Intimate Conversation with Sistahs and Friends Book Club

Intimate Conversation with Sistahs and Friends Book Club

Founders of Sistahs and Friends - Yvette Barrett, Malinda Burden and Priscilla Myers. In December, 2014 we lost our 4th founder, Theresa Jackson.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started?  Does the name of the club have a special meaning? How many members do you have? 
Sistahs and Friends Book Club started in 1997, in Chicago, when 4 young professional co-workers, Priscilla Myers, Theresa Jackson, Malinda Burden and Yvette Barrett discovered they shared a common passion. That passion was the love of reading and the desire to share their thoughts with each other. We had our first book club discussion in a conference room during our lunch hour. It was such a great experience that we decided to continue and called ourselves, Sistahs Bookclub. Later on we had a male that wanted to join us. So in fairness to him and other potential males, we changed our name to Sistahs and Friends Bookclub. We started with 4 and currently have 12 members.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something in particular that makes your group different from other groups? 
Sistahs and Friends unites mature women and men from diverse backgrounds together in sister and brotherhood. We promote spiritual, motivational and intellectual development and awareness through the reading of fiction and non-fiction books, embracing the style and diversity of each member and each author. What we thought would be just a past time, for getting together among friends and sharing views on literature, led to so much more. We increased our membership, produced a mission statement, elected officers, created by-laws, paid dues, and 19 years later we are still Sistahs and Friends Book Club.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
Sistahs and Friends exemplify the true essence of sisterhood. Our legacy will be that true Sistahs support, lift and motivate each other not tear them down.

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group? How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
Our members are mature professionals who all grew up from various backgrounds and areas in the city of Chicago. We started this group 19 years ago as "Bubbies" and have grown into mature outgoing, outspoken women who love a great book, with a great meal, a great glass of wine and a great discussion. These is no room and no tolerance for pettiness and or catiness. We may not always agree on the rating of a book but we will always have a great debate regarding the merits of our selections or lack thereof.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group? Do you have an online version of the group?
We look for someone who will fit in our circle and have the passion for reading as we do. When a vacancy occurs, we invite the potential member to a meeting to ensure that their personalities mesh with the current membership. We have never had a problem attracting members however in the beginning we had problem retaining them. Some members were not committed to reading which lead to the creation of bylaws which have proved to solve the problem. Our current members have been active 10 years or more.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
By everybody sharing their own opinion of the book it leads to great conversations. Sometimes we can walk into the meeting ready to give a low rating and after much discussion it can easily be adjusted higher. Our sistahs are definitely not shy, they are very outspoken and will tell you like it is with no regrets. Many authors have experienced the brutal truths of Sistahs and Friends. Sometimes a reading guide is helpful but we don’t always use. We have very creative members who come up with games, quizzes, etc. to engage the group and stimulate conversation during the meeting.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers? 
Sistahs and Friends Book Club’s season is from September - May. During the May meeting members randomly select a month to host for the next season. It is the responsibility of the host to select the book for the month which she is hosting. Most of the members make their selection based on recommendations from family and friends, reading over the summer or just reading reviews on-line. There have been times when some of us have read another book and discussed it outside of the book of the month for the bookclub. We share our book selections (2011 to present) on our website.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
In the early years of Sistahs and Friends we only read books by African American authors. However over the years we have developed an appetite to broaden our horizon and not limit ourselves. During the years we have supported all authors as well as self-published authors and invited some of them to attend our bookclub discussions (via in person, Skype, FaceTime and conference call). Yes, a few of our members still borrow books from the library but the majority have Kindle or a Reader.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? Have the types of books changed over time? 
The types of books we prefer to read has changed over the years, in the beginning we read books by authors like E. Lynn Harris, Michael Baisden, James Patterson, Eric Jerome Dickey, Terry McMillan, Zane and J. California Cooper. The books dealt with short stories, sex and relationships respectively. As we have matured so have our books. Today, we read books by authors like Brandon Massey (Don’t Ever Tell), Khaled Hosseini (Kite Runner), Pamela Samuels Young (Anybody’s Daughter), Dwayne Alexander Smith (Forty Acres), and Daniel Black (Perfect Peace) and Naleighna Kai (Every Woman Needs a Wife). As you can see our selection of books have expanded and our members have welcomed all authors regardless of ethnicity.

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
Here are a few that received the highest rating that we give - (5stars) Good To The Last Drop.
Standing at the Scratch Line - Guy Johnson
Forty Acres - Dwayne Alexander Smith
Perfect Peace - Daniel Black
Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - Rebecca Skoot
The Red Tent - Anita Diamant
My Soul to Keep - Tananarive Due
Redeeming Love - Francine Rivers
The Douglass Women - Jewell Parker
No Regrets - Patricia Haley

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
Sistahs and Friends started out doing a grab bag each Christmas but decided that we wanted to give back to the community instead. So now we do just that. We have worked with Chicago Public Schools, DCFS, and St. Joseph Children’s Hospital. Through them we have provided children with everything from clothing, school supplies to toys. This year we decided to change our focus gave to a domestic violence shelter. We provided them with purses filled with all the day to day necessities. We are very proud of our accomplishments and it fills us with such satisfaction to see the smiles. Sistahs and Friends have an outing once a year in the summer (during our break) to do something fun with each other (dinner, painting, plays, and architectural tours). We have also hosted a luncheon, had weekend trips to Wisconsin, San Francisco and next year our 20th Anniversary (TBD).

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who are in or who might want to start a book club?
Don't be discouraged if you don't start out with committed members. It took us at least 10 years before we had truly committed members. We had to develop bylaws to vet out serious readers versus those who were only in the club to eat, drink and be merry. As a result, some members have come and gone. Also, don't look for members who are all exactly like you. You will end up with the Stepford Book Club and this will make for very boring conversations. What has kept us going over the years is our passion for good reads, our like of each other and our mutual respect of each others differences.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? Do you have a website or social media pages?
We would love to receive an invite for future events, chats and discussions. You can follow us below on our website, email and Facebook.

Website: sistahsandfriendsbookclub.com
Facebook: Sistahs and Friends

 

Intimate Conversation with Chicago Sistahs and Friends Book Club

Intimate Conversation with Chicago Sistahs and Friends Book Club

Founders of Sistahs and Friends - Yvette Barrett, Malinda Burden and Priscilla Myers. In December, 2014 we lost our 4th founder, Theresa Jackson.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started?  Does the name of the club have a special meaning? How many members do you have? 
Sistahs and Friends Book Club started in 1997, in Chicago, when 4 young professional co-workers, Priscilla Myers, Theresa Jackson, Malinda Burden and Yvette Barrett discovered they shared a common passion. That passion was the love of reading and the desire to share their thoughts with each other. We had our first book club discussion in a conference room during our lunch hour. It was such a great experience that we decided to continue and called ourselves, Sistahs Bookclub. Later on we had a male that wanted to join us. So in fairness to him and other potential males, we changed our name to Sistahs and Friends Bookclub. We started with 4 and currently have 12 members.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something in particular that makes your group different from other groups? 
Sistahs and Friends unites mature women and men from diverse backgrounds together in sister and brotherhood. We promote spiritual, motivational and intellectual development and awareness through the reading of fiction and non-fiction books, embracing the style and diversity of each member and each author. What we thought would be just a past time, for getting together among friends and sharing views on literature, led to so much more. We increased our membership, produced a mission statement, elected officers, created by-laws, paid dues, and 19 years later we are still Sistahs and Friends Book Club.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
Sistahs and Friends exemplify the true essence of sisterhood. Our legacy will be that true Sistahs support, lift and motivate each other not tear them down.

