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African American Literature Book Club - The #1 Site for "Readers of Black Literature" |
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AALBC.com How Are You Doing? eNewsletter - August 3rd, 2004 |
Celebrating Our Literary Legacy! |
HOW ARE YOU DOING?
A few weeks ago I asked AALBC.com visitors the question:
"How are you doing?". I hope you will take the time to read some of
the responses. You find everyone has an interesting story to tell and I'm
sure you'll find some these messages quite motivating. Enjoy.
| Linda Duggins Tells Us about Arts On The Pier A Celebration of Creative Visions
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| From Author Wanda Simon Well, I've written a read-out-loud series of children's books. They are called The Adventures of Brownlocki - Brownlocki goes to Great Grandma Simon's House; Brownlocki goes to the Library; and The Game of Hide and Seek. They each delicately explore the experiences of a beautiful young child named Brownlocki who has beautiful brown skin and beautiful curly brown hair. Her Cousin Kirean is a big, strong handsome male who shows up whenever Brownlocki or the kids are in trouble. The vocabulary is suited for pre-school to early grades. The third book introduces her friends Tahiti Cocoa and G. I am looking for a good illustrator with great ideas but who will not compromise my concept of what Brownlocki and the other main characters look like as I know that will take the books to an even greater level. I've tested them in the schools and they received great responses. My only regret is that I can't be at the Harlem Book Fair 2004 because that is the kind of exposure Brownlocki needs. I am in the process of writing a fourth story. |
| From Author F. Myles I am "fine as wine and twice as mellow." My novel is being edited by a reputable company that I found because two of the agents I queried took the time to reply with straightforward helpful comments. They could have sent pre-printed form letters or hasty "not for me" notes like the other 18 rejections but they didn't. I emailed my appreciation and assured them that I would take their advice and would like to resubmit at a later date. To my surprise, they responded and encouraged a resubmission. I am so inspired by their compassion for a first time writer that I am excited about the revision of my current manuscript and an idea I have for a second novel. Life is good! |
| From Author Haywood Fennell, Sr. Thanks for asking. I have recently completed selling 1,000 copies of my first self-published book entitled "Coota and the Magic Quilt." I am working hard to network with other writers in order to move this book, the first in the trilogy called "The Coota Experiences" beyond Boston where it is receiving a lot of attention. I have not yet gone to Cambridge which is located across the bridge from Boston, but I plan to. (Editor Note Visit http://www.visual-voice.com/BNN/serieswindow.asp?series=9 for video featuring author) |
| From Playwright Monique Annan I am doing great! My first performance play is being produced this year and I'm looking forward to performing. I've read a great book this past month Dark Corner - Brandon Massey Looking forward to doing more reading through the summer
The Black Bottom Blues - |
| Two good books: Leaving Cecil Street, by Diane McKinney-Whetstone and The Darkest Child, by Delores Phillips. Highly recommend. —Anonymous |
| My sister lives in Brooklyn New York and has recently been
accepted into a program where she will "shadow" a principal for one year and
then she will be assigned as a principal to a school. We (her family) are so
proud of her. She is currently a teacher in the Brooklyn school system and
has worked very hard to get to where she is right now. We wish her all the
best and it is important for her to know that she has our full support. Sincerely, Jolyn Washington-Walker Wallingford, Connecticut My sister Tyona Washington Brooklyn, New York |
 In
the last few months I've read:
The End of Blackness, by Deborah Dickerson;
Our Nig, one of the first novels written by an African American woman,
Harriet Wilson;
Don't Play in the Sun, Marita Golden's new memoir about color
consciousness in the African American community. I am on the third
book of a trilogy by British writer Jane Stevenson. The trilogy
started with the story of an African slave brought to the Netherlands in the
17th century, continues with the story of his son, who grows up in the
Netherlands, lives in Barbados, and returns to London. The last novel
takes place in present times. Fascinating views of race relations and
consciousness in cultures and times unfamiliar to me. The Barbados
