We are kicking things off today at Noon EST with two of our author favorites, ReShonda Tate Billingsley & Victoria Christopher Murray.   RAWSISTAZ has selected their upcoming book SINNERS & SAINTS as our January 2012 Book of the Month, so today we wanted to give a little sneak peek into the book, the collaboration between the ladies and of course let you pick a team.  Rachel or Jasmine??  You’ll also have an opportunity to win a copy of the book (release date January 10th) before it is officially released and Team Jasmine or Team Rachel t-shirt are up for grabs!

Stay tuned for the Team Jasmine & Team Rachel poll which we’ll post later in the month.  And mark your calendars because the actual book discussion with our online & local chapters (and all fans of Rachel & Jasmine) will be January 31st.

Victoria Christopher Murray has made Jasmine Cox Larson Bush infamous four times over with A Sin and a Shame (2006); Lady Jasmine (2009); Too Little, Too Late (2008) and Sins of the Mother (2010).

ReShonda Tate Billingsley’s Rachel Jackson Adams has frustrated and charmed readers in Let the Church Say Amen (2004); Everybody Say Amen (2009) and Say Amen, Again (2011).

Now for the first time, bestselling, award-winning authors Victoria Christopher Murray and ReShonda Tate Billingsley, bring their favorite heroines together in SINNERS & SAINTS: A Novel  (Touchstone Books / A Simon & Schuster Trade Paperback; January 10, 2012; $15.00; ISBN: 978-1-4516-0815-1) which is bound to delight their fans.

ABOUT THE BOOK

SINNERS & SAINTS: A Novel by Victoria Christopher Murray & ReShonda Tate Billingsley
Touchstone Trade Paperback Original / Simon & Schuster
On Sale: January 10, 2012
Price: $15.00 | Pre-Order the Book | Get the Kindle Version
ISBN-10: 1-4516-0815-2 / ISBN-13: 978-1-4516-0815-1

SINNERS & SAINTS is the first novel of a two book deal with book two releasing in January 2013.  Murray’s next solo project, Destiny’s Diva’s, releases in June 2012.  Secret She Kept will be released by ReShonda in July 2012.

Victoria Christopher Murray’s Jasmine Cox Larson Bush and ReShonda Tate Billingsley’s Rachel Jackson Adams are not your typical First Ladies. But they’ve overcome their scandalous and drama-filled pasts to stand firmly by their husbands’ sides.

But when a coveted position opens up—the President of the National Baptist Association—each woman thinks her husband is perfect for the job.  As Jasmine and Rachel’s husbands are both nominated, the scheming begins and both women are back to their old ways. With their husbands as President, they will have more power, prestige, and money than they could have ever dreamed! The competition is on and both will do anything and everything in their power to get their husbands’ the job.   It becomes a battle of the First Ladies as these women try to one-up each other.

Just when Jasmine and Rachel think they’re going to have to fight to the finish, the current First Lady of the National Baptist Association steps in…a woman bigger, badder, and more devious than either of them. The women have finally met their match, but the conspiracy behind the position runs deeper than either Jasmine or Rachel could have imagined.

Double the fun, with a message of faith, SINNERS & SAINTS will delight readers with two of their favorite characters from two of their favorite authors—Victoria Christopher Murray and ReShonda Tate Billingsley—it’s a match made in heaven.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Victoria Christopher Murray is the author of nine Essence bestselling novels, including The Ex Files, Too Little, Too Late, and Lady Jasmine. Winner of the African American Literary Award for Fiction and Author of the Year, she splits her time between Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Visit Victoria at www.victoriachristophermurray.com.

ReShonda Tate Billingsley is an award winning former television and radio reporter, as well as the author of twenty-one books which have appeared on the Essence bestseller list more than twenty times. She is married with three small children and lives in Texas. Visit ReShonda at www.reshondatatebillingsley.com.

For more information on SINNERS & SAINTS please visit:

www.sinnersandsaintsbook.com and www.simonandschuster.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author Chris Shella is a graduate of Morehouse College and the University of Texas Law School and started his legal career in Long Island, New York at the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office. He is admitted to the practice of law in New York, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and North Carolina. Shella is also admitted to the federal court in the Eastern District of North Carolina, the Middle District of North Carolina, U.S. District of Columbia, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, the District of Columbia Circuit Court of Appeals, the Eastern District of New York, and the Southern District of New York.He is also admitted to the Bar Of The United States Supreme Court. He and his cases have been covered on Court TV, CNN, and in the New York Times, and other media outlets across the globe. He has represented everyone from lawyers to major drug traffickers to a serial killer in Baltimore. His two most famous case are the Vegan Baby Case and his defense of the Duke Lacrosse Case accuser for the alleged murder of her boyfriend. Chris now resides in Durham, North Carolina with his wife and son. Chris still actively represents clients up and down the East Coast.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Can Jasper Davis pull himself from his life of loose women, liquor, and general debauchery in enough time to win a murder case and possibly save his own hide? Jasper Davis is a criminal trial lawyer in Baltimore who has slowly but surely become like the drug dealers and lowlifes he represents. He spends more time with hookers than clients and more time drinking Jack Daniels than studying the law books. Simply put, he is a shade of his former self.

In Reasonable Facsimile, Jasper is in the middle of a first degree murder trial when he becomes the suspect in the murder of a DEA agent who was set to testify against his client. Jasper is so far gone on women and liquor he sees his trial skills deteriorate right before his eyes. Jasper is confronted by the situation. Is he gonna continue to be a reasonable facsimile of a human being or is he gonna become the man he once was?

