Simply Fred Smith

Nikki Giovanni at Esowon Books, L.A., 1/7/11.

2011-01-07T05:36:00.000-08:00

If you're in the L.A. area, you'll definintely want to stop by Esowon Bookstore for an evening with Nikki Giovanni on Friday, January 7, 2011.

The world-renowned poet, activist, and academic will share an evening of poetry, stories, and wisdom from two books she's recently put together -- 100 Best African American Poems and Hip Hop Speaks To Children. Both books will be for sale at Esowon Books.

I've seen Nikki Giovanni speak before at other events, and she's definitely worth the time to go see.

Definitely a great way to start the New Year!
fs

32 Candles at CSULA

2010-11-15T04:55:00.000-08:00

If you're in the L.A. area on Monday, November 15, this book event may be for you.

Ernessa T. Carter will be reading from and signing her novel 32 Candles at 3:15 pm on Monday, 11/15 at the CSULA Student Union in the Alhambra Room. The event is free to attend.

Described as one of the freshest and funniest debut novels, Ernessa T. Carter’s 32 Candles follows Davie Jones, a Strokes t-shirt-wearing, Mississippi-accented, dark-skinned nerd, on her journey of self-discovery, acceptance, self-love, and romance from a childhood in Mississippi to adulthood in Los Angeles.

Hope to see you there!
fs

Rocky Rivera

2010-11-05T05:46:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to hear hip hop performer Rocky Rivera at a recent cultural festival at Cal State L.A. Excellent rapper, dope beats, socially conscious lyrics.

My current favorite in my iPod. Check out her YouTube channel. If you get a chance, order her self-titled debut. I promise you'll love it!

Bold's Homeless Story

2010-11-02T00:39:00.000-07:00

The CBS daytime drama, The Bold & The Beautiful has been doing a fabulous job lately with a storyline which features L.A. as a central character (where the show is set and filmed) and the homeless issues facing the city. In L.A. County, it's estimated that close to 50,000 people are homeless.

Great, non-preachy episodes from last week's episodes on October 28 and October 29. If you have a chance, watch online.
fs

NaNoWriMo. Writing This Month.

2010-10-31T22:42:00.000-07:00

Well, it's that time of year again. National Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo, where writers challenge themselves to 30 continuous days of writing 50,000 words on a project.

Best of luck if you're participating in the November 1 - 30 event. Keep me/us posted!

Free Writing Workshop Monday

2010-10-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area on Monday, November 1, bestselling author Noel Alumit will be hosting a free fiction writing workshop. It takes place in the Student Union at Cal State L.A., Monday, November 1 at 3:15 pm in the Alhambra Room, 3rd floor Student Union.

For more infomation, contact the Cross Cultural Centers at (323) 343-5001.
fs

Daniel Black, Perfect Peace, in L.A.

2010-10-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

Daniel Black, author of the novel Perfect Peace, will be doing a reading and signing in L.A. on Monday, October 18 at 3:15 - 4:30 pm, in the University-Student Union at Cal State L.A., Alhambra Room. (Daniel Black website)

Perfect Peace is the fictional story of a mother who wants a daughter so bad, that she decided to raise her seventh son as the daughter she always wanted.

The reading is presented as part of the Cross Cultural Centers Cup of Culture writers series, which highlights writers of color, women writers, and other writers from underrepresented communities.
fs

L.A. Taste of Soul

2010-10-14T23:58:00.000-07:00

If you're in L.A. this weekend, check out the annual Taste of Soul Festival. It takes place on Saturday, October 16 from 10 am - 6 pm on Crenshaw Blvd., between Martin Luther King Drive and Rodeo Drive.

Lots of great food, music, entertainment, and people.

I'm already tasting the hot catfish straight out of the fryer.
fs

The Prep School Negro

2010-10-13T04:27:00.000-07:00

Just caught a trailer for this new documentary, The Prep School Negro. Looks fascinating.

It follows black people who are currently or formerly enrolled in prestigious, private (and mostly all-white) Prep Schools, and the challenges and triumphs they face as they straddle life in two worlds.

Though my high school wasn't private or all-white, it was a public, college prep one. I remember growing up in Detroit and going to Renaissance H.S. branded us as "the smart ones" or "the stuck-up ones" in our own neighborhoods and among other public school students. And that was tough coming from other black people.

I can only imagine what it's like when you move away for high school and face it from the people in your neighborhood as well as the people at your school.
fs

Reconsider Columbus Day

2010-10-10T11:51:00.000-07:00

I'm surprised people still celebrate Columbus Day, but they do. Saw this great video clip, Reconsider Columbus Day, which advocates for the development of an Indigenous People's holiday instead. Good points!
fs

Latino Book and Family Festival

2010-10-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area, head over to the Cal State L.A. campus for the annual Latino Book and Family Festival. It runs until 6 pm today and features over 100 authors participating in panels and book signings. Lots of fun and a beautiful day!
fs

WeHo Book Fair

2010-09-16T21:52:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area next weekend, check out the annual West Hollywood Book Fair. Takes place on Sunday, September 26 all day. Lots of great authors and informative workshops and panels.

And of course afterwards, you can always slip into The Abbey or another place close by for a post-bookfair cocktail. Sundays are always fun in West Hollywood.
fs

Step Afrika in L.A.

2010-09-15T23:21:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area in early October, you might want to check out Step Afrika! on Thursday, October 7 at 7:30 pm at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex on the Cal State L.A. campus.

Step Afrika! is the only professional dance company in the world dedicated to the tradition of stepping. The group has performed before tens of thousands of people worldwide. Check out this Step Afrika! promo clip from YouTube.

This should be an evening of dance and performance like no other, as Step Afrika! traces the history of stepping from the gumboot dance tradition in South Africa to its current use by African American fraternities and sororities.

Ticketmaster: $15 - $21. Luckman Fine Arts ticket window, with CSULA student, staff, faculty ID: $5.

Contact the Luckman at (323) 343-6600 for more information.
fs

Getting to Happy

2010-09-07T19:53:00.000-07:00

So today is the release date of Terry McMillan's new novel, Getting to Happy. It's the sequel to Waiting to Exhale, and finds us fifteen years later visiting the four characters -- Gloria, Bernardine, Savannah, and Robin.

A little late for me to hit the bookstore. Didn't pre-order online. So I'll be making a special trip to the mall or Esowon tomorrow or late in the week.

But I'm happy the new novel is here. Can't wait to read. I remember reading Waiting to Exhale in the early 90s, barely in college. Laughing out loud at the crack-up funny writing and stories the characters were telling, and my dorm mates asking what was I reading that was so fun(ny).

I attended a preview reading Terry McMillan did at the LA Times Book Festival this year, and based on what I heard we're in for another crack-up funny and dramatic story.

Can't wait to get Getting to Happy. You?
fs

Help

2010-09-01T21:22:00.001-07:00

I'm currently reading The Help by Kathryn Stockett. I was skeptical at first, but find myself enjoying the novel.

It's the fictional story of a group of black maids who work for white women in Jackson, Mississippi in the 1960s. But, of course, this story was true for thousands of black women who had no choice but to work for white women in the U.S. Probably still is true. Sad, but true.

Although skeptical about reading the book, I find myself thinking about my grandmother, who herself worked as help for a white family and raised their kids. Many of the details of the maids' lives (how they had to budget, keeping a garden in order to eat, the internal struggle of raising someone else's kids while feeling like they're neglecting their own kids) seem authentic in the novel so far.

My skepticism, however, came from a white woman author writing a black woman's story. Wondering if any of you have read it or are reading it? Your thoughts? What about looking through a lens of social justice, equality, or being culturally empowered? Would this book be as accepted or "acclaimed" if written by a black woman author? Is this another "let us tell you about your experience" story?

These are the questions I'm wrestling with as I read... and wondering if any of you can help with The Help?
fs

What Love Tastes Like

2010-08-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

Zuri Day's novels are some of my favorites. Just good old fashioned romance. I've blogged about two of her novels I've read -- Lessons From a Younger Lover and Body By Night.

Now, she has a new release coming in September. What Love Tastes Like. The novel features a romantic tale between a chef and her boss, the owner of a luxury hotel. Advance reviews concur that this is a tasty and romantic treat for your reading delight.

I have enjoyed Zuri Day's previous novels, so I'm sure I will enjoy What Love Tastes Like just as much.

Bon appetit!
fs

Substitute Me

2010-08-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

So you're a middle class and educated black woman. You come from a good background and family.

You're trained as a chef, but in this economy, you can't find a job in your field. But someone does want to hire you... a white couple, about your age, as their maid/cook/housekeeper. And you take the job... and keep it a secret from the people in your life.

Thus, the premise of the new novel, Substitute Me, by Lori Tharps.

