It appears my feed has had technical difficulties, so for those who follow us on Twitter, the auto-post from FB stopped working recently.  I’ll get it fixed, but in the meantime…here’s what you missed:

• BOGO Free End of Year Ad Specials – http://www.rawsistaz.com/bogo-ads. Lock in current rates with a BOGO free offer thru 12/27/11 (for any ad campaign $69 or above).
• Are you a fan of legal thrillers? If so, be sure to check out author Chris Shella – http://www.rawsistaz.com/chris-shella.
• FYI: http://www.rawsistaz.com/win-amazon-for-life – Win $100 a year for life from Amazon, sponsored by @appsumo.
• Have YOU checked out the Kindle Lending Library? Good idea or bad? Why? http://www.rawsistaz.com/kindle-lending-library
• BLACK BOOK ALERT: Free on Kindle (Mystery) – Darkest Hours by D. K. Gaston.
• Wow…truly inspiring. Makes you want to sit down and shut the heck up!- http://www.rawsistaz.com/life-without-limits

Members, please visit http://www.rawsistaz.com/rawretreat for full details.  This is a private page, so if you don’t have access, please email me directly.

Looking forward to seeing you all!

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-Tee

———————————————
It is with profound sadness that we have to inform you that our beloved sister and friend, Leslie Esdaile, (“L.A. Banks”) is most gravely ill. She is facing an uphill battle in her struggle with serious illness.  Please know that as Leslie needs all of her energy in this fight, she is absolutely not able to receive visitors,answer emails, texts or phone calls, or receive flowers. What she is able to receive is your continued prayers.

Also, Leslie’s medical expenses are mounting at an astronomical rate. If you wish to assist Leslie, a fund has been established to help with these ever increasing expenses.  If you wish to send donations (please note that donations are not tax-deductible) to help Leslie, please see the information listed below:

Leslie Esdaile Fund
Account #81538801
Police and Fire Federal Credit Union
Operations Center
901 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107-2404
215-931-0300

If you live in Philadelphia, PA, you may take donations directly to any Police and Fire Federal Credit Union branch. Please be sure to note the account number. You may also send them to the P.O. Box listed below*.
Police and Fire Federal Credit Union Branch Locations:
Main Branch:
901 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Additional Branches:
eo Mall, 11705 Bustleton Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19116-2515
Davisville Shopping Center, Street Road, Philadelphia, PA
Andorra Shopping Center, Ridge and Henry Avenues, Philadelphia, PA
City Avenue Shopping Center, 7604 City Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19151-2007
Mayfair Branch on Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Northeast Branch, 7500 Castor Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
Grant and Academy Shopping Center Branch, Philadelphia, PA

You may send good wishes and cards to*:
Leslie Esdaile
c/o Tina Ryan Wise
P.O. Box 37189
Philadelphia, PA 19148-9998

On behalf of Leslie, her daughter Helena, her sister Liza and all of her family and friends, we sincerely thank you for all of your continued prayers and support.
Tina Ryan Wise
Tinarwise@gmail.com

**If you run into any problems tonight, send a tweet to @rawsistaz and I’ll do my best to walk you through any problems, but do try to test it out a bit early.  If you’re attending and already set up, pls take a minute to send a quick tweet using @rawsistaz, @blackbookchats  and/or #blackbookchats so I can follow you.

Twitter Chat w/Tionna Tee Smalls to discuss Girl, Get Your Mind Right is tonight at 8:30PM EST (Quick Link).  If there are ANY problems, we will move the chat IMMEDIATELY to the RAW Site in the Black Book Chats section (Quick Link)

For those who can’t make the Twitter Chat, don’t/won’t do Twitter, you can join us via the site starting Thursday at noon and it will be up the remainder of the week (and after) for you to participate.  The link will go live after tonight’s chat, for those who want to jump in early.

Twitter Tips for Black Book Chats w/RAWSISTAZ

For those not familiar with Twitter or who missed the Twitter 101 classes via the main group we held last Fall, I have a quick guide below to help you make the best of our Black Book Chats and Parties being held via Twitter.

Step 1 – You’ll need to sign up for a Twitter account at www.twitter.com.  It’s free and I would suggest you use a name that will make you recognizable to other members.  You can find RAWSISTAZ under @rawsistaz and @blackbookchats.

Step 2 – Set up your account and update your profile.  Please keep in mind that if you make your account private, we will NOT be able to see you in the chat.

Step 3 – You’ll want to look around Twitter, check out how things work and send a few test tweets.  (Your messages or status updates are called tweets).  The one thing to keep in mind is that you only have 140 characters to share your thoughts and other comments.  Yeah, I know, this is my biggest struggle w/Twitter.  LOL!! I’m a wordy-lit-diva.

Be sure to follow us and send a shout-out to us by typing something like: “@rawsistaz, we’re following you to stay IN THE KNOW with Black books, authors, & events.”

**When you type in @ and a person’s acct name, it will automatically put your message in their stream.

Step 4 – The hashtag for most of our chats is #blackbookchats. A hashtag is basically what identifies the topic/chat and the # symbol is used in front of it.  To participate in a twitter chat/party, you must use the hashtag given or you will not show up in the chat stream, various 3rd party tools (like Tweetdeck & Tweetchat) or searches. Your tweets will be out there, but may not be seen by the organizer and other attendees.

Step 5 – Now that you have the basics, it’s time to chat.  The easiest way to chat is to use one of the 3rd party tools I mentioned above like Tweetdeck or Tweetchat.com. What these do is allow you to log into Twitter via their platform so you can focus on only the tweets which have to do with the #hashtag you’ve indicated. Or you can use links like the ones below which have been set up already and automatically puts the hashtag in for you in all your tweets.

http://www.twebevent.com/blackbookchats or  http://www.tweetchat.com/room/blackbookchats

That’s it! Feel free to share your twitter names below so we can follow you!!

*Please note that everyone who is following you (and the hashtag) will receive ALL the tweets you send out via the chat room.  So, it can be a lot if you’re heavily participating in the discussion.

Since Monday, our main group has been discussing best/worst (most disappointing) books read this year and while I agree worst may be a bit negative, in the end, does it really matter? Some folks are going to have issues anyway.

Please hear me out…

The consensus seems to be that some authors only want to hear “this book is great” and while I understand the author worked hard on it, sometimes there are things that would’ve made the story better for the person reading it.  (And sorry, sometimes the book is NOT great for many of the people reading it.) Should the reviewer trash the book, the author, and take it personal? No!  But, should it be okay for the reviewer to share their likes AND dislikes about the book? Of course!  Respectfully and constructively? Yes, definitely!

I believe in sharing the good/not so good about a book and clearly understand my opinion (or anyone else’s) is subjective.  However, If I see a reviewer who only gives glowing reviews, I pay less attention because we all know all books are not great books. Same thing for all negative reviews. I don’t pay that reviewer any attention.  IMO, if you’re a reviewer, I say review ALL books.  How does the writer (or publisher) know about issues or weaknesses in the book if it’s not pointed out (or if only the “good” reviews are posted)? How do you grow as a writer if you’re not open to feedback? 

As readers of reviews, can’t we decide for ourselves what we will read and not be totally swayed by a review? How much weight does a reader really put on a review? Is it what’s said in the review or who’s saying it?  As a reader, what do you think about only reading glowing reviews?  As a writer, how do you feel when you get a less than favorable review?  I truly believe in what we do as a review team and I think there is a place for reviews. 

Let’s discuss!