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Website:  http://www.reasonablefacs.com
Purchase: http://www.amazon.com/Reasonable-Facsimile-3-Chris-Shella

PHENOMENALLY ME is a carefully crafted blend of classical and modern influences, feminism and post feminism. There is a strong sense of confidence and pure honesty felt from the very beginning all the way to the very end. The reader can feel the pulse of passion on every page. Phenomenally Me is a book that dares you to explore life mentally and emotionally and is a strikingly bold adventure through a woman’s heart, mind, and soul.  It would be a welcome addition to an update of the Ras Baraka and Kevin Powell anthology, IN THE TRADITION.

PHENOMENALLY ME is new wine in new bottles, and Sarah J. Heidelberg is a right poet for the New Millennium worthy of her icons, which include Jessica Care Moore, Alice Walker, Nikki Giovanni, Sonia Sanchez, and Sylvia Plath.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Heidelberg, born in Kansas, is a carefree spirit with many words flowing from her mind and heart. She’s been through many trials and tribulations and experienced losses, but they have only made her stronger. She doesn´t just write about the trials, she writes about conquering and emerging triumphant. Sarah, 29, graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi (2005) with a degree in English. She followed with a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science (2010).

STAY CONNECTED

Website: http://www.authorsden.com/sarahjheidelberg
Twitter: http://twitter.com/southernpoetess

“Possession is nine-tenths of the law, and the other tenth is being able to whip your opponent’s ass” was the motto of Trust Nyarai.   It was hard to take shit from a Nyarai woman.  The swamps were littered with those who had tried.  A badass chopper-riding, machete-wielding woman, Trust was good at three things: slinging hash, separating assholes from their entrails, and protecting her family.

Bad tempered on his best day, Thamesis Ceanncath was lethal.  His prowess in battle had earned him a fearsome reputation…and banishment from his native Scotland and pretty much the rest of the world.  Stuck in Georgia, he’d taken up new hobbies: riding choppers and enjoying Southern cuisine.  And then Trust rode into town.  Jealous of the jeans that had the privilege of cupping her ass, he wasn’t prepared for her…on any level but that didn’t stop him from wanting her.

Thus began their relationship…as far as he was concerned.  He decided he wanted her the moment he witnessed her handling her weapon.  He decided he was going to keep her the moment she responded to his threat with one of her own.  She may not have mouthed it, but she yelled it with her eyes.  Later, when they’d had some alone time, she reiterated it with her beautiful, tempting mouth.

Yeah, she was his.  Now all he had to do was convince her…and the rest of Mid NFW, who’d taken a liking to the spirited woman.  No one was making it easy for him.  Instead of getting angry, he simply grew harder and more determined.  Not a man to back down from a fight, he wasn’t going to start now.   Lord help them all.

AUTHORS’ BIO

A kickass tag-team bound together by the pen, Jeanie (the shagalicious wordslinger) and Jayha (the ninja master of h*ll no’s) are forces of nature that will either leave you begging for mercy or begging for more.

We are women who have brains we aren’t afraid to use; feelings we aren’t afraid to express; and, middle fingers that we aren’t afraid to extend.  We pen stories that push all kinds of boundaries and we don’t apologize for it.  Our heroines are feisty; our heroes are hot, and our stories are one-of-a-kind adventures.

STAY CONNECTED

Purchase Link: https://beautifultroublepublishing.com/xcart/In-Love-and-Trust-EBOOK.html

Website: http://www.jeanieandjayha.com/

Facebook Page:  http://www.facebook.com/jeanieandjayha

Twitter Address:  http://twitter.com/#!/jeanieandjayha

Betrayed by her cold, callous mother and abused by her alcoholic stepfather, eighteen-year-old Simone Woodard is kicked out of the house like a bag of trash and left to survive on her own. While struggling to create a life for herself, her beauty and innocence captivate Kevin Kennard, a handsome, hazel-eyed felon

with an addiction to all things illegal. For the first time in Kevin’s life, real love has him rethinking his criminal path. But the action on the streets won’t take a backseat to Simone. Who will win this tug of war?

Two Tears in a Bucket is a soulful novel that reminds us how powerful and lasting the bonds of love can be, even among the harsh realities of life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

After an impeccable, award winning career in real estate, Traci Bee decided it was time to acknowledge a yearning that had shadowed her from childhood. An avid reader and lover of creative writing, Traci decided it was time to pen the novel that had dwelled inside of her for over 20 years. In September of 2007, Two Tears in a Bucket was born. A compelling story of raw love amidst the harsh realities of urban life, the novel won Traci two awards. Excited about the novel’s potential, Traci decided to take a vacation from the world of real estate to focus on promoting her novel. But life had other plans for Traci as a life altering storm brewed in her horizons. Three years later, Traci’s back and her passion remains unwavering.

TWO TEARS IN A BUCKET was re-released in November, 2010 through King George Publishing, LLC (a publishing company named in honor of Traci’s daddy angel, George.) The novel has since been recognized as AAMBC’s 2010 Book of the Year and is currently the #1 selling ebook for drama on Amazon.

Purchase a Copy – amazon.com or get the e-book

MORE INFORMATION
Website: http://www.tracibee.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com

AUTHOR BIO

Angela Nicole Parker is a freelance writer who currently lives in Los Angeles, California. She is the author of Tethered and writes Under the Hill, a column that takes an irreverent look at life as a thirty-something singleton.