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group? How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
Our members are mature professionals who all grew up from various backgrounds and areas in the city of Chicago. We started this group 19 years ago as "Bubbies" and have grown into mature outgoing, outspoken women who love a great book, with a great meal, a great glass of wine and a great discussion. These is no room and no tolerance for pettiness and or catiness. We may not always agree on the rating of a book but we will always have a great debate regarding the merits of our selections or lack thereof.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group? Do you have an online version of the group?
We look for someone who will fit in our circle and have the passion for reading as we do. When a vacancy occurs, we invite the potential member to a meeting to ensure that their personalities mesh with the current membership. We have never had a problem attracting members however in the beginning we had problem retaining them. Some members were not committed to reading which lead to the creation of bylaws which have proved to solve the problem. Our current members have been active 10 years or more.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
By everybody sharing their own opinion of the book it leads to great conversations. Sometimes we can walk into the meeting ready to give a low rating and after much discussion it can easily be adjusted higher. Our sistahs are definitely not shy, they are very outspoken and will tell you like it is with no regrets. Many authors have experienced the brutal truths of Sistahs and Friends. Sometimes a reading guide is helpful but we don’t always use. We have very creative members who come up with games, quizzes, etc. to engage the group and stimulate conversation during the meeting.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers? 
Sistahs and Friends Book Club’s season is from September - May. During the May meeting members randomly select a month to host for the next season. It is the responsibility of the host to select the book for the month which she is hosting. Most of the members make their selection based on recommendations from family and friends, reading over the summer or just reading reviews on-line. There have been times when some of us have read another book and discussed it outside of the book of the month for the bookclub. We share our book selections (2011 to present) on our website.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
In the early years of Sistahs and Friends we only read books by African American authors. However over the years we have developed an appetite to broaden our horizon and not limit ourselves. During the years we have supported all authors as well as self-published authors and invited some of them to attend our bookclub discussions (via in person, Skype, FaceTime and conference call). Yes, a few of our members still borrow books from the library but the majority have Kindle or a Reader.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? Have the types of books changed over time? 
The types of books we prefer to read has changed over the years, in the beginning we read books by authors like E. Lynn Harris, Michael Baisden, James Patterson, Eric Jerome Dickey, Terry McMillan, Zane and J. California Cooper. The books dealt with short stories, sex and relationships respectively. As we have matured so have our books. Today, we read books by authors like Brandon Massey (Don’t Ever Tell), Khaled Hosseini (Kite Runner), Pamela Samuels Young (Anybody’s Daughter), Dwayne Alexander Smith (Forty Acres), and Daniel Black (Perfect Peace) and Naleighna Kai (Every Woman Needs a Wife). As you can see our selection of books have expanded and our members have welcomed all authors regardless of ethnicity.

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
Here are a few that received the highest rating that we give - (5stars) Good To The Last Drop.
Standing at the Scratch Line - Guy Johnson
Forty Acres - Dwayne Alexander Smith
Perfect Peace - Daniel Black
Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - Rebecca Skoot
The Red Tent - Anita Diamant
My Soul to Keep - Tananarive Due
Redeeming Love - Francine Rivers
The Douglass Women - Jewell Parker
No Regrets - Patricia Haley

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
Sistahs and Friends started out doing a grab bag each Christmas but decided that we wanted to give back to the community instead. So now we do just that. We have worked with Chicago Public Schools, DCFS, and St. Joseph Children’s Hospital. Through them we have provided children with everything from clothing, school supplies to toys. This year we decided to change our focus gave to a domestic violence shelter. We provided them with purses filled with all the day to day necessities. We are very proud of our accomplishments and it fills us with such satisfaction to see the smiles. Sistahs and Friends have an outing once a year in the summer (during our break) to do something fun with each other (dinner, painting, plays, and architectural tours). We have also hosted a luncheon, had weekend trips to Wisconsin, San Francisco and next year our 20th Anniversary (TBD).

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who are in or who might want to start a book club?
Don't be discouraged if you don't start out with committed members. It took us at least 10 years before we had truly committed members. We had to develop bylaws to vet out serious readers versus those who were only in the club to eat, drink and be merry. As a result, some members have come and gone. Also, don't look for members who are all exactly like you. You will end up with the Stepford Book Club and this will make for very boring conversations. What has kept us going over the years is our passion for good reads, our like of each other and our mutual respect of each others differences.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? Do you have a website or social media pages?
We would love to receive an invite for future events, chats and discussions. You can follow us below on our website and Facebook.

Website: sistahsandfriendsbookclub.com
Facebook: Sistahs and Friends

 

#BlackLove: When a Man Loves a Woman: A Season of Change

When a Man Loves a Woman: A Season of Change
by Tumika Patrice Cain

The stars seemed to have been aligned for Avery and Alicia. From the outside looking in, Lady Luck passed their way and left a fortune! They had a whirlwind, fairytale romance filled with all the little things that make dreams come true, a wedding of grace and beauty, and perfectly magical careers that produced almost enough money to burn. They were the picture-perfect couple.

Unfortunately, time has a way of revealing fissures in what appears to the naked eye as impenetrable. The results send this fairytale romance spiraling out of control.

Avery, as perfect and so right as he seemed, struggles to free himself from his demons. He clings to this delicate relationship that he desperately needs as if his last breath depends on it. Alicia, on the other hand, struggles to make the necessary corrections that will release her from a prison of unexpected, agonizing turmoil.

A novel of enduring strength, undeniable empowerment, and the compelling ability to overcome incredible odds, Book one in the When a Man Loves a Woman series is a powerhouse that will impact readers long after the last words have been read.


Excerpt: When a Man Loves a Woman: A Season of Change

That was one of the best days of my life. I'd finally gotten what I'd wanted forever. Someone who loved me. Loved me so much he wanted to tell the world. Wanted to make me his forever.

We slowly made our way out on the balcony, where all of the preparations had been made. It was all so lovely. Michael had black wrought iron patio furniture where we sat and ate the tantalizing dishes the caterers had prepared. There was fresh steamed lobster with lemon butter sauce, New England crab cakes, seafood kabobs and a wide range of other seaside resort foods that reminded me of the first weekend we’d spent out of town.

At Avery's request I'd gotten off of work early one Friday and met him at the airport. The spontaneity of the whole weekend made everything seem so fresh. Northwest Airlines took us to Massachusetts where we spent four glorious days at Martha's Vineyard. Just lying on the beach and soaking up the rays. I didn't even have a change of clothes. Ave said not to worry about it; we'd just go shopping when we got there. That's exactly what we did. A perfect weekend spent miles away from reality. In a cove on the beach is where we first made love. I'll never forget it.