Well, we’re here! Ten years and counting, y’all…

I am Tee C. Royal, the founder of RAWSISTAZ Literary Group and it is really hard to put my thoughts into words today.  I’m overwhelmed with just thinking of what we’ve done over the past decade, excited about what’s to come in the upcoming months & years, and just plain ole proud.  RAWSISTAZ is my first baby, started back when not many people had online groups to talk about Black books; especially the books which weren’t on anyone’s bestseller lists.  One of our main goals was to support everyone and build a community of folks serious about literature and sisterhood, thus our motto of “Combining Literature & Sisterhood.”

Ten years later, I’m still thankful for the experience, I still love what I do (on most days), and I’m very happy I have met so many wonderful people.  I’ve been blessed to do work in various levels in the industry, not just with RAWSISTAZ, but I’ve been able to work as an editor & manuscript reader for publishing houses & even wore the “Editor in Chief” title for BlackBoard Magazine, I’ve written for several other magazines and I’ve designed websites for numerous authors and lit organizations.  I have also watched authors get their first book published, others hit their 10+ book, been there when readers turned into writers, editors or other literary pros, reviewers & members launched their own literary businesses, and so much more.

Most of all, I have been blessed with folks I will never ever forget, some I’ve yet to meet.  From the online baby shower thrown for me at the birth of my daughter 8 years ago, to celebrating when I made Captain in the Air Force, and on to the words of comfort when my parents died 4 months apart, my RAWSISTAZ were there.  I can’t forget my 6 year “no I don’t want anymore kids” speech and the announcement of finally trying for #2 (at The RAW Affair 2008) or when our son was born and I was stressed out trying to juggle everything–and still do even to this day. LOL!  My RAW Family has been there for major parts of my life and I love and appreciate all of you.  Thank you for helping me grow as a person (and a business woman), for sharing a part of your lives, and for wearing the name RAWSISTAZ proudly!

A special thanks to our moderators, reviewers and guest reviewers who work to keep our online groups going and the book reviews moving as this is one of the things we’re most known for.   The work you do and patience with the administrative end of it deserves a salary, but yet you do it for free.  I will never be able to show my gratitude, but when I make my first million, I’ll be looking for each of you.  LOL! In the meantime, I’m still working on getting those e-readers for everyone on the team and hoping Sony Reader, Amazon Kindle, B&N Nook and any other e-book-making folks out there are listening and ready to drop them in the mail.

To the authors, publishers, and other literary pros who entrusted us with your titles, who supported our events, purchased ads on our sites or ad booklets, etc., we thank you too!  We couldn’t have done what we’ve done without you.  RAWSISTAZ is service-oriented and there’s not some big grant, bank account, fund, or money tree we’re working with, so to those who have made donations or bought ads over the years, we thank you especially, as that is what helps keep our sites running and books shipped out to reviewers across the U.S.

So, in closing…THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  I hope to see you 10+ years from now, doing what we do for Black books, authors & the literary community.

If you’ve never donated or purchased an ad, it’s not too late; just click on the donate button on the main page of our site.

**Stay tuned for our annual online party – The Anniversary Jam! coming up and join the party for giveaways.**

Earlier in the week, I posted to our groups:

RAWSISTAZ is up for Book Club of the Year…This is our 10 Year Anniversary and anyone who says we aren’t deserving of this award, as one of the few book clubs that has been around for 10 years, starting one of (if not the first) organized review teams to promote our books, and how we continue doing what we do DAILY to keep folks in the know regarding Black books, authors, book reviews, and more…well, they’re misinformed.

So…support us as we’ve supported the African-American Literary Community for a decade and vote for your other favorites, too. Vote by September 2

I was not trying to take away from any of the other nominees listed as I support ALL entities who join us in the promotion of literacy and promotion of books…all books. And, I commend each one of them for everything they’re doing with their sites/groups as well.  But yes, I do think RAWSISTAZ is deserving.  Is it necessary to win? No, not at all.

The idea for RAWSISTAZ came about over 10 years ago with just a desire to talk about Black books with other like-minded folks.  Reading is something most of us have done for as long as we can remember and it’s natural to want to share your thoughts with others. And, it’s also necessary to show that there are books reflective of us, our experiences, our dreams and more, not just the few you see scattered on bookshelves or stuck in a tiny section of the bookstore.

Over the years, I’ve never really questioned the book thing or my love of reading and learning new things. I’ve always done it and see myself doing it for life.  As for the award, I’m grateful to those who nominated RAWSISTAZ for Book Club of the Year in the African-American Literary Awards Show, not only this year but in years past.  And, I appreciate those who voted for us. I also appreciate all the other nominees and what they do for the literary community.   No, RAWSISTAZ has never won the award before and it would be nice to win it, but again, is it necessary? No.

It would be cool, but even if not…we’ve already “won” it.  We’ve done so much, helped so many, and I’ve made great friends, seen authors write their first books, get published, get 6 & 7 figure book deals, others start their lit businesses, folks get married, buy their first house, and so much more—you can’t put getting an award above that. Ya know?

So, to all those who have joined our groups, read along with us, supported us as we support Black books and authors, I thank you now because truly…RAWSISTAZ has already won! A big woo hoo for book clubs everywhere and what we all do for the literary community!! What books have you read because of a book club? What new authors have you learned about? Who hasn’t made life-long friends within their book club?

Last week, we talked about authors who have been missing from the scenes and we wanted to expand on it this week with not only sharing those authors we miss, but discussing why they’re missing. At the top of my list are Marcus Major, Timmothy McCann, Elyse Singleton, V. Anthony Rivers, Gregory Townes, T.L. Garnder–I could go on and on! Where are you at, folks?? I miss you and want you to come back soon!

I’ve had many conversations at literary events over the last few months with authors who didn’t get book deals, others who had returned to self-publishing, but didn’t have the finances to get their latest book or two off the ground and those who have seen/experienced rejections galore. What is the problem?

Is the economy really that bad or is it just the easy answer for why your book isn’t selected? Why can someone else get a $50 million advance, yet a new author or lesser known author gets rejected or gets no advance. Seriously? Take that $50 million advance and get in some new writers, new stories & shoot, sometimes better stories. Furthermore, if I hear “it’s not marketable” one more time, I might just scream. I mean seriously–and this is just my take–a well-written book IS marketable if you actually get behind it and market it. There are numerous books I see plastered all over the place and when I flip open the book, sadly I’m disappointed, unimpressed or turned off by all the sex. I know book reviews and opinions on the books are subjective, but I do believe I know a good book. So, when I hear an author (who most of our members rave about) say she can’t get a book deal, it makes me sad and then it ticks me off.

So, beyond being sad (or ticked off), what can we do?

I have a few suggestions and here are my first two to get things started:

1) Authors, stop being desperate. I know you want to be published and hey, if you have a great book, I want you to be published too. We need more books! But, don’t just accept anything a publisher offers you. Decide what your deal breakers are going in and stick to them! If you want your ebook rights, walk away if the publisher says no. If you want foreign rights, keep them and if they say no, walk away. If you DO NOT think overly-detailed sex scenes are necessary to tell your story, then don’t agree to put them in there just to get a deal.

2) Write what you know/love.Yeah, this may be selling and that may be selling, but if you force it, trust me, a real reader knows it. And seriously, can you keep it up? Don’t write for the trends unless it is something you love. What do you read when you’re in the mood to read? I’m not saying don’t stretch yourself or write in other genres, I’m saying don’t write for money.

Okay…before I get off on a tangent…

Let’s hear from YOU! Who are some of the authors no longer on the scene you’d like to see back with new books? And please share their book titles & genres. And, what do you think we can do to see these authors again??

Many of you participated in our Holiday Reading Challenge, the E-Book Reading Challenge, and even the 30 Books in 90 Days Reading Challenge of 2009, presented by Written Magazine.  Well, today is the kick-off of Written Magazine’s annual reading challenge (30 Books in 90 Days) which will run June 27th-September 27th.

