reading list to let them know our praise and and rage for each title. Go On Girl! Book Club's chapters support their respective communities through book drives, reading to the elderly and incarcerated, breast cancer walks, charity fundraisers as well as organizing Jr. Go On Girl! Book Club chapters for young girls.

The following support our mission:

- GOG Literary Magazine - 7th edition will be distributed in 2011

- GOG Website - being redesigned; will feature advertising

- Jr. Go On Girl! - Encouraging good reading habits in young girls

- GOG National Archives - Capturing GOG's history for future generations

- Writing Awards - Two monetary awards given to an amateur scribe and a student at an historically black college

- Annual Author Awards - some past winners include Jewell Parker Rhodes, Lawrence Hill, Tananarive Due, Lawrence Hill, J. California Cooper, Sonia Sanchez and many others.


BPM: What legacy do you think Go On Girl! Book Club will leave for those watching in the community?
We believe that Go On Girl! Book Club's legacy will be the support and guidance that we provide to black authors and publishers and the inspiration that our longevity and size gives to other bookclubs. In 2009, Go On Girl! Book Club won the Literary Legend award from the Black Book Club Rocks Foundation for 18 years as a national reading organization for black women. In 2011, Go On Girl! Book Club will host its 20th anniversary celebration at its 19th annual author awards event. The festivities will take place from May 20 - 22, 2011 in Washington, D.C. at the Marriott at Metro Center. All authors, bookclubs, publishers, bloggers, journalists who love black literature are invited to attend, For more information visit www.goongirl.org.


BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
Go On Girl! Book Club hosts an annual author awards event in a different city. In 2009 we travelled to Houston, Texas and in 2010 we were in Birmingham, Alabama. Each awards event features the winners of our Author of the Year and Best New Author Awards as well as Life Achievement, and Unpublished Writer and Scholarship Award winners. We are also joined by local authors. Some of GOG's winning authors include Lawrence Hill (Someone Knows My Name), Jennifer Baszile (The Black Girl Next Door), Sonia Sanchez (Morning Haiku), J. California Cooper (Life is Short But Wide), Stephen Carter (The Emperor of Ocean Park), Jewell Parker Rhodes (Douglass' Women) and many others. For our 20 year gala in 2011, 11 awards will be given to authors representing each genre reflected on our reading list in addition to the Author of the Year, Best New Author and writing award winners.


BPM: What adventures did GOG have in 2010? What will GOG do for the 20th anniversary in 2011?
2010 has been a tremendous year for Go On Girl! Book Club. We celebrated our 18th Annual Author Awards event in Birmingham, Alabama with authors Lawrence Hill 2009 Author of the Year (Someone Knows My Name), Jennifer Baszile 2009 Best New Author (The Black Girl Next Door) and Sonia Sanchez 2009 Life Achievement Award Winner (Morning Haiku). Special Guest authors included Vanessa Davis Griggs, Patricia Haley, Chaundra Sparks Taylor, Tina Kay and A. Faye Boykin.

In 2011, Go On Girl! Book Club will celebrate 20 years as an organization at our 19th Annual Author Awards gala. The festivities will take place from May 20-22nd in Washington, DC at the Marriott at Metro Center. We are looking for a tremendous turnout! Every author on our reading list will be invited to attend along with publishing professionals, bookclubs, bloggers, journalists - anyone who supports black literature. In addition to our 2010 Author of the Year and Best New Author, we will give 11 awards in each of the genres that Go On Girl! Book Club reads throughout the year.BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page?

Go On Girl! Book Club reads a book from a different genre each month so that our members are exposed to a broader view of literature. The genres are: anthology, autobiography/biography, classic, historical fiction, international, mystery/suspense, new author, science fiction/fantasy, short story, novel/popular fiction and social commentary


BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle or iPad, etc?
Go On Girl! Book Club supports new technology as long as the works of all black authors are readily available on these devices.


BPM: How may we find out more about Go On Girl! Book Club? 
To find our more information about Go On Girl! Book Club, please visit our website at http://www.goongirl.org/








Inspiration for the Holidays!

Create a Thanksgiving Pact by Stacy Hawkins Adams

Happy Thanksgiving from Stacy Hawkins Adams



Hi Friend,
I issue this greeting with the hope that you're preparing for your best Thanksgiving ever! Let's face it, though: We've all got "issues"; and during this time of year, which can be the most festive and joyous, sometimes the circumstances, people, or things that challenge us most threaten to sap our gratitude.

This year, however, why not make a "Thanksgiving Pact" with yourself to find the roses among the thorns?

* When you want to complain, hold your tongue and think of something positive.

* When you're feeling overwhelmed or gloomy, turn on some music with an uplifting beat or inspirational lyrics.