background was especially interesting, and focuses on a slave uprising. |
 My
name is Dana Ross, I own an independent entertainment company which
concentrates on writing and producing music, films and books. I am
approximately three weeks away from publishing my first book, "Black
Fatherhood: Reconnecting With Our Legacy" which explores Black men in their
roles as fathers from their time of enslavement to the present. I have
utilized my own family history as well as interviews with over 400 men to
write the book and film the documentary. For more information about the book
you can visit my website
http://purequality.com/black_fatherhood__reconnecting_with_our_legacy.The book is accompanied by a documentary of the same title and includes interviews with hundreds of fathers as well as Authors/Historians Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu and Dr. Ira Berlin. I am currently raising finishing funds for the documentary in hopes that it will be released by November, 2004. You can view the trailer of the documentary via my site, http://www.purequality.com/current_films. This month I published the
first of a monthly series of e-newsletters for fathers, "A Father's Voice
E-Newsletter" which provides resources, news and networking opportunities
for fathers around the world. To view this month's issue visit our site at
http://www.purequality.com/a_father_s__voice_e_newsletter. |
| I AM DOING. I HAVE A SCREEN PLAY SITTING IN FRONT OF ME
THAT I BETTER FINISH SOON. I DO NOT HAVE A JOB, BUT I AM BLESSED TO HAVE A
HUSBAND THAT IS GREAT TO ME. IF ANY ONE LIVES IN ATLANTA AND KNOWS OF ANY
COMPANY THAT CAN USE A DATA ENTRY CLERK HAVE THEM EMAIL ME. MUCH LOVE, ELIZABETH A HAMIEL 1580 LANGSTON AVE ATLANTA GA 30310 FAX:404-758-5528 |
 From
Rhonda Sewell, AuthorGreetings, I am a huge fan of AALBC.com and I
think all of you are doing an excellent job at keeping all book lovers,
authors, and the like, informed of the latest in African American-oriented
publications. I would love to introduce myself and tell you how "I am doing"
in the book arena: My name is Rhonda B. Sewell and I am a full-time
journalist for The Blade newspaper, the daily paper in Toledo, Ohio, where
I've worked for 16 years. I am writing a non-fiction photo/essay book, along
with my co-worker Lisa Dutton, a staff photographer at The Blade. The book,
"The Soul of Twins: A Celebration and History", is a celebration of the
cultural beauty and unique history of African American and African twins.
Yes, twins! Did you know that black Americans have the highest rate of twins
in the U.S., and that the Yoruba in Nigeria have the highest twinning rates
in the world? My photographer and I have interviewed dynamic individuals for our book, such as Pauletta Washington, the wife of actor Denzel Washington, on being a parent of twins. (she and Denzel have four children, including boy/girl twins, Malcolm and Olivia, age 12). We will also include a host of other black twins in our book with powerful stories on twin relationships, and a chapter which explores little known black history facts about twins. Many celebrity twin facts will also be included, as well as interviews with stars who are parents, grandparents, or actual twins, such as Billy Dee Williams (twin sister is Loretta); Muhammad Ali (has twin daughters); Will Smith (has twin siblings); Henry Simmons, of NYPD Blue fame (has a twin sister); Ronde and Tiki Barber (NFL twins); Tia and Tamara Mowry (twin actresses); Lena Horne, (has twin grandparents); Nat King Cole (the father of twin daughters); Renee and Rosie Tenison (first black Playboy twins), Walter and Wallace Scott (twin members of the legendary The Whispers singing group), and the list goes on and on. Please log on to our book's companion website,
www.thesouloftwins.com
(Coopyright, 2004), which serves as an informational site for black twins
and their families. Thank you for allowing me to introduce myself and keep up the great work.
Your email newsletter is so informative. |
 From
Author Edward LiskI had published my first novel Adventures of Jonathan Bradfort early this year. There had been little or no sales. Amazon.com would be presenting a spread of books they selling. There will be excerpt from the book. Front and back covers would be presented.. This would be appearing on their Web Site next month. I'm having my own Web Site next month. I appreciate any help I can get. |
| How am I you ask? Hmmmm.... let's see. Unemployed-still yet
not too terribly concerned with it. The Lord will provide the right
employment when the opportunity is right for me. I am still typing out poem
after poem, story after story and looking for someplace to publish them all.
