In Mrs. Black? Cinnamon Brown finally divorced her husband, William Brown, who had flagrantly disrespected their vows for decades. Cinnamon, however is not without sin, she had an affair with Malcolm Black and was set to become his wife. Does Cinnamon and Black get married? And if they do marry will they be able to withstand their comeuppance, because one must always pay for their transgressions. Not only that what could possibly occur if politics enter the already volatile mix?

To find out, delve into the pages of The Blacks: LOVE’S POLITICS – New Beginnings and find out. You will not be disappointed as Angelia Vernon Menchan plunges you into a story filled with love, family, retribution, revenge, politics, and ultimately love.

AUTHOR BIO:
Angelia Vernon Menchan considers writing to be the elixir of her soul. Since learning penmanship at age four, most days have found her jotting down thoughts in a notebook. After decades of journal-keeping she decided to try her hand at writing and publishing books, from which was born her small publishing company, M.A.m.m. Productions through which she publishes her own books that she has coined, ‘Fictionalized Truths, Ageless Fiction and Ramblings.’

STAY CONNECTED:
http://angeliamenchan.com
http://facebook.com/angeliam
http://twitter.com/angelmenchan

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.

History – Read an E-Book Week (REBW) was first registered with Chase’s Calendar of Events in 2004 by founder, Rita Y. Toews.  By having the week officially recognized, e-book authors and publishers acquired a certain extra “legitimacy” during that week to promote the new technology of e-books. The public and media were initially wary of e-books and many doors were closed to promotion. With the week officially recognized by Chase’s, authors reported they now had access to television morning chat shows and were allowed to set up library displays during the week-long event.

ONE-ON-ONE INTERVIEW WITH RITA Y. TOEWS
(February 2010)

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group:  Rita, thanks so much for the opportunity to chat with you and discuss Read an E-Book Week.  Please share with our readers a bit about yourself and why you decided to start Read an E-Book Week.

It’s a pleasure to chat with the RAWSISTAZ Literary Group.

I’m an author as well as an avid reader. When e-books were new on the scene I released several books electronically.  It was very difficult to promote those books.  I decided that a concerted effort from all e-book authors would have a bigger impact on changing people’s views of the new reading format than one lonely voice.  A week set aside for authors to promote their books has made a huge difference.  Authors now have legitimacy when they approach publicity venues.

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group:  Well, I think it’s wonderful you were willing to step outside the box as you’re not playing catch-up like a lot of the publishers and independent authors are doing now.  What one misconception do people have about e-books?

People often say they think reading electronically will fatigue their eyes.  They haven’t tried the E-Ink screens, which are every bit as comfortable as reading from the printed page.

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group: Yes, I’ve heard this too and agree with you.  I have the first two versions of the Sony Reader and I love the device!  It’s so much easier than carrying books around with me; especially when I travel.  With e-books on the rise and electronic readers becoming popular, how do you think it’ll affect print publishing?

Unfortunately, I think it will negatively impact print publishing.  The major publishers were slow to realize people would accept e-books and weren’t on the ball with a strategy to change the way they present books.  I do believe they have received the message now, but they  have a lot of catch-up to do.  Perhaps the electronic version of a book could be the first to be released, with print coming later if the book proves to be popular.  Certain types of books should never make it to print, and there are certain books which should never be published electronically.  Print publishers will have to make decisions – better sooner than later.

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group: So true! It’s unfortunate it had to happen this way too, but I think in the end, it’ll work out for readers and for the authors.  You have some who may never buy an e-book or those who just love print books! Speaking of…what did you think about Amazon disabling the BUY links for the MacMillan titles on their site earlier this month?  Was it necessary to wake publisher’s up?

I’m not sure if that was it at all. I may be really off-base here, but I wonder if Amazon had something quite different in their minds.  Maybe they wanted to bring the argument to the readers and let them have a voice – or speak loudly with their pocketbooks.  Amazon didn’t have to say much to make a huge point, and yes, they did have to back down in the end but the publishers sure got a taste of the reader’s anger, didn’t they?