* When you're distracted by what you lack, reflect on your life and rejoice in all the good things (material and intangible) that you do possess.

Decide how you personally want to spell "Thankful" and tuck these words on a piece of paper or in a journal that you can return to throughout the holiday season.

Here's what I'll be reflecting on during Thanksgiving 2010:

T = Trusting God Always

H = Honored to Share My Journey with You and Others

A = Aiming for Excellence

N = Never Alone

K = Keeping the Faith

F = Forever Grateful for God's Love

U = Uplifted By His Grace and Mercy

L = Living Fully the Life He Gave Me

Choose your own phrases and give thanks in advance for where your transformative words will take you.

I'm thankful for YOU and for your continued support of my writing and speaking endeavors.

Here's wishing you a Thanksgiving in which you can recognize simple blessings and be grateful that another day is yours to experience.


Happy Thanksgiving and Warm Regards!

Stacy Hawkins Adams
Bestselling Author / Inspirational Speaker
Igniting Hope that Fuels Your Dreams


About the Author

Stacy Hawkins Adams is an award-winning author, speaker and freelance writer. Her six nationally-published women's fiction novels weave faith, social issues and personal growth themes into creative plots. Her nonfiction book gives women practical tips, scriptural guidance and inspiration on how to connect more deeply with God.
Stacy's fourth novel, The Someday List, maintained a steady presence on the Essence bestseller's list throughout 2009, and soared to #7 on the Kindle bestseller list earlier this year. The Someday List was nominated for a Library of Virginia fiction award.
Her latest novel, Dreams That Won't Let Go, hit bookstore shelves in January 2010 and continues to receive critical acclaim. Who Speaks to Your Heart? is Stacy's first nonfiction book. It was released in May 2010 and serves as a devotional guide for busy women from all walks of life.

She recently launched a group coaching service called Author In You (www.AuthorInYou.com), through which she and a select group of professional authors provide personalized motivation and advice to fiction and nonfiction writers seeking to complete a manuscript. She occasionally provides personal "purpose coaching" that empowers women to recognize their relevance and purpose, and succeed at a personal or professional goal.
When she is not writing, speaking or coaching, Stacy devotes considerable time to promoting child advocacy as a writing and marketing consultant, and community volunteer. Stacy lives in a suburb of Richmond, Va. with her husband and two children.

Connect with Stacy Online:
http://www.stacyhawkinsadams.com/
www.Facebook.com/BooksByStacy

Thankful to be counted amongst the living!

Thankful to be counted amongst the living!
by Electa Rome Parks


I am a worry-wart.

I always have been and probably will remain so until the day I take my final breath. It is what it is. Ironically, I don't worry that I am a worrywart. Possessing that title has its rich rewards. For one, I'm always on my "A" game---making sure I cross all my t's and dot all my i's. There is always a Plan B in place, just in case Plan A doesn't work out.

So. . . the spill-off or residue from being a worrywart is that I'm super organized and highly efficient in most all I do. I try to retain control in all I do, as much to the degree that is possible. You guys read between the lines. Okay, I admit it, I can be picky, a control freak and a perfectionist to a fault.

Over the quickly fleeing years that pass by in the blink of an eye, as my spiritual level and maturity has grown, I have come to realize that I should always come with my "A" game, but also realize that with God all around me---guiding, leading, directing and instructing my footsteps---I can eagerly give up my title, confident in the knowledge that I'll be alright. In fact, I'll be better than alright, I will be safe, sound, happy and secure with my place in this world. He always makes a way, even during our darkest moments. When you think you can't take another step, he'll do one better and carry you.

As we move towards holidays, I pause to reflect on all the wonderful family and friends that I have in my life. I have a loving husband, children that I am very proud of, people who love and care for me with a passion, just as I am. They accept me with faults, imperfections and even when I'm in worrywart mode. Plus, I'm living my dream each and every day. I'm creating the reality of my dreams and that in itself is magic. Magic surrounds me and I bask in its glory. I have my health and my strength and my sanity. What more could I possibly ask for or need in my life?

No, my life hasn't been without struggle and hardship. I've lost so many people over the years to death in my immediate family, but I'm still standing, solid as a live oak; I've never had anything simply handed to me on a platter, I've worked hard for everything I've achieved and appreciated it even more; I've had moments of doubt and uncertainty only to be given crystal-clear clarity; I've looked at the "other side" and thought the grass was greener only to discover it wasn't, it wasn't even green, more of an imitation shade; I've asked the question, many times, "why me, Lord?" only to receive the answer, "Why not you, my child?"

In the past, I've been hurt by men because I love deeply and they didn't appreciate my true worth; hell, I've been hurt by my family, blood; even hurt by my so called best friends forever, but I still rise; I've been down, down, down, but I've also been up, so high I could almost reach the sky; I've been disillusioned to the point of despair, but I've also been inspired by the goodness of people who care; I've cried buckets of tears, but I've also rejoiced in splendor at the beauty of the human spirit.