There are so many volumes to go through since I've been writing for quite a
few years. Roughly around 30. My contributions to a previous book have only
left me with a more desirous longing to publish more. Time consuming process
but I have faith in my abilities to touch hearts soft yet strong with my
words.
Happy I suppose is the best frame of mind to have when asking how I am.
Yes, there are things in the world that are as barbed as any wire but when
have we as a people ever let that get us down? I think of Maya Angelou's
phrase "...and still I rise..." Are we not reflective of this? I say we are,
we rise against oppression. We rise against defeat. We rise against self
hatred. We rise and keep going, creating beauty and substance from what
others would consider less than nothing. This makes me happy. Guess I'm doing just fine. Thanks for asking! Hope you're all doing fine
too! |
| Like most new writers, I am hanging in there with my first
novel, PAGE FROM a TENNESSEE JOURNAL. Though this work placed in the top ten
of the Maui Prose Writing Contest of 2003, I am still struggling to find
that right agent. (Editor's Note: Visit
http://www.mauiwriters.com/prosewriting.htm for more information) FKH |
| I am looking for someone in the Dallas/Ft. Worth, Texas
area that can help me get a book published. I have written a couple of
children's books but I am unable to move them to the next level. Any help
would be appreciated. C. Bracken-Williams |
| I'm mad a hell telling you all about it cause you asked and cause I'm feeling harassed agents publishers ain't a calling don't understand why they ain't falling at my feet after all my book got heat maybe its too hot for the masses scary asses don't never want to take chance on a sista maybe they want to be THE LAST TO KNOW want to keep a snow job on the secret of African American molestation how it's invading our race forcing our children into a dark place of pain and hurt and damn, you asked so I told you how I'm doing. Tina Smith-Brown |
| I'm fine I think ya'll are the only hottest black site that
I've been to so far I have dreams of owning my own black book store here in
Tyler myself and from what I've seen on ya'lls website ya'll how boost my
dreams. I just wanna let you guys know that and I do plan to purchase or
visit your store soon. excuse the funny words in my message I am from Texas Rodasha Thomas |
| I must say, I can’t remember posting my e-mail address on
your web site; you must be one of the many sites I visit every now and then
for info on African American pop-literature - when ever I’m in search of a
good novel. Anyhow, I’m fine and No! I haven’t created any great works of my
own, ‘cause I’m too busy reading the creations of others, it is a much
better place to be.
In the last ten months I have become little addicted to this area of literature, and can’t seem to get enough of it, I’ve read the entire collection of AA pop-literature in my local library and have resorted to buying them from Amazon, Borders and any New York Book shop when ever I’m in town. I’m beginning to sound like an African American novel, this unusual because I’m English and I sound a little weird. In the last month or so I’ve read Fed up with the Fanny by Franklin White, Satin doll and Using What You Got by Karen E. Quinones Miller, Married Men, Lookin’ for luv and A Dollar and a Dream by Carl Weber. Carl Weber is an incredible Drama - Trauma Theme writer, of course I’ve enjoyed all the others as well; it’s just that he is incredibly consistent with it. African American writers are decorated with a lot of academic accolades, they are incredibly skilful writers, the problem is that after the first novel (which is usually incited by their own personal experience) their second and third, although skillfully written, isn’t as exciting as their first. In fact, for me, if they were less qualified and more consistent with brilliant stories, they would have my attention forever. I read novels to be entertained, it is the stories I’m interested in and not their area of discipline. Written with true intent! |
| From Author John Bowens I'm doing fine. Concerning information about books, I've written a math book that covers Basic Math and Pre Algebra. Over the years I've tutored individuals in math. I noticed that math books were written in a manner that made it harder to understand the material itself. In other words, math has a lot of steps and the books that taught it were too confusing. So, I wrote my own in an attempt to make learning basic math and pre algebra as simple as possible. Students, schools and adults are having a difficult time learning/knowing math. Hopefully, through this book that can change. |
 From
Author Constance Tallaha Ekon
I am doing just great. I stay very busy and enjoy the pace that I am in. My new book ANGELS COMETH is moving off successfully and I am using some of my time in other writings. Please let me know how you can help me market my books. Thank you. Constance T. Ekon |