This is the 2nd year RAWSISTAZ online members, reviewers and local chapters have participated.  While yours truly didn’t get in the 30 books last year, I do plan to give it another go this year. I ain’t scared!!

To keep up with our RAWSISTAZ (and Brothaz), we have created a RAWSISTAZ group on the Written site, so if you haven’t already, definitely join us as we share what we’re reading and the progress (and no, email and the many messages do not count).  We’ll check in here on the site weekly and also use our regular groups for the “juicy stuff” we may not want to post publicly.

And for some of you super-fast-reading-RAWSISTAZ…don’t think the rest of us can’t hang.  LOL!!  Let the noise-talking and the reading begin!

The 10-Year Anniversary Celebration of RAWSISTAZ is scheduled for October 1-3, 2010 and it is our 8th Annual Event which we will hold in Atlanta, GA.

We are celebrating, right?

Well, if one more person asks “why wasn’t I invited to the event?” I’ma have to simply stop replying.

Technically, I only INVITE the keynotes to our event and everyone else I TELL ABOUT it and hope they can attend. I am not slighting you, or you, or you. I merely don’t want folks to get it twisted when they see a message from me telling them about the event.

No, we will not comp your room, no, we will not fly you in, and no, we will not waive your registration fees. Yours truly signs a contract for x-amount of folks (and dollars) and if YOU don’t pay, it means I do. And for anyone who has attended the event (any of the 7 we’ve done before), you know it’s one of the lowest costs you will pay for a weekend event. So no. We are not some large funded organization. We I sign that dotted line.

So again…NO, NO, and NO.

But yes, we will discount the author rate for featured authors. Yes, you will be featured on our sites, yes you will have a wonderful time, get fed, and meet readers and writers who love books; you may even sell some books.  But , yes YOU can give back to an organization who has given freely for almost 10 years and yes, YOU can support us as we’ve supported you.

It’s simple. Help celebrate us as we’ve celebrated black books and authors for all these years.

Register to attend, advertise, and/or donate. . . YOU give back.

-Tee C. Royal
Founder of RAWSISTAZ Literary Group
Sole Organizer for this years’ 10-Year Anniversary
Person who picks up and ships out 500-600 review books annually
Person who has had less than 11 hours of sleep in 5 days

For more details, visit http://www.rawsistaz-affair.com and stay tuned to the main RAWSISTAZ site or our fan page at http://www.facebook.com/rawsistaz for up-to-date additions and other news.

Want to review for RAWSISTAZ?

We’re in need of quick readers who can read and write reviews in the given deadline (2 weeks or less) and are open to feedback from our staff.  You should also be an avid reader and read least 3 to 5 books a month (not that you’ll have to review this many–unless you want to), and lastly, you must answer email promptly.

** This is not a paid position, but books are supplied and your byline is on all reviews.

Can you express your thoughts without being offensive, but instead constructively outlining issues with a book vs insulting the author who has more than likely worked very long and hard hours birthing the book? Can you stick to your guns (and back it up in your review) when you love or hate a book?  Can you hang with some of the reading-est sistas out there?  (Yeah, I made up reading-est…but you feel me, right).

Still interested? Well if so, we’re interested in having you join our team.  Please send the following information to TRR-Admin(at)rawsistaz(dot)com, and we will get back with you within 3 to 5 days.  Serious inquiries only as we’d like to fill these spots within the next 2 weeks.

Info Needed
Where you saw the Call for Reviewers:

Full Name:
Address (no P.O. boxes):
Contact Number (Cell/Home/Work):
Email Address:
#of books read within last 30 days:
– Author, title, publication date, & rating (scale of 5) of last 5-10 books read:

Will you review electronic copies and/or e-books?

Do you own an e-reader or e-reader app:
– If so, which one (Kindle, Sony Reader, Nook, etc.)?
– E-Reader email address:

Preferred Genres:
– Genres you DO NOT want to review:
*be sure you place non-fiction, romance, street fiction, and poetry in one of the above spots

Short Bio (in 3rd person):

You will then be asked to write a sample review (not one previously used) and we’ll go from there. Our book review site is at www.blackbookreviews.net where you can see our repository of 6000+ reviews.

In one of the RAW Groups, we did Tuesday Tips for Writers earlier this week and a lot of wonderful, wonderful tips were shared.  Since I haven’t gotten permission to post tips from others here, I wanted to extend the offer to those who would like to add to the list.

Here are some of mine:

- Always follow directions — Nothing annoys people more than to get a reply saying “go to my website” or see a bunch of attachments you threw together. Ummm seriously?

- Always be professional — As a reader, I don’t care that you had a bad day. Keep that away from the book-signing or chat you’re doing.

- Do it 100% or don’t do it — Speaking of chats, why schedule a book tour with a site if you’re not going to show up or a book-signing if you’re not willing to draw the people in who are walking by the bookstore? Seriously go all in with what you’re doing or don’t book it.

- Learn patience — The publishing industry is not a fast route for most folks. Keep writing and studying the craft while you wait and you’ll get there, eventually.

- Write what you love — Chasing the market will hardly get you anything but out of breath. Write what you love and even if it takes years to sell it or publish it, keep going. The market is flaky. What sold yesterday might not sell tomorrow. On the flip side it might sell 5 years down the road. Write a great story, one so great that the “market” won’t matter.

- End the book – Please end the book and stop with the cliffhangers. No, I’m not interested in what I think happened. You wrote the book, end it and stop trying to set yourself up for a sequel. Seriously? Do I want to wait a year anyway to see what happens as ole girl is coming around the bend going 90? Seriously? No!

- Accept rejection and/or unfavorable reviews graciously — Not everyone is going to like your work, but sometimes even in that rejection or unfavorable review there is a nugget you can use for future work. And stop telling that reviewer “everyone else loved it.” OMG…seriously? Who? mama & ‘nem and one other reviewer who loves everything anyway? Seriously?

- Learn to Communicate — nothing annoys me more than people who are unable to speak up (respectfully) if there is an issue. How can an issue be fixed if both parties aren’t aware there’s an issue? And also, don’t be two-faced. Mean what you say…and own it if you say it.

- Stop complaining – yeah yeah…you’re stuck in the Af-Am section of the bookstore, so the non-blacks don’t see your work. Okay, sorry about that. But your core audience sees them right? Save your money and budget to do marketing to those audiences you want to cross over into. Go to the non-black libraries, bookstores, etc., and pitch yourself. Go to non-black events, do your research. While I agree that some black books don’t get the exposure of our counterparts, I don’t think that’s an excuse to sit on the bench and complain. Do something about it, even if it means you only get one new non-black reader, or be quiet and sit down.

- Don’t settle – on the flip side of the complaining, do NOT settle for just anything. So, the publisher offers you a $25 advance. If you think you’re worth more than that, then DON’T accept the contract. If they want to block you from writing any other genre, under any other name unless they can see it first (but only after the current books are published), ummm…does that work for you? If not, do not settle. Be willing to walk away if you can’t negotiate better terms. They want you to sex up your story? Ummm…does that work for you? For the story? Don’t settle. While I realize the publisher is giving you a wonderful opportunity (in most cases), what’s for you will be yours, so wait for it. Don’t be one of those desperate authors willing to take anything for a nibble.

- Stop thinking you’re entitled — I’m sorry for this one, as some may not like it, but the world does not owe you anything. Just because you’re a great writer or you may have a lot of fans, publishing doesn’t owe you anything. Don’t flounce around thinking you’re the end all be all and PLEASE definitely don’t do this if you’re a new author. Yeah, your mama and ‘nem like your book, but seriously…do they read as much as the average reader?