The green-eyed monster of jealousy has visited me a few times and I've fought him off tooth and sword because I learned a long time ago to truly be happy for other's good fortune; God has your back and your day is coming. What's meant for you is truly meant for you and no one, no thing, no situation can take that away from you. I've had my moments when I took to my bed, in a state of depression, sleep as my refuge, but I always got back up stronger and resilient with a fire burning deep within my soul. I've been to the mountaintop and it is a beautiful thing, but I've also been in the valley a day short and a dollar late.

All this to say: Life can be hard. Life is full of strive and struggle. But you know what? I'm so thankful! Thankful to be counted amongst the living. I'm thankful! Thankful to have a voice, thankful to make a difference, thankful to have a platform to speak, thankful to know all I have to do is see it and believe it for it to happen.

I'm so thankful that my reality doesn't have to be my destiny. I'm so thankful that I have a fire that burns deep within. I'm so thankful that all I have to do is listen and he will speak. I'm so thankful that all I have to do is ask and then I will receive. I'm thankful God moves through me which enables me to move people.

I AM SO VERY THANKFUL!   HAPPY HOLIDAYS!


About the Author

Electa Rome Parks currently resides outside Atlanta, Georgia. After successfully self-publishing her debut novel, The Ties That Bind, New American Library, a division of Penguin Group, bought the rights. Electa signed a three-book deal with New American Library.

All three books were immediately chosen as Black Expressions Book Club main selections and embraced as Books of the Month by book clubs across the country. Dubbed a "book club favorite," avid readers have embraced Electa's true to life characters that tackle prevalent and heavy hitting issues.

Since then Electa has become a bestselling author of several other mainstream (Loose Ends and Almost Doesn't Count) and erotic (These Are My Confessions, Ladies' Night Out, Diary of a Stalker and True Confessions) novels with Penguin Group, HarperCollins and Kensington.

The self-proclaimed, Queen of Real, Electa has been a frequent guest on radio shows, has been nominated for many industry awards and has been interviewed by newspapers, AOL's Black Voices, Vibe Vixen, Upscale Magazine, Today's Black Woman, Rolling Out and Booking Matters, to name just a few. With a BA degree in marketing and a minor in sociology, she is following her true passion and working on her next novel and first screenplay.

To find out when and where Electa will be in your area, check out her website at http://www.electaromeparks.com/.

To share your thoughts with Electa regarding her work or to schedule an event, please e-mail her at novelideal@aol.com.

7 Ways to Empty The Cup by Talayah Stovall

7 Ways to Empty The Cup  by Talayah Stovall


There is a saying, "Empty the cup. Every time you empty it, it comes back twice as full."
Thanksgiving is a time for expressing gratitude and appreciation for our many blessings. Real weath begins with giving. Here are several ways that you can make a difference this holiday season by pouring into the lives of others:

1. Give Your Time - Babysit for someone who can't afford to hire a sitter. Take food to someone who is sick. Visit a nursing home. Send a note to brighten someone's day. Volunteer at a local shelter for whatever cause you support - women, children, the homeless, even your favorite animal shelter.

2. Give Your Talents - What can you do that would make a difference in someone's life? Can you knit? Style hair? Sing? Do you like to clean and organize? Extend yourself this holiday season by using your gifts to help and cheer others.

3. Give Your Blood - Every two seconds someone in America needs blood. Currently, only 3 out of 100 people give. Every pint of blood can save up to three lives. Contact the Red Cross for information.

4. Give Your Organs - Leave a lasting legacy. Register with your state and sign the donor form on your drivers' license.



About the Author
Talayah G. Stovall, Pres., TGrace, is an author, keynote speaker, radio host, life purpose coach and Managing Director of Vision Catalyst Consulting.

For information on speaking or coaching, as well as her motivational audio CDs, "P.U.M.P. It UP! and 7 Secrets to Ignite Your Dreams, her book, Crossing the Threshold: Opening Your Door to Successful Relationships, eBook, 150 Important Questions You Should Ask Before You Say "I Do", or newsletter "EmPOWERed to...", please visit   http://www.talayahstovall.com/.

Use Your Passion to Tap Into Your Purpose!


Talayah G. Stovall
Author, Speaker, Life Purpose Coach

Black Books Weekend on the BAN Radio Show


Black Books Weekend on the BAN Radio Show


Black Books Weekend will open Black Friday, November 26, 2010 with live readings and live Twitter and Facebook chats with 80 of the most talented writers on the shelves, from all genres. Readers can possibly WIN one of 50 books being given away by calling into the show nightly! Read on...