One more novel going into my to-read pile. And a good recommendation for yours too.
fs

PEN Emerging Voices Fellowship

2010-08-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

If you're a writer who is part of a community that has lacked access to the writing/publication field (i.e. women, people of color, lgbt, poor/working class, street educated vs institutionally educated), then the PEN Emerging Voices Fellowship could be for you.

Applications are due in late August for the 2011 cycle. It's an 8-month intensive writing program/mentorship, where emerging voices can get the attention and nurturing they need to break into writing and possibly publishing. See the PEN EV website for more details.

It helps if you're SoCali based, since each of the eight monthly workshops takes place in L.A. area. So... if you or someone you know is interested, please apply.
fs

You Majored In What?

2010-08-15T13:55:00.000-07:00

Heard a great interview on NPR yesterday featuring the author of this book, You Majored In What?, Dr. Katharine Brooks.

It's a practical book on helping college students and career counselors navigate the line between a "practical/doing" major (i.e. Business, Education, etc...) and an "esoteric/thinking" major (i.e. English Lit, History, etc...)

In times of economic challenge, like we're currently experiencing, students are often scared/swayed to major in something that builds skills directly applicable to a job. These scared/swayed tactics often come from parents, who worry about their kids' job prospects in light of student loans. These scared/swayed tactics also can come from red-state conservatives, who worry about people learning to be critical thinkers and questioners.

These conversations are also shaping the dialogue on campuses, as college presidents and deans make decisions on what departments/majors are important to keep, and which ones they want to cut or make smaller.

All majors are important and add to students' growth and development.

Regardless of what students choose, I think taking ethnic studies (i.e. Pan African Studies, Chicana/o Studies, Asian American Studies, etc...) and gender studies (i.e. Women's Studies) is very important -- both in terms of learning/appreciating history and becoming culturally-empowered and confident about who they are.

Just my opinion.

What about you? What did you major in? Or want to major in? Or... have you found that your major had absolutely nothing to do with your eventual career/job choice?

If you're navigating career decisions, check out Dr. Katharine Brooks' blog, Career Transitions.
fs

Summer Reading

2010-08-04T09:20:00.001-07:00

So it's August. Summer is winding down. I hope you're doing something fun and memorable to make the most of Summer 2010.

On that note, what's been the most memorable book you've read this summer?

For me. Perfect Peace by Daniel Black. And 32 Candles by Ernessa Carter.

But I'd like to hear yours and your recommendations.

Happy reading!
fs

Losing My Cool

2010-07-30T02:17:00.000-07:00

Just picked up this book, Losing My Cool, by Thomas Chatterton Williams. Came highly recommended by the staff at Esowon Books in L.A.

It's a memoir and inspirational story about a young man's struggle with street credibility and book credibility. The tagline says it all -- how a father's love and 15,000 books beat hip-hop culture.

Check out this promo clip on YouTube, featuring the author and his father, or this NPR interview.

Looking forward to reading this one... and sharing it with the young people I work with at the school. I think you'll enjoy this one too.
fs

A Bad Day For Pretty

2010-07-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

A few months back, I highlighted a novel called A Bad Day For Sorry.

Now, author Sophie Littlefield is back with another installment of the crime-novel series, A Bad Day For Pretty.

The series features tough-talking Stella Hardesty, who "rights wrongs" done to women by abusive husbands, partners, and other men in their lives. The novels are engaging and address a number of social issues.

And I think the titles are quite catchy. Check them out.
fs

Brothers and Wives

2010-07-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

Cydney Rax is an author to admire. With a full-time job, she's consistently written and published five novels within the past five years.

Her latest, Brothers and Wives, just debuted this week. It's a continuation of one of her earlier novels, My Husband's Girlfriend, and features another juicy love triangle among characters who are really entangled in each others' lives.

Another summer read to keep your hot summer even hotter.
fs

Monday Book Happenings

2010-07-19T00:19:00.000-07:00

Very quickly. Hope it's a good Monday for you.

Save The L.A. Library. You may or may not know, but the City of L.A. has ordered its libraries closed on Sundays and now Mondays, due to budget cuts. Monday, July 19, in the morning, many will be gathering at the Central Library in downtown L.A. to protest the cuts. For many folks, libraries are the only place they can access internet, get refuge from the heat, and find books they can't afford to buy.

Later on Monday, July 19, Ernessa T. Carter will be reading/signing her debut novel 32 Candles at 7pm at Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena. I'm reading the book now, and it's so fab and fun to read.

Enjoy!
fs

Happy Jackie Washington Day!

2010-07-15T04:08:00.000-07:00

It's July 15th, also known within black LGBT circles and in Kinloch, Missouri as Jackie Washington Day.

Um, if you don't know what it is, or why we celebrate, check out the film Jackie's Back, featuring one of our favorite actresses Jenifer Lewis.

Or check out the blog entries I've written the past few years on the "holiday": Jackie Washington Day/Jackie's Back, and Oh Yeah, Jackie Washington Day, and It's Jackie Washington Day Again.

Jackie Washington even has a Myspace page. And a Facebook page too.

Enjoy! And don't do any laundry today... and order some tacos that you don't pay for, too.
fs

Will Grayson, Will Grayson

2010-07-12T19:08:00.000-07:00

Watch out Harry Potter and the Twilight characters.

There's new Young Adult fiction hitting the bestsellers list, and it features openly gay characters.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan follows two young men with the same name, but with parallel and different life experiences. The novel has gotten great reviews for authentic young adult characters and dialogue. Check out this YouTube clip featuring the authors reading from Will Grayson, Will Grayson.

But even though it's hit the NYTimes list, there are some folks who aren't digging YA lit featuring prominent gay characters -- check out this article in Salon on Will Grayson, Will Grayson.

Or you can check it out for yourself and be the judge.
fs

Selling My Soul

2010-07-05T18:54:00.000-07:00

Would you take a job that compromises your beliefs and values, especially if you needed the job and the money?

Sherri Lewis's latest novel, Selling My Soul, follows the character Trina Michaels who faces that dilemma upon returning from a spiritual journey to Africa.

After the journey, and needing a job to help with two family dramas, she accepts an assignment from her PR firm to do a clean-up job on a leader of an urban mega-church accused of sexual relationships with young men in his church.

Learned of the novel through a few online interviews featuring the author. Very good listening if you have time: Authors Supporting Authors interview, and Black Author Network interview.

If you get a chance, check out Sherri Lewis's other titles as well.
fs

One Amazing Thing

2010-07-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

A story of survival, hope, and inspiration, One Amazing Thing is a novel by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni.

The novel follows a group of random strangers trapped in the basement of the Indian Consulate building in California following a major earthquake.

With little or no hope of being found in the earthquake rubble, the diverse group of people begin telling their personal stories of "One Amazing Thing" that shaped or made their lives. All this in an effort of keeping their spirits up in the midst of the question "Will we get out of here?"

The author has written other novels, including The Mistress of Spices and The Palace of Illusions.

Review and excerpt from NPR.
fs

L.A. Black Pride and Links

2010-06-30T05:27:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area over 4th of July weekend, you've gotta check out Los Angeles Black Pride, aka, At The Beach L.A. Always something to do and someone to meet. Lots of events from July 1 - 5.

Related links. The new, and last, novel by E. Lynn Harris comes out this week. In My Father's House. Definitely worth checking out.

If you haven't picked up the Visible Lives tribute to E. Lynn Harris, you should. Great stories by James Earl Hardy, Stanley Bennett Clay, and Terrance Dean.

The other day, fellow author Rashid Darden and I were reminiscing on how busy our summer was five years ago, when in 2005, both our first novels were published and we were promoting our work on the Black Pride circuit. His, Lazarus. Mine, Down For Whatever. I love Rashid's writing a lot. Check out Rashid Darden on Facebook. Wow, time flies.

That's the latest and greatest here. What's up with you?
fs

Leimert Park Book Fair

2010-06-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area this weekend, check out the Leimert Park Book Fair on Saturday, June 26 from 9:30 am - 6 pm.

Looks like a really impressive lineup of authors, panels, and entertainment. And of course, it will come correct with the cultural inclusion of black authors. It's Leimert Park.

Look for authors and poets such as Eric Jerome Dickey, Nene Leakes, Ruth Forman, Imani Tolliver, Darnell Hunt, Vanessa Williams, Lou Gossett Jr., along with panels on mystery writers, poetry workshops, hip hop discussions, spoken word performances, and even vegan soul food cooking demonstrations.

Schedule of events here. The official Leimert Park Book Fair site here.
fs

32 Candles

2010-06-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

I've been hearing so much about this novel, that I just had to tell you. But I'm sure you know about it already...

32 Candles is the debut novel by author Ernessa T. Carter. How can I best summarize the novel??? Besides imaginative and fun and full of what if's... And maybe I'm excited because I was (and still can be) a Nerd of Color in high school and life, lol...