- Get your own mailing list — Again…I’m sorry, but online groups and public forums are great for networking, but who is going to really “see” you when all you’re doing is me, me, me and my book. OMG, sit down and shut it up. How many readers ignore messages from authors on these groups because they hardly EVER participate? It’s obvious they’re in the group for one reason, to sell themselves. And, that’s sad.

- Rethink that status update on FB or that tweet on Twitter — Yes, it’s wonderful to network with readers, editors, and other authors, but seriously…do I really want to know what color your underwear are? Do I really need to know about you cursing out your landlord, or how good your one night stand was? Or even worse, the fact that you hate reading or that you don’t believe in editing? There’s a balance and while we all slip up and post something every now and then and think “dang, I shouldn’t have said that” just be a bit more cautious. And please STOP with the every other minute email messages to the fans of your fan page or group. Seriously? If you have that much free time, go write or do some research. If we want to see what’s up with you, we’ll come to your wall. We don’t need all the email.

- Don’t give up — if this is your dream, continue to study the craft, submit your work over and over again, despite the rejections and listen. Don’t think you know it all (or that you have to believe everything an “expert” says.) Look it up, keep moving toward your dream.

*These are the opinion of Tee and not those of RAWSISTAZ as a whole, even though I am the founder. 

Be sure to also check out her articles here on the site: Articles by Yolanda Johnson-Bryant.

RAWSISTAZ Interview – Winter 2010
Interviewed by Tee C. Royal

RAW: Yolanda, you have been around for quite some time and are constantly sharing literary information via the various social networking platforms.  Tell us more about you, Literary Wonders! and what it is you hope to provide to the literary community.

YMJB: I founded Literary Wonders!  in 1996. I am a self-published author (www.yolandamjohnson.com) and a literacy advocate. My work consists of titles such as My Daughter’s Keeper (which is no longer in print), Circumstances and I am co-author of Crimes of Passion: The Anthology, which was also presented and published by Literary Wonders!.

Literary Wonders! (www.literarywonders.com) was originally named Prosperity Enterprises but the name was changed in 2003. Although my experience was in finance and my expertise was in technology, my decision to start the business was due to my son’s lack of the desire to read. I found it very difficult to get him to want to read and want to write. I was determined that I was not going to raise an illiterate son.

Literary Wonders! is a literacy advocate that gives limited, free support to authors, especially new authors. We also focus on an annual scholarship program called “The Scholarship Project” that focuses on minority children from 8-21 years of age. Each year qualified participants are given an essay question and are judged on various aspects of the essay. The winners receive a monetary award in the form of a scholarship that comes directly out of my pocket.

Literary Wonders! is currently seeking to become a 503c non-profit company so that we can gain sponsorship from donors, corporations and the such, so bigger and better scholarship awards and prizes can be given and so that Literary Wonders! can be more active and make a bigger impact in the community. Literary Wonders! aims to help authors from all genres, as long as the material is not deemed offensive. However, it really does focus on work from the African-American community as, blacks are on the low end of the totem pole when it comes to reading and writing.

Literary Wonders! also conducts an annual “Anthology Project”, where our goal is to bring together a mix of seasoned writers with a handful of new and upcoming writers. The anthology is then published and presented by Literary Wonders! with all proceeds going to the authors. Once the project is complete, Literary Wonders! does the initial marketing for the book, but then each individual author is responsible for their own marketing and selling of books.

In addition to providing as much information as possible to potential authors and readers, Literary Wonders! sponsors and participates in various book signings, literary festivals, literary conferences and other literary events. We are very active in social networking media (Facebook, Twitter, Ning, LinkedIn, etc) providing a wealth of information to readers and writers.  In addition Literary Wonders! conducts various workshops for writers.

I also own a literary consulting business called Bryant Consulting (www.bryantconsultingonline.com) where I act as a freelance writer, ghostwriter and editor, offering an array of fee-based literary services.

My 2010 business goals are to take Literary Wonders! to another level, again, by gaining more sponsorship and possibly converting to a 503c in order to qualify for grants and funding to allow the entity to be more involved with the community, more involved with at risk youth.

In 2010 I am looking to increase my clientele and am set to release three of titles.

RAW:  Wow, that is certainly a lot and I hope everything falls into place for you and the businesses.  What one thing about the literary world concerns you the most?

YMJB: It would be crazy to say that people are only in this business for the “money”, but I’m going to say it anyway. But I think it becomes a problem when others in the industry misuse, abuse and deceive others to make a fast buck. As recent as last week I read AND had an author call me on two separate occasion to “warn” and “inform” me about someone in the business who was pretending to be someone that they were not, and taking hard earned money from its “victims”. I have seen this firsthand and have been a victim myself.

It concerns me that there is bad blood amongst writers and literary service providers because they fail to see that there is room in this industry for everyone. The beauty in literacy is the same that you find in the African-American community in that we come in all shapes, sizes and hues. Everyone is not going to like everything, but they are going to find something they like.

It concerns me that some authors are so hell bound upon getting ahead that they won’t reach down and try to help someone who is trying to get where they are. They forget that at one point they were there at some point in their writing career.

There are several things that concern me, but I’ll leave you with the last. Writers who don’t read really frustrate me. Just because you put pen to paper does not make you an author. Many writers who are trying to be authors simply do not read and they don’t research for that matter. Unless you can afford a staff to do all those things for you, it is simply not possible to become an efficient writer and bestselling author if you do not read or if you do not do your research on the industry. On the other hand, there are those who think they can get everything for free. If you are a writer and think you are going to break into this industry and not spend a penny, you are sadly mistaken and are most likely in the wrong field.

RAW:  Whew! Amen and amen! I agree wholeheartedly with you.  You briefly mentioned your books, but tell us more about them and any future projects you have in the works.

YMJB: Circumstances is my latest title. It was originally titled My Daughter’s Keeper, but as I stated above, I was taken for a ride by someone who said they were something they were not. I re-released My Daughter’s Keeper as Circumstances. The last time I checked, the snake in sheep’s clothing (isn’t that how the saying goes?) is still trying to sell my books on his website; I’m sure with no luck at all.

Circumstances is the story of Renee Matthews who trying desperately to break generational curses and break loose from her mother’s hellish strong hold. An excerpt for the book can be found at www.yolandamjohnson.com.

Currently I am working on the sequel to Circumstances, titled Revelations. I got lots of good feedback on Circumstances and think readers will find Revelations to be the kuda grah. I’m also trying to get Literary Wonders! initial anthology project published. It’s been a long time coming but I owe it to the authors to get that book out there. The title is Second Time Around: The Anthology and the authors featured are Kim Robinson, Vanessa Johnson, Rhonda Lawson, Toschia Moffett, LaTanya Tatum and myself. Once it is published I will make a call for the next anthology project.  In addition, I am working on two other novels as well as a collaboration project with John Wooden and Gregory Townes. My intent was to have Revelations released in April, but due to ghostwriting projects, I may have to move that release date to some time in May.

On the Bryant Consulting side, I am working on editing and ghostwriting projects, as well as other projects. I am accepting new clients.

On July 23, I will be giving a writing workshop to The Writer’s Group of the Triad. I am in the process of updating my events calendar for the 2010 calendar year. 2010 will take me to The Ladies of the Dove Literary Festival, The RAW Affair and a host of other literary events and signings.

RAW:  It’s “wolves in sheep’s clothing,” but I am glad to see you moving forward with your plans and will be looking out for updates.  What one piece of advice would you give to new writers?  What about old writers (those who have been in the game for a while.)