TETHERED SYNOPSIS

Madison Baldwin is having a bad year. Her fiancé, the commitment-phobic Spencer Newman, is getting cold feet. Her divorced parents can’t seem to stop fighting or, much to her chagrin, making out. To make matters worse, her “perfect” half-sister Jaqueline has flown all the way from across the pond to make her feel even more inadequate. The only bright spot in her life is Craig Barnett, her life-long friend and champion, whose cool demeanor and playful sarcasm is masking a secret that will change Maddie’s life [Tethered] forever…

LINKS

Angela Nicole Parker’s Facebook Page

Angela Nicole Parker Online, Angela Nicole Parker’s official website

Angela Nicole’s Parker Twitter Page

Under the Hill Blog, an irreverent column on life as a thirty-something singleton

The Parkerverse, Angela Nicole Parker’s official writer’s blog

CHERYL WILLIS HUDSON

Ms. Hudson has authored many books for young children including AFRO-BETS ABC and 123 Books, Hands Can, Good Morning, Baby, Glo Goes Shopping, Many Colors of Mother Goose and Bright Eyes, Brown Skin, (co-authored with Bernette Ford). She has also co-edited a number of titles including How Sweet the Sound: African American Songs for Children (Scholastic, Inc.), Kids’ Book of Wisdom: Quotes from the African American Tradition and In Praise of Our Fathers and Our Mothers…

Construction Zone was published by Candlewick Press in 2006. My Friend Maya Loves to Dance (illustrated by Eric Velasquez) was published by Abrams in 2010. From Where I Stand in the City (illustrated by Nancy Devard) is one of her titles published under the Marimba Books multicultural imprint.

In 2003 Ms. Hudson was inducted into the International Literary Hall of Fame for Writers of African Descent. She is a frequent speaker on the topic of diversity in literature and has served as an parenting expert for ClubMom. She is also a member of PEN America’s Children Book Committee.

Visit her new blog: http://cherylwillishudson.wordpress.com

Lesley Hal is also the author of the highly acclaimed novel Blind Temptations: the Seduction of Sex, Lies & Betrayal, an anticipated sequel is in the works due out in 2010. Her second book, Pleasure Principles, is scheduled for release in the spring of 2010. Pleasure Principles is an electrifying erotic thrill ride featuring Bianca Brooks from the anthology “Succulent” Chocolate Flava II and the short story that started it all, Stormy Weather  which was featured in bestselling author of The G-Spot Noire’s online magazine. Lesley has joined forces with bestselling author N’TYSE, for another sizzling read entitled Cougar Suites due out 2010.

BOOK DESCRIPTION
Can Bianca keep a married couple from finding out that the person they’re cheating on each other with is her? Or will living the love-them-and-leave-them lifestyle that Rick James and Teena Marie sang about in the eighties be more fire than desire?

That’s the mantra that has become Bianca Brooks’ claim to fame after being stood up at the altar by her longtime fiancé, Michael Jones, five years ago.

Since then, Bianca’s life has consisted of a steady string of bedmates and running her burgeoning event planning company, Pleasure Principles, with best friends Cody and Reggie. With love having nothing to do with her newfound lease on life, Pleasure Principles is her one and only commitment, until she meets Taylor, wife of Dallas Mavericks golden boy, Eric “All Air” Sims. A torrid affair ensues with Eric being none the wiser until he pays Bianca an eye-opening visit. During his stay, Bianca’s world is turned upside down when she finds herself in the middle of a forbidden love triangle, adding even more drama to her already flawed sex life.

Even though Eric’s being unfaithful, his insecurities run rampant, prompting him to hire a detective to see where Taylor’s infidelities lie. When given the proof he needs, all hell breaks loose and everything about Bianca’s promiscuity brings forth malicious consequences of revenge.

WEBSITE INFORMATION

http://www.pleasureprinciplepublishing.com

http://www.lesleyhal.com

Congrats to Andre and his mother, author Latifa Sanchez (and guest reviewer for RAWSISTAZ), on the release of Andre’s book!  For those in the area, there will be a book release party on Saturday, March 20th at 6PM at Browns Mill Rec Center in Lithonia, GA.

RAWSISTAZ Interview – January 2010
Interviewed by Tawana Price

You are such a young author to have a book published.  When did you decide that you wanted to be an author?

I decided to write a book when I came down to Atlanta for Thanksgiving the year before last. I was sitting at my grandmother’s house and decided to write. I wanted to write the book because I wanted to be like my mom, I also wanted other kids to see how much fun I had playing football, even though I wasn’t doing well in the beginning.

So, is Touchdown based on you?

Yes, I have played two years of football. The book is based off of my first year playing in Boston, MA.

Are you working on your next book? Is it related to sports and is Carmelo going to be in it?

Yes, my next book is going to be about basketball and Carmelo will be in it again. I want to do a series of books with Carmelo, kind of like Little Bill.

How did you balance being a kid and an author?

Well it’s kind of hard. I have to go to school everyday, then I have football or basketball practice and then I have to come home and do my homework. After I do all of that sometimes if I have enough time then I will write in my journal. On the weekends when I just want to play with my brother and sister sometimes my parents drag me out to the library or different bookstores to talk to them about my book.

What do you want to tell other kids your age who want to be authors?

I want to tell them it’s hard work. I want them to know that if they think I am a good example then they should follow me. I work hard in school, I’m a straight A student and I work hard in sports.

AUTHOR BIO

Andre Sanchez is a very energetic seven-year-old boy whose current passions are writing, football, basketball and music.  Born in Boston, Massachusetts on July 6th, Andre currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia, with his parents and two siblings, Anthony and Alayna.