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group:  That they did and I have my own speculations on what was really going down, but definitely stood on the side of the author’s with this one.  I get what Amazon was saying, but to disable the print links too? Whew!

What’s your electronic reader of choice or do you read e-books via the computer or cell phone?

I own two e-reading devices – a Sony and a Nook.  The Sony is my favourite.  A lot of that preference has to do with the fact that I live in Canada.  Sony has a terrific selection of e-books available for their reader.  The Nook is a Barnes & Noble device and unfortunately they make it hard for Canadian readers to buy e-books from their stores.  I hope that will get better in the near future.

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group:  I have been admiring the Nook, so if I were to buy another one, it would be that one.  The iPad looks interesting too.  Do you think e-books will continue to gain popularity and eventually become better sellers than print books?

I believe there are some books that will sell better in the electronic version than in print. But, as I mentioned previously, there are books that should never be issued electronically – those beautiful art books for coffee tables, for example. Another would be books for infants.  The “read them and toss” pulp fiction books, on the other hand, are better left to electronic versions.

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group:  This is a great point and I agree.  I think it’s wonderful how many authors, publishers and websites have taken an interest in e-books and Read an E-Book Week and I hope it continues to grow and bring readers to great books they may not have heard about otherwise.  Do you have any other projects in the works?

Right now my efforts are on Read an E-Book Week.  I do have a collection of short stories languishing in my computer, so I think I should give it some attention next month.  I also create covers for e-books – mostly through Smashwords.  That can take up quite a lot of my time.

Thank you for including me in your Read an E-Book Week activities! The Read an E-Book Week website is located at http://www.ebookweek.com. The website featuring my children’s anti-bully books is located at http://www.thebullybook.com.  A sample of a few of my e-book covers can be viewed at http://www.domokos.com/ebook_cover_design.html.

RAWSISTAZ Lit Group: A special thanks to Rita for taking the time to answer our questions and letting us share in Read an E-Book Week!

Be sure you join us for E-Book Week here on the site as we kick off our E-Book Reading Challenge!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MORE AT THE READ AN E-BOOK WEEK WEBSITE
The Read an E-Book Website provides the latest information on e-books and acts as a collection point where you can list your event or give-away.

RAW:  Who is Shawneda Marks?  The author, activist, mother, entrepreneur & more…

Shawneda Marks’ true identity is found in Christ, which is funny cause I don’t like to be called religious.  After my relationship with God, most important to me is being a good wife to hubby, and mother to my children.  As an author, I love to pen fiction that shows real people from every dimension– spirit, body and soul as they discover life’s journey is best traveled with the Holy Spirit as an internal compass, Jesus as brother/savior and God as Lord. The activist is dedicated to raising awareness and funds. At the core of who I am, I have a passion for helping people and the earth walk in wellness.

RAW:  Your website is a wonderful source of information & inspiration.  How did you come up with this niche?

Thank you so much, it sounds really corny (which those close to me say I am), but I just love sharing and giving. It is an affordable way to share my passions with others and avail myself to those God has given me the heart to pray and walk with. Almost everything I do is related to writing and wellness with God as the foundation.

RAW:  Who/what are Diamond Butterflies?

Diamond Butterflies are women who have experienced some emotional trauma in life due to sexual assault, rape, molestation, abuse, and parental neglect, but have the sincere desire to move past the brokenness to be emotionally whole. I’m a Diamond Butterfly. My past includes rape, sexual abuse and neglect which led to time in foster care, but I choose to look at the blessings that came into my life despite the evil done to me. I’m currently completing the devotional and finishing research on how to offer group mentoring and curriculums to be used for organizations mainstream and faith based.

RAW:  This is wonderful, Shawneda! It’s so pleasing to see someone giving back to others; despite their past hurts.  (I’m so sorry you went through all that too.)

How did you get started in the literary world?  And, who do you turn to for inspiration?