Imagine you were all the awkward things that the most awkward high schooler could be, but you had a crush on the most un-awkward and popular athlete boy in high school.

Then imagine going away, re-inventing yourself and your look, and your whole way of being, and at age 32, that popular boy, now a 32-year-old man, falls for you... but he hasn't a clue who you are/were in his high school life. No. Clue.

Anyway, 32 Candles is in bookstores now. It's an Essence Magazine book pick. And check out this fascinating interview with Ernessa T. Carter on The Nervous Breakdown blog.

Happy reading. Nerds of color... unite!
fs

Really Fat Virgin

2010-06-18T06:07:00.000-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area tonight (Friday, June 18), you might want to check out the performance, Really Fat Virgin (And Other Stories From Before We Were Hot). Sounds really fun and funny.

Will feature writers and performers: Jessie McNamara, Roy Cruz, Andrea Gardner-Bernstein, and Nico Santos.

Takes place in the West Hollywood Church, 916 N. Formosa Avenue, from 8 - 9:30 pm. $10 donation with resesrvation, $15 without a reservation, and it benefits the Lambda Literary Foundation. For information, email sean@seanhetherington.com.
fs

A Piece of Work

2010-06-11T10:28:00.000-07:00

Graduation weekend in my world, so will be out the social loop Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. But the rest of the world will keep turning, with some great things going on.

If film and comedy are your thing, check out A Piece of Work, a new documentary on Joan Rivers. Heard a great interview she did on NPR the other day. And the L.A. Times Review on the film is great.

If you're in L.A., it's West Hollywood LGBT Pride Weekend. All the boys, girls, and fans will be in West Hollywood watching EnVogue, Kelis, and Kelly Rowland perform.

Kicking off Pride, in a literary way, is the Promising Series on Friday, June 11 at 7:30 pm at Skylight Books in the Los Feliz neighborhood. Noel Alumit puts together a great series, and the reading tonight is sure to please... featuring writers/performers Alex Davis, Larry Duplechan, Alison de la Cruz, D’Lo, David Francis, Jacky Guerrero, Hank Henderson, Imani Tolliver, and Ric Montejano.

All three are great events and great pieces of work to check out!
fs

In The Moment TV

2010-06-07T05:45:00.000-07:00

When you get some time, you've gotta watch In The Moment. It's a new soap-style web series that follows the trials and tribulations of a group of gay guys living in the same apartment complex in West Hollywood, CA.

It's very well-acted, entertaining, hip, and thought-provoking (and not in that after-school-special kinda way). I thought I was gonna watch one 5-minute episode yesterday evening, and ended up spending an hour watching all ten episodes currently available online.

In The Moment is produced by the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center, and is part of the center's efforts to educate young LGBT and straight folks about a number of issues. Quite effective.

Support it. Watch it.
fs

Black America's Main Street

2010-06-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

Amazing the things you learn while reading. Learned about this book while reading Pearl Cleage's latest novel, Till You Hear From Me.

Along Martin Luther King: Travels Along Black America's Main Street is a book of photos, essays, and stories about the various Martin Luther King streets, avenues, and boulevards across the United States.

It captures the diversity of the neighborhoods, towns, businesses and homes that happen to sit on MLK streets. It also discusses the politics behind naming MLK streets, as well as the socioeconomic challenges facing many of the neighborhoods in which MLK streets are placed.

I'd never considered or thought about MLK Street being Black America's Main Street, but now that I think of it... most every city I've travelled to has one, and most define the heart or center of black life in those cities.

For a bit of background on the book, here's an interview the author Jonathan Tilove did with Tavis Smiley on NPR in 2004.
fs

The Neelys

2010-05-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

For Memorial Day weekend, what better way to get in the spirit than with barbeque... and a blog entry I wrote in August 2009 about The Neely's. I'm craving bbq this weekend in L.A., since I'm not heading to midwest, so I gotta figure something out :-) And if you join the Neely's on Facebook, you'll get weekly recipes... some bbq-related, some not. But all delicious!
fs

August 2009
Back in the Midwest for a few days with the family. I realize how much life here revolves around food (and bulging bellies, lol). I've managed a couple gym trips while here, but all those family (i.e. food) gatherings are close to negating the benefits of exercise.

Anyway, why am I now super fascinated with the Pat and Gina Neely (and the rest of the Neely family) of Memphis story? I caught their show recently on Food Network, Down Home With The Neelys, where they showcase their family recipes, heritage, and marriage. Loved it.

Came home to my mom's house and found their new cookbook, Down Home With The Neelys, on the kitchen table. Read it cover to cover and now have to get a copy for myself.

What I love most (beyond the barbeque, soul food, and sweets they make) is their love story. It's a story that began back in high school, and with a couple relationships, cross-country moves, and children in their paths, they found themselves reunited at their 10-year high school reunion.

Now gotta try their restaurant, Neelys BBQ, in Memphis and Nashville.

Good love. Good food. What more could someone ask for?
fs

Efrain's Secret

2010-05-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

We all know young people who would like the opportunity to attend college, but for whatever reason... can't dream it, can't afford it.

The novel, Efrain's Secret, by Sofia Quintero follows such a struggle.

17-year-old Efrain is growing up on the tough streets of the Bronx. He's entering senior year. He has earned perfect SAT scores. And he dreams of escaping his environment to attend college at Yale, Harvard, or another Ivy League School. He knows neither he nor his parents can afford the $30+k tuition, so he turns to his boys in the neighborhood pharmaceutical business for a sales job. He desperately wants to pay for college.

Sofia Quintero has penned several novels focusing on young people growing up in NYC. This is another winner from her collection, and it's for young adults... or young adults at heart.

Highly recommended.
fs

In My Father's House

2010-05-25T08:44:00.001-07:00

Attended a great reading event yesterday at Cal State L.A., featuring Terrance Dean, James Earl Hardy, and Stanley Bennett Clay discussing their stories in the the E. Lynn Harris tribute, Visible Lives. Lively, energetic, and motivating discussion! Get the book and read the other works by these authors.

In the meantime, there is a new E. Lynn Harris novel coming in June. In My Father's House, a novel about gay celebrities, modeling agencies, and father/son relationships, will be released June 22.

The beat and books continue.
fs

Visible Lives: E. Lynn Harris Tribute

2010-05-19T05:42:00.000-07:00

If you're a fan of the late E. Lynn Harris and his novels, then you're sure to enjoy this new book.

Visible Lives: A Tribute to E. Lynn Harris features new fictional stories by James Earl Hardy, Stanley Bennett Clay, and Terrance Dean in honor of E. Lynn Harris. The stories feature the author himself as a character or characters whose lives have been influenced by E. Lynn Harris or his work.

Visible Lives will be available May 25 in bookstores everywhere.

The authors will kick off the book with several appearances in Los Angeles next week, including readings at Cal State L.A. and Esowon Bookstore, and at In The Meantime Men's Group. Later next week and through the summer, the authors will appear jointly and separately at additional bookstores, book clubs, pride events, and libraries across the U.S.

For many people, including myself, their writing careers or life identity were influenced or validated by E. Lynn Harris' novels. His groundbreaking early novels, Invisible Live and Just As I Am are must-reads, and were in a sense a rite of passage for many in the black LGBT community.

Visible Lives seems a fitting tribute to the groundbreaking author. Definitely a good book to pick up for your summer reading.
fs

The Carrie Diaries

2010-05-17T16:11:00.001-07:00

Just in time for the upcoming release of the film Sex and the City 2...

The Carrie Diaries, a novel by Candace Bushnell, which follows the character Carrie Bradshaw in high school, just as she is developing her knack for fashion, cocktails, and cool/trendy friends (another foursome she hangs with in h.s., not the women she goes on to meet as she starts her writing career in NYC.)

L.A. Times did a great review of The Carrie Diaries this weekend.

What a perfect way to understand Carrie Bradshaw... by going back to her high school years.
fs

Long Beach Pride Weekend

2010-05-14T06:12:00.000-07:00

Summer's here... or at least, that's what many of us say when it's Long Beach Pride weekend.

Only ocean-front pride festival in the country, and the 3rd largest -- San Francisco and New York City rank higher in terms of attendance and size.

If you or someone you know is part of the LGBT community, and in L.A. area, LBP is a must-attend event. And it's this weekend, May 15 and 16.

On that note, for those of you who have attended LGBT Pride Festivals before... do you remember your first pride? the anticipation? the friendships, rivalries, or relationships that started? I love hearing "my first Pride" stories... and feel free to share a memory here.

Have a good one!
fs

Stormy Weather

2010-05-10T06:15:00.000-07:00

So we've all heard the sad news that Lena Horne has passed. Sunday night. NYC.