Once the sun set and we were slow dancing on the verandah, Avery touched my arm and motioned for me to look out across the river. I couldn't believe my eyes. Usually the Cadillac Club in Windsor was all lit up at night in white neon. But instead of the marquee reading “Cadillac Club” it read, instead, “Alicia Will You Marry Me?” I remember being speechless for endless moments as tears welled up in my eyes, the lump in my throat rendering me incapable of speaking. The only response I gave was to gently touch his face and shake my head yes, while tears of happiness poured down my cheeks. So much for my mascara. He picked me up and swung me around for the longest time, whispering in my ear “I love you” time and time again.

It was several long minutes before I could compose myself. All remaining memories of that night are now a blur, except for us nibbling on the most succulent strawberries a mouth could feast on. And us making slow, sweet love all night under the stars while the moonlight caressed our skin.



Book Reviews: When a Man Loves a Woman

Tumika Patrice Cain has poured her abundant faith, wisdom and passion for helping others into a new book that tackles one of the toughest of family crises. Tumika’s extensive experience ministering to others through writing and counseling, as well as many years in human services, make her a voice worth hearing. 
~ Sheri Fink, Pulitzer Prize Winner & Author of War Hospital

Tumika Cain did an outstanding job on this novel and I am just still reeling from the contents. 
~ OOSA Online Book Club

This has to be the best book I have read this year. 
~ Book Referees

It is tragedy and triumph in its most raw form. 
~ Matthew Keith Reviews

Cain is a true wordsmith, and her writing has a refreshing maturity. 
~ Sweet Georgia Press

This reviewer urges you to give Tumika Cain's premiere novel, When a Man Loves a Woman: A Season of Change, a chance today! These pages leave no stone unturned, and no heart untouched. 
~ Lindsay McDonald, Indyscribable

A powerful read with many powerful messages, When a Man Loves a Woman: A Season of Change shows we have to be willing to move on in order to grow. 
~ Cyrus Webb, Conversations Live


Purchase When a Man Loves a Woman: A Season of Change
Link:  http://amzn.com/B019HLV65U 



Meet the Author
Tumika Patrice Cain is an award-winning author, media personality and publisher whose works centers around uplifting, encouraging and empowering others to live the abundant life. She is also an accomplished poet; founder of the Say What?? Book Club; and host of the internet radio shows Living Abundantly with Tumika Patrice Cain, In The Spotlight, and Say What?? Author Spotlights. In addition, she is a respected book reviewer and columnist for PEN’Ashe Magazine, a contributing writer for BLOG and Belief Magazines, and editor for two smaller publishing companies.

A champion for indie authors, she works tirelessly to level the playing field to bring exposure to those authors who excel at their craft, but whose marketing budgets are limited. Inkscriptions, her publishing company, offers a myriad of book publishing services. Living by the motto of each one reach one, each one teach one, Tumika shares her passion for purpose and for life with all who cross her path.

She is the 2013 recipient of a Spoken Word Billboard award for her debut novel, Season of Change (December 2012), a novel that has since been picked up by Shan Presents and will be re-released as When a Man Loves a Woman – A Season of Change in December 2015. To her publishing credit, she is also the author of After the Rain…a Poetry Collective (March 2014) and The Heart of a Woman (August 2015). Tumika’s works have been published in numerous magazines, anthologies, newsletters and periodicals.

 

#BlackLove: A Date With Destiny by Lutishia Lovely

A Date With Destiny by Lutishia Lovely
(The Hallelujah Series)

Nathaniel and Destiny Thicke are celebrating their first year anniversary as pastor and first lady of Divine Grace Community Center. After dealing with their share of drama, the couple believes there is only smooth sailing ahead. But when an old nemesis resurfaces, a church deacon becomes obsessed and a best friend's dream life starts to unravel, those observing wonder if a date with destiny is one the Thickes might want to avoid.

Excerpt: A Date With Destiny By Lutishia Lovely

Outwardly, Destiny Noble-Thicke was the epitome of sophisticated calm. Inwardly, she was a bundle of nerves. It had been a year since her infamous husband, Nathaniel “Nate” Thicke, had accepted the position of senior pastor at Divine Grace Christian Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. One would think she’d be used to the scrutiny that came along with being a first lady and sitting next to him on the raised dais. But she wasn’t. The overt stares left her feeling like an object on display and made it way too easy to see women cut her the side eye while ogling her man. On the other hand, the position enabled her to see who was watching her, and much more. A couple observations made her uncomfortable. Very much so.

“Praise him, saints!” Reverend King Brook, the guest speaker for the afternoon’s celebratory service, stood as the last notes of the song he’d requested faded amid shouts and applause. “He’s worthy, isn’t He?”

“Yes!” Several parishioners responded.

“Amen!” Others shouted.

“Pastor,”—King looked over at Nate—“I believe there are some folk in here who know something about Jesus!”

Nate nodded and stood. King addressed the standing-room only crowd. “Is there anybody in here who knows the Lord?” The din of noise grew louder.

“Somebody here knows him as a doctor. Some know him as a lawyer. Some know him as a friend in need, a friend indeed! Somebody you can trust, when all others forsake you. Oh, I guess I’m all by myself up in here. I guess I’m the only who’s been lied on, mistreated, betrayed, verbally slayed.”

People throughout the congregation rose to verbalize their responses.

“Preach!”

“Tell the truth!”

“I’ve got a story too, Preacher!”

“The truth is sometimes I was the liar, the one mistreating and the one betraying. But he picked me up, turned me around, placed my feet on solid ground!”

Smiles and nods rippled across the congregation as many acknowledged they’d sinned and come short of glory.

“Look at your neighbor and say ‘Won’t God do it’?” The crowd obeyed.

“If He’s ever done anything for you, big or little, large or small, I want you to stand on your feet and shout ‘God did that thang’!”

The crowd collectively responded, “God did that thang!”

Another round of glorious praise erupted, fanned by the staccato chords of the organist. The rest of the band quickly followed his lead. The choir stood and sang another chorus of the day’s theme song.

“God. Will. God will do it. He’ll bring you through it. Like there’s nothing to it. Yes, God! Bless God! Won’t God do it? Yes, He will!”

Destiny listened, lightly tapping a designer shoe-clad toe as she watched the choir. This understated form of worship was one of many problems some had with her position in their midst. Her slender beauty, stylishly contemporary wardrobe and quiet demeanor—sometimes perceived as uppity snobbishness—were a few other reasons she was disliked . Some people felt two beautiful children and a handsome, successful husband to boot were too many blessings for one woman to enjoy. Some had complained, others had offered unsolicited advice. Many members had left the congregation. Their presence was barely missed as hordes more poured in. Most of them female. Attractive. Hungry. Destiny had handled all of this with an attitude that was cool and unperturbed. They knew her glory, but not her story. Nor did they know the women who’d mentored her in this position, nor how God had prepared her long before anyone in this town knew her name.