I started in the literary world as a teenager. My foster father found one of my poems and sent it in to a poetry contest that I won. From that moment on he encouraged me to write. Even on his deathbed he told me to no matter what I did I needed to write and let nothing stop me. I’ve been writing in some form or another ever since then. I became serious about pursuing it as a career in 2004 and was called to the carpet by God through Tia McCollors after she read my website. Funny you should ask about who inspires me cause with the onslaught of “mainstream” publishing crucifying the technology I use and publishing path I’ve chosen over the last few weeks I’ve needed a lot. I turn to God through prayer and listen to my family, friends and writing circle for inspiration.

RAW: Now, to your book It’s In My Blood.  You released it December 1^st to coincide with HIV Awareness month.  Why?  Also, please tell us about the book as well as the first one in the series and what you hope to accomplish by publishing them.

I released It’s in My Blood on World WORLD AIDS DAY in honor of my friend who passed and planted the seed for the need for a story like this to be told. It’s in My Blood uses the vehicle of fiction to show how HIV/AIDS is affecting the everyday family, raise awareness and funds for two deserving charitable organizations: Aniz Inc. and Balm in Gilead Inc. I’ve forged an official partnership with Aniz Inc., a local charity here in GA and Balm in Gilead won a twitpoll.

Synopsis: Rosalyn Bell has to return home after being tested as part of her routine pregnancy exam.  She is at odds with her mother, who is praying for a chance at reconciliation.  At the same time she adores her father and wants him to help her make her next move in the right direction. Her plan is to go home for a few weeks and sort things out, but God has other plans for her life.

Love Is…the first novel where we meet Rosalyn she is the “villain” in a story about best friends Toney and Colby. I follow Toney and Colby through the trials and tribulations of being attractive, platonic saved friends who everyone else believes will hook up. I wrote this book after reading so many stories and watching so many movies showing a distorted picture of relationships between men and women, and I wanted to show love from a different light. All of my stories are written to inspire readers into action even if its just starting a dialogue about the issue that is addressed in the book and for at least the first year of the books availability support at least one deserving charity.

RAW: I’ve joked around with you about the video vlogs and how I would probably NEVER record a video of myself to show via the website.  I love the concept of Faithful Folios though.  How has it been received and do you plan to continue this into 2010?  If so, how can someone get more information on how they can set up an interview or get their book/product reviewed?

Those who have seen it really enjoy it.  To be honest many authors are just now getting webcams since Oprah started skype (thanks O!), so it was hard to get a video to video interview at first. Booker T Mattison was the first to go “live” with me and the feedback has been great. It’s raw and untouched (for now) but I do plan to continue it in 2010. I’m actually getting more books and agreements for video interviews for the new year; I’m really excited. People can contact me via the correspondence form on my website or @shawneda on twitter for info on requesting an interview on the show. My only requirement is I read the book first.

RAW:  Tell us about your custom jewelry marks and the various events you’ve participated in to showcase them? I love the play on your last name. 

Jewelry Marks are environment and binder friendly book jewelry. They have been used as swag gifts for Tyler Perry’s I CAN DO BAD ALL By MYSELF celebrity premiere in NY, and a featured sponsor for Sheryl Lee Ralph’s 19th Annual DIVAS SIMPLY SINGING HIV/AIDS fundraising event. I’ve gifted a community baby shower for Wayne Metro and Hot Pink Nights a breast cancer fundraiser in Virginia. They were also gifts for Jene Luciana’s THE BRA BOOK fundraiser book release in New York last month. I have another event I’m doing for this month and a huge event in January I’m really excited about. I’ll post the media alerts about those in the months once their completed.

RAW:  Can you share more information about the It’s in My Blood New Voice Book Club Contest?

I would LOVE to! As a new voice in fiction I wanted to give something back to book clubs who decided to read my novel.  Two deserving book clubs who select It’s in My Blood as their book of the month will be selected next year to receive awareness gift baskets which will include 12 It’s in My Blood HIV/AIDS jewelry marks, gift certificates to Kingdom Klothes and other awareness items like the awareness bracelets, posters et cetera. The first book club will be announced June 27 National HIV testing day, and the second winner on Dec 1 2010.

I’m also doing the Green Readers Choice Award where one blessed reader of It’s in My Blood who fulfills all of the criteria for the contest will receive a free eReader of their choice (up to $299).  The details are on the readers page of my website (big smile).

RAW: Woo hoo!  Sounds like I need to highly encourage RAWSISTAZ (and our local chapters) to select It’s In My Blood, huh?  LOL.  These are both wonderful contest and as a reader…I love it!

Any words of wisdom for our readers and/or aspiring authors?

For readers don’t be afraid to share your books and lives with others. The best gift you can give someone is your time and why not talk about something beautiful, liberating and creative like a book when you’re together (of course as a word addict I’m biased).

For writers I say read, study, write, rewrite, study and read again. Follow your heart and no matter what path of publishing you choose, embrace the journey. There are pros and cons to everything. Each blessing comes with responsibility. Whatever you do share your gift with the world even if you start out doing it for free on a blog. There are billions of people in the world and there will never be too many books or authors. Go to conferences and festivals online and in person. I’m host author for the MACWriters Festival October 2010 featuring Booker T. Mattison and Stanice Anderson, as well as other African-American authors and industry professionals. I hear this fabulous Literacy Advocate and founder of RAWSISTAZ is gonna be there (smile).  There is an early bird rate of $55 you can find more about it at www.macwriters.info.

RAW: I am looking forward to the conference!  What else are you working on for 2010?

I’m currently completing my devotional Diamond Butterfly: Share Heal Sparkle Shine Fly, and working on the rough draft of the next novel My True Essence set for release in October 2010. My True Essence chronicles the lives of Rebecca and two of her friends battling triple negative breast cancer.  People can find more information on my website www.shawneda.com and if they sign my guestbook and tell me they learned about me here on RAWSISTAZ, I’ll make a custom jewelry mark with the RAW Sistaz logo (if that’s okay with you).

RAW: Oh, it sounds fabulous to me, so I’m headed over now to check out the website and sign the guest book.  I want one too.  Thanks for the offer and thanks so much for a wonderful interview and allowing us to spotlight you on RAWSISTAZ.  Definitely keep us posted and know we’re rooting for your continued success.

RAW: Thanks so much for letting us share more about you with our members & site guests.  I met you a few years ago when you came on the online scene, but for those who are not familiar with you, tell us who Ella Curry is and how you started your business(es).

EDC Creations / Ella Curry Lit Spotlight

Ella Curry: It’s kinda hard to really talk about yourself … huh? Well here we go… I am owner and CEO of EDC Creations, a marketing and branding firm in Prince George’s County Maryland.  EDC Creations is the publisher of Black Pearls Magazine and the the force behind the Black Authors Network Radio Show. As the founder of Sankofa Literary Society, which empowers independent and/or self-published authors through mentoring programs, Internet workshops, marketing and branding coaching, I get to pay forward all the things that were blessed upon me. The Sankofa Literary Society sponsors the Give the Gift of Knowledge program which offers new authors a chance to showcase their books and articles on the Sankofa Literary Society’s site along with book and branding coaching that will help them present themselves as professionals as they enter literary circles.

I started out as a corporate event planner and website developer and later became a buyer for the legendary Karibu Bookstore chain. My career now includes services such as blog tour coordinator, book coach, video journalist and literary publicist.  Most importantly, I have been able to realize my dream, of owning my own media firm, catering to the literary and arts community.

RAW:  It is definitely a blessing to be able to do what you love!  Tell us more about EDC Creations and the services you provide.

Ella Curry: Primarily, I offer Internet Publicity opportunities for published authors. My company provides coverage for  major literary events like the Congressional Black Caucus Author’s Pavilion, as well as showcase some of today’s hottest authors!  My  freelance graphic design work has been featured in boardrooms of companies such as Pzier Corp., Hewlett-Packard, Agilent Technologies and Dell.

Over the last few years, I have been fortunate enough to have interviewed community leaders and celebrities such as: 60 Minutes Journalist Bryon Pitts,  American film director and writer Gina Prince-Bythewood, actor Hill Harper, Dr. Maya Angelou, actors Tristan Wilds, Queen Latifah, Jennifer Hudson, Dakota Fanning,  and International motivational speaker Lisa Nichols of the Secret DVD. It was so exciting to interview community leaders along with bestselling authors  Mildred Muhammad, the former wife of the DC Sniper, Breena Clarke,  Nathan McCall, Mary B. Morrison, Francis Ray, Walter Mosley, John Kremer, Sue Monk Kidd, Farrah Gray, Lutishia Lovely and Donna Hill. World famous musician Russel Blake is among the many artists to grace BAN Radio. We were proud to accept the 2009 award for the Best BlogTalk Radio host presented by Tifany Jones, founder of the Black Book Club Rock Awards.

RAW:  Congratulations! Why did you decide to enter the literary world as opposed to another field?  Did you have mentors along the way?

Ella Curry: As the president of EDC Creations, I  bring more than 19 years of PR and marketing experience to clients in film, music, publishing and corporate event planning.  Before going to work at Karibu Books as a buyer, I owned  a corporate event planning business.  It was an easy transition to go from planning book release parties to promoting the actual books online. Reading is my passion. I believe in the power of books changing lives!  It wasn’t hard to devote my life to the promotion of quality literature.   The owners and admin staff of Karibu helped me to launch EDC Creations. Yao Glover and Simba Sana instilled a great deal of Black pride in me and helped me see the need for books in the lives of Black people. My life mentors are Samuel Barclay and Henri Edmonds. Both have contributed to my life as a mother and business owner, as well as financial needs.

RAW:  Of all the authors you’ve had as clients, which two stand out the most and why?

Ella Curry: Wow that is a hard one Tee, considering I have worked with over 140 authors!  Let me name three, I would have to say Lutishia Lovely, Donna Hill and Lyah Beth LeFlore. All three of these women have extraordinary careers and produce books that make Black women proud!  I admire them for being visionaries and leaders…becoming the leaders we need today. I can’t leave this session without giving mad props to Pat G’ Orge Walker and Henri Edmonds for becoming the closest things to moms for me!

RAW:  If you could only give one piece of advice to a new author, as it relates to promotion and/or the literary industry what would it be?

Ella Curry: My advice would be to respect yourself and others!  Be true to who you are and don’t let anyone take that away. YOU define who and what you will become. Readers will embrace your originality.  With this age of a tell-a-world I see so many people mar their brand and their image with pettiness on the web.  Handle business in the office, settle disputes in court and use the web for what it was meant for—to distribute information with rapid speed. I said information, not hate, jealousy and definitely not malicious lies and gossip!

RAW:  Amen, amen! That’s a great piece of advice and I hope folks are listening (reading) closely.  So often we get caught up in online “drama” that really is unnecessary.  Speaking of unnecessary, what one thing annoys you most about the literary world?

Ella Curry: I am totally fed up with the whining of authors in relations to their publishers and others not supporting their dreams.  Nothing makes me madder than for authors to go online and spread all their business for the readers!  The individual authors are solely responsible for the promotion and success of their books, in my opinion. Even if a publishing house spends thousands of dollars on a mean-spirited, lazy and unprofessional author, they still might not become bestsellers!  However, you can take a warm, inviting, social butterfly and sell thousands of copies on a low budget. Creating loyal, lasting relationships makes for top-selling authors. Being consistent and adaptable makes for top-sellers. A well-padded budget might help some, but it will not over-ride fans who LOVE you and believe in you, no budget can buy that. It comes with hard work, being in the trenches and understanding what the spirit of Sankofa really means.

RAW:  Another great piece of advice, Ella.  Why do you think some authors don’t plan ahead for their literary career? For example, some don’t understand the importance of editing, marketing & budgets.