YMJB: Just one piece? That is very hard. I would advise new authors to read and do your research. Don’t expect a handout and if you get one, consider it a blessing and pay it forward. Also place yourself around like-minded positive people who want to see you succeed. Accept criticism as constructive and not a direct insult of your work. Not everyone is going to like your work. That is just plain common sense, so because one does not like it, don’t go off the deep end, because you will find yourself asking that same person who you slandered for help. Network; get the word out there. You are your own best marketer. If you won’t tell the world about your work, why should anyone else? In this industry, taking and not giving will not get you very far.

For the old heads. Cut the newbies some slack. We were once where they are now. Don’t get so holier than though that you cannot mingle with the common folk. I’ve been in the midst of so many authors that once they got published and/or got that book deal, the rest of us were the dark sticky stuff on the bottom of a shoe. But I have also met some authors who have lucrative publishing contracts and a host of titles who are so down to earth. And I appreciate those people, more than they know.

RAW: Again, I say Amen! Amen!  Thanks so much for putting it out there, Yolanda.  Sometimes folks simply don’t see how their actions can  hurt/help the next person.  Please keep up the work with Literary Wonders! and your other projects.  I’m proud of you and appreciate your contribution to the lit world.

FUN STUFF

- Paperback, hardcover or electronic book?

All actually. Paperbacks are easy to take whenever I’m away from home. Hardcovers look great on my bookshelf and electronic books are easy to read on that Kindle, Sony Reader, or Nook that my husband is going to buy me but doesn’t know yet. And audio books are convenient when you are doing other tasks and cannot be tied down to a book.

- Favorite book read last year?

Oh man. There were so many. And senility has caused my memory to fade, but I loved RM Johnson’s The Million Dollar Demise, Rhonda McKnight’s Secrets and Lies, both I have recently read. This year I vow to keep better records of the books I read.

- Best book cover of those you’ve seen recently?

There are a few I cannot recall. But I will say I’m not a fan of books with people on the cover.

- Read the book or see the movie?

I’ll read the book, but if the movie comes out before I read the book, I more than likely won’t read the book.

- Fiction or non-fiction?

Both. Each of them provide their purpose.

- Early to rise or night owl?

I am definitely a night owl. Being married to Gregory has worsened that.

- Chocolate or Vanilla?

Deep, dark chocolate!

- Party/Club or Hang out on FB/Twitter?

I’m not a party girl, I never have been. But you can find me on a regular basis on Facebook (Author Yolanda M. Johnson and Literary Wonders!), Twitter (ymjauthor and literarywonders), LinkdIn (Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant) and Ning at Wellwomen.ning.com/ymjauthor. Or just Google me!

In closing I would like to say thank you to RAW, specifically you Tee, for all that you’ve done for myself and for the literary community. You are a true gem and your just rewards are just around the corner. Can we get a date and location for the 2010 Raw Affair already??

RAW: ROFL! I’m not gonna comment on you not being able to just pick one or the other above, but you are welcome! I love what I do and working with others who get “it”.  It?  That this whole literary thing is so much bigger than just us as individuals.

The RAW Affair 2010 (our 10th Year Anniversary) will be Oct 1-2 in Atlanta, GA.

Be sure to also check out Yolanda’s articles here on the site: Articles by Yolanda Johnson-Bryant.

Heard It All Before by Michele Grant
Dafina Books, January 2010
320 Pages, Paperback, $14.00
ISBN: 0758242190
Genre: Street Fiction

RAW Rating: 4.0 (out of 5)

After successful suburbanite, Jewellen Capwell and her ex-fiance went their separate ways two years ago, she couldn’t wait to get back into the dating scene. However, she quickly learns dating can be emotionally draining. Jewellen has heard it all before; the games and lies from the men she’s dated. When her best friend Renee invites Jewellen to attend a basketball game on the Southside, she is reluctant to go because she’s afraid of going into that part of town. Although still unenthusiastic about venturing to the other side of town, she accepts the invite. When she literally falls under the spell of Roman Montgomery’s alluring eyes, where she is no longer matters.

Playing games is Renee Nightingale’s forte. Before anyone thinks to play her, she always has a game plan in the back of her mind. She doesn’t want to reach the age of thirty still single, so she schemes to get her boyfriend Gregory to pop the question. However, the attraction to another man puts a sensual twist in her plan; will she lose it all?

Cleverly and creatively written, Michele Grant’s debut novel, HEARD IT ALL BEFORE, contains plausible characters and issues about young African American professionals. The characters express their lives and situations in their own point of view. Highly spiced with boundless drama and hilarious moments, the reader surely will be entertained.

Reviewed by Sharon Lewis, RAWSISTAZ.com
—-
Sharon Lewis, a married mother of five and a grandmother of eight, is an eclectic bookaholic. She works as an Administrative Assistant and resides in Cincinnati, Ohio.

It is absolutely craziness going on in the world many of us have engrossed ourselves in for years, leaving us to fight battles & pick sides when there are truly more important things going on.  This is the literary industry, right?

How in the world has it come down to this?  Yesterday, I was finally able to post my thoughts (after almost 2 weeks of trying to take the Angry Black Woman out of my words) concerning the whole Bloomsbury issue of telling POC they don’t matter enough to put us on the covers of books about us (my words, not theirs; though I am using their actions to help me come to this conclusion), but instead they slap a white girl on the covers of not one book, but two in the span of 6 months.

Then, this weekend, our good ole friend Amazon.com has a hissy-fit over not being able to decide the price of eBooks and pulls Macmillian titles (and their imprints) from the site, only to turn around a day later and say you win, we’ll put them back since we would pretty much be useless without any books (again, my words, not theirs).

This is absolutely ridiculous!

What is going on in the industry? At what point do authors, agents, advocates and the likes just say forget about it?  Mainstream publishing is supposed to be better right?

For those who know me, you know I try to steer toward the positivity in things, stay away from drama, and do my absolute best in everything I do.  I am the same with my family, with friends, and with business.  I’m passionate about the literary industry and also when it comes to raising my children.  Sometimes though, I just want to tell folks off, rant and rave, and throw up my hands in frustration. Talking it through helps at times; other times I’m too in shock to even wrap my mind around an issue. But lately I’ve been through both and keep finding myself at the OH NO THEY DIDN’T realm of things.

I have been completely pissed off over the last two weeks and while I’m pretty vocal about a lot of things, to be pissed off to this level had to take something major; especially when I didn’t get over it in a day or two, say what I had to say and move on.  Shoot, I’m getting worked up now typing this up.  To make matters worse, it’s not something I’ll be getting over any time soon because it affects me day-to-day on two levels.

First, on the literary level.  Yes, I’ve been in the literary industry coming up on a decade and I’ve done a great deal of work championing authors, supporting their efforts and getting the word out to readers and book enthusiasts alike about great Black books. In addition to the promotional side of RAWSISTAZ, I’ve done work as an editor, reviewer, and a literary agent, so I have more than one view of things.  This comes in handy, yet it has fueled the flames for the most recent things happening in the literary industry.

Secondly, I am a mother and while I’m passionate about the lit world, me being a mother trumps everything else.  I’d give up all of the literary stuff if I had to choose between sitting quiet over an issue or speaking out when it comes to something that affects my child(ren).  Folks want to combine the two and think I’m going to sit quiet?  Oh no…that is not going to happen.  Mama Tee don’t play!