As the song ended and King began his sermon, Destiny turned her attention to the audience and smiled at three of those mentors seated in the front row: her grandmother, mother and the first lady whose popular Sanctity of Sisterhood Conferences helped shaped Destiny’s outlook on womanhood, marriage and ministry. She schooled her features into a pleasant expression as her eyes continued down the row to King Brook’s wife seated at the end. Destiny tried not to judge but when it came to a second wife who helped to ruin it for the first wife, staying neutral was hard to do. Much easier to show compassion for Janet Miller, the woman seated behind the new Mrs. Brook. This kind, selfless woman had been dealt a bad hand, but praised God every Sunday in spite of it. The person who’d dealt Janet most of those bad cards was her husband, Ronald. Their eyes locked. Destiny’s skin crawled. The man’s overt flirting and constant leering literally made her nauseous. He’d been warned about this behavior many times, not just with Destiny but with other women in the church. These antics had lessened but as this moment proved, they had not totally disappeared. Covertly studying the couple, Destiny knew that Ronald’s wandering eye was not the couple’s only problem. And not the worse one, either. If the woman had done as requested and stayed her butt at home, Destiny’s best friend would be sitting where the homewrecker now warmed the pew.

“Are you all right, baby?”

Only as she felt Nate’s hand on her arm and breath in her ear did she realize the slightest of frowns had marred her face. He was very observant, especially when it came to anything to do with her. That was only one of many things she loved about him.

“I’m fine,” she whispered, catching a whiff of his musky cologne as she leaned toward him.

“No you’re not. And I understand why. But Princess still could have attended.”

The shift was subtle but, by removing her arm and turning her body more fully toward King, she effectively cut off communication with Nate. As intellectual and smart as her husband was, he could sometimes come off sounding as dumb as an ox. If he thought putting her best friend and father’s wife in the same room would go over well, even a room the size of an auditorium adorned with a neon cross, now was one of those “dumb as an ox” times.
An hour and a half later, Nate and Destiny were whisked through a side door to join the Christian elite who’d been granted access backstage. The VIP room was appropriately appointed and held a who’s who roster from both the Christian and secular worlds. Also present were members of Divine Grace’s ministerial staff. The celebrated first couple was comfortable among them all, standing at the front of the room and enduring an endless parade of congratulatory well-wishers.
As the line waned, a well-dressed couple approached them, the man’s hand outstretched toward Nate. “Beautiful service, Reverend. And some of the most powerful preaching I’ve heard in a while.”

Nate shook the hand presented. “King Brook is one of the best.”

“First Lady,” the woman asked, her voice quiet, her body language subdued. “Is there anything I can get you? Water? Tea?”

“No, thank you, Bethany. I’m fine.” Destiny looked over the shorter woman’s shoulder and smiled as two of her favorite women approached. “Bethany, meet my mother, Simone Simmons, and her mother, Katherine Noble. Mom, Kat, this is Bethany Miller. Her husband, Roy,” Destiny nodded toward the man chatting with Nate, “is one of our associate ministers.”

The ladies exchanged introductions. “It’s easy to see where Destiny gets her beauty,” Bethany said sincerely. She looked at Katherine. “And you’re her grandmother?”

“Not hardly,” Katherine drawled, attitude dripping along with the sarcasm.

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Bethany looked at Destiny. “I thought you said—”

“I did.” Destiny’s eyes shined with humor. “The G-word isn’t one that Kat embraces. Bethany is one of our most faithful members,” she said to Katherine, “and a part of the team of ladies who help me in the ministry. She’s been a member of this congregation for a very long time. Her insight into the church history and ongoing friendship has been invaluable.”

Bethany beamed at the praise. “Thank you.”

“Ladies!” Bethany’s husband, Roy Miller, entered their circle. “The good reverend here is being remiss so I must take it upon myself to meet the sunshine lighting up the room.” He turned to Simone and offered his hand. “My name is Roy Miller. Would you by any chance be related to our beautiful first lady?”

“I would indeed,” Simone responded with a smile. “I’m her mother, Simone Simmons, and this is my mother, Katherine Noble.”

“Ah, yes. Your husband is the former governor of Louisiana.”

“That is correct.”

Roy turned to Katherine but addressed Simone. “And you say this is your sister?”

“My mother.”

“Can’t be.”

“It’s true.”

She shook his hand. He held it and topped it with his other hand. “It is my pleasure to meet you.”

“Likewise,” Katherine replied with enough sugary sweetness to bring on diabetes. She deftly removed her hand. “Especially as I stand here next to your lovely wife. She has a beautiful spirit. A true lady.”

“Oh, absolutely,” Roy replied, properly chastened. He placed his arm around his embarrassed wife’s shoulders and tried to clean up his messy behavior. “This is my better half.” He looked at his watch. “What do you say, Rev? About time to wrap this up? It’s been a long day.”

“Yes, it has.”

As if on cue, Nate’s valet approached. “Reverend, are you and the first lady ready to go home? Your dinner reservation is in less than two hours.”

“Absolutely. Let’s go.”

The first couple and their entourage made proper goodbyes and left the room, but not before Destiny pulled Bethany aside. Roy was uncouth but harmless, so the words spoken weren’t about him. They concerned Bethany’s sister-in-law, Janet, and what Destiny believed she saw from the dais, evident even through heavy makeup. Her thoughts also centered on Janet’s husband, Roy Miller ’s brother Ronald, and what she’d seen while King was preaching, and wished she hadn’t. Observations that left her with no appetite for tonight’s dinner, and butterflies about how much of what she’d seen should be shared with her hot-tempered husband. Wrong place, wrong person and Ronald’s lewd actions could land him in jail. But knowing how Nate would react if he she told him Destiny feared that he, and not Ronald, would be the one to catch a case.

( Continued... )

© 2015 All rights reserved. Book excerpt reprinted by permission of the author, Lutishia Lovely. Do not reproduce, copy or use without the author's written permission. This excerpt is used for promotional purposes only.

Order today: A Date With Destiny (The Hallelujah Series)
Contemporary Fiction; Women's Fiction
Link: http://amzn.com/B01626321O

EDC Creations Review Team Policy

Give the Gift of Knowledge Campaign!

Hello Readers!

Thank you for your interest in becoming a part of the EDC Creations book review team! I would love to add you on the roster as a reviewer. We do not pay our reviewers cash, but we will keep your reading supply up with new releases and will give Amazon Gift Certificates for the reviewers with the most printed reviews per month.  I don't require any  contracts and you can start and stop at your leisure. However, if we don't get written reviews back within a reasonable time, we will ask why.  This page is merely a  overview and introduction to the EDC Blog Tours.  If you join the team you will receive a packet with complete details and how-to-guides.

This community campaign is about unity, expanding our reading selections and just having fun! The only thing we want from you is to tell at least 10 people about a great book and a written review. You do not have to be a professional writer, just become a reader who wants to express their appreciation for books!

Reviewing Printed Material

Before becoming a reviewer I need to know these things. You can send your answers to the following email address: edc_dg@yahoo.com.  We use this information to add you to our database.  We categorize each blog tour host and reviewer, so that we can always send them the books or genres they prefer.

1. Full name, photo, email address, home mailing address and a cellphone number.

2. Favorite genre to read; least favorite genre; will you read ebooks and mass markets?

3. Do you have a Amazon account? Are you willing to provide written reviews?

4. How often, per month, will you be willing to participate?

5. Will you host authors on your blog, website, radio show or social network?

6. Your website or blog address; brief 50 word bio, written in 3rd person, to give you credit for the reviews.

Stay Connected

Please go to the reviewer news site today and sign up for the mobile bookclub, so that we can notify you when new reviewer contests start. We will also notify you of exclusive author interviews and literary games. You will have a chance to enter drawings for great books and gift bags. Sign up here: http://eepurl.com/ucFT5 .  Each week we will send out newsletters with the author's material,  if you like it...post it!  Email Ella Curry with the links to your posts.  Your posts will be added to the blog tours. 