Friday, Nov. 26 - Monday, Nov. 29, 2010

Readers Join Us Nightly:  646.200.0402
Party Totally Online at: http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/
BAN Chatroom : www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network


 


The 3rd Annual Black Books Weekend, hosted by Ella Curry of EDC Creations features four nights of readings and discussions with noted authors, bookclubs and poets. Our mission is to get folks to buy great books for gifts this holiday season, from our featured authors, publishers and their imprints.

Join us from the comfort of your homes, using your phones, and share the spirit of Sankofa with EDC Creations! This event is a bookclub and avid readers paradise!

We have confirmed appearances by: Carol Mackey, Mocha Ochoa, Kimberla Lawson Roby, Earl Sewell, Bernice L. McFadden, Pamela Samuels Young, Electa Rome Parks, Naleighna Kai, Moses Miller, William Ashanti Hobbs, Pat G'Orge Walker, Mari Walker, Kai, Fiona Zedde, Michelle Janine Robinson, Aleysha Proctor, Yasmine Harrison, Samara King, Jamise Dames, Dwayne S. Joseph, Denise R. Coleman, Twala Meju, Junnita Jackson and many more.


50 Book Giveaway Returns!
There are three major gift bag promotions for the readers who join us November 26-29, 2010 on the phones, in the BAN Chatroom and at the Twitter chat. Please tell your network and fans about this wonderful weekend and give them The Gift of Knowledge!  Readers, call into the show nightly at 646.200.0402  and speak to the featured authors. BAN Chatroom guests are eligible to win one of the featured books, by entering here nightly: www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network


Black Books Weekend Schedule
Featured Panel Discussions, Author Showcases and Bookclub Parties.
Special holiday Twitter Chat on Monday Night 9-10pm! Details below.


* Friday, November 26, 2010 at 8-10 pm EST
Theme: Freaky Friday - Adult Books, Romance, Erotica,Gay/Lesbian
Location: Black Authors Network Radio Show
Connection: Call into the show at 646.200.0402


* Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 8-10 pm EST
Theme: Urban Lit, Thrillers, Mystery, Poetry and Mixed Genre Fiction
Location: Black Authors Network Radio Show
Connection: Call into the show at 646.200.0402


* Sunday, November 28, 2010 at 8-10 pm EST
Theme: Christian Fiction, Non-fiction, YA Readers, and Religious
Location: Black Authors Network Radio Show
Connection: Call into the show at 646.200.0402


* Monday, November 29, 2010 at 9-10 pm EST
Theme: Sankofa Bookclub Summit Twitter Chat
Location: Black Magazine Blogspot and TweetChat.com
Follow us on Twitter or at TweetChat with hashtag: < #blklitsummit >
Giving away (2) $250.00 gift bags, filled with books for holiday reviews



WIN GREAT GIFT BAGS AND REVIEW BOOKS
Readers, call into the show nightly at 646.200.0402 and speak to the featured authors. If you win a book, email Ella Curry immediately at:  edc_dg@yahoo.com, so she can send you the instructions. Listen for your area code during the show, your phone line will be opened and you can speak to the authors.

BAN Chatroom guests are eligible to win one of the featured books, by entering here nightly: www.blogtalkradio.com/Black-Author-Network  Join Ella and the other readers in the BAN Radio Show chatroom nightly to answer trivia questions, play games and share your thoughts. Registered chatters are eligible to win one of 5 books given away nightly. The two bookclubs with the most members in the chatroom each night will win a $50.00 gift bag! 

AUTHORS AND POETS
November 26-29, 2010 we are celebrating heritage, culture and creative forces! After the broadcasts, the shows feeds out to 118,000 RSS feed listeners, creates its own newsletter, is posted to130 blog and podcast directories. I will send it out to personal database of 133,000 readers in a holiday eblast. WE will spread the word to the masses!  If you would like to promote your book during Black Books Weekend visit our website and check out the packages here: http://www.edc-creations.com/publicity.htm


READERS AND BOOKCLUBS
You are invited to participate in online reading sessions, contests, bookclub giveaways, radio interviews and guest blogging sessions. Meet us online from the comforts of your home. Invite your friends, co-workers and social network members. Please consider the books showcased for your "book of the month" or to give as gifts all year long. Visit Black Pearls Magazine today to find those rare literary gems at: http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com/!


Thank you,

Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations

Join the 11/22 BPM Literary Legacy Panel



 
Celebrating the Legacy of Black Literature
Black Authors Network Radio with Ella Curry


We are discussing literature, love of community and our literary legacy! This is a community discussion and we want to hear from YOU.