What had happened was…

Bloomsbury, once again, decided that a book with a protagonist who was a POC (person of color) couldn’t have a book cover with a POC on it.  Instead, once again, they published the book (Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore) with a white girl on the cover?  WHAT? They did this just last year with Justine Larbalestier’s book, Liar.  The internet was buzzing and Bloomsbury (in this case, their Children/YA imprint) eventually backed down and replaced the cover (for their financial benefit, no doubt).  BTW, Ms Larbalestier was also against the cover.  And now, here they (Bloomsbury) go again with the whitewashing.  WHAT?  They didn’t learn from their past mistake a mere 6 or so months ago?

Excuse me…but as a mother, I am NOT trying to hear “this is a business and books with people of color on the cover don’t sell.”  Because, what you’re telling me (and my daughter who loves reading) is that she is not good enough to have a cover which represents her on a book (even when the main character may look like her), that it’s normal not to see covers reflective of our diverse world (because publishers won’t make the covers match and because librarians won’t order books that do show us), and that you don’t respect the book buyer enough to remember the whole issue with Liar (and no, we didn’t forget).  I’m sorry, but this is NOT ACCEPTABLE to me as a mother or as a lit industry professional. How dare they!  :::taking a deep breath:::

I’m going to end here and continue this on a post later this week, because I am no where near done with my thoughts on this and other literary happenings.  I’ve been sharing bits and pieces via threads on my Facebook account and via the RAWSISTAZ Fan Page.  I would also encourage those concerned with the Bloomsbury issue to join the Readers Against WhiteWashing (RAWW) group, to buy more books with POC on the covers, to talk to librarians at the schools or in your communities and to donate books reflective of our diverse world to your child’s classroom.  My children are going to be okay because I do these things already, but what about the rest of our children? This is simply not okay…

**Posted via my column at Blogging in Black.

Today marks the last day of 2009 and it has certainly been a year of change, both personally and professionally, but it’s been a great year!  I’m closing out December over at Blogging in Black with an article on Reacting To & Learning from 2009.  It’s not just about the things you may have gone through this year on your literary journey or even the things to come, but what you learn from them. –> READ THE FULL ARTICLE.

I’ve had a wonderful year of doing what I love most and I’m grateful.  I’d like to take this time to extend a special THANK YOU to everyone for your support of RAWSISTAZ, our reviewers, the re-designed website & projects we rolled out this year.

We look forward to 2010 and even more opportunities to “Keep you in the know regarding the African-American literary community.”

THE BASICS

There are quite a few resources online for starting book clubs or you can definitely reach out to a book club president for questions. Today I’d like to share with you all some of the things you can do to get your book club or literary group started and then a few tips on how to get noticed online and off. I’m going to briefly run through some of the basics for those new to book clubs.

Membership: Find a group of like-minded individuals who are also interested in books. You want avid readers who will not only read the selection, but who will also discuss it past the “I liked the book” stage of things. Also consider how large you want your group to be. Most book clubs start off with 3 to 4 people and some max out at 10-15 members, but it depends on the group.

When, Where & How: Determine when and where you’ll meet, how often, and the type of books you’ll read. You’ll also want to select moderators and or hosts, so everyone can actively participate in the club. This gives folks a feeling of ownership and makes them more likely to feel welcome and to contribute freely.

Goals: Also determine what your initial goals of are for the group, expectations, and any major rules or guidelines. While it’s important not to be too strict, you have to set guidelines or the group will never get off to a good start.

Book Selection: Establish how you’ll select your books. Will members nominate them and then the group via a poll or will each member be required to select a book and host for that month? Also, ensure you stress that members MUST read the book. You can’t have a discussion if no one reads the book.

The Two F’s: Food & Fun! Don’t spend more time on planning the menu than actually reading the book, but don’t forget the food. If there’s a way to relate the menu to the theme of the book, by all means do it. Have fun with your book club buddies, respect everyone and share your opinion without forcing it on anyone. Book clubs are wonderful places to establish life-long friendships, so go for it!

GETTING PAST THE BASICS

Now that you’ve set the foundation of your book club, it’s a lot easier to decide on what additional things you’d like to do with the group and how you want to get the word out.

Branding Yourself: First come up with a logo and then set up your email address and website to represent your book club. You can also order t-shirts, book bags, journals, etc., to use when you’re out and about so people notice you as a group. (I set up a shop at Cafepress.com.) Online, you can join social media outlets to network with authors & other book clubs. Use a brief signature block at the end of your messages to make it easier for people to recognize you and your group’s name.

Community Involvement: Decide if you want to become involved in the local community and do some research on activities you can participate in. The newspaper and libraries are great resources for finding information.

Finding Authors: There are thousands of authors releasing books yearly, so do a bit of research so you can find local authors or those who would be of interest to your members and reach out to them. You can also contact various publicists via the publisher’s website to schedule author visits or request review copies. (One note here: If you request a book, follow-through with the review or interview.)

Author Visits, Services & Events: Decide if you want to invite authors to your meetings, provide book reviews or host literary events. While this can be more than some book clubs want to do, when you do them well, you can definitely get the word out about your group, while offering a much-needed service to authors and literary enthusiasts. If you do reviews, be sure to post them in visible places like Amazon.com and other online bookstores, also consider doing a newsletter and posting your reviews to your site and places like Facebook, Shelfari, Black Expressions–basically places where readers reside. (One note here: Don’t use another person’s group as your own personal mailing list. Be respectful of the group they’ve established. It’s wonderful to share information, but don’t make it all about you and what you’re doing.)

Be Professional: Always remain professional. You may encounter difficult members, but don’t let it disrupt the meeting. Same thing with authors–remember to always be constructive, even when you don’t like their book.

Stay committed: Book clubs are a lot of work, but stay the course and you’ll find them very rewarding. If you run into problems, regroup, take some time off and also look for new members. You will run through a group of people sometimes before you find a set group of those who are committed as you are. Bottom line: people will attend meetings and participate if they enjoy the group.

HANG OUT WITH RAWSISTAZ

You can find RAWSISTAZ online via our websites or many of the social networks.

Website: http://www.rawsistaz.com

Black Book Reviews Repository – http://www.blackbookreviews.net

Annual Literary Conference – http://www.rawsistaz-affair.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/rawsistaz

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/rawsistaz

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/rawsistaz

IN HER OWN WORDS:

In the real world, I’m a mother of three, wife to my hero and caregiver to my mother. I work for the government and am a military vet – Navy. In my fantasy life, I’m the publisher of SORMAG an online magazine for readers and writers of multi-cultural literature – http://sormag.com – http://sormag.blogspot.com. We celebrated seven years online this month. I’m an aspiring Christian fiction writer currently working on contemporary romance.

Thank you very much for this opportunity.

ONE-ON-ONE INTERVIEW

RAWSISTAZ: First off, I guess I won’t crack on the whole Navy thing, huh?  My husband is prior Navy, but I’m Air Force, so you know we have some interesting debates around here about which is the best branch, so since you might get the answer wrong, I’m going to pass on that.  LOL.  How long were you in the Navy and do you miss it?

LASHAUNDA: I won’t crack on the Air Force thing either.  LOL.  I went into the Navy right out of high school.  A baby thinking I was going on the Love Boat.  NOT.   I didn’t have a clue about what I was joining, but I learned quickly and enjoyed my six years active and six years reserves.  I was enlisted and I went in thinking I could find my own career.  That’s what they tell you at the recruiter. (Don’t believe them.  LOL get a job first)

Even though I don’t recommend going in this way, it actually worked to my benefit because I was able to work different jobs until I found what I liked.  Would you believe I was a military police?  Little old me, one of the best jobs I had.  Nobody messes with you when you’re packing.  I found my job in the supply field and that’s what I did until I got out.

The Navy changed my life, I learned a lot and made a few life long friends.  I highly recommend it if you don’t have a clue what to do with your life.  There’s nothing more honorable than serving your country.