Ella Curry: Most people see only the end results or what they perceive the life of the celebrity author to be. They truly do not know to research their craft and the industry they are entering.  Tee, I have had many new authors tell me they thought if they got the book on the shelves they would wait on the money to roll in! Many do not have any clue that publishing a book also means starting a business. My advice to every new author is to attend conferences where other authors are speaking, workshops, panel discussions and buy books on the writing game and the publishing industry.  I attend several workshops per year just to stay abreast of what’s transpiring in the book world.  Online conferences are great!  There is so much free information readily available, it breaks my heart that people don’t take the time to utilize it.

RAW:  I can definitely relate here as I’ve run across many authors who feel the same way.  Thankfully, there are just as many who know and study the business and treat their writing as a business.  Kudos to them!  Now, when you’re not working with a client or updating your many sites, what do you do for fun?  What do you read?

Ella Curry: Well, I read a lot of erotica and laugh at the foolishness on Youtube!  I must admit I am the biggest  Clifford the Big Red Dog, Tyra Banks and Wendy Williams fan, so I watch them daily and now Monique at night. After sometimes 16-hour days of stressing with finding new avenues to promote books, I need carefree TV!  My teen keeps me busy too. She is now on the step team  and asking to date, so we will be traveling to ball games, movies and events weekly.

RAW:  LOL, not the Youtube videos.  You can truly get caught up watching things on Youtube.  And, I won’t even laugh at Clifford the Big Red Dog because I can relate, but I like the Fairly Odd Parents & Jimmy Neutron, but that’s our secret.  I can’t imagine a teen, so I won’t even touch that one. But, moving on…

I hate the favorite author question since I can’t usually name just one–actually, I refuse.  LOL.  So, I’ll just ask what are some of your favorite books from this year?  Please include the author and genre.

Ella Curry: You are going to get me in trouble Tee.  My favorite author of all time is Sidney Sheldon and his two books, The Other Side of Midnight and Memories of Midnight.  Before I name my favorite book of this year, please know this is a very short list because I am on your site. I have a master list on my own sites.  Here are my top 5 books for Jan.-Sep. 2009:

1.  Black Pain by Terrie M. Williams
2. Who Is He To You by Monique Mensah
3.  The Man Plan by C. J. Jeep
4. In the Land of Cotton by Martha A. Taylor
5. Beautiful Ugly by Shelia Lipsey
6.  No More Tomorrows by Rodney Lofton

RAW:  Ummm hmmm, put that disclaimer out there, Ms Ella.  LOL.  I totally understand though, but thanks so much for sharing your list.  I see a couple I’ve been wanting to read.

With the age of electronic books upon us, which do you prefer:  Kindle, Sony Reader, or the actual book?

Ella Curry: My partner has blessed me with the funds for a Kindle. I am waiting to get the one coming out soon with color. However, I still want to hold a signed copy of Dr. Maya Angelous next book!  All my homes have been filled with books!  Books make me fill safe and comfortable; I’m not sure a Kindle can do that.

RAW: I don’t think they can do that, Ella, but I will say I’m looking forward to all the gadgets.  LOL.  I’m eying that Nook.  But, we shall see!

What’s next for Ella Curry & EDC Creations? Any major events or activities on the horizon?

Ella Curry: I am taking on more and more live events and non-profit organizations, so I think EDC Creations will be leaving the Internet in 2010. My company is going on retainer services only in February 2010.  My first book will be coming out in the Spring of 2010 and I want to start my own literary show on AM radio next year. It has been in the works for 2 years, but this year, we will make it happen.  In September 2010, I will be hosting a black-tie literary event; follow me on the web for more details.

RAW:  Well best of luck with all your future plans, Ella, and thanks so much for taking the time to hang out with us.  Please tell our readers how they can reach you.

EDC Creations – http://www.edc-creations.com
Black Pearls Magazine: http://www.blackpearlsmagazine.com

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. 