| From Author Robin M. Butts I am doing just great...Thank you.. I am a writer and will have a short story published in The Writer's Post Journal in the July issue. It is entitled, "Coup de Grace" and it is a psychological narrative of a woman's battle to gain back herself from am unscrupulous husband. I am finishing up a novel entitled, "Shades of Blue," which deals with two African American siblings. One is light skin and the other is a darker skin and how they battle with each others perception of ugliness through loving the other from which stems from the root of the others self hate. ex. Sunshine adores her sisters beautiful dark skin but cannot embrace her own light skin. Cherokee hates her light skin younger sibling because she was not blessed with a lighter complexion. Thanks again for asking how I am doing. I am just great through the Will and Guidance of the Supreme. I have recently been blessed to watch a screening
of Sam Greenlee's novel, "The
Spook That Sat By The Door" at Harriet's Alter Ego. An afrocentric
clothing boutique in Clinton Hills in Brooklyn, NYC. The last novel I read
was by Tananarive Due,"
The Good House." |
| From Author Sonjia Marshall I am on top of the world by Gods Grace. I'm currently finishing my first novel entitled "When Crying Eases The Pain". by Sonjia I am doing the finale corrections, and preparing it for the editor . I did not realize all the work involved with creating a great book. But I prayed on it and asked my Higher Power for guidance with my creative skills. You literally have to step outside of your box to get down with perseverance and your imagination. The book should be ready by late fall. I do hope I can send you all a copy for your honest feedback. Here is a brief look at the books description: Enter at your own risk into the life of Dole Jenkins; After being molested as a child by his mother’s boyfriend, he battles with his demons day and night. He travels through life with caution, but decides to become a Chicago Police Officer. His mind is consumed with deep desires and hidden secrets. He meets the queen that sets his world on a straight path (Taylor) a Registered Nurse. She sprinkles love on him that makes his groins throb at the mere sight of her. They become inseparable. A match made in heaven. A gorgeous, young, successful couple ready to live, love, and multiply. Taylor and Dole got married to pursue a life of matrimonial bliss together. Everyone was elated for them, friends, family and even strangers…because they appear to be the epitome of a dynamic match. Unbeknownst to his wife Taylor, Dole takes her on a roller coaster ride through hell and high water as he leads a double life. Now, the life they lived as one, becomes overpowered by lies, deceit, lust and shattered dreams. I think it will be great entertainment, you can't put it down is what one
of my colleagues told me. With much love and thanks giving ; |
 I
visit the site monthly. It's informative and helps determine what books I
will add to my TBR list.Shelia M. Goss |
 From
Author Rita WoodsJust a quick note to let you know how much I enjoy aalbc.com and to let you know 'how I'm doing' My debut novel THE COLOR OF CLOUDS was released in January by PublishAmerica and is getting good reviews. Am hard at work on my second novel in between shuttling the kids to swimming, camp, soccer and tracking down the dog. (a quick National Geographic note: grass makes dogs puke and it ain't pretty) Book Expo was held here in Chicago and the writers convention portion (held before the actual expo) was a mixed experience. While some of the actual seminars were helpful. The anticipated pitch, in which writers were to be allowed two minutes to pitch to East Coast and West Coast agents was a disastrous disappointment. Think an authors American Idol. And that's the news from a black soccer mom/writer/reader in suburban Chicago. Murder gave him his dream. Love may take it away. |
| From Author Adisa M. Omar Alafia! To Troy & the aalbc Family,  Well,
I guess I haven't been in touch for quite awhile. I guess after 911 I
decided I needed a break from 'BUSH' country, so I relocated myself to South
Korea to teach at a University in the city of Daegu. Presently, I'm doing
some consultant work here in Seoul and getting out the writing pen to
publish a new edition of "Ultimate
Mental Power."I thank Troy & the aalbc.com for helping make UMP a success and we are now getting ready for our third printing of the 1st Edition. The forthcoming book (slated for April 2005) will be titled "Ultimate Mental Power Revisited." Also in the works, are additions to the Slumber of Osiris -- Meditation tape/CD series. With Much Love! Adisaji (Adisa M. Omar, aka Roger Davis) New Contact Address & Phone: AKU Press International 5257 River Road #140 Bethesda, MD 20816 (202) 549-6498 |
|
It's Robin Green of
Felicia Polk & Associates, formerly of Sibanye, Inc. Since closing the
store last December, I've become a partner in this wonderful public
relations and marketing firm. We're hard at work on campaigns for
Mary Morrison's new release, and
J. California Cooper's fall
release. I miss the store -- particularly my customers and the author
events. But I'm still involved in the industry, so I'm peaceful. I'm also
chairing the Ripe Harvest Foundation,
Inc., a nonprofit cultural arts education foundation geared toward
establishing opportunities for education, entertainment and exchange between
the community and African American literary, visual and performing artists.