In honor of Thanksgivings, the Sankofa Literary Society (SLS) will host a empowering discussion panel on the legacy our books will leave future generations. This phenomenal online experience will highlight African-Americans in the literary world including radio hosts, educators, authors and publishing leaders. We invite you to call into the show and share your opinions of  "The State of African American Literature" and the legacy we are leaving.

Are you proud of the books that we are producing today?
Are the books published today creating a impact on the readers or merely entertaining the masses? Join us and speak up and out!




 
Black Pearls Literary Legacy Panel Discussion


FEATURED SPEAKERS:

Mocha Ochoa
Facebook: Facebook/inthecafewithmocha
In the Café with Mocha Literary Talk Show

Mocha Ochoa is the CEO of The Oracle Group, a nationally recognized agency that specializes in producing literary, educational and outreach campaign development. Connecting authors with events that engage and uplift the local, national and global community. The Oracle Group specializes in producing A-List Author Launch Events, National and Community Book Fairs, Educator Appreciation Series and Literary Campaign Development.

Mocha, host of the In the Café with Mocha Literary Talk Show co-founded the NAACP Author Pavilion at their Annual Convention and has also organized book events for Barnes & Noble, The National Book Festival, The National Press Club and the National Council of Negro Women. She the founding member and implementing partner of the Reading Across Continents initiative, an interactive cross-cultural literary exchange project connecting students, teachers and authors via technology. Participating countries include Ghana, Nigeria and the United State.


Judine Slaughter
Books: Clear Skinned and Do-It-Yourself Publishing
Exective Director United Black Writers Association

Judine Slaughter is the Executive Director of the United Black Writers Association. She has previously been the editor of several newsletters, taught three online classes on publishing/marketing and has presented writing workshops. Ms. Slaughter supports the nurturing of literary talent, because everyone has a story.


Go On Girl! Book Club
Website: http://www.goongirl.org/
Lynda M. Johnson - Co-Founder, Go On Girl! Book Club
Willette Hill - Corresponding Secretary
Evalyn Rose Hamilton - Historian
Tracey Y. Smith - Nat'l Media & Author Relations, Founder More Than Words

Go On Girl! Celebrating the Legacy of Black Literature® -- With more than 30 chapters in 12 states, The Go On Girl! Book Club is the largest African-American women's book club in the country. Founded in 1991, members meet in their homes in their respective cities to discuss the club's reading selection of the month. Feedback on each selection is shared with the authors and publishers. The chapters come together annually to honor authors and celebrate the legacy of Black literature. Through the years, literary luminaries such as Gloria Naylor, Bebe Moore Campbell, Jill Nelson and Pearl Cleage have come in person to receive their Go On Girl! Author of the Year award.



Shalema McGhee
Blogger, Authors In Color
http://authorsincolor.blogspot.com/

Shalema K. McGhee is founder and blogger of Authors In Color. Her main goal is to promote and support books by authors of the African diaspora. She is also a member of Go On Girl! Book Club, where she currently serves as facilitator of the founding chapter.



Cora Coleman-Dunham
Musician, Mentor and Author
Book: G.A.G.U. - Gathering a Greater Understanding: The Ultimate Life Guide for Youth

Cora C. Dunham, is the Vice-President and CEO of The Vivo Club. Drummer, writer, photographer, director, clinician, mentor and designer, Cora received her Bachelor of Music degree in 2004 from Howard University (Washington, DC). Cora has performed with Pink, Lalah Hathaway, Goapele, Richard Smallwood, Il Divo, Elton John, Frank McComb and is currently the drummer for Pop artist, Prince.


Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond
Book: Powder Necklace: A Novel

Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond has written for AOL, Parenting Magazine, the Village Voice, Metro and Trace Magazine. Her short story "Bush Girl" was published in the May 2008 issues of African Writing and her poem, "The Whinings of a Seven Sister Cum Laude Graduate Working Board as an Assistant," was published in 2006's Growing up Girl Anthology.

A cum laude graduate of Vassar College, she attended secondary school in Ghana. Powder Necklace is loosely based on the experience. POWDER NECKLACE chronicles the seminal years in the life of a teenage girl as she is shuttled both physically and emotionally from London to Ghana to London again, and finally Long Island.



Karen F. Brundage-Johnson, Ph.D.
Book: Beyond the Body! Developing Inner Beauty
Professional Women Woman Speakers Bureau - http://www.protrain.net/  

Karen Brundage-Johnson, PhD is President of Your Image Matters, a consulting and training organization. As a business leader, Karen has overseen training &development for thousands of employees implementing programs in professional development, empowerment, and diversity.

Karen is co-author of “Beyond the Body! Developing Inner Beauty”, a book for women focused on emotional, mental & spiritual wellness.

In 2004, she founded the Readers Journey Book Club Network bringing book clubs together in Atlantic County New Jersey to fellowship and experience author discussions and in 2008 featured in Essence Magazine with author Gloria Naylor.