Affectionately known as ‘Dre Day’ by his family and friends, he is a very lovable and enthusiastic child.  Andre first discovered his talent and love for writing after his first season of football.  You will find, Andre has poured all of his emotions, humor and heart into his very first book, Touchdown.

Publisher’s Website: http://www.concreterosepublishing.net

Huntsville’s own Marc Lacy, a graduate of Alabama A&M University is a nationally renown, award winning poet/author and spoken word artist.  He has performed all of over the country at many national literary events and spoken word venues.  Marc is a contributing writer to RADAR and The Grove Magazines.  He is also a writer for BlogginginBlack.com. In The Summer of 2009, Marc met up with the cofounder of HBO’s Def Poetry Jam, Mr. Bruce George and Poet Rene Reyes in Los Angeles to serve on the panel at The Annual “So you Think you can  Spit?” poetic symposium for youth.  Lacy credits his faith in God and love of family for providing energy to succeed.

MOST RECENT BOOK

Wretched Saints by Marc Lacy & Assaunta Howard provides a literary window through which we may possibly see traits of ourselves within one or more of the characters as they learn the hard way to listen when God is talking. Thus His signal, when digested properly allows suppression of sinful urges opening up the door, for spiritual growth.

Are you a Wretched Saint? Open the covers…and see.  Read More about Wretched Souls

FIND MARC LACY ONLINE AT:
http://www.marclacy.com
http://www.avopublishing.com
http://www.facebook.com/marclacy
http://www.myspace.com/mlacy
http://www.cdbaby.com/artist/marclacy

AWARDS/RECOGNITION

• Poet of The Year (“The Looking Heart”) – Disilgold.com 2006
• Self-Published Poet of The Year (“The Looking Heart”) – Aspicomm 2006
• Poet of The Year (“The Looking Heart”) – C&B Books Distributors 2006
• Poet of The Year (“The Looking Heart”) – Memphis Black Writer’s Conference 2006
• Charles Owens (Marc’s Producer) won Producer of The Year (“REFlux”) Disigold.com
2006
• Distinguished Alum Award for S.R. Butler High 2007
• Nominated (along with Nikki Giovanni) for 2007 “Poet of the Year Award” for Open
Book Awards

ORGANIZATIONAL AFFILIATIONS

• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated
• National Society of Black Engineers
• ArtNSoul Society of Expression
• The Divine Literary Tour
• Grown Folk’s Literary Group of Atlanta
• Academy of American Poets
• American Writer’s and Artists, Incorporated
• Huntsville Literary Association
• Church Street Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America

PUBLISHED/PRODUCED WORKS
• “Wretched Saints” – Spiritual Short Stories (January 2010)
ISBN 13-978-09749712-3-0

• “LyriCode 256” – (Spoken Word CD, June 2009)
ISBN 13-978-0-9749712-5-4

• “RTIQLation” – Spoken Essence of Music (Spoken Word CD, August 2008)
ISBN 0-9749712-2-7

• “Rock and Fire” – Love Poetry from the Core (May 2007)
ISBN 13-978-0-9749712-8-5

• “The Looking Heart” – Poetic Expressions from Within (September 2004)
ISBN 0-9749712-9-4

• “REFlux” – Poetic Spirit and Spoken Soul (Spoken Word CD, September 2004)
ISBN 0-9749712-1-9

COLLABORATIONS
• “The Soul of a Man” – (Anthology, June 2009) Peace in The Storm Publishing
ISBN 13-978-0-9819631-3-6

• “Step up to the Mic” – A Poetic Explosion (September 2007) Xpress Yourself Publishing
ISBN 13-978-09792500-5-7

• “Point of No Return” – (July 2007) Elissa Gabrielle Peace in the Storm Publishing
ISBN 13-978-09790222-1-0

• “Witness the Truth” – (Spoken Word Mixtape April 2006) Rashad Rayford

• “Finger Lickin’ Way to Fight the Fat” – (June 2005) Donna Smith Booklocker.com, Inc.
ISBN 13-978-09668709-8-5

BOOK SYNOPSIS

After witnessing the brutal murder of their mother, the three Jackson sisters are separated, and living hard lives far away from each other.

Dominique is a well adjusted twenty-five year old professional, now living a perfect life…or so it seems.  She’s in love with a man who once saved her, but is now threatening to destroy her.  Will she be able to break free from him in time?

Donya has clawed her way from living on the streets to being a self-made Bohemian chick whose life is now filled with rainbows and dance.  But then she finds herself stuck in the middle of two disasters. She has to save one of her sisters.  Which one? And can she really tamper with fate?

DJ is the fast-talking, fast-thinking, straight-A high school senior with an attitude and temper she inherited from her father.  Will she let her ways ruin her the way his ruined him?

Holler at the Moon is the coming of age story of three sisters who fight hard to create their place in the world without the love of a father or the guidance of a mother.  Can they find healing to become the women they hope to be or will their dark pasts be their ultimate downfalls?

AUTHOR BIO

Having graduated Summa Cum Laude with dual degrees in Database Technology and Information Systems with an emphasis in programming, Tinesha Davis authored two books that have nothing to do with engineering—a collection of poetry, All Black Girls Ain’t Got Rhythm and other urban hymns, and her debut novel, Holler at the Moon. With these achievements she made it official: she is a writer who happens to play computer engineer by day.

Tinesha serves on the Board of Directors of the Zora Neale Hurston/Richard Wright Foundation and is a writing coach for Book-in-a-Day, a non-profit program that teaches high school students how to write poetry, and publish a book—in one day. Tinesha lives in the DC metropolitan area with her sixteen year old son and is currently working on her follow up project Twice on Sundays.