What's so eery... the weekly events email sent Saturday from L.A.'s premiere black bookstore, Esowon Books. The email features an event this Wednesday, May 12 with author James Gavin discussing his biography of Lena Horne, Stormy Weather.

The email reads, "James Gavin will sign and discuss Stormy Weather with special guests. Lena Horne will be with us in spirit." That was sent Saturday. Eery coincidence.

If you're in the L.A. area this Wednesday, May 12 at 7 pm, stop by Esowon Bookstore for what I'm sure will be both a reading and a remembrance of a special, classy woman.

A couple times, I've blogged about Lena Horne. On her 89th birthday in 2006. And this past holiday season, Merry From Lena.
fs

How To Talk About Books... You Haven't Read

2010-05-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Heard about this book on a podcast this week... can't remember the podcast, but the book idea sticks out.

How To Talk About Books You Haven't Read is by Pierre Bayard, and is a fun social guide to participating in conversations about books you haven't read. Listen to this NPR interview featuring the author.

I'm sure many of us, myself included, have stood by quietly while people are discussing a book or another topic that everyone is assumed to have knowledge of. Of course, assuming is not a good thing, because everyone comes from different levels of knowledge, education, and cultural capital.

But I'm sure a book like this one will help in some of those socially awkward moments.
fs

Where's Willona from Good Times?

2010-05-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

Ths other day in the office, we had a random thought/conversation. "Where's Willona from Good Times these days?"

It only took a minute for someone to remember the actress' name who portrayed Willona, Ja'Net Dubois, and then about 30 seconds to find Ja'Net Dubois website and see what's going on in her world. Lots of work, charity functions, and painting great works of art... art we're all thinking we'd like to own.

A couple years ago, we had a random thought/conversation about "Where's Thelma?" which I blogged about here. Check out Bern Nadette Stanis' official website, Thelma of Good Times.

Just a fun, Monday trip down memory lane. Both actresses look the same as they did back in the day.

Me thinks some soap, maybe Young & Restless, might want to pick them up for new characters, since the actresses and Y&R have such a nostalgic following in the African American community. Hmmmm.....

Enjoy.
fs

Secrets of a Soap Opera Diva

2010-05-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

It's May sweeps. Time for the big catfight showdown between rivals, faked pregnancy to be revealed, and your long-lost love to return from the dead as you're walking down the aisle.

Oh, and it's also time for the release of Secrets of a Soap Opera Diva, a novel by Young & the Restless star, Victoria Rowell. Check out the fun website for the book.

The novel follows soap actress, Calysta Jeffries, the hottest (and one of a few) black actresses in daytime, who after fifteen years in the role of Ruby, still hasn't won a Sudsy Award. She desperately want to win the top award in daytime drama.

This is sure to be a fun and dramatic read.

And while you're at it, you can check out Rowell's memoir, The Women Who Raised Me.
fs

I Love Yous Are For White People

2010-04-27T09:34:00.001-07:00

Had the opportunity to hear author Lac Su speak on his memoir, I Love Yous Are For White People, a few days ago at Cal State L.A. and the LA Times Festival of Books.

I was totally mesmerized with his story, a true one, as an Asian American immigrant struggling to find himself, win his father's love, and transcend the dangers of life in urban L.A.

The title, by the way, comes from an interaction between Lac and his father, when upon telling his father (as a kid) that he loves him, his dad replies along the line of "Stop being soft. I love yous are for white people."

Deep.

If you're into memoirs, you will definitely enjoy this one.
fs

Culture Clash: Drama High

2010-04-25T23:40:00.000-07:00

Culture Clash, by L Divine, is the latest installment in the Drama High series, featuring main character Jayd, a strong young African American woman living her life in South L.A./Compton.

This novel focuses on Jayd's frustration with the way her school is handling Cultural Awareness Day. So, in response, she helps form the first African Student Union organization, much to the dismay of school administrators. Add to the mix Jayd's new favorite hobby -- drag racing -- and a crush on Emilio, a new Latino student at her school, and you've got some big time drama at Drama High.

Faithful readers of the Drama High series recommend starting with the first of the series, The Fight.

More on the author, L Divine, and the entire Drama High Series.

No matter where you start, however, you or a young person in your life will definitely enjoy the Drama High series of books.
fs

L.A. Book Fest This Weekend

2010-04-21T14:15:00.001-07:00

The schedule is up now for the annual L.A. Times Festival of Books, which takes place this weekend, April 24/25, at the UCLA campus.

Lots of good speakers, writers, book sellers, and more. I usually decide last minute which sessions I want to attend.

But I'm most definitely excited about seeing/hearing Terry McMillan speak on Sunday at 2:30 pm. Her work is a fave of mine, and I'm looking foward to the new novel, Getting to Happy, coming in September (video clip here of her discussing novel).

What/who are you looking forward to seeing or buying at the festival?
fs

Hot Stuff

2010-04-19T20:59:00.000-07:00

Disco is still queen... or king.

At least it is... according to this new book, Hot Stuff: Disco and the Remaking of American Culture by Alice Echols. The book takes an academic look at the effects of disco on life in the U.S. in the 70s, as well as the effects of society on disco music. It examines the ethnicity, class, gender, and sexual orientation themes of the disco era. Check out this L.A. Times review of the book.

In other disco news, just read on Rod 2.0 this heartwarming story about what disco diva Sylvester's estate left a few San Francisco AIDS/HIV community organizations. And we probably have technology, pop culture, and of course Sylvester's music to thank for the legacy and gift. Check out this clip of Sylvester on Joan Rivers' late night show in the 80s.

That's the hot stuff for now.
fs

Mo'Nique Showcases Authors

2010-04-18T15:59:00.000-07:00

Look for my favorite author of the day, Pamela Samuels Young, on this Tuesday night's, April 20, Mo'Nique Show.

She'll be discussing her L.A. based legal thrillers, which I've written about on this blog before -- Buying Time, and Murder on the Down Low.

Very rare that talk shows feature black authors on their shows these days. Hopefully this is something Mo'Nique will do regularly on her show.

So show Mo'Nique some love for showing black authors some love, and watch the show this week!
fs

Perfect Peace

2010-04-14T05:14:00.000-07:00

Talk about word-of-mouth being the ultimate publicity, I never would have known about this novel if one of the readers of this blog hadn't alerted me to it. Thanks Anthony. This one sounds like a winner for sure.

Perfect Peace is the third novel by author Daniel Black.

Set in the rural U.S. south, the novel follows Emma Jean Peace's decision to raise her seventh son, Perfect, as the daughter she always wanted, but never gave birth to. When Perfect is eight, someone discovers the gender secret, and it sets off a series of events that leads to multiple questions of identity, gender, biology, and religion. Imagine all that, again, in the South, perceived not to be as open as other areas of the U.S.

I'm always excited to learn about authors deep into their literary careers. It means I get to read their previous books before getting to their current release. In the case of Daniel Black, he's had two other novels published -- They Tell Me of a Home and The Sacred Place -- and both sound like great reads.

Thanks Anthony for the heads up! Enjoy!
fs

Till You Hear From Me

2010-04-09T04:23:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to the newest release from Pearl Cleage, coming April 20, Till You Hear From Me.

The novel tells the story of Ida Dunbar, daughter of an old-guard Civil Rights leader and an Obama campaign staffer, who returns home to Atlanta after her father makes some controversial statements that go YouTube and might challenge her role with the Obama administration.

That's the short version. As always, there's a lot more than the online summary.

The good thing about Pearl Cleage's novels is that you always get socially conscious reflections, a bit of social justice and history, unapologetically black and proud characters, and conflicts rooted in the black experience and neighborhoods.

I never need to know what her novels are about to know I'm going to get a good read. Definitely check this one out.
fs

Buying More Time

2010-04-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

Time flies... and we're already heading into graduation prep season. So crazy how fast time goes.

So, I'm reading Buying Time, the latest novel by Pamela Samuels Young. Love it, love it, LOVE it. If you haven't picked up one of her four legal thrillers, you ought to. Deftly plotted. Excellent and authentic dialogue. Strong sistas as leading characters. Someone needs to scoop her novels up as a tv pilot or a film. For real. If you're in L.A. area, she'll be reading and discussing her novels at Cal State L.A. Student Union, Monday, April 12 at 6 pm.

Speaking of time, many writers I know say they have very little of it. For some, it might not be a matter of time... but a matter of Twitter? Or Facebook? Very interesting article in this weekend's LA Times: Should a new writer quit Twitter and Facebook? It takes a fascinating look at one writer's reflection on her productivity while giving up the social networks for the first three months of this year.

Finally, non-related but related... I just love how seamlessly the singer Monica has bridged old school with new school in her song, Everything To Me. Silly by Deniece Williams was always a favorite, and Monica updates in a very honorable way.

Take care!
fs

The Girl Who Fell From The Sky

2010-04-03T09:26:00.000-07:00

Another good novel to add to the list. This one is a coming-of-age story featuring a biracial leading character.