Karen also writes jazz performance reviews that accompany the jazz photos taken by her husband, noted jazz photographer Ben Johnson for Jazz Time Magazine online.



Tina McElroy Ansa
Book: Taking After Mudear
Novelist, Publisher, Filmmaker and Journalist
Websites: http://www.tinamcelroyansa.com/  and  http://www.downsouthpress.com/

Tina McElroy Ansa is a novelist, publisher, filmmaker, teacher and journalist. But above all, she is a storyteller. She calls herself “part of a long and honored writing tradition, one of those little Southern girls who always knew she wanted to be a writer.”  She grew up in Middle Georgia in the 1950s hearing her grandfather’s stories on the porch of her family home and strangers’ stories downtown in her father’s juke joint, which have inspired Mulberry, Georgia, the mythical world of her four novels, Baby of the Family, Ugly Ways, The Hand I Fan With and You Know Better.

In March 2007, Mrs. Ansa launched an independent publishing company, DownSouth Press, with its focus on African-American literature -- fiction and nonfiction. Her fifth novel, Taking After Mudear, a sequel to her bestselling Ugly Ways, will be the lead title on DownSouth Press’s first list in the fall of 2007. DownSouth Press will publish established as well as emerging literary voices.

She and her husband, AFI (American Film Institute) Fellow filmmaker Joneé Ansa are currently adapting Baby of the Family for the screen in a feature film starring Alfre Woodard, Loretta Devine, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Vanessa Williams, Todd Bridges, Pam Grier, and Tonea Stewart. The author is collaborating with her husband on the screenplay for Baby of the Family, which he will direct and shoot in her hometown of Macon, Georgia. Mrs. Ansa is executive producer.

She and her husband, Joneé Ansa, have lived on St. Simons Island, Georgia since 1984. Together they produced and directed the 1989 Georgia Sea Island Festival, a 30-year-old grassroots festival that seeks to preserve the crafts, music, slave chants, games, food and spirit of the African-American people who lived and worked as slaves on the rice and cotton plantations along the Georgia coast. Ms. Ansa is an avid birder, amateur naturalist, and gardener. She always has collard greens growing in her garden among the black-eyed Susans and moonflowers.


Ella Curry, EDC Creations

Ella Curry is the president and CEO of EDC Creations Media Group. She brings more than 20 years of PR and marketing experience to clients in film, music, publishing and corporate event planning. Her expertise as well as her love for all things literary, dynamic contacts, and collaborative approach with clients have earned her a reputation as a respected leader in the publishing industry. Ella has enjoyed an extensive tenure in media promotions and book publicity. She started out as a corporate event planner and website developer; later becoming a buyer for the legendary Karibu Book Store chain. Her career now includes services such as blog tour coordinator, book coach, video journalist and literary publicist.

She has interviewed community leaders and celebrities such as: The View's Emmy® award-winning co-host, comedienne/actress Sherri Shepherd, Byron Pitts Emmy® award-winning journalist for 60 Minutes and chief national correspondent for CBS Evening News, American film director of Secret Life of Bees, Gina Prince-Bythewood, literary legends Dr. Maya Angelou and Sonia Sanchez, along with award-winning actors and actresses such as Hill Harper, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Dakota Fanning, Tristan Wilds, and International motivational speaker Lisa Nichols of the Secret DVD and author of No Matter What. 

Ella Curry is the host and producer of the Black Authors Network Radio Show, sponsored by EDC Creations Media Group. Ella has interviewed MochaMoms® and other community leaders along with bestselling authors Terrie M. Williams, Sue Monk Kidd, Farrah Gray, Breena Clarke, Carleen Brice, Nathan McCall, Mary B. Morrison, Francis Ray, Walter Mosley, John Kremer, Lutishia Lovely and Donna Hill.   

Ella Curry is the publisher of Black Pearls Magazine, a professional blogger and literary reporter on www.blackpearlsmagazine.com where she publishes her popular Intimate Conversation Interviews with today's hottest authors, business owners and community leaders. In the Spring of 2011, Ella will release her first book on how to effectively market and promote your book with social media while on a budget.


Thankful by Doris Washington

Thankful  by Doris Washington

Let's be thankful for the times we come together
Not only for the holiday feast,
The Turkey,
The dressing,
And the pumpkin pie,
But also to cherish the time
In seeing each other again,
Till the time we come together-Again.

Let's be thankful
And remember it's the moments we share,
The Love we give,
The Love of family,
The Love of friends,
Near or far.

Let's be thankful for every moment,
For each day,
And remember as we give to others in need,
We too will be blessed.

For its the Love of family,
The Love of friends,
And the Love of Giving.

Let's Be-
Thankful

Thankful copyright (c) Doris Washington, November 2010. All rights reserved.