EDC Blog Tour Procedures

We will send you books to review monthly. All that we ask is for you to submit the written reviews and answer our 5 questions in relation to the featured books. After approval of your written review, we ask that you post the reviews to our blog and/or Amazon. Once we mail you the books, we would like a review back within 15 days. If you will email me your home address, we will start sending you books and galleys. The questions for the reviews will be sent to you via email. You will receive an entire review packet once you agree to come on board as an official EDC Creations Reviewer.  Here is an online source to get you started on the EDC Book Tours, go here.

Sharing the Reviews

As a EDC Creations Reviewer, we would love to have you come on the BAN Radio Show and the conference calls to tell us about your book and any good books that you have read.  Our goal is to always introduce our readers to the next great read. Authors, you are welcome to become reviewers too! Tell your network about the books, as well as direct others to where they can buy the book. EDC Creations has a bookstore and most books will be carried for the readers. The Black Pearls Reading Room will also host most of the books.

Digital Book Reviewers

Book-clubs and readers groups, if your book-club members would agree, we would like to add them on as our ebook reviewers and audio book-club. They would read the books on the Nook, Kindle or over the PC as an ebook,  then prepare their honest comments about the book. We ask that the digital reviewers answer 5 questions about the book on our Black Pearls blog. We will host weekly live readings from books, the digital reviewers would listen to the call, then blog about it the next day on the Black Pearls Blogs. Free books will be given away quarterly to the digital reviewers based on their contributions. We need the following information:

1. Full name, photo, email address, home mailing address and a cellphone number.

2. Favorite genre to read; least favorite genre; will you read ebooks and mass markets?

3. Do you have a Amazon account? Are you willing to provide written reviews?

4. Will you host authors on your blog, website, radio show or social network?

HOW TO JOIN EDC CREATIONS BLOG TOURS

Readers, in order to join the online book tour visit the featured authors media room and take their promotional material back to your network. Once you have posted the material, email Ella Curry with your list of links. The host with the most comments or postings will receive the featured grand prize for the book tour. The five (5) runner-ups will receive a gift book from a featured author.

Join the online book tour by selecting one or more activities:

• Hosting a Skype phone session with the author and 20+ of your friends

• Hosting a TweetChat with the author and 20+ of your friends

• Hosting a TinyChat video meeting with the author and your friends

• Reposting their book excerpts and interviews on your FaceBook Notes

• Reposting their book news on your daily updates on social media websites

Please email Ella Curry your blog or website address, valid email address and your home mailing address.  ALL participants will receive a book gift from EDC Creations and our publishing partners!  We appreciate each of you for helping us support the authors and uplifting the craft of writing!  Email Ella at:  edc_dg@yahoo.com

POSTING FOR THE BOOK TOUR
How to Participate in the Online Book Tour - listed below are a few suggestions on posting the material for your friends and network to enjoy!

1. Select the authors you are supporting. Visit their media rooms and read the material. Use this hashtag in ALL postings [ #edcbooktours ] on ALL social networks. Think about what your readers would like to see.

2. Repost links to their media room in your status updates on social media sites.

3. Take material from the media room and post on your blogs, websites or FaceBook Notes. Leave all links and disclaimers in place! Do not alter the text or links in any way.

4. Tell your network about the authors and the books. Consider selecting the featured books as your next Book of the Month. Post all future book reviews online. Share the links with Ella Curry.

5. Post the featured books on your FB profile for 3 days. Post your review of the book on FB, Twitter, Black Expressions and Amazon or other online retailers.

6. Once you finish posting, send Ella Curry a complete list of the posts you created and the sites you used. EDC Creations will track your posts. We will notify all winners via email and post the winners to the front of Black Pearls Magazine: www.blackpearlsmagazine.com 

You can send your answers to the following email address: edc_dg@yahoo.com

Feel free to share this post with as many avid readers as you can.
We need people to host our blog tours, review our books and to join in the Give the Gift of Knowledge Campaign!


Warmest regards,

Ella Curry, President of EDC Creations Media
 Black Authors Network Radio-Founder
Black Pearls Magazine -Founder
Website: http://www.edc-creations.com/

Meet the Imani Literary Group

Meet the Imani Literary Group of Metro Atlanta

Ella Curry: Hello Angela, thank you for sharing a moment with the Sankofa Literary Society. We want readers to meet our fantastic bookclubs and literary groups. The publishing industry could not stand without the support of reader's groups. Share the history of the Imani Literary Group.

Angela Reid: Rashida Sule' Sloan had the brilliant idea to start a reading group when she realized that she and several of her coworkers were reading the same book--Terry McMillan's Waiting to Exhale. She suggested that they meet and discuss their book, the Imani Literary Group was born!

Established in 1992, the Imani Literary Group of Metro Atlanta is a dynamic group of Black women who come together once a month to engage in literary discussions about books by and with the authors we love, we encourage and we promote.

Imani, the seventh principle of Kwanzaa means faith, for Imani has faith in our authors. Meetings are held at members’ homes, African American-owned restaurants, libraries and bookstores. Imani Sisters are serious about our books! One must read at least one of the monthly selections to attend a meeting. Yes, we usually read and discuss two books each month. We also occasionally host a meeting with our teenage little sisters to read and discuss a book with them. Presently, Imani has twelve active members with two frequent visitors and a poet-in-residence.

Over the years Imani has transitioned from a book club to a sisterhood of women who enjoy the company of each other, support each other through rough times and celebrate with each other in monumental times.


EDC: Share with us books that you would define as Literary Hallmarks.
Angela Reid: Here are a few books that I define as "Literary Hallmarks."

Song of Solomonby Toni Morrison
Love by Toni Morrison
Blood on the Leaves by Jeff Stetson
Mama Day by Gloria Naylor
Standing at the Scratch Line by Guy Johnson
The Douglass Women by Jewell Parker-Rhodes
Tumbling by Diane McKinney-Whetstone
Like Water for Chocolate by Laura Esquivel
Song Yet Sung by James McBride
The Hand I Fan With by Tina McElroy Ansa
Another Good Loving Blues by Arthur Flowers
The Upper Room by Mary Monroe
In Search of Satisfaction by J. California Cooper
Wake of the Wind by J. California Cooper
Kindred by Octavia Butler
The Sacred Place by Daniel Black
What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage
When Rocks Dance by Elizabeth Nunez
Do Lord Remember Me by Marita Golden
After by Marita Golden
Cotton Candy Don’t Come in Gray by Roslyn Carrington
No Easy Place to Be by Steven Corbin
One Day I Saw a Black King by JD Mason



EDC: What do you define as Quality Literature?
Angela Reid: I have been a lover of lyrical beauty since my mother read to me while I was in her womb. I used to read with a flashlight under my covers when my parents turned off the lights at bedtime. When I finally had access to books about and by folks who looked like me, I had my heaven on earth! I now spend the most of my income on BOOKS for me and those I love. A book is the most precious and thoughtful gift I can give, especially to the children in my life.

So my thoughts on Quality Literature are: Writers owe those of us who love to read. I believe that excellent writers, as well as all artists have been GIFTED with the talent to write and many have been gifted with their stories. They owe us the time and care of telling their stories well, of consistently developing their craft so that everything they publish makes us proud to add their offerings to our collections. To quote Nathan McCall, “One must first decide if he/she wants to be a good writer or just wants to be published.” I want, deserve and expect good writing!



EDC: What is the primary mission of the group?
Angela Reid: Imani is the seventh principle of Kwanzaa and means faith. Imani Literary Group reads books by and about us (BLACK PEOPLE) because we have faith in OUR authors. Our mission is to support our authors and to promote reading and literacy among all with whom we are connected.


EDC: Do you have outreach programs or events that we can support?
Angela Reid: Imani members have participated in literary retreats and conferences around the country. Since many of us have children, we have begun reading and discussing their books with them at a yearly meeting. Imani also donates books to children who live in group homes, shelters and detention centers, and recently to the New Orleans Public Libraries. We have a yearly fundraiser, selling African American Expressions’ cards, calendars, etc., to support our efforts to put books by us in the hands of our children and teenagers and to bring authors to our meetings.

Since I taught in a diverse, multicultural, low-income public high school in Norcross, GA—recently I retired and work part time elsewhere--- five years ago I decided to orchestrate a yearly literary festival for the school and community. Local authors and local book club members have supported my efforts each year with no monetary compensation. One year Jewell Parker-Rhodes was our featured author and last year Nathan McCall came.


EDC: What happens at a typical meeting for the members?
Angela Reid: A typical Imani meeting happens in stages: We never all arrive on time—smile. If the meeting is at a member’s home, usually the meal is ready when we arrive, so we greet each other, peruse the agenda, share a moment of thanks, fix our plates and get comfortable. As we eat we conduct a little business, highlight announcements and catch up on each others’ lives. Then we seriously begin discussing our books. If we are hosting an author or have guests, we begin with introductions, then share a moment of thanks, fix our plates and get comfortable. As we eat, we discuss the book(s) and usually drill the author with questions, but also praise what we loved about the work(s). Next and throughout, are pictures, presentation of our gift to the author and his/her signing our books.

Then after the author leaves, we handle business and some of us stick around to help the hostess clean up, unless she insists that we don’t. If we meet at a restaurant, of course we don’t have to clean up--smile. All in all, it is a full Saturday afternoon or evening, monthly time spent with each other and cherished by all who actively participate, whether we enjoyed or hated the month’s reading--smile.

We absolutely love having authors visit with us and hosting book events with them. We are fortunate to have so many willing to interact with us in Metro Atlanta (Pearl Cleage, RM Harris, Travis Hunter, Kendra Norman-Bellamy, Hank Stewart, Tavares Stephens, Margaret Johnson-Hodge, Dr. Daniel Black, Marissa Monteilth, Franklin White, etc—will meet with Nathan McCall in November and Victor McGlothin in December) and some who come to us from outside of Georgia who travel here or visit with us via speaker phone like: Grace Edwards, Mary Monroe, Jewell Parker Rhodes, Timm McCann, Diane McKinney-Whetstone, Patti Rice, Tina McElroy Ansa, Suzetta Perkins & Michelle Bowen.

Nia at Medu Bookstore has asked us to host several signings at her store and we have: DeBerry & Grant, Angela Bassett & Courtney Vance, and will do so with SIstah Souljah. We traveled to Charleston, SC and Memphis, TN to celebrate anniversaries and meet with Erica Turnipseed—A Love Noire and Arthur Flowers-Another Good Loving Blues. Several of us have traveled together and alone to SC, NC, MD and NY for literary conferences and book signings.


EDC: Do you have an open membership? How can one join your network?Angela Reid: Imani maintains an open membership for women who love to read. One must visit with Imani at least three times before joining and beginning to pay dues. All members and guests must read one or both of the two monthly offerings to attend a meeting. We also invite our menfolk to join us several times during the year when we would like their input about the books we discuss and when we host a male author.


EDC: What advice would you give a new organization forming a network?
Angela Reid: Invite serious readers to help organize your book club. Once book club is started, spread out the responsibility—everyone should contribute to book choices, hosting meetings, setting guidelines for the operation of your book club.


EDC: Would you change anything about your journey?Angela Reid: I have been president of Imani since Rashida transitioned in 1997 for I was vice president then. I wasn’t sure if I could fill her shoes, but before she left us, she told me how appreciative she was of the new energy and ideas I had already brought to the book club. I realized that I didn’t have to fill her shoes, that I could be myself. Imani has entrusted me to lead the group since ’97 and I have worked tirelessly to make sure that our members enjoy and participate in our book club events.

I love these women and enjoy being with them, as we who love Imani and the time we spend together, continue to sustain Imani in our seventeenth year. So no, I wouldn’t change the journey for I can’t imagine the journey NOT including my reading sisters of Imani!


EDC: Ultimately, what do you want members to gain from your union?
Angela Reid: Ultimately, this is what Imani members have gained from our book club experience: We are not just a book club however; Imani celebrates our beautiful moments, hosts all-nite Black movie marathons, attends theater and dance performances, hosts literary events for our favorite authors, and participates in community service activities like Relay for Life Cancer Walk in honor of two Imani members who succumbed to cancer. Our group, ranging in age from mid-thirties to mid-sixties, has seen changes during our sixteen years; members have come and gone, death and serious illness have touched us, the rigors of maintaining at home at work, and in school are a constant struggle for some. Yet, in spite of these difficulties, or perhaps because of them, we have truly become a Sisterhood and Support System for each other.



About Angela Reid

I am Angela Reid. Originally from Maryland—Army Brat whose family, my mama, five brothers and my sister, traveled with my dad, when we could from Baltimore, overseas to Germany twice, instate to Oklahoma twice and finally settling in NC after Pop retired at Ft. Bragg. Migrated to Metro Atlanta twenty years ago from NC after a divorce. Raised a teenager who graduated, went to med school, married and now resides in CA with her husband.

Retired in May 08 after teaching and sometimes coaching, in VA, NC and GA for thirty-two years and a year as an active-duty Army reservist during Desert Storm. Now teaching part time and building my business--Color Me Purple, offering my services as a manuscript editor, literacy consultant, and literary event planner.

I am still, as I always have been, an active participant in the arts and spectator sports—had to hang up my volleyball kneepads after playing USVBA ball for eleven years here and in NC. I attend and volunteer for literary, jazz, film, and theater events around town; I am active in my church; want to travel to snow country to learn to ski, and enjoy the company of my family and friends near and far. I particularly enjoy hearing from and keeping up with my former students who inform me of the impact I made on their lives.

Meet C. Jay founder of the Risque Cafe

Meet C. Jay founder of the Risque Cafe

The Risque Cafe's  purpose is to create an outlet that will bring more awareness to the Art of Literature, extend authors craft abroad, and promote unity within the literary community. We plan and promote events to bring readers and authors together plus facilitate activities pertaining to an intimate yet fun setting.


Ella: What exactly does your company do for the client?
One of our primary services is literary event planning/management. We at The Risque Cafe are very big on themes and getting the participants to be interactive at the events. This allows them not only to attend the event but to be apart of the event which in return creates a memorable experience for them as a guest. One of our goals is to change the perception people have when it comes to book signings, readings, or pretty much anything pertaining to literature....reading can be fun. We showcase authors and their books as well as advertise and promote events everywhere through several creative productive outlets.


Ella: What's coming soon for The Risque Cafe?
The Risque Cafe and its partners are hosting a national campaign called Losing 4 Literacy. This campaign will bring more awareness to the literary arts and healthcare plus bring communities together on a local as well as national level. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is a philanthropist at heart to give back and experience a positive life change.

Losing 4 Literacy is a 12-week weight-loss/wellness challenge organized with the purpose of helping establish a nonprofit organization that will empower inner-city and troubled youths to express themselves in a positive manner, bring awareness to the literary community and promote healthier lifestyles.

At the end of the 12-week challenge, the top 3 teams with the highest percentage of weight loss will be awarded a cash prize, products, books, and more. We even have a surprise celebrity helping with the project. I can't release that information until all the paperwork has been completed and signed.


Ella: How would you describe your experience as a Entrepreneur?Great, I would not change it for the world! I have had my challenges like anyone else but for the most part, GOD has been good to me. I've been blessed to meet some great people throughout my journey, like you, Ella and a lot more. So again, the experience has been great.


Ella: What advise would you give someone just starting out?
Be ready to work. Nothing is going to be given to you. It takes time to build but with persistence, late nights, and hard work anything is possible.


Ella: What's new in your company?The Risque Cafe is planning on doing some road trips. We want to spread the experience of being a part of a "literary event" to people everywhere. Plus our non-profit organization will be established and we will be collaborating with authors, publishers, and other literary base companies on different joint business adventures and workshops.


Follow The Risque Cafewww.therisquecafe.com, www.myspace.com/therisquecafe

Bookclub: Judy Stewart and Essence of Knowledge

Meet the Essence of Knowledge Book Club Louisiana

 

Essence of Knowledge Book Club was founded in September 2003, by a group of co-workers who loved reading books. They invited family and friends to join for group sessions.

From that point on, we became a book club and started meeting once a month discussing books with refreshments and going to different outings. At that time, Judy Stewart was nominated as president of the book club, along with other officers.

We started with 18 members, but due to Hurricane Katrina, most of our members were displaced. We currently have 10 active members. We still consider our displaced members as our honorary members of the club. When they are home in Louisiana, they are welcome to attend our meetings.

The name "Essence of Knowledge" has a meaning of African American, educated women who strives to accomplish our goals of life. We are a group of African American women that supports literacy and decided to use literacy as a tool to support one another and share life experiences that will allow us to make wiser choices and gain knowledge within our circle.


Vision of Essence of Knowledge Book Club Our vision is to expand our reading level to a new level. We would like to have many meet and greets with various authors. Our goal is to continuously volunteer and donate to organizations and to our community. Some of the organizations we have participated with are Samaritan Purse and the Covenant House. We also strive to support new authors around the nation and in Louisiana, especially New Orleans.


How important is reading to you?Reading is important because it is knowledgeable. Reading can broaden your mind and ideas. It can give you a deeper understanding on how to explain your feelings and experiences that you have encountered through your life. Reading also meditates your mind from a long day at work.


Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes... Living your best life includes...being happy and prosperous in whatever you may want to accomplish.


The book all readers should own besides the bible: "The Child of God" by Lolita Files.


The book that changed your life: "The Penny" by Joyce Meyers and Deborah Bedford and "The Power of Being a Women" by McKinney Hammond.


Favorite Series: Curtis Black series by Kimberla Lawson Roby and Dutch by Kwame Teague/Terri Woods


Name your top 3 authors and why.
Noire, Zane and Kimberla Lawson Roby - Each author writes their books as a page turner, which are full of action and suspense.


Three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.Terri Woods, Zane, and Steve Harvey


News and Event:We are planning to attend the National Book Club Conference in Atlanta, for the first time.

Bookclub: Only One Key Stroke Away (O.O.S.A.)

Meet Only One Key Stroke Away (O.O.S.A.) Book Club

 Only One Key Stroke Away (O.O.S.A.) was founded in January of 2005 by a group of readers, wishing to share their thoughts and opinions with others. We started out as a group that simply read together. Eventually we moved to inviting authors to chat with us about their books. Shortly thereafter, we decided to review our selected reads.

Our reviews are posted at several sites including: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, MySpace and GoodReads. The rest is … OOSA! Our resume includes hundreds of titles of varying genres as our motto is: OOSA Gets It Read!


Ella: What is the vision for your organization? We do not have a president. We are a team and there is no “I” in team. We each have responsibilities and tasks that make OOSA what it is. We are an online book club and reviewing team that focuses on African American authors. We wish to further promote African American literature by taking special interest in new and self published authors. We read, review and recommend.


Ella: How important reading is to you? It’s cliché, but reading is fundamental. It’s the corner stone to life. We read everyday in our lives, whether we want to or not. Because literacy is so important we believe in starting as early as possible. The Ladies of OOSA are mothers, grandmothers and aunts. We promote literacy within our families first. When our children see us reading and enjoying ourselves, it encourages them to read. They learn reading is not a chore but something fun to do. What better method than to teach by example.


Ella: Favorite couple from a book: Nina and Dutch (Dutch - Kwame Teague), Yuri and Britt (The Sweetest Taboo - Risque), Portia and Jay (A Dollar Outta Fifteen Cent - Caroline McGill), Clark and Devin (Caught in the Mix - Candice Dow) and Natalia and Shawn (Triangle of Sins - Nurit Folkes).


Ella: Favorite genre, series or sequels:
We are a group of avid readers with various tastes in literature. As such, we really don’t have particular preferred genres. We welcome and enjoy all genres. Some of our favorite sequels include: Little Black Girl Lost by Keith Lee Johnson, the True2Life series by Al-Saadiq Banks, Dutch by Kwame Teague, Naughty by Brenda Hampton, the Vernetta Henderson legal thrillers by Pamela Samuels Young and the Dilemma series by Reign.


Ella: Name three authors you would like to chat with this year. We’ve been fortunate enough to have had phone chats this year with several of our favorite authors including Mike Sanders, Torrian Ferguson, Kwame ‘Dutch’ Teague, Anthony Fields and Al-Saadiq Banks. We’re hoping to get in a few more before the year comes to an end.


Ella: Share your news or events with us.
What’s next…more Author Spotlights and contests.. And as always, we read, review and recommend. It’s what we do.

Book club and contact info: Website: http://www.oosaonlinebookclub.com/   
www.facebook.com/oosaonlinebookclub
  

Bookclub: Carla Walker President Queens Book Club ATL

Meet Carla Walker President of the Queens Book Club of Atlanta

Queens Book Club of Atlanta was founded in 2006 by a group of friends who shared the love for reading. They felt the need to create a book club called Queens because they knew each woman should recognize the Queen they are.

Queens Book Club was created to reach out to women and come together to discuss and enjoy selective books of the month.

On January 2007, Queens had the first kick-off meeting with guest author Mrs. Tina Brooks McKinney (“All That Drama”) and she became our first honorary member. As of 2009, Queens Book Club is still going strong by the grace of GOD. Queens was fortunate enough to have a chapter formed in Raymond, Mississippi by Adrienne Bailey in 2008. With both chapters we continue to promote importance of reading through each other and our community. Among each other we continue to come together for the love of reading, positive fellowship and sisterhood.


President Biography:  My name is Carla Walker and I have been fortunate to have fallen in love with books at an early age. With a huge passion for reading, I joined one of Atlanta’s biggest book club for five (5) years and became member of the year there in 2004. From there GOD planted a seed in me to start my very own book club and from there Queens Book Club was born! I was blessed to have a couple of friends who decided to take the journey with me.

As of this day, some of those same friends are still a part of the club. They are my backbone when I feel I cannot go on anymore. I’m so bless to have my members because without GOD Queens Book Club will not exist. With all the hard work I continue to put into the club, my members (awesome Queens) came together on our 2007 Christmas gathering and presented me a plaque for all the hard work and dedication. When I think of that moment even to this day, that’s my motivation to keep going and allow Queens Book Club to touch someone and become a part of our circle.


Ella: What is the vision for your organization?
To offer a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere, outside of the home and workplace, to, explore many bold, adventurous, and spontaneous interests as a whole. Enjoy the bond of sisterhood and fellowship.


Ella: How important reading is to you?
Reading is so important because you can reach to so many people. Giving someone a book to read can open doors to a new career, friendship and connection can be made; education can take place and so much more. Reading is something a person cannot live without. Knowledge is power.


Ella: Living your best life includes... 
Living your best life includes... knowing and continue to learn and love GOD more, living a healthy and bless life, having wonderful family and friends in my corner, good loving relationship with a mate and just being comfortable and continuous blessings from GOD.


Ella: On your nightstand now:
Right now, on my night stand, “Behind Those Eyes” by TP Carter, “To Good To Be True” by E. Lynn Harris, “Why Men Fear Marriage” by RM Johnson, “Secret Society” by Miasha and so many more.


Ella: Book all readers should own besides the bible:
“Behind Those Eyes” by TP Carter


Ella: Book that changed your life:
“Behind Those Eyes” It just gives you a whole different perspective about love, finding your true mate, relationship and the belief in true love.


Ella: Book you've bought for the cover:
A book called “Taste Like Chicken”


Ella: Favorite couple or quote from a book:
Best couple in a book is from “Red Light Special” detective agent Blessing Shields and Collyn Bazemore.

Favorite quote:
“A true Diva is a woman who knows that life is not about her, but rather the contribution she makes to others around her and the legacy she will leave behind.” - From ‘The Diva Principle’, 2004.


Ella: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
“Behind Those Eyes” & “The Other Woman”


Ella: Favorite genre, series or sequels:
I like all type of books from romance, urban fiction, mystery, inspirational, self-help and any others that I think will interests me or just to give it a try.


Ella: Your top three authors. Why? 
Top three authors are Eric J. Dickey, RM Johnson and all the authors who are incarcerated. I feel some authors who are incarcerated are telling real true stories and from research they are some of the best writers. Sad they cannot personally meet those who enjoy reading their stories.


Ella: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
TP Carter, Risque and Wahida Clark.


Ella: Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group? 
Our next upcoming event is, preparing Halloween bags for kids at a children’s hospital, making plans for the holidays Thanksgiving and Christmas to sponsor a needed family and to volunteer our time feeding the homeless.

Carla Walker, President and Founder
Q.U.E.E.N.S. Book Club of Atlanta
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/QueensBookClub

Bookclub: Sharon Haynes of Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group

Meet Sharon Haynes, Tulsa Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group

Ella: Welcome, Sharon Haynes, coordinator for the Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group. It is such a pleasure to have you visit with us and introduce the chapter.


Ella: Tell us about the mission of the literary group.
The Tulsa Chapter of Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group is committed to providing an opportunity for women from all walks of life to come together for a common and primary goal…reading and promoting literacy through our community outreach programs.

Our pledge is to transmit our passion for literary pursuits to future generations.





Ella: Sharon, tell us a few books that you would define as "Literary Hallmarks."
The Known World by Edward P. Jones
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe
My Soul to Keep by Tananarive Due


Ella: That is a wonderful selection of books! What do you define as Quality Literature?
Quality Literature encompasses style, characters, plot and the ability for the written words to come to life and embrace you in a way that totally consumes you. We know the characters personally and can visualize the settings and after reading the book we’re wishing for more.  Read more about us here.

Bookclub: Marina Woods President GoodGirlBookClubOnline

Meet  Marina Woods President of  GoodGirlBookClubOnline ™

Marina Woods is a graduate of North Park University in Chicago where she received a B.A. in Communication Arts. With a strong desire to utilize her gifts in writing and speaking, Woods began pursuing her dream of working in Radio/TV. Upon graduation, Woods worked for Clear Channel Radio as a communications coordinator.


Soon after, Woods began seeking the Lord for direction of how best to integrate her creative strengths and passions while working in the media. She began freelancing for various advertising and public relations agencies. Two years later she landed the position of syndicator for The Oprah Winfrey Show. Still feeling unfulfilled spiritually and professionally, Woods again sought the Lord for direction, this time inquiring about her passion for books, her aspiration to have an enlarged territory and a medium to encourage women to spend their leisure time in a rewarding way.


Stepping out on faith, in 1999 Marina Woods founded www.goodgirlbookclubonline.com, the #1 Destination for Today’s Aspiring Woman where she serves as President and Chief Marketing Officer. She is a trailblazer for bringing Christian and inspirational books to a national audience when Christian books were unheard of and unpopular.


To her credit she has inspired hundreds of writers to become Christian and inspirational author’s and countless others begin ventures publicizing Christian and inspirational books.GoodGirlBookClubOnline™  is featured in Publisher’s Weekly, the Seattle Times, Essence Magazine; Black Issues Book Review, Precious Times Magazine, the Literary Source, Saints Mega paper, Good News Magazine, Gospel Today and Missionary Magazine. Woods has also been a guest on numerous radio and TV talk shows promoting GGBC.

The website: www.Goodgirlbookclubonline.com reaches over 125,000 aspiring women worldwide whereby helping women discover Christian books, products, ministries, events and resources that will inspire and empower.

During her 11 year career as a Christian book promoter and marketing specialist, Marina has worked with the national bestsellers such as Michelle McKinney Hammond, Patricia Haley, Victoria Christopher Murray, Joyce Meyer, Sharon Ewell Foster, and also helped launch the careers of new authors such as Mikasenoja, Kim Floyd and many more.


In addition, Marina Woods is an internet development and marketing coach with iMarketingPR.com which coaches women on starting, marketing and sustaining online ventures. Woods’ corporate mission and ministry are the same  "to inspire, empower and transform the lives of women."

She is a highly sought after speaker for women’s groups, organizations, colleges and universities on the topics of marketing, advertising and PR, and has been featured in several books including Refined by Fire: Defining Moments of Powerful Women and Inspired Attraction with international marketing expert and guru, Joe Vitale.

Marina volunteers as a communications workshop leader for the Girl Scouts of Chicago and a writing coach for College Summit. Visit the GGBC site for more details: http://www.goodgirlbookclubonline.com/