For more information:

www.TineshaDavis.com

www.facebook.com/tinesha.davis

HollertheNovel [at] gmail [dot] com

Interviewed by Yolanda M. Johnson-Bryant

I had the pleasure of meeting the “crime fighter” in 2006.  Please find  below my recent mini-interview with Mr. Wooden. Also, read the reviews for his two novels on The Author’s Hidewaway and also at Literary Wonders!

1. It seems that your books are about crime. What gave you the inspiration to write this genre?

- It’s my active imagination. Way before I put pen to paper I would have these various storylines in my head and once I did decide to become a writer, my imagination went into overdrive with plot after plot. Plus, my military experience helped as well as family members being in law enforcement.

2. Are any of your books based on true characters?

- No…strictly non-fiction. Some of the names of my characters are people I know that have consented to me using their name and in some cases, their likeness. Elliot Lucas, the FBI Deputy Director, was a very good friend and mentor up until his death.

3. Do you think you’ll ever write for another genre?

- Yes, probably the supernatural genre…maybe a collaboration with a friend and fellow author, Gregory Townes. I’m a huge fan of Mr. Townes. He has a talent for the paranormal/supernatural. I don’t do relationship books because I know nothing of relationships or the opposite gender (smiling/laughing).

4. Where you ever a detective?

- No, but I have a brother who used to be a detective. Additionally, during my military time, I was fortunate to do several different types of investigations.

5. Although you write crime, which genre do you enjoy reading the most?

- Mystery/Suspense/Crime is my baby!

6. Will you continue the Kenny Carson series?

- Yes!!! I love writing it and more importantly, the readers love the Kenny ‘KC” Carson series. It amazes me how everyone has their favorite character and want me to write a spinoff for this character or that character. Plus, there are tons of stories to tell with Kenny and his cast of characters.

7. What are you working on next?

- My next Kenny Carson novel, Parts Are Parts. A supernatural novel, Of Good and Evil. Plus, I am collaborating with several authors on one novel called Hurt So Much, which is a relationship/suspense thriller.

Additionally, I will start soon on the novel with Gregory Townes. And lastly, working on what I call my baby, introducing my next series. This one is about a female rogue CIA officer. The first novel in the series is called Sasha McCoy, Freelancer. I think it’s something different and I’m confident readers will gravitate to Sasha.

8. Do you have any signings or appearances scheduled?

- Not presently. I am busy writing, writing and more writing. But I am available for meetings with book clubs via phone, internet, chat rooms, etc.

9. If you could meet one author, who would it be?

- James Patterson…I have an overly active imagination. I can only imagine what type imagination he has.

10. Anything else you want our reading audience to know about you?

- Yes, I want your support! But my books! (Smile) I love writing and I love readers reading enjoying my storylines. I love to hear your comments, so please email me at jwooden61@yahoo.com. You can also see more of Mr. Wooden at http://www.jwooden.com/

Intimate Conversation with Pamela Samuels Young

Pamela Samuels Young is the Essence bestselling author of the legal thrillers: Murder on the Down Low, In Firm Pursuit, Every Reasonable Doubt and the newly released Buying Time. The former journalist and Compton native is the fiction writing expert for BizyMoms.com and is on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Chapter of Mystery Writers of America. Pamela served as legal consultant to the Showtime television series Soul Food. She is a frequent speaker on the topics of writing and self-empowerment.

• Where are you from? What is your favorite book?
I grew up in Compton, California, which gave me a very grounded perspective on life. When I mention my hometown, people automatically assume that I dodged bullets on the way to school every day. But it was nothing like that. I had two strong, hard-working parents, who still live in Compton today. The foundation they laid – faith in God, hard work and education – is responsible for who I am and what I have achieved.

I’m an avid reader who enjoys reading both commercial and literary fiction. I enjoy a broad spectrum of writers, so it’s impossible for me to pick a favorite book. But if there’s one book that impacted me more than any other, it would have to be Claude Brown’s Manchild in the Promised Land. I can still remember stumbling across a copy of the book at my aunt’s house when I was about twelve. It was the first book I remember reading that had African-American characters and I was thrilled to be reading about people who looked like me. It was also a very gritty and graphic coming of age story. I promptly “borrowed” the book without asking for permission for fear that my aunt would think I was too young to be reading such a sexually graphic book. After that, I developed an insatiable appetite for African-American fiction. That led me to James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, Richard Wright, Toni Morrison and many, many other great writers.

• How did you feel when you saw your first book on the shelf?
I still have a very vivid memory of seeing Every Reasonable Doubt on the shelf at the Barnes and Noble near my home in February 2006. I went to the store on the book’s scheduled release date, not really expecting to find it. My stepson and I searched the shelves but couldn’t find it. I was about to leave, but decided to, ask for it at the reception desk. To my delight, the clerk found it and led us to the book. I just stood there staring at it. So much blood, sweat and tears led me to this point. My stepson took out his cell phone and snapped a picture of me holding the book. And just as I started to started to tear up, he promptly warned me not to embarrass him by crying in the store.

• What is your process for creating a novel? Do the characters speak to you?
I will spend any where from a few weeks to as long as three months outlining a book before I sit down to write. I also mull over my story a lot. I’m thinking about it in the shower, while I’m standing in line at the grocery story, during my 45-minute commute to work. I can almost see each chapter as if it were a scene in a movie. Only after I have a completed outline do I start writing. And when I write, I go from page one to the last page without doing much editing. For me, it’s psychologically motivating to complete that first draft, even if it’s so bad I’d never dare show it to anyone. Once I have a finished first draft, then the real writing starts. I revise, and revise and revise some more. That process can last six months or more.