Our annual events include a children's book fair (Jambo, Watoto), a literary
conference (Write Now) and a tent and stage at the Baltimore Book Festival. |
| I'm doing just fine, thank God. Summer has arrived and I
find myself in mental "overdrive" trying to accomplish so many things while
the weather is good. Ironically, I don't get a chance to enjoy much activity
outdoors as I am so consumed writing my books. I've created a fiction series
for teens of color--targeted primarily to African Americans--ages 13-18.
These are urban contemporary full length novels written for both boys and
girls. Series name is TOPEKA HEIGHTS. Book one entitled "Princess'
Journey" and book two entitled "Christopher's
Dilemma" will be available by the third week of July. Books three and
four are scheduled for publication in December. Parents, schools, adults and
teens are screaming for quality literary works for teens that encourage and
represent who they are in the 21st century. I'm still amazed when I walk
into major bookstore chains and I see nothing for young adults of color on
the shelves. This has got to change.
I do intend to read some of your suggested "favorites" when things slow
down a bit. That's the down side to being a writer--no time to read other
great books. I will be at the Harlem Book Fair. Hope to see you there. Take
Care. |
 My
name is Rev. Cheryl Denise Ward and I have just completed and
released a fiction love story. It has been received with great acclaim and
also some dissent from some members of the religious community. It is intentionally written as a steamy love story about an African American man and woman working through everyday life issues. I challenge the church to begin talking openly and honestly about relationships and sex! The press release is attached to this e-mail to give you a little more insight. I am doing GREAT! I'm excited that people across the country are picking up the book and asking "where is the sequel?" (Editor's Note Photo Obtained from BETHEL AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH http://www.bethelamesf.com) |
| AALBC, I love the information you bring to the up -and -coming writers. I login to your site all the time. I am an unpublished fiction writer and the more I look at your website, the more it inspire me to continue writing. Hopefully, my novel will make its debut this fall and I would like to know, how to get my book out on the African American market. I need the connection because I'm self-published. Your information will be greatly appreciated Kareem Khalis |
 From
Author KaShamba Williams I'm doing well. Just informing you about my two books, Blinded & Grimey! Both are selling well!! "Blinded" by KaShamba Williams in stores now! "Grimey" the sequel to Blinded by KaShamba Williams in stores now! Check out the official website of KaShamba Williams http://www.precioustymesentertainment.com/ Stay connected with hottest Hip-Hop Fiction Publisher... http://www.triplecrownpublications.com/! Support the Triple Crown Team |
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Graphics, Photos and hyperlinks may have been added to compliment the above messages. Minor editing may have been performed |
H.O.P.E.
Productions (Helping Others by Producing Entertainment) is an organization
of media professionals who are currently enrolled in the MBA in Media
Management program at Metropolitan College of New York. They joined
forces to celebrate an evening of artistic expressions whose proceeds will
be shared entirely by two not-for-profit, 501 (C) 3 organizations― The Stay
Strong Foundation and BCSB Cathie Family Life Development Center.
From
Robin GreenPeace,
Troy Johnson,
Founder AALBC.com
55 West 116th Street #195
Harlem, NY 10026
(866) 603-8394
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