About the Author/Poet
Doris Washington is a spiritual writer, author, poet, and disability advocate who resides in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania with her husband and son John. Doris takes the inspiration from her poetry from an unfortunate incident that involved her 18-year-old son with autism, and two police officers in December 1993. This incident impacted Doris' life greatly. She was empowered to advocate for a statewide program for police officers to be aware of and recognize persons with special needs. And it was through this period of Doris' life her writing began.

Her son is her inspiration to write. She has written over 450 poems about her closeness with God, spirituality, autism awareness, inspirations, positive thinking, social issues in our world, and greetings. She is an entrepreneur of  DORIS' POEMS. She does poetry readings at nursing homes, and residential home facilities, churches, and the community. Her poems continue to inspire many. Her desire hopes that her poetry will be an inspiration for the world.

Voices of Thanksgiving: author Trice Hickman

Voices of Thanksgiving AND Gratitude
Trice Hickman



Trice Hickman, is the award-winning, bestselling author of Unexpected Interruptions, which was selected as a Black Expressions “Dynamic Debut.” The novel also won the Southeastern Virginia Arts Association’s 2008 Afr’ Am Literary Award for Best New African American Voice, and the Best Romance Novel Award at the 2008 African American Literary Awards Show. Her latest novel, Keeping Secrets & Telling Lies, was released June 2009, and has received praise from readers, literary reviewers, and book clubs across the country. Her third novel, Playing the Hand You’re Dealt, was released summer 2010.   Website: http://www.tricehickman.com/
  
What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
Christmas at my maternal grandmother's house was always fun! One Christmas that stands out for me was when I was seven years old and she gave me my first watch!  I've always been fascinated by time and could read a clock when I was four years old!  Knowing how much I loved time pieces (at such an early age), my grandmother gave me a Mini-Mouse Timex with a pink leather band! I LOVED that watch!  You couldn't tell me that I wasn't stylin' that Christmas! 

How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the "traditions" for your family?
The holidays are my favorite time of year, so from November 1, through January 2, it's on!  I cook tons of food and have family, friends, and neighbors over to help celebrate throughout the season. One tradition that has been passed down from my grandmother has been to decorate the house from top to bottom for the season. My grandmother had a true flare for putting a stylish touch on simple Christmas decorations, turning everything she into a holiday masterpiece. My mother used to get fresh pine needles from the trees in our back yard and decorate the house with them; the smell was wonderful! And now, two generations later, I decorate my house from top to bottom in full holiday grandeur!

What are you most thankful for today?
I'm thankful for so many things, most importantly, for my loving and supportive family and friends who always give me inspiration and encouragement. God has been very good to me! 

What message does all your books have in common?
The singular message that my current books (and future books) have in common is this: it's not about the mistakes you make, it's about how you recover from them. We are all going to make mistakes along the way, so don't sweat it. Instead of concentrating on what went wrong, work on how you are going to rebound from the situation. The characters in my novels are good people who sometimes make bad decisions, but it's in how they deal with what they've done that brings about life's interesting learning lessons.




Voices of Thanksgiving: author Lutishia Lovely

Voices of Thanksgiving AND Gratitude
Lutishia Lovely


 Lutishia Lovely grew up in a small Kansan town, and often had to rely on her own creativity and imagination for entertainment. Her childhood habit of long conversations with imaginary friends and fantasies of traveling the world have evolved into a satisfying career that allows her to indulge her passion for spontaneous jet-setting to parts unknown. She’s visited forty states and more than a dozen countries.

Since childhood, she’s also had a deep-seated belief that dreams can come true. This is what gave her the courage to take her self-published novel to a conference attended by 25,000 people, give one book to one editor, and get a book deal. She says that magic can only happen, when we believe…

What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
My favorite holiday memory is from when I was eight years old. Christmas was coming, yet on Christmas Eve, there were only two or three presents under the tree, and none of them had my name on them! I was VERY concerned, and shared this anxiety with my mother. "Well, maybe Santa won't come this year," she said. "You'll just have to go to bed and see what happens." I tossed and turned, but sleep finally came. Seconds after opening my eyes the next morning, I threw back the covers and flew into the living room! Presents abounded under the Christmas tree! "He came! Santa came!" I shouted to my parents. I was soooo excited! My parents beamed, as my joy became theirs.

I don't even remember what I got that Christmas, and I think it was the following year that I found out that Santa Claus's real name was Mama and Daddy. But that for one Christmas, I believed that anything was possible, and that a total stranger thought enough of me to drop off gifts at my house. It remains my favorite holiday memory. And I still believe... 