• How do you spend your free time?
Free time? What’s that? Writing is how I spend my free time and I love every minute of it. I still work part-time as a lawyer and when I’m not at work, I’m usually someplace writing – be it at home, the library or the nearest Starbucks. Sometimes I write early in the morning before work, other times I’m up until one or two in the morning typing away on my laptop. My most productive writing time is when I can get away from home and lock myself in my timeshare in Palm Desert for a weekend. When I’m in that environment, the writing is non-stop. When I’m writing, I’m happy.

• Share with us your latest news and book releases.
I’m extremely excited about the upcoming release of my fourth legal thriller and first stand-alone novel, Buying Time, which goes on sale November 1st. In Buying Time, Waverly Sloan is a down-on-his-luck lawyer who comes to the aid of terminally ill people in desperate need of cash. Waverly finds investors eager to advance his dying clients thousands of dollars—including a hefty broker’s fee for himself—in exchange for rights to their life insurance policies. Once the clients take their last breath, the investors reap a hefty return on their investment. When Waverly’s clients start dying sooner than they should, both Waverly, and a high-powered lawyer who’s bucking to become the next U.S. Attorney General, are unwittingly drawn into a perilous web of greed, blackmail and murder.

You can read excerpts from all my books at my website: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com.

To schedule a visit with Pamela, email her at author@pamelasamuelsyoung.com

Buying Time by Pamela Samuels Young
Goldman House Publishing, November 2009
Paperback, 370 Pages, Trade Paperback
ISBN-13: 9780981562711
ISBN: 098156271X

Purchase via Amazon /Purchase via Barnes and Noble

FROM THE PUBLISHER
Waverly Sloan is a down-on-his-luck lawyer. But just when he’s about to hit rock bottom, he stumbles upon a business with the potential to solve all of his problems.

In Waverly’s new line of work, he comes to the aid of people in desperate need of cash. But there’s a catch. His clients must be terminally ill and willing to sign over rights to their life insurance policies before they can collect a dime. Waverly then finds investors eager to advance them thousands of dollars—including a hefty broker’s fee for himself—in exchange for a significant return on their investment once the clients take their last breath.

The stakes get higher when Waverly brokers the policy of the cancer-stricken wife of Lawrence Erickson, a high-powered lawyer who’s bucking to become the next U.S. Attorney General. When Waverly’s clients start dying sooner than they should, both Waverly and Erickson—who has some skeletons of his own to hide—are unwittingly drawn into a perilous web of greed, blackmail and murder.

Book clubs, select one of Pamela’s novels for your book club meeting and she will join you in person, via webcam or via speaker phone.

Read more book excerpts at: http://www.pamelasamuels-young.com/books/index.html.

EDC Creations is a Prince George’s County, Maryland marketing and promotions firm that specializes in graphic design, Internet marketing campaigns, creating logos, websites, and marketing materials for small to medium-size businesses, new authors and individuals.  Visit http://www.edc-creations.com for more information.

Raleigh, North Carolina—Lisa Y.  Watson, author of The Switch from the Essence bestselling anthology, Love is Blind, is back with her debut novel, Watch Your Back.

Devon Mitchell’s past is tormenting him and his future is uncertain.  Plagued with the thought that he was responsible for his girlfriend’s death, Devon finds solitude at his uncle’s farm in rural Illinois. When he hears that his beloved grandmother’s art gallery is in financial trouble, he returns to Washington, D.C. He commissions himself as the gallery’s new art director to investigate.

Enraged doesn’t begin to describe Jayde Seaton when an outsider shows up and takes the coveted promotion she thought was rightfully hers. Refusing to make his transition a smooth one, she sets out to make Devon’s work live miserable.

Tensions between them spark intense heat. As the two grow closer, Devon learns of hostile takeovers and hidden agendas—all revealing the truth about his girlfriend’s death. Could Jayde be next on the hit list because of him? Devon will do whatever it takes to ensure she’s not.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

As a native of Washington, D.C., the political arena and historical surroundings fueled Lisa’s romantic imagination.  Creating expressive characters who challenge personal and spiritual growth are her forte.  Lisa’s first published work, The Switch appeared as a novella in the Essence Magazine best selling Anthology, Love Is Blind (2004) with Parry “Ebony Satin” Brown and Pat Simmons.  Her short story, The Reunion appeared as a “10-minute Love Story” in the Sun Magazine.

Lisa also writes fan fiction based on characters from a popular 80′s television show, Remington Steele and has both a national and International fan base.

When she’s not writing or working you’ll find Lisa at the annual Romantic Times BOOKLOVERS Convention.  Lisa is the co-publicist for the convention and works to secure author interviews via television, radio and newspaper for national bestselling authors like Heather Graham, L.A. Banks, Bobbi Smith, Brenda Jackson, Christina Skye, and others.

Lisa resides in North Carolina with her husband, two children and dog, Boomer.  She is an Asset Management Specialist at a technical services company.

AUTHOR’s WEBSITE: http://www.lisawatson.com

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

What do you know about Wahida Clark?

• Wahida Clark is a New York Times bestselling author and fast becoming the standard bearer for authors of urban fiction. Her story began in Trenton, New Jersey, and reached its dramatic peak when she wrote a best seller behind the bars of a federal prison in Lexington, Kentucky.