Set in the 1980s, The Girl Who Fell From The Sky, tells the story of Rachel, the daughte of a Danish mother and an African American GI, who becomes the sole survivor of a family tragedy. When Rachel moves in with her strict black grandmother, she wrestles with issues of race, class, beauty, and identity.

Written by Heidi W. Durrow, the novel has won the Bellwether Prize for fiction addressing issues of social justice.

Listen to an interview with the author on NPR, Re-imagining The Tragic Mulatto.
fs

Walter Mosley at Esowon

2010-03-30T09:42:00.001-07:00

If you're in the L.A. area today (Tuesday, March 30), stop by Esowon Bookstore in Leimert Park area.

Walter Mosley will be discussing and signing his latest novel, Known To Evil, at 7 pm.

Great way to support a great bookstore and to meet a literary legend.
fs

LA Times Festival of Books

2010-03-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

If you're in L.A. area, save the date and check out the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. It takes place April 24 and 25, 2010 at UCLA campus. Directions and details on the festival website.

It's always one of my favorite events.
fs

Sexaholics

2010-03-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

So, if you're familiar with the work of author Marissa Monteilh (Hot Boyz, May/December Souls), you'll be happy to know that she writes erotic novels as Pynk. And Pynk's newest novel, Sexaholics, has just been released in bookstores.

The novel follows four women of diverse backgrounds and experiences (in and out of the bedroom) who all have one thing in common... love of good sex. Sometimes, too much sex!

And that "addiction" brings the four together at a Sexaholics Anonymous meeting... and it's at the meetings that we hear the erotic and steamy sex-capades that brought them to seek treatment.

Definitely a hot read. And... if you're in the Atlanta area on Thursday, March 25, you can check out Pynk reading from Sexaholics at Outwrite Bookstore... one of my favorite bookstores in the country!

The reading at Outwrite starts at 7:30 pm on Thursday.
fs

Get Happy. Monday Links.

2010-03-22T07:13:00.000-07:00

Just learned that Terry McMillan has a new novel, Getting To Happy, coming out in Fall 2010. The book continues the story of the four women in Waiting To Exhale -- Gloria, Robin, Savannah, and Bernardine. And thanks to Authors In Color blog, I also learned that the author has been doing some reading previews of the novel.

Just finished reading Murder on the Down Low by Pamela Samuels Young. Excellent murder/legal thriller. Finished in two days. Highly recommended.

And it's a Glorious Monday for author Bernice McFadden. Her latest, Glorious, is new is stores. Check out her blog, website, and her novel, Sugar, too.

Happy Monday!
fs

The Jailbird Slutty Dater

2010-03-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

My good friend Anita writes a blog called Don't Be A Slut, which chronicles lessons learned from dating experiences in her teens and twenties.

It's incredibly well written. Funny. Serious. And so full of those, "Damn, I did that too... but would never tell anyone about it" moments.

Her latest entry, Stop Dating Jailbirds, particularly resonated. Won't go into too many details, since I'm not that kind of blogger.

But let's just say I've cleaned house and have gotten over a "Social Work/Jailbird" dating situation from four/five years ago. I struggle, though, because there's something about my "good boy/clean cut" upbringing that makes me yearn for the "bad boy/scarred life" kinda guy. That's best left in soap operas!

Read Don't Be A Slut and reminise on your own dating lessons. Particularly helpful on those vulnerable Fridays and Saturdays when you're on the prowl for Mr. or Miss Right in the club.

Or, if you're holding on to a "Social Work/Jailbird/Bad Boy" kinda guy and can't let go, listen to the wise words of Miss Nancy Wilson, in her song, "Face It Girl, It's Over."
fs

Claw Back. Soap Diva.

2010-03-18T15:02:00.000-07:00

Though her novel, Secrets of a Soap Opera Diva, is a couple months away from its release date (May 4), Victoria Rowell is all aboard the publicity train.

Love, Love, LOVE this trailer she just released promoting the book -- Soap Diva Clawing Up Cliff.

Sounds, and looks, like a very fun, juicy read!

Now, if they only get her back on Y&R as Drucilla... the world will be even more fun and juicy! Because we all know Dru is still clinging to that cliff after two years.

Secrets of A Soap Opera Diva.
fs

2010 Lambda Literary Awards Finalists

2010-03-16T09:51:00.000-07:00

The Lambda Literary Awards celebrate outstanding literature focusing on or by members of the LGBT community.

The 2010 Lambda Literary Awards Finalists have just been announced.

If you'd like to see the award show -- it's kinda like the Oscars for LGBT books -- it takes place Thursday, May 27 in New York City at the School of the Visual Arts Theatre.

Congrats to all the nominees. If you get a chance, go out and purchase some of the books on the list.
fs

Married on Mondays

2010-03-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

Honey B isn't just the name of Beyonce's character in the new Lady Gaga video, Telephone.

Honey B is also the pseudonym for best-selling author, Mary B. Morrison. As Mary, she writes novels filled with romance and drama featuring black characters. As Honey B, she writes romance and drama, but will a little more "adult" punch.

In Married on Mondays, you definitely get the "adult" punch... within the first page. The novel focuses on three sisters, Foxy, Victoria, and Deja, who run a very successful bakery by day, and a very successful adult fantasy playland by night... and weekends. On Mondays, it's back to being married and "proper" business women and romantic partners.

If you're over 18 and erotica is your reading genre, you'll definitely get into Married on Mondays. Look for the book next week in a bookstore near you.
fs

Wench

2010-03-12T05:03:00.000-08:00

So everyone's raving about Wench by Dolen Perkins-Vasquez.

The novel exploring the lives of four slave women, Lizzie, Reenie, Sweet, and Mawu, who are their masters' mistresses. They meet when their owners vacation at the same resort each summer.

If you're in L.A., the author will discuss and sign copies of her book at Esowon Bookstore next Thursday, March 18 at 7:30 pm. Will definitely be an engaging event.

More on the author and the novel:

Interview with White Readers Meet Black Authors.

Interview on NPR.

Review by Tayari Jones.

Esowon Bookstore next Thursday, March 18!
fs

Dianne Reeves Concert. L.A.

2010-03-11T05:45:00.000-08:00

If you're in the L.A. area this weekend, you might want to check out the Dianne Reeves concert at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex.

She's performing on Saturday night, March 13, at 8 pm. Tickets are still available either online at Ticketmaster or at the Luckman Box Office. Luckman is on the Cal State L.A. campus.

If you're not familiar with Dianne Reeves, some things to know... She's one of the most important jazz performers of our time. She's a Detroiter by birth, but raised in Denver. Her performances get great reviews. Her cousin is George Duke. And many of you probably know a few of her songs, including the wildly popular "Better Days" also known in my family and community as "The Grandma Song."

Enjoy!
fs

Probation

2010-03-08T23:12:00.000-08:00

As the weather shows us glimpses of warmer weather, Pride season gets closer. And with it comes the new crop of LGBT focused books for the upcoming season.

One of the first of the new season is Probation by Tom Mendicino, coming in late March 2010.

Probation centers on a closeted gay man who finds his life turned upside down when he's arrested for soliciting a sexual encounter by an undercover cop. Left by his wife, and fired by his father-in-law, Andy, the main character, must start the process of re-building his life... now as an openly gay man.

Sounds really intriguing and a fascinating read. Could be especially good for someone who has recently come out, been forced out the closet, or just wanting to understand more about the LGBT community.

Look for the book in a few weeks... and the author at a reading event near you soon.
fs

Prayers Like Shoes

2010-03-02T08:10:00.001-08:00

Had an opportunity to meet poet Ruth Forman last week. She did a reading and poetry writing workshop. Incredible!

I never considered myself a poet, but after the workshop... well, let's just say I have a very elementary beginning of a poem. And I'm loving her poetry book, Prayers Like Shoes. Hear her read in this NPR interview. Take her poetry class at VONA.

Ruth Forman is a highly acclaimed writer and poet, as well as a former teacher in the Poetry for the People program at UC Berkeley. Her books include We Are The Young Magician, Renaissance (which was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize), Young Cornrows Callin Out the Moon, and Prayers Like Shoes.

She has been described as a writer who "not only upholds the traditions of the 'sistapoets' in whose steps [she] follows--Audre Lorde, Alice Walker and Sonia Sanchez--but also boldly blazes brand new trails." In its starred and boxed review, Booklist said, "Ruth Forman['s]... poems are alive and kicking; they pound and pulse with a hard-won sense of self, beauty, femininity, strength and righteous indignation. ... Forman is sexy, bittersweet, funny, feisty and real."

A graduate of UC Berkeley (she's a former student of June Jordan, Opal Palmer Adisa, Paula Gunn Allen and Yusef Komunyakaa) and the USC School of Cinema-Television, Ruth frequently collaborates on music, dance, theatre, and media projects.