RAWSISTAZ: I can’t imagine you as an MP…lol. But I can relate to making life-long friends. I miss my days in the Air Force; especially the paycheck.    Moving on…  I also wanted to send another big ole HAPPY ANNIVERSARY hug your way.  You celebrated nine years with SORMAG this month, just as we did.  Congratulations!! Time flies, huh?  What is your most memorable moment working with SORMAG?

LASHAUNDA: Time sure has flown.  I started putting SORMAG together right after I had my second son.  I was on maternity leave, bored crazy and thought why not.  So when I look at my son, I see how old SORMAG really is.  My babies are growing up.

I have a few memorable moments.  The first was going live and the counter actually moving.  Somebody other than my mother was looking at the magazine.

Being mentioned in Essence Magazine was thrilling.  People called me up before I got my copy screaming for me.  That was wild.

Seeing SORMAG on the book flap of Brenda Jackson’s book as a real reviewer, we had arrived.

This year my most memorable was being able to honor a writer friend, Katherine Jones, who passed in 2007, with a scholarship in her name.  I’ve always wanted to something like this for our readers and I finally got the opportunity this year.

RAWSISTAZ: What wonderful memories! Your scholarship in Katherine’s name was a wonderful, wonderful tribute to her life and her writing.

I love your blog, though I don’t get to stop by as much as I would like to.  It’s a wonderful resource to readers & writers– as is your online conference.  Tell us about both.

LASHAUNDA: We started off as an online magazine, then grew into a print magazine, but the cost of printing made me realize online was the best avenue for us.  We moved to the blog concept in 2005 and we’ve never looked back.

I started SORMAG as a way to say thank you to the romance writers I read.  There weren’t many romance magazines that featured multi-cultural authors, so I wanted to offer a place where they would be showcased.  We feature interviews, articles, book reviews and short stories.  I try to keep the readers abreast on what’s happening in the literary world.

I started the online conference in 1999 when I couldn’t afford to go to a conference.  I thought why not bring the conference to me.  Our first conference was on a site and featured articles as the workshops.  We had live chats in the evening.  It was a lot of fun and I decided to do it again, crazy me.  I offer the conference bi-annual.  Our next one will be in 2011.  If you missed this year’s, you can still see what was offered online at – http://sormag.blogspot.com/2009/08/2009-online-conference.html

RAWSISTAZ: What are some of the other services you offer through SORMAG?

LASHAUNDA: We offer free interviews.  I like to feature the author when their book is released.  We also offer free reviews.  I have a team of 20 reviewers and they enjoy reading.  We were on hiatus for a little while due to a book thief; however we’ve resumed reviewing and hopefully will be back on track.

Our paid advertisement includes eblasts to our SORMAG community and featured spots on the blog and main SORMAG site.

You can go to the main site – http://sormag.com and get information on our promotions.

My policy is the first promotion is on me, the second is on you.  I understand the writer’s budget, so I like to offer the first promotion (interview).  I know if you plan on making this a career, there will be plenty of times to pay for promotion later.

RAWSISTAZ: When you are not working and have free time, what do you do for fun?  And, when can we expect to see your book?  Some of us are waiting…

LASHAUNDA: Free time, what is that?  LOL  I’m addicted to t.v.  I have to be honest and say it helps me relax.  Some days are pretty stressful, so if I can get lost in one of my t.v. shows, the day isn’t so bad.

I love a good book, so I’m forever reading.  My book is coming one of these days.  I’m thankful for friends, like you, who won’t let me forget about my dream of being published one day.  I will tell you, I let FEAR rule me for years because it’s hard to let someone else read your stuff.  But as a good friend told me, you can’t get published if they don’t read it.

I’m moving past the fear.  I started my own blog – See Ya On The Net.  It’s my online journey with my writing – http://lashaunda.blogspot.com

I will be letting someone read one of my manuscripts in October.  I’m sure it needs a lot of work, but I’m ready for the challenge because I don’t want to leave this earth without a book with my name on the cover.

RAWSISTAZ: LaShaunda, thanks SO MUCH for everything you’ve done for the literary community.  You are to be commended for your passion to SORMAG and the literary community.  I’m looking forward to continued years of networking and seeing your name in on that book cover soon. 

While I realize this is all so much bigger than me, I’m proud to be the founder of such a wonderful group of readers, writers & literary enthusiasts.  Today marks the 9-Year Anniversary of RAWSISTAZ Literary Group!

What started off as a way of supporting and promoting African-American authors has blossomed into not only just a book club (RAWSISTAZ Online Book Club), but also an online literary hang-out (RAW4ALL), a team of dedicated reviewers (The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers), local chapters (Atlanta, New York, Chicago, Memphis, Piedmont Triad of NC, Detroit, Northern VA, Los Angeles & coming soon in Central Ohio), an annual Readers & Writers Conference (The RAWSISTAZ Affair) and a commitment to excellence in all we do.

I want to personally thank each of you for being a member of our group(s), supporting what we do, sharing/networking with each other and making RAWSISTAZ home. We’ve had some great times and many of us have made friends we wouldn’t have otherwise known.  We’ve also found about some great Black writers who we may have missed out on, so here’s to 9 Years!!!

In celebration, we hope you’ll be able to drop in today to introduce yourselves, share your testimonies, favorite moments, or just hang out with us.  We’ll be giving away prizes and just having a good time.  Initially I had planned to only hold this celebration here, but we will also do our Anniversary Jamz chat via the chat room, so stay tuned for information on that as the day progresses.
You can also sign our guestbook at: http://pub18.bravenet.com/guestbook/1513041776

-Tee C. Royal, Founder

Why I Read by Tee C. Royal

Ever really think about why you read?  Sure, there’s the entertainment factor.  We all want to be entertained, but there’s the connection between the reader and characters, there’s the ability to travel to new places and do new things, and there’s the opportunity to meet new friends…and enemies.  But if you had to pinpoint one reason why you read, what would it be?  I found myself asking this question this weekend as I spent the entire time reading through manuscripts, listening to a book on audio, resting, and watching television. It was a good experience to actually relax, and though I was technically working most of the time, the reading part didn’t really feel like it.  I simply love reading…

I endured the times of slavery, was inspired by a man’s conviction in Christ, I rolled my eyes as a selfish diva lost the man she loved, I mourned when a daughter found out about the hard upbringing of her mother, I skipped a few pages looking for the plot lost in a lot of rambling and sex, and I cheered when a young boy made it through the tribal initiation of becoming a man.  I experienced so many emotions in such a small amount of time, and I loved almost every minute of it.  Some of the writing drew me in, but some of the characters turned me off.  On the flip side, some of the stories I could relate to or empathize with, while others broke me down so low, I wasn’t sure I’d be able to get back up.  There were unique stories I’d love to finish, but sadly there were also stories which I felt I had read before; nothing new and different about them.  Those were the most disappointing, but all in all, I know clearly why I read and what I like to read.

I like to tap into the “what if’s” of life, learn new things, and be inspired by characters or empowered by their actions.  I like to know that there’s good in people and that the bad can be explained.  I like strong voices, witty dialogue, fast-paced storylines, realistic characters and situations, thoughtful endings and a little something-something extra.  Something unexpected…something that makes it different than every other story out there.

What about you?  Why do you read and what have you found you like in books?  What don’t you like?

*Originally written November 2007 for BloggingInBlack.com

I am sad to say I’m way behind, but I’m not giving up yet! I think I’m on book #10, but I’ve been able to read 20 books in a month before, sooooooooo I’m going out swinging.  Aahahha.

How about you all?  How’s it going?  What number are you at? What are you reading now?  Do you think you’ll make it?