How do you celebrate the holidays? 
What are the "traditions" for your family? For the past several holidays, I've begun making my own traditions. One of them is to give gifts to the homeless on Christmas morning, instead of receiving. Myself and a couple friends buy essentials and treats: socks, underwear, toiletries, etc., and also candy, toys and BOOKS, wrap them, load up the car, don a Santa hat, and drive around the streets of Los Angeles looking for people living on the street.

We don't go to organized places such as Salvation Army, rescue missions, etc. We find people sleeping on the street, tap them on their blanket, and when they come out from under the covers blinking away sleep, we smile, hold out the gift and say "Merry Christmas."   I can't tell you how special these people feel, and how much joy I've gotten from this inexpensive act. They've been some of the best Christmases of my life.

What are you most thankful for today? 
To be who I am, an awake, aware human being, and a published author! What message does all your books have in common? That Spirit is Love, and that while my books are about the drama in romantic relationships, our relationship with Spirit, and to who we really are, is the most important one of all. The miracle you're looking for is in your mirror. Website: http://www.lutishialovely.com/ 







Voices of Thanksgiving: author Gail McFarland

Voices of Thanksgiving AND Gratitude
Gail McFarland

Gail McFarland is the published author of more than 100 short romantic confessions and stories and seven novels including: SUMMERWIND (BET/Arabesque), WHEN LOVE CALLS (BET/Arabesque), BOUQUET (with Roberta Gayle and Anna Laurence, BET/Arabesque), LADY KILLER (LULU Books), and ALL FOR LOVE (LULU Books). 

A dedicated wellness/fitness advocate, Ms. McFarland is currently an active fitness instructor and consultant. She happily admits that DREAM RUNNER is the first of her novels to combine her love of sports and fitness with the passion of romance. DREAM KEEPER, the sequel to this well received novel, is slated for December, 2009.   Also in 2009, Ms. McFarland returned to her romantic roots with short stories and confessions, in conjunction with Lady Leo Publications, and readers can look forward to her contribution to the February 2010 anthology, CAN A SISTAH GET SOME LOVE? A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Ms. McFarland now makes her home in Atlanta, Georgia. Website: http://fitwryter.tripod.com/

What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
I absolutely LOVE Christmas, and I love it for more than the gifts. I love the connectivity and tradition of it all. Oh, and snow. Everybody should have snow for Christmas. My favorite Christmas was my 16th -- it was my first real glimpse of "growing up". I got a driver's license, permission to date, a cute boyfriend, a very sweet kiss in the snow, and there was a bunch of other stuff under the tree (but you can see where my priorities were ...) 

How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the "traditions" for your family?
Because my family is so small, I usually celebrate with friends. Two of my favorite traditions are the cooking, and all of the food. Something about being in that kitchen, with everything smelling so good is both soothing and relaxing for me. One of my favorite Christmas family traditions is that everyone who visits has a gift under our tree: there are no strangers in our home, only family.

What message does all your books have in common?
I write romance, so this one is kind of easy. I believe that what is meant for you is truly for you. My books explore themes of love, redemption, and determination, drenched with passion, sensuality, and intimacy, always powered by fate. Love is a good thing. 





Voices of Thanksgiving: author Avah LaReaux

Voices of Thanksgiving AND Gratitude
Avah LaReaux


A writer inspired by the human condition, Avah LaReaux uses the power of the written word to captivate and entertain her readers. She has a talent for penning stories that focus on the lives of everyday people while conveying messages of empowerment, optimism, and inspiration.

Avah LaReaux’s work and prose has been featured in various anthologies including In-Between Days and Under A Quick Silver Moon in the United States and abroad in the United Kingdom in the anthology Theatre of the Mind.

Her current novels What's Done In the Dark and Song of the Siren are the first two installations of six in the Lost and Found saga series.
Website: http://www.avahlareaux.com/  


What was your most memorable holiday from the past?
My favorite holiday memory is from my childhood when my mom and sisters and I would gather in the kitchen to cook Christmas dinner. The event always started on Christmas Eve and I remember being so excited to go on winter break at school and come home to start cooking. While we worked, there was always music (Motown, of course) and egg nog. Most times, my sister would bake some type of scrumptious dessert and we would spend the entire day cooking, laughing, and telling each other to go easy on the cake.

How do you celebrate the holidays? What are the "traditions" for your family?
In our home, the holiday season begins with the first day of autumn and ends after the Super Bowl. We celebrate with decorations and music and, of course, food. From decorative squash and dried corn to the annual tree raising ceremony, we use every minute to laugh and reflect and enjoy each other.

What are you most thankful for today? What message does all your books have in common?
I am very thankful for the opportunity to do what I love full time. Writing has long been my dream and to be living that dream is absolutely amazing. It is the realization of hope I carried in my heart long before I realized I could really be an author. That message of hope, for dreams, for love, for a better life, is the common thread in all my books.