• After serving a nine year prison sentence, Wahida was released on June 13, 2007, from the federal prison camp in Alderson, West Virginia.

• Wahida Clark is now the vice president of the nonprofit organization based out of East Orange, New Jersey, Prodigal Sons and Daughters Redirection Services, a re-entry program for convicts and ex-convicts. The organization also provides support groups and mentors for at-risk youth, troubled men and women from all social back grounds, particularly those released from federal, state and county correctional facilities.

•  Today, Wahida also runs her own printing & publishing company out of East Orange, New Jersey, Wahida Clark Presents Publishing.

• Wahida is crowned the “Queen of Thug Love Fiction” by Nikki Turner, the Queen of Hip Hop Fiction. Wahida’s style of writing is the “TEMPLATE” for urban literature. When you read her novels, three things may come to mind: you know the characters; you want to know the characters; or you are one of the characters.

• Her Essence and Black Issues Book Reviews bestselling novels include Thugs and The Women Who Love Them, Payback Is A Mutha, Payback With Ya Life, and her latest anthology with Kiki Swinson titled Sleeping With The Enemy.

• Wahida has just completed Part 4 of her “Thug Series”, the highly anticipated…  Thug Lovin’ !

BOOK INFO

“Wahida Clark’s novel is an entertaining, graphic, somewhat erotic look at the streets. The book is a drama-filled quick read that will leave you wanting more.”

— RAWSISTAZ Reviewers on Thugs And The Women Who Love Them

In THUG LOVIN’ (Grand Central Publishing; $14.99; August 10, 2009), New York Times bestselling author Wahida Clark delivers an explosive, hot ‘n tempting fourth installment to the notorious “Thug Series”.

Tasha and Trae Macklin are the envied couple of the hood. After escaping a drug bust by the skin of their teeth, they decided to run away to Jamaica to hide out for a while and let the smoke clear. The drama in New York seemed like a distant dream after a while, and Tasha and Trae decided started anew in Los

Angles would be the perfect move. Trae promised his wife that this time would be different- family first, leave the game behind them and that he had his mind geared on starting a nightclub and making it big. It wasn’t long before Tasha realized you can take the thug out of the streets, but never the thug out of the man.

This is a rambunctious ride through the streets of LA that displays street sense from both sides of the relationship. The marriage is tested, the sheets are hot, and temptation tantalizes from every possible angle. Just when you think the most has been thrown at Tasha and Trae, drugs, lies and scandal are only the beginning, but can they keep it together? Wahida Clark, the Queen of “Thug Love” Fiction, delivers a multifaceted urban tale filled with big money, big dreams, and big consequences in THUG LOVIN’.

Learn more about Wahida Clark at www.wclarkpublishing.com.

Visit Grand Central Publishing at www.hbgusa.com.

WIN A COPY

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2) Fill out the Contest Entry Form with your complete mailing list.

Her last full time job was with the Mayor of San Francisco as special assistant to his press secretary. She co-authored The San Francisco Mayor’s Summit for Women: Summit Report 1998. She retired, left San Francisco and landed in Atlanta, Georgia, in the City Council’s Communications office as a freelancer. She returned to Hyde Park, Chicago and went to work for NBC5 Chicago, WMAQ TV until retiring again in 2005.

She published a book of short stories titled Catharsis and in May 2004 self-published The Seduction of Mr. Bradley.

Her next book Forever, My Love: The Novel is due out in Mid-2010, but get a sneak peek via Amazon Shorts

Website: www.millerscribs.com

In His Own Words…

Although the discovery that my grandfather, a man I knew little of and had never met, had been a railroad engineer in Panama was the catalyst which led me to write Panama Fever, it was Marcus Garvey’s widow, Amy Jacques Garvey who planted the seeds of interest in the heroic Jamaicans who over multiple decades helped to build and maintain the historic Panama Canal.

Panama Fever narrates the adventures of two young Jamaicans who seek glory by joining the French in their valiant but vain attempt to build the canal during the 1880s. The two protagonists, Thomas Judah and Byron, find themselves caught up in a cycle of political corruption, murderous insurrection, natural disaster, and deadly disease. A story of love, ambition and corruption that explores the antagonisms of class, nationality, race, and gender, Panama Fever brings to life the experiences and tragedies of those who worked on the monumental Panama Canal project.

She was adamant that although it took French brains and American money to conceive the Panama Canal, it was West Indian sweat and blood that built it, something which the world at that time refused to acknowledge.  Looking back, I suppose Panama Fever is in some small way my thank you to dear Amy Jacques for those inspiring afternoon teas.

Before I learned about my grandfather’s work in Panama I had assumed that the Jamaicans working on the canal had all been common laborers. As I would discover, the symbiotic tie between the isthmus and Jamaica dated from the 1840′s when the California Gold Rush spurred North American investors to build the Panama Railroad.  Jamaica, being close by and inhabited by underemployed English speakers, became a handy source of cheap labor.  By the time the French began their failed canal effort, there was a ready pool of workers to enlist, not only as diggers but also as stenographers, cooks, carpenters, mechanics and engineers.

I was a scruffy schoolboy living in Kingston when the refined Mrs. Garvey used to invite me for tea.  She had recently finished Garvey and Garveyism, her loving biography of her distinguished husband and her memories of his work and their dramatic life together were like vivid crystal.  She was clearly pleased by my eagerness to hear stories about my famous relative  and seemed determined that I grasp both the essence and the complexities of her great man.  I remember her stressing that it was the abuse of his Jamaican countrymen working in Panama that convinced Marcus Garvey to start the Black nationalist movement that would finally “destroy the old slave mentality.”