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

Debra Owsley

She loves working at book events and book festivals, meeting authors, readers and book clubs.

INTERVIEW

RAW: Debra, it is so wonderful to see someone take a love for something and turn it into more than just a hobby.  What was your process and was it an easy move for you?
The process was as easy as breathing for me. I’m a hairstylist and one year for Christmas, I decided to make bookmarks for all of my clients as gifts, I’ve always loved to make things, and we all are readers. Almost 2 years later, Christmas again, I looked over at the dryer and noticed that they were still using them and they where in perfect condition. My clients asked me to make some for various people and occasions, and encouraged me to look into selling them to stores. Also, one of my clients is author Marcia King-Gamble, and she ask me to create some custom bookmarks for giveaways and promotions.
 
RAW: Tell us more about Simply Said. I love the business name!
“Simply Said” I have collected quotes, listened to my Mom’s quips, and heard folks say some of the most profound, funny, and odd things, that were so Simply Said, yet made an impact. I never knew why I would write them down and hold on to them but I’m really glad I did.  I created a full line of pre-made bookmarks that have these quotes and sayings. I believe it was my destiny, of sorts! I also work with many best selling authors, creating custom bookmarks, book thongs, book plates and note cards.

RAW: Out of all the items you’ve made for readers, writers, family & friends, which two items were your favorite and why?
It’s so hard to choose only two, so I’ll choose two categories! The bookmarks are my first love. I so love when people find a bookmark that truly speak to them. I’ve seen people brought to tears reading them. I have reached the heart, and sometimes gave them the words they could not find. Or made them laugh out loud!

The Book Thong is my second love. Just the look on peoples faces when I ask “Wanna See My Thong”? is priceless! The Book Thong is jewelry for the book lover. Years ago I made costume jewelry, so it was a natural extension for me to create a jeweled bookmark that was pretty and girlie, with a provocative name.

RAW: As an avid reader, I must ask…what’s on your nightstand now? And, what’s been the best book you’ve read this year?
Just getting back from Book Expo America, there are several titles that I want to read right away. Carlen Brice’s newest release Children of the water and Pat G’Orge Walker’s, Somebody’s Sinning In My Bed, Lutishia Lovely’s, Heaven Right Here,  Rochelle Alers’ , Man Of Fate and my favorite romance author Donna Hill’s, re-release of A Private Affair. These are the top of the TBR stack!

RAW: Lastly, share with us the one thing you love most about what you do.
The most fun for me is actually creating and finishing the project. I love creating what I see in my head translated into a finished product. When an author gives me a theme and tells me to do my thing, I feel like they truly consider me a professional and an expert in what I do. I love “nailing” the concept they what to achieve.

Website: http://www.simply-said.net 

Blog: http://simplysaidreadingaccessories.blogspot.com

Sign up for the 30 books in 90 days group via the Written Ning Group (you will have to create an account). Then start reading and start writing. Let us know what book you’re reading by placing it in the group discussion. Recommend it to others and start a dialogue with your bibliophiles.  Those who complete all 30 books will be eligible to win a free weekend stay at the Holiday Inn Capital Inn.

To subscribe to Written, visit http://www.writtenmag.com/Subscribe/index.cfm

- If you’re not familiar with Ning and would rather post via the blog, here on the site, you can do that too. The editor has agreed to work with us, so start compiling your lists of what you plan to read! We’ll post them starting Monday.

In fall 2009, Chanel will receive her Associates degree in Web Design and plans to pursue her Bachelor’s degree.  

She currently resides in Metro Atlanta.  Her resume and portfolio can be seen at http://www.chanelrsmith.info.

Web Presence Designs is based in Stone Mountain, Georgia and provides web and graphic design services and search engine optimization. Whether you are looking for a one page design, a complex design utilizing flash and web forms, Chanel can develop a web presence that complements your company image. She specializes in professional web and graphic design at affordable prices for individuals, small businesses and non-profits.   Visit www.w-p-d.net for more information.