She provides readings and workshops to a wide variety of audiences, presenting her poetry nationally and internationally in forums such as the United Nations, the PBS series The United States of Poetry, the National Black Arts Festival, National Public Radio, and numerous university and community literary programs.

Highly recommended.
fs

Big Easy in L.A.

2010-03-01T05:40:00.000-08:00

If you're in the L.A. area, you've gotta make your way down to Hermosa Beach to the lovely New Orleans Cafe.

Did my first visit over the weekend with a friend, and was absolutely thrilled with the menu, service, decor, and sense of home/family in the restaurant.

Since it was lunch, opted for po' boy sandwiches (a catfish for me, a shrimp/oyster for friend) which absolutely filled us up and were delicious. Had a few great appetizers too... alligator sausage and crab cakes. Next time, looking forward to a big bowl of gumbo and dessert.

It's closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but open for lunch and dinner hours the rest of the week. Most excellent service.

For those new to New Orleans cuisine, the chef and proprietor, Casandra Epuna, will come to your table to explain what to eat and not eat... and recommendations are not based on what's most expensive, but based on what your taste and experience wants. I watched and heard that over and over with other new customers.

And, for those of you who are into star-gazing, you never know which singer, professional athlete, or actor you'll see in the place. This weekend, it seemed to be a big athlete hangout.

Most definitely check out New Orleans Cafe, Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach, CA.
fs

Lessons From A Younger Lover

2010-02-23T04:45:00.000-08:00

A couple months ago I told you about author Zuri Day in a blog entry called Body By Night.

Coming next week is her new novel, Lessons From A Younger Lover. I was sold on the novel months ago when I heard the author reading a preview excerpt online. A great reading performance will get you everywhere.

Lessons... focuses on 40-year-old Gwen Smith, a 1st grade teacher, who after a divorce and moves back to California to care for her ailing mother. But while teaching in her new school, she meets and falls for a student's parent... 26-year-old Ransom Blake, despite not wanting to get involved with anyone. Sparks, chemistry, and romance ensue.

I read the author's Body By Knight a couple months ago and enjoyed it. I'm sure Lessons From A Younger Lover will be just as exciting.
fs

Jackie Collins' L.A.

2010-02-22T09:48:00.001-08:00

Loved reading this quick story in the L.A. Times about Jackie Collins' favorite spots in L.A.

L.A. is a prominent character in her latest novel, Poor Little Bitch Girl.

Always something new to learn about Los Angeles.
fs

Feminista

2010-02-20T14:50:00.000-08:00

Who can't relate? You're strong. You're fashionable. You're independent. You have opinions and not afraid to share them. You have no problem meeting potential dates, but nothing quite... sticks.

That's what I thought of when I came across the new novel, Feminista, by Erica Kennedy the other day. It's another going in my to-be-read list.

The novel centers on character Sydney Zamora who's got all the characteristics one would want in a personal and professional life, she's empowered in her cultural and feminist views, and she's also fashionable. But the search for the right partner... not so much. And the thirties are ticking along pretty quickly.

Sounds like a lot of people I know... Maybe someone you know?

That could be why you might want to add Feminista to your reading list. And while you're at it, check out Erica Kennedy's first novel, Bling.

Check out a couple online interviews with Erica Kennedy on Six Figure Sisters, Book-Remarks, and The Root.
fs

All Over The Place Friday

2010-02-19T06:10:00.000-08:00

Good morning Mrs. Chancellor!

It's a furlough Friday in California. Yay! Too bad I can't stay asleep past my regular wake up time. Boo! Won't stop me from having a great weekend. A few good news stories to get us through...

Grinnell College appoints openly gay, black man as new President.

Are you a writer trying to revise that story to get past the slush pile? Check out these 21 tips to get out of the publisher's pile.

For your entertainment, Sunday you gotta watch Sins of the Mother, starring Jill Scott, which is based on the book Orange Mint and Honey by Carleen Brice. I'm predicting Emmy nominations for Jill Scott and the movie this summer.

For your entertainment... Jenifer Lewis's Hot Flash. It's a one-woman show benefitting the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center. If in L.A., it's a must-see!

Finally, some eye candy... oops, I mean inspiration for a story idea featuring cute 20-something men... Yankees Spring Training. Who knew a NY Yankees hat could take on so many looks. Yum!

That's all for now. Have a great Friday and weekend!
fs

Sins of the Mother

2010-02-16T20:30:00.000-08:00

If you're a fan of Jill Scott and her acting, then you will be a fan of a new made-for-tv movie she stars in, Sins of the Mother. It airs on Lifetime Movie Network on Sunday, February 21. Movie trailer here.

If you're a fan of the movie, Sins of the Mother, then you will be a fan of the novel upon which it is based, Orange Mint and Honey, by Carleen Brice.

The gist of the stories... a grad-school age woman, Shay (played by Nicole Beharie), returns home to the mother, Nona (played by Jill Scott), who she remembers as always drunk, hungover, or with a new low-life guy. With time and age, both women have transformed and are coming to terms with who they are today.

It's always exciting to hear of writers getting their projects optioned by production companies. It's extra exciting to see those options turning into a real film project. And even more nice to see someone who is so supportive of other authors and who raises awareness of the issues of black authors on sites: PJ Gardner and White Readers/Black Authors.

So I hope you'll find time to support the film and the book.
fs

Don'ts... For Book Club Members

2010-02-11T16:57:00.001-08:00

Etiquette is important everywhere, but I don't think people get schooled on what to do/not do at book club meetings... or book signings.

So I just LOVED author Mat Johnson's YouTube video rant on book club etiquette. Watch it and let me know what you think...

My main pet peeve... don't give away endings or spoilers in public readings/forums. It just ruins the experience for everyone.
fs

Getting The Book Trailer Thing

2010-02-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

I never really got the whole book trailer thing... i.e. putting together a 20 or 30 second film preview of books... until I got a link to the trailer for Jackie Collins' new novel, Poor Little Bitch Girl.

I can now see how book trailers are effective... and think it can reel in new readers, especially those who are more visual and/or have quick attention spans.
fs

The Promising 50

2010-02-05T05:51:00.000-08:00

The Promising Series is a reading series that celebrates Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender writers. If you're in L.A., you'll want to stop by Skylight Books tonight (Friday, February 5) at 7:30 pm for the event.

The first Promising of the year will launch Fifty Gay and Lesbian Books You Must Read, an anthology that “contains fifty succinct essays by critics, public figures, and authors. They illuminate works by fifty men and women that everybody should read.”

In explaining the book, Editor Richard Canning wrote in his introduction, “Fifty diverse authors have each taken a single work of literature and written a brief account of how and why they read it (and, usually, repeatedly reread it), and why others (of any and all sexualities) should do so.”

Some of the writers in the book include Maureen Duffy writing about Sappho’s poems, Christopher Bram writing about Thomas Mann’s Death in Venice, Jonathan Franzen on James Purdy’s Eustace Chisholm and the Works, and Tani Katan on Audre Lorde’s The Cancer Journals.

On February 5th, writers who will read their contributions to Fifty Gay and Lesbian Books You Must Read will be Felice Picano, Fenton Johnson, Matias Viegener and Promising Series Curator Noel Alumit. The reading begins at 7:30pm.

Jenifer Lewis in Hot Flash

2010-02-02T02:19:00.000-08:00

So I love, Love, LOVE actress Jenifer Lewis, and so I was excited to learn that she will be doing another one-woman show in the L.A. area in February. Here's a trailer/promo.

Hot Flash will run on Saturday evenings this month at the Renberg Theater at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center. Tickets are $25. Show starts at 7:30 pm on show nights. Don't be late... she WILL cuss you out... she admits it in the show ad.

That's no joke. I saw her show, Bipolar, Bath, and Beyond a couple years ago, and whenever latecomers walked into the theater... everything stopped and they faced her wrath for showing up late.

Anyway, should be another great show and if you're in L.A., or planning to be here during February, I'd definitely get a ticket or two.
fs

Love Junkie

2010-02-01T05:13:00.000-08:00

If you know someone who falls for ANYone who looks their way, then Love Junkie by Rachel Resnick may be for them... or you.

A novelist and journalist, Resnick's excruciatingly honest memoir focuses on how a childhood bereft of love brought about her addiction to relationships with really, really bad men.

If you're in the L.A. area, she'll be reading from her book today, Monday, February 1, at 3:15 pm at the Student Union at Cal State L.A.

In the meantime, take the Love Junkie quiz... then head out to your nearest bookstore to pick up a copy of this book.
fs

Working While Black

2010-01-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

This book is a must-have for any black student planning to enter the workplace, or for any leader who values and plans to develop an employee team that is affirming and inclusive of black people and perspectives.

Working While Black: The Black Person's Guide To Success In The White Workplace is by Michelle T. Johnson, an employment attorney who utilizes professional and personal experiences, along with those of friends and colleagues, to highlight issues facing black people in the workplace -- isolation, concerns about fair treatment, spoken and unspoken rules of corporate America, good-ole-boys networks, etc...

The other day I was explaining to a co-worker that in addition to providing general parental guidance, that parents of black children often provide supplemental lessons and guidance about being black in a society that hasn't been always affirming or inclusive of black people. He was shocked, and thought it was an unfair burden on black families to have to teach their kids how to navigate ethnicity and bias in our society. I replied that it's called survival, and that it comes with the package of being black in the U.S.

My parents always talked with my sister and I about their workplace experiences, and what we should and shouldn't do in the work environment. A lot dealt with needing to work/be 100-times better just to be considered equal/on par. Another area dealt with keeping our personal business personal, and not sharing it with people who didn't get the context or had negative intentions about using information shared. I'm putting it/their words nicely here, :-)

Any advice you received or would share with young black professionals or students about to enter the workplace @ navigating the issue of inclusion and cultural identity?
fs

Searching For Tina Turner

2010-01-25T04:15:00.000-08:00

I just starting reading this new novel, Searching For Tina Turner, by Jacqueline E. Luckett and I can see why it is already getting a lot of buzz among book/writer circles. It's soooooo good.

The novel follows the character, Lena Spencer, who after 25 years of being a wife and mother faces an ultimatum around those aspects of her life. Choosing to live for herself... again, Lena sets out on her own to see if the second half of her life can mirror the same renewal as Tina Turner experienced in her life post-Ike.

I enjoyed learning about the author through her website and blog. There's also her Facebook fan page.

Most cool... we're both alums (but different years) of the VONA Writers of Color Program, held at University of San Francisco each year. If you're an aspiring writer, you may find VONA very affirming to your creative process. I did.

Anyway, Searching For Tina Turner is a good read for anyone starting the new year with new ideas on how life is or can be for them. Also, it could be a good read if you're trying to gain insight into issues your parents may have faced, or are currently facing, in their relationship or marriage.
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Gourmet Writing Classes

2010-01-23T02:26:00.000-08:00

Are you a writer AND a foodie living in Los Angeles?

Here are some delicious classes going on at Writing Pad, a gourmet writing school in the Silver Lake neighborhood in L.A. Both have excellent instructors and include delicious tasting plates.

1. He Said, She Said (Sun., Jan. 24)
2. Delectable Dramas and Scrumptious Sitcoms Pt II (Sat., Feb. 6)

He Said, She Said
No more “Me Tarzan, You Jane.” It’s time for the battle of the sexes, Writing Pad style. Through playful, in-class writing exercises and a mini-craft lecture, you’ll learn how to create three-dimensional male and female characters and relationships that go beyond stereotypes. We’ll help you write convincingly from the opposite gender. You won’t need whiskey and bullfights to unleash your literary machismo or a lavender scented facial to understand the feminine mystique! By the end of the class, you’ll have written a short piece that successfully channels both the Ernest Hemingway and Jane Austen inside of you.

Menu: Gourmet Sliders (Angus Beef or Portabella Mushroom) and Buttercream, Hazelnut, Chocolate Ganache Marjolaines
Instructor: Aaron Henne
Sunday, January 24, 2010
4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $80 ($70 for continuing students)
Includes gourmet tasting plates

Delectable Dramas and Scrumptious Sitcoms Pt II
Ever thought your quirky co-workers or soapy love life could make a great TV show? They can be! With brand new writing exercises, we’ll help you mine your life for the kinds of characters and stories that networks, producers, and audiences find irresistible. Whether you want to create the next Mad Men or Modern Family, we'll help you brainstorm an exciting premise, and you’ll learn what producers and execs look for in sell-able pilots and series. By the time you leave, you'll have drafted a one-sheet to pitch your next sitcom, drama, or reality show.

Note: You do not need to take Delectable Dramas and Scrumptious Sitcoms Pt I to participate in this class. Includes new writing exercises and mini-lecture.

Instructor: Chad Gervich
Cost: $75 ($65 for continuing students) Includes gourmet brunch tasting plates

For registration information for any of the Writing Pad workshops, visit the website or call (323) 333-2954.
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VONA Summer Writers Workshop

2010-01-18T16:03:00.000-08:00

Applications for the VONA, Voices of Our Nations, writers of color workshop are now available on the VONA website.

Taking place every summer (late June, early July) in San Francisco at the University of San Francisco, VONA prides itself on creating a safe and nurturing space for writers of color to work on works in progress.

This year features great faculty leading the workshops... too many to name, just check out the website.

I'm especially excited about the new workshops being offered for alums of VONA. Having participated in the program in summer 2004, I can tell you it's well worth the time and money.
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Heart-Clutching Moments

2010-01-18T15:24:00.000-08:00

When it's down to two, finding out who's gonna win Miss America is a heart-cluthing moment... and readers like those moments in fiction too.

Found this fiction-writing tip on Writer's Digest site today, Heart-Cluthing Moments. Tips on making your fiction a page turner for readers.

I'm currently reading In Firm Pursuit by Pamela Samuels Young, the second of her four novels. One of the things I love about her novels is that each chapter ends with a heart-clutching moment or a zinger, so even if you told yourself you're done reading at X o'clock, you just can't.

Good stuff here!
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The List

2010-01-15T07:37:00.000-08:00

I've been hearing good things about The List, a novel by Sherri Lewis, so I think I'm going to check it out.

It's a romantic comedy about a group of women in their 30s, who decide that THIS is going to be their year to find a man/husband. So they all devise their lists -- ideal qualities, deal breakers, etc... -- and the journey begins.

Who hasn't make their list? Who still checks it twice? Anyone wanna share what's on their list? :-)
fs

Quick and Free Lessons For Writers

2010-01-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

Liza Palmer did a book talk over at the Cal State L.A. Student Union today.

She talked about how before publishing she didn't have money to take writing or publishing classes. So in order to learn what she needed, she attended author readings at bookstores and treated those as her learning lab so to speak. I like that idea, and I know that everytime I attend an author talk I learn something new that adds to my writing and publishing arsenal.

So I'd encourage you to do the same. Take a look at the events page for your local bookstore and see what author events are coming up... and attend... even if you don't know the author or his/her work. They're free and you might meet some new folks who can add to your circle of supporters.

By the way, Liza Palmer has a great "For Writers" section on her website. It's chock full of quick and free lessons for writers.

A couple other sites I've discovered that have been assets to my writing or book-loving: Novel Spaces and Authors In Color.

Take it easy. Write on!
fs

A Field Guide... New Novel

2010-01-07T05:10:00.000-08:00

Liza Palmer is a good friend whose third novel, A Field Guide To Burying Your Parents, has just been released. It's getting good buzz and good reviews.

The novel follows the character Grace Hawkes, who reluctantly returns home due to her father's sudden illness. During that visit, Grace navigates what's true and isn't true in her family's dynamics, including re-initiating relationships with siblings and treading lightly with her father's wife.

Liza Palmer's writing is great and speckled with humor. If you've read her previous novels, Conversations With The Fat Girl or Seeing Me Naked, then you'll know what I'm talking about.

If you're in L.A., she'll be doing her official book reading and kickoff at Vroman's Bookstore in Pasadena on Friday, January 8, 2010 at 7 pm. The following week, on Monday, January 11 at 3:15 pm, she'll be speaking in the Student Union at Cal State L.A. to students about her novels, writing, and being a SoCali author.

More great reading to add to your lists.
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Their. There. They're.

2010-01-04T12:18:00.000-08:00

One of my pet peeves is when words are misspelled or used incorrectly -- even when I do it or notice it in one of my projects.

And so when I saw this blog from Oatmeal -- 10 Words You Need To Stop Misspelling -- I was like Amen to the Spelling Police!

One of my biggest peeves -- when "apart" and "a part" are misused, or the misuse of "their," "there," and "they're."

But that's small in comparison to the larger things going on in the world. Hope you get a kick out of the link!
fs

The Write Plan

2009-12-31T04:54:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year's Eve everyone. Hope the past year was all you wanted it to be, and that next year will bring even more of what you desire.

I know a lot of you will be making resolutions. For writers, here's a great tool that might help with those writing-related goals -- A Working Writer's Daily Planner for 2010.

It's a daily calendar book designed specifically with writers in mind -- federal holidays for extra writing times, goals and progress logs, spaces to write in final deadlines and space to work/plan backwards, etc...

As far as I'm concerned, whether the goal is large or small, in the stars or reasonable, all resolutions are about discipline and follow up. It's not always necessary to make a public declaration, because sometimes those are the goals that are harder to keep with all the public (and friends/family) scrutiny.