I met Kimberly on Twitter earlier this year and have been a fan of her no-nonsense tweets and information on fitness & food.  So, this month (August) she’s doing a fitness challenge and I want to invite all the RAW family & site visitors to join us.  Better hurry though, the last day to sign up is August 8th.
Kimberly Linton
Washington DC’s Toughest Trainer

Kimberly Linton has been a vibrant part of the fitness community for over 16 years as a personal trainer, former body builder and group fitness instructor. Kimberly understands the unique challenges of working and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. After obtaining her MBA and working for a large consulting firm, Kimberly realized that her true passion was to help people stay fit while raising families and pursuing their careers. Fueled by this desire to change people’s lives, Kimberly launched Fitness 4 Life Consulting-”Helping busy people manage healthy lifestyles”. Kimberly’s has a real practical approach to diet & exercise that has made her a leader in the industry and helped real people achieve their fitness goals.

ABOUT THE CHALLENGE

Visit her blog to get full details!  For those on Twitter, use hashtag #AugFitChal

Keep Up With Kim:

http://www.twitter.com/livinthefitlife

TML: I’m a child of God who loves people. I love being apart of this great Body of believers, called Christians and having a part in witnessing and ministering the Word of the Lord to the lost. In addition to that, I love my family and friends and the older I get, the more I realize how important they are to me. Outside of that I’m a writer for the Lord, a professional business woman, a student and teacher of the Word of God.

Why and how did you start writing?

TML: I was nine when I realized I was a writer, though I’d been scribbling stories long before then. I was sitting in math class watching a bird on the windowsill.  He looked how I must have felt…vulnerable. He eventually flew away and in that moment I penned a poem titled, “Unconditional Love” and I’ve not put my pen down since. Of course the school year was out before I realized I didn’t have to be in math class to write. Hence, that’s why I have to use a calculator to this day.  So, that’s where it all began for me, from poetry, songs, plays, short stories and finally novels.

LOL! I can definitely relate to wanting to do something other than math (and the calculator, too). Where did you get the inspiration to write The Carpenter’s Princess?

TML: I was on a three-day fast when I started working on the outline for (then titled Misdemeanor) The Carpenters Princess. During the course of the fast, God gave me the inspiration for the novel which was totally different from the original synopsis.  I have always had an extreme “soft” spot when it comes to love and marriage. I found myself reflecting back on the relationships of my grandparents. They had the type of love that endured; that long suffering kind of love the Bible talks about. If there were problems at home, we didn’t know about it.  I’m certain their love was based on something totally different than what society depicts as ’till death do us part’.

Nowadays, the word love is thrown around like a basketball to whomever/whenever the moment feels right. If they toss it back its love…if they don’t, well, umm let’s just say we begin to back peddle because many of us don’t know the true definition of love.  I just felt God showing me that He is love and without Him as our leading man; wheels are spinning, hearts are hurting and lives are being placed on hold, because we are out of line with the destiny that He created for us.

The character in The Carpenter’s Princess suffered unnecessary pain simply because she wouldn’t line up with God’s will for her life.  Which is why the story opens with the scripture, “Except the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain that build it. (Psalm 127:1 KJV)”

Can you share with us the meaning of the title and why you changed it for the re-release.

TML: Good question. The storyline deals with redemption. I was saved and had a fervent passion for Christ when the story was originally released in 2003. Although I was on a fast when it was written error still managed to seep through the ink of my pen. One thing that we have to remember as believers is that the enemy is subtle in his machinations and the Bible tells us we are not to be ignorant of them. In the months following the original release I transitioned from the church I had  grown up in to the ministry I’m apart of now. God really begin to deal with me concerning ministry and I shut everything down so I could hear Him. I couldn’t serve Him and be attached to the things/people that were coming between us. In that time frameHe began to rebuild, reconstruct, renew my passion. Jesus profession was that of a Carpenter and I felt that I had been made over, much like the character in TCP. I think I had begun to take the gift of writing for granted because I got caught up in the book deals, the best seller list and so on. I had to sacrifice some things and at the time it just happened to be a two-book deal with a major New York publisher. I knew when I let that deal go and the money involved that I was serious about being His writer.

So, when the season presented itself, the Carpenter (Jesus), redeemed the book with a new look, a new name and an opportunity to share the truth.  And the fact that Grant, the male character in the book, bares the name Carpenter  tied perfectly into the storyline. The only thing that you don’t know is does she surrender to her Carpenter. <wink>

I really loved The Carpenter’s Princess, which I first read when it was titled Misdemeanor. I also enjoyed your short story in Proverbs for the People, and other bits of your stories I’ve read over the years.  You have a very distinct voice in your books and stories.  If you had to define it, how would you?

TML: Thank you. I really didn’t understand my voice, until Bittersweet Chocolate was written.  If I had to describe it; intimate communication with someone you can trust.

What are you currently working on?

TML: I am finally prepared to release Bittersweet Chocolate which was my first full length novel. That’s my baby and it’s time I introduce her to the world.  Bittersweet Chocolate deals with love, regret, forgiveness and betrayal on a level that’s so disturbing only God can heal and restore the broken pieces. I’m also in the process of working on an anthology to20be released for the holiday season.

I am looking forward to Bittersweet Chocolate!  To this day, the portions I read of Bittersweet Chocolate are still with me, especially that line about the flower.  LOL. Is it “different” writing in the Christian Fiction Genre?

TML: Since I’ve been writing, God has been at the forefront of my work even when I was playing footsies with sin, He was there. I read things I wrote over twenty years ago and like breathing He entered into my work every time.  The Lord has always been there for me so it’s an honor to write for Him and glorify His name.

What is the most valuable thing you’ve learned about writing, especially as it relates to your ministry?

TML: Once I realized that a writing is a literary pulpit of sorts it changed my perspective on the seriousness of the call. God has granted many of us with the gift to function in the office of a creative scribe, but its not to be taken lightly. Your work should never be a place for revenge or an opportunity for self-exaltation. I’ve had people ask me if they’re going to be in my book, my initial thought is not if I can help it. I truly attempt to write what God gives me from the title to the character names. When He speaks I write…when He stops, so do I. Again, as a writer you have the power to influence through the power of a pen.

You were once very active and well known in the literary industry and sort of drifted off the scene. Where have you been and what steps lead you back?

TML: Wow, let’s see. I have been in a season of preparation, in the backfield, where I’ve had to fight for love to live a little longer. I’ve been beaten, broken, sliced, diced and spiritually maced so I would be in a place to not handle the word of God deceitfully, but with the compassion of a servant  clothed in a linen robe of righteousness, writing only what’s been given to me from the foot of the Father.

Your writing is just one part of your ministry.  Tell us about your other projects, including your publishing house and magazine. Also, let us know how we can find you on the web.

TML: Yes we have a publishing house with several divisions; a Christian magazine, Sufficient Grace that was launched in April of 2006. Due to personal things that took precedent at the time, it has been on hiatus since Nov/Dec 2007 but don’t fret because SGM makes a return this winter.  We also have a self-publishing division, as well as a graphic/media division. If you would like to contact me you can find my home on the web at www.tanyamarielewis.com or on twitter.com.

Thanks once again for the interview, Tanya.  Any closing words for us?

TML: Thank you Tee C. Royal and RAWSISTAZ for this opportunity. I appreciate the support from beginning of my journey (when I was reviewing books and a literary publicist for others) to now. My word for you is to continue forward, seek God for this next transition in your life and remember the only thing you should ever go back to is your first works.

Truly, I love you,

Tanya Marie Lewis.

Awwww…right back at’cha and I’m proud of you too!  Please keep us posted on Bittersweet Chocolate and your company’s upcoming releases.