I originally wrote Panama Fever as a saga covering both the French and American periods, with different, although related, main characters in each period.  I later decided that the story could be better told as two linked novels, each of which also stands alone as a complete story. The second novel, forthcoming soon, focuses on a Jamaican engineer and his wife during the American period of canal construction, when Jim Crow laws were introduced to the Canal Zone.

Author’s Website: http://www.wbgarvey.com

Book Spotlight: Panama Fever: Digging Down Gold Mountain by W. B. Garvey

I.B. Freeman

He is currently working on his new novel Can I Live.

Mr. H.I.V. – Book Synopsis

Darren Wade is the perfect man. He is college educated, has a good job, and has a wonderful relationship with his mother. He is also H.I.V. positive. Darren’s H.I.V. status leads him on a mission to intentionally infect women.

To complete his mission Darren will have unprotected sex with any female who is willing to have unprotected sex with him. This story is entertaining, educational, and a classic example of art imitating life.

Available at:
Amazon.com
myspace.com/mrhiv
shelfari.com/mrhiv

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.

C.F. Jackson’s need for expressing her thoughts, ideas, and quandaries of society, percolated her freshman year in college, with her first poem written in her Psychology 101 class. Since then, through her penning C.F. Jackson has created stories filled with purpose and suspense.

By 2002, C.F. Jackson had decided to determine her purpose on this earth. She became committed to listening to her inner-voice. In such a brief time, C.F. Jackson has written a novel that sprouted the brand for the strength of life, Won’t Be Denied®. She took this gift and took action. C.F. Jackson began to seek answers and learned that she or no one else won’t be denied when they decide to turn their desires into action.

It was during Success Summit June of 2005 in Atlanta, Georgia where C.F. Jackson learned there was a whole lot more about the internet and website development she needed to know.

Not shortly after, her focus became geared toward learning as much as possible to better position herself for the success of the novel Won’t Be Denied. In essence, C.F. Jackson took a soft 2 1/2 year sabbatical from the literary world to learn, study, and be mentored on the foundation of the internet.

Today, it is C.F. Jackson’s goal to help her fellow writer and author who once like them, lacked the knowledge of the true foundation and the basic principles of a successful website through video, audio, and tools to help them learn how to market a book online. 

She has been published in the Find Your Why and Fly: The Ultimate Success Factor, Atlanta Creative Loafing and several e-zines, such as, Express Yourself Books, Emerging Minds, and Virtual Black Man.

Ms. Jackson participated as a speaker at the Georgia Perimeter College’s 2005 First Annual – Writers’ Festival “Celebration of New Black Writers. She presented at Co-Op World’s Summer Sizzler Expo on the seminar topic Marketing Outside-of-the-Box for Authors/Writers. She was also invited to present at the 2009 Black Writers Reunion & Conference.

C.F. Jackson has been interviewed on The Sumter Television Show, The Louie Jones Show, Millionaire Monday Series by John Di Lemme and Atlanta’s WVEE (V-103 FM), to name a few.

And to learn about the suspense novel Won’t Be Denied, C.F. Jackson invites you to download the first three chapters complementary by visiting http://www.CFJackson.com as well tune in to watch what the true avid reader are saying.

Twitter: http://www.Twitter.com/WontBeDenied

He is a notorious egotist whose sole goal is to be a big enough name to be able to snub people at conventions. In anticipation of such a successful writing career, he is practicing speaking of himself in the third person. The “House of M” includes the lovely Sally Jo (“Mommy”) and two boys: Maurice Gerald Broaddus II (thus, he gets to retroactively declare himself “Maurice the Great”) and Malcolm Xavier Broaddus. 

Visit his site so he can bore you with details of all things him at http://www.mauricebroaddus.com/.   Most importantly, read his blog.  He loves that.  A lot.

Maurice on Twitter: http://twitter.com/MauriceBroaddus

To read an excerpt or order a copy of the book, visit her website at www.irisceleste.com. 

Iris can also be found writing her weekly column As a Woman Thinketh for Big Time Publishing Magazine, as well as, being a contributing writer for Victorious Magazine.

Book Trailer – Click Here to View

MORE INFO:

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

Website: www.angeliavmenchan.com

Blogs: http://acvermen.blogspot.com & http://mammproductions.blogspot.com

He calls his genre of literature, conscious hip-hop fiction. His goal is to be the voice of the thousands of self taught positive prison inmates that will never be heard. Just as Kanye West, Common Sense, Jada Kiss, Talib Kweli, Mos Def, NAS and other conscious hip-hop artists are setting the music industry on fire with their lyrics of hope and change, Jihad’s goal is to do the same with his writing.  

Jihad is a single father who lives in a suburb of Atlanta. He is a bestselling author, motivational speaker and real estate investor.  He is CEO of Envisions Publishing, LLC and Custom Care Landscaping & Home Renovations. He is also the founder and CEO of a non-profit organization, The Wake-Up Everybody Foundation, which is dedicated to positively and pro-actively re-awakening the African-American psyche through self-realization and re-education. The voices and hands of The Wake-Up Everybody Foundation show why it is imperative to READ to re-establish the identity of the urban nation, and how doing this will create positive, productive, pro-active, self-reliant people. 

Jihad is highly energetic, provocative and compassionate about youth issues.  He’s a highly sought after inspirational speaker who always avails himself for interviews.  For more on Jihad, log onto www.jihadwrites.com or www.thewakeup.org.