So I say make the resolution to yourself, be disciplined about it, follow up on the small steps, and take pride that you're doing something without the need for affirmation from others. Maybe that's just my style. For you, it may be different.

Anyway, Happy New Year.
fs

Kitchen Cuteness

2009-12-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

Hope you're well and enjoying the holiday week. Can't believe it's another New Year upon us. I won't even get started on resolutions, goals, blah blah blah. Do what you do, and do it well :-)

I was lucky enough to get the new Mary J. Blige cd, Stronger With Each Tear, as a gift. Love it. Especially love the song, Kitchen, which is based on those wise-women's tales about who you let around your romantic partner and relationship issues. You can listen on YouTube or Amazon for the Kitchen track. The main refrain, "Never let another girl cook in your kitchen."

Then a friend tagged me on Facebook to a motivational speaker, writer, and empowerment coach, Cassandra Mack (facebook page), and I've been hooked reading some of the wisdom-filled blogs and columns she's written. I especially liked this blog on Cuteness and Your Relationship. Though it's written about men and women, the lessons are universal for any type of romantic relationship or partner situation.

To me, a lot she has to say is common sense and a refresher on things I've been told, taught, or overheard older relatives talk about. But then another wise friend told me that what's common sense to one person isn't necessarily common sense to another.

And that's the truth.

Happy New Year!
fs

A Year Of Buying Black

2009-12-30T01:13:00.000-08:00

Here's a great example of "the personal is political" in action.

From the L.A. Times, A Family's Year of Buying Black, which is part of a larger academic study called The Ebony Experiment.

There's even an Ebony Experiment blog, where they chronicle some of their experiences in the year of buying black.

I like the idea and will be following their progress.

How do you think it would change your community if you made your shopping choices around the idea that the personal is political?
fs

Vegan Soul Kitchen

2009-12-27T22:03:00.000-08:00

I heard about this book, Vegan Soul Kitchen by Bryant Terry, several months ago while listening to one of my favorite radio shows/podcasts, The Splendid Table.

The recipes in the book focus on fresh, local, high quality, in-season, and sustainable non-animal food products.

Not only was it a great interview, but it was also nice hearing chef Bryant being forward thinking when it comes to traditional African American menus.

He combines his social justice values (vegans don't consume or use animal products when preparing food), his love for food, and respect for the traditions that come along with preparing soul food.

In addition to Vegan Soul Kitchen, his first food book, Grub, is about developing an urban, organic kitchen.

Definitely something new, fresh, and forward thinking for fans of African American soul food. And a great conversation starter at those family dinners/luncheons some of you may be participating in this Mother's Day weekend.
fs

Just A Quick E-Mail

2009-12-23T21:33:00.000-08:00

OMG, if you're looking for a quick 6 minute pick-me-up for this weekend, listen to David Sedaris' short story, Just A Quick Email.

Loving it.
fs

Buppies

2009-12-21T08:48:00.001-08:00

Have you all caught the new BET web series, Buppies? If not, I think you should. I think you'd like it.

It stars Tatyana Ali, current Young & the Restless star, and formerly of The Fresh Prince, as a celebrity publicist in black Hollywood.

The series follows her character, Quinci, and her friends in their careers, loves, and losses in L.A. Think... Sex & The City in L.A., and with an all black cast. Loving it!

You can also become a Buppies fan on Facebook while you're at it. Enjoy!
fs

Writer Resolutions Links

2009-12-18T07:49:00.000-08:00

We're getting close to that time of year when people who want to start or finish a writing project make resolutions about that goal. I'm here to cheer you on!

Here are some links to past blogs I've written on writing... most link to other sources that can be helpful on your journey. But first, a link to an article you might find helpful: Writing Is A Job.

Where to start? How about a Writer Resource Library.

What about time? Writing Your Project. Your Day Job and Writing. Time To Write.

Free and Low-Cost Resouces. Links For Writer Types.

Start simple with a journal. Note To Self.

I could go on and on with past blogs entries on writer resolutions. Hopefully, if this is your goal, you can spend some time planning your strategy and how you will follow up on it.

Good luck!
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The African Book of Names

2009-12-12T09:01:00.000-08:00

Quick. If you saw this name come across your desk, how would you pronounce it?

La-a

Answer in a second.

Anyway, still in the midst of the holidays... and another book that would make for great discussion and gift for a family is The African Book of Names. It's by Ashkari Hodari.

The book contains over 5,000 names -- common and uncommon -- from the African continent, plus their meanings. That part, the meanings, is really important... especially in larger cities in the U.S. where sometimes people name their kids with no rhyme or reason, other than it sounds pretty.

But what's even more exciting about this book... is that it points out that new names aren't just for babies. Many adults, once they've grown into/become enlightened/empowered in African identity, will change or take on new names.

Another thing about this book... is if it's endorsed on the cover by author and social change agent Pearl Cleage, then it's got to be good.

So back to the name at the beginning of this blog, La-a. Any guesses? How did you pronounce it?

It's pronounced: La-Dash-a

I got it in an email forward from a kindergarten teacher in Detroit. She wanted to share some of the interesting and unique names that came across her roster at the beginning of the school year. Another one, which clearly stood out to me...

Shebraska... it rhymes with the state, Nebraska. Both names, clearly not African, but from a primarily African American city where a book like The African Book of Names could come in quite handy.
fs

Body By Night

2009-12-11T06:45:00.000-08:00

For the romantic in your life, you might get a copy of Zuri Day's novels... Body By Night, Lies Lovers Tell, or the new one coming in March 2010, Lessons From A Younger Lover.

I heard Zuri Day on a Blogtalk Radio show (Black Authors Network) a couple weeks ago. Her reading was so enrapturing and peformed so well, that I just had to order her existing novels right away. (Note to self... a well-performed reading not only entertains, but catches new readers.)

Romance. Los Angeles/West Coast. Black characters. Perfect combination.

Body By Night is every gym-goer's fantasy. You're getting your fitness on, making some life changes, and the personal trainer you've had your eye on falls for you. In this case, it's the characters D'Andra Smalls and JaJuan "Night" Simmons.

Check out Zuri Day's site. Pick up copies of her books... at $6.99 they're perfectly affordable stocking stuffers for a romantic reader in your life!

By the way, I've started reading Body By Night since I'm such a gym addict... loving it!
fs

Full of Gin, Regret, and Forgiveness

2009-12-10T06:03:00.000-08:00

If you're in L.A., you can't miss the one-man show by Leslie Jordan, Full of Gin and Regret, which starts a ten-day run at the L.A. Gay and Lesbian Center,Renburg Theatre. December 10 - 20. Part memoir. Part dishy gossip. All hilarious. You most definitely remember Leslie Jordan as Beverly Leslie on Will & Grace in the 2000s.

Sometimes, you regret you hadn't let him get away, or at least talked to him... And the new book, Men I Might Have Known, by Brad Saunders, is a collection of steamy gay stories that turn "what if" into "what happened." Nothing wrong with imagining that guy at the gym really does want you.

And finally, if you're in Atlanta you have a chance to meet Young & The Restless' Phillip Chancellor III, as in Thom Bierdz, who'll be reading from his memoir, Forgiving Troy, at Outwrite Books. Friday, December 11 at 7:30 pm.

Other events in your area?
fs

Try Kendra, Tyrell... or Both

2009-12-09T07:02:00.000-08:00

Got a niece or nephew or other young person in your life to buy for this holiday season?

Try Kendra. Try Tyrell. Or try both. By Coe Booth. Award-winning author.

Young adult fiction, set against the backdrop of inner city locations, impossible circumstances, yet... finding a way to survive and perhaps, overcome.

One way I've told my students @ the books... if you liked Push/Precious... you'll like Kendra and Tyrell.
fs

Sade's Back

2009-12-08T10:51:00.000-08:00

New song from Sade, Soldier of Love, posted on her website. New CD in February 2010!

Some good pop culture news :-)
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The World Stops Turning

2009-12-08T08:22:00.001-08:00

Just learned that CBS' long-running soap, As The World Turns, has been cancelled. Last episode airs September 2010.

More details on Daytime Confidential.

It's been on the air 54 years... another of my grandma memories gone away. And I'm a soap fan... sad to see the genre is slowly fading from pop culture.
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A Slanket... Yeah, That's The Ticket

2009-12-07T08:57:00.000-08:00

I've been hearing all my students and colleagues at the University talking about how they all WANT or are GIVING Slankets as holiday presents.

In my mind, I conjured up an image of what one is/was. It sounded comfortable and warm. Then I saw Tayari Jones' blog entry this morning, @ writing deadlines and writing dates, and saw her pictured in one.

Me thinks me wants one too!

Especially on rainy, cold L.A. mornings like today... I think it's going to get to 52 degrees today. Me cold!
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