Give the Gift of Knowledge

We have selected amazing books to give as gifts all year long, to populate your home library shelves and to fill those special gift bags. Give the Gift of Knowledge, give a book! You can also read more detailed author interviews at: www.blackpearlsmagazine.com. Share this page on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter!

The Epidemic of Weak Men in America

The Epidemic of Weak Men in America
by Dr. Daryl D. Green

Kevin thinks he is his own man. He does whatever he wants regardless of the circumstances. He does not listen. Kevin claims to understand manhood because he has fathered several children. However, Kevin lives with his mother and is jobless. He constantly evades child support payments and bill collectors. Yet, reality never sinks in his mind. He proclaims to the world that he’s a ‘real man.’ Sadly, Kevin represents a growing number of weak men in our society.


Introduction
One night I could not go to sleep. I watched a movie classic, “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof,” which featured Paul Newman, Burl Ives, and Elizabeth Taylor. Ex-football player and alcoholic Brick (Newman) reunites with his father, Big Daddy (Ives), who is dying of cancer. The movie showcases an assortment of personal conflicts and family drama. One of the strongest conflicts is between father and son. In one scene, Brick is found arguing with his demanding father, “I didn’t want a boss. I wanted a father. All I ever wanted was you to love me.” The movie provides a clear theme for the issues associated with manhood today. In the movie, the father’s controlling behavior contributes to the weakness of his son. Likewise, many people in America share the blame for creating weak men.

Are we unknowingly contributing to the growth of weak men? It is a troubling observation as we look at our society. The hot story today is about the brutal treatment of Rhianna by boyfriend Chris Brown. Many pundits and women’s advocates highlight the negative nature of abusive relationships. While these stories are the tragic realities of our culture, they are often forgotten as a passing snapshot before another sensational news story. Yet, the most disturbing thing to witness is the growing trend of more weak men in our society.

The Problem
The storyline is very troubling. Weak men are negatively impacting our society. According to the American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence, 25% of women had been raped and/or physically assaulted by a current or former spouse, cohabiting partner, or dating partner/acquaintance at some time in their lifetime in the 1995-1996 study. Women experienced 20% of all nonfatal violent crimes at the hands of an intimate partner.

Celebrities tout their wealth as a symbol of good character. Consequently, destructive behavior is rewarded with million dollar contracts. The model is developed. Many men consider toughness a virtue and kindness a weakness. Young people follow what we do and not what we say. Therefore, a vicious cycle takes place in our culture where manhood isn’t understood. Men are depending more on women to provide for them and take the leadership role in their homes. Some men do not feel any commitment to the young lady. She is disrespected and taken for granted.

The Masculine Definition
In order to understand a weak man, an individual must understand the meaning of manhood. Being a real man is about possessing responsible character. It involves moving beyond the trivial to the significant in life. This concept is revealed biblically in 1 Corinthians 13:11: “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, thought like a child, and reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up my childish ways.” The problem is that so many men have not grown up and are living the lives of grown-up ‘children.’

There is plenty of blame to go around: parents, media, celebrities, and society in general. Young men are growing up confused about the meaning of manhood. Therefore, a fight exists between doing the right things and doing what’s in my own selfish interest. It is the battle of the internal man. General George Patton said, “Battle is the most magnificent competition in which a human being can indulge. It brings out all that is best; it removes all that is base. All men are afraid in battle. The coward is the one who lets his fear overcome his sense of duty. Duty is the essence of manhood.”

Society must allow men to become more self-sufficient. In the movie Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Big Daddy operated in ways that enabled Brick, his son. As a consequence, Brick never really experienced the consequences of his bad decisions. Likewise, many people promote the weak man model by cuddling and shielding these men from the realities of life. However, today’s men must be accountable, responsible, and character leaders in society. Giving young boys positive male role models is important in stopping the epidemic of weakness. However, it is crucial that they interface with strong men through organizations like churches and community organizations. If adults take positive steps today, society can prevent this growing problem in communities across this country.


Conclusion
Can we afford to continue to groom weak men in this society? The media constantly bombards us with negative caricatures of manhood. Instead of producing positive results, they generate the negative unintended consequence of weak men. Some parents want to shift the blame to the schools or the government. It is time that we reject this weak man model today. We must be hopeful. Many men and women are attempting to correct this problem in order to raise more dependable men in our society. Real manhood is not glamorous as the movies would have you believe. Real manhood is not an easy process. It is about shouldering your responsibilities, making commitments, and making hard choices. America cannot survive with weak men.


Dr. Daryl D. Green, a Knoxville College professor, investigates societal issues facing everyday Americans. He is a nationally recognized lecturer and author in the Knoxville community. Dr. Green is available as a keynote speaker, lecturer, panelist, or consultant on a variety of complex subjects. You can find other helpful resources at http://stores.lulu.com/darygre. For more information, please visit his website at www.darylgreen.org or email him contact at advice@darylgreen.org.



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Lesson on Standing by John D. Evans

Lesson on Standing

If God is good
And I stand for good
Then I stand for God
And God stands for me
And anyone who tries to
Attack me
Mock me
Belittle me
Disrespect
Criticize me
Put me down
Throw me away
Anyone who tries to
More than me they despise
More than good do they oppose
But, at that moment, they oppose God

by John D. Evans

The Evans Poetry Collection
P.O. Box 2177
Oak Park, IL 60303
877-4MY-TEPC
USA

www.jdpoetry.com
www.myspace.com/jdpoetry
www.jdpoetry.gaia.com

Literate Nubian
http://www.literatenubian.org/Interviews.aspx?Id=19

Timbooktu
http://www.timbooktu.com/jdevans/jdevans.htm

"Promoting Global Peace from 2006 to eternity!"

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GREAT MIDWEST BOOK FEST on July 25, 2009

Hello.

Urban Reviews is holding its first annual GREAT MIDWEST BOOK FEST on July 25, 2009 from 1- 4pm in Milwaukee, WI.
There will be a total of 8 to 10 African American authors selling their books in a book fair setting. This event will be free and open to the public. Our Main Attraction authors include Earl Sewell, Tina Brooks McKinney, Bettye Griffin, and Michelle Larks. The other 4 to 6 authors will be local authors that have yet to be determined.

There are a few different ways that you can be a sponsor for this event. They include one or more of the following:

1) PLATINUM SPONSOR: Advertising in the Souvenir Ad Journal - $25 Text Ad, $35 Quarter Page, $50 Half Page, $100 Full Page Ad - We will forward a copy of the 8.5" x 5.5" souvenir ad journal for your records and we will also include you on the SPECIAL THANKS page in our souvenir ad journal as a Platinum Sponsor. We accept Paypal (preferred payment mode), check, or money order for payment. (Limited spots available, so send an email to the address below and inquire today. All ads must be 300dpi in quality. We ask that you provide the ad graphic to be used, but we will be more than happy to assist in creating the ad as time permits)

2) GOLD SPONSOR: Books for FREE SWAG Bag - 100 SWAG Bags will be given to those who make a book purchase at the event. Donate 5+ books for the SWAG bag and we will include you on the SPECIAL THANKS page in our souvenir ad journal as a Gold Sponsor.

3) SILVER SPONSOR: Monetary donation of $5-$20 to the event costs, donation of any promotional items (pens, bookmarks, t-shirts, postcards, etc), or 1-4 books for the SWAG Bags and we will include you on the SPECIAL THANKS page in our souvenir ad journal as a Silver Sponsor.

If you are sending books or promotional items, please email us back with what you plan to send, and we will put you down as a tentative event sponsor and forward our mailing address to send the materials. Once we receive the materials, we will confirm that it has arrived and secure your name as a definitive sponsor.

We have limited space for advertising, so if you are interested in getting a spot in the souvenir ad journal, please let us know right away. We cannot reserve any spots without payment. Again, all advertising must be done in 300 dpi for the best quality. We will be ordering 250 souvenir ad journals.

If you would like to become a Platinum, Gold, or Silver sponsor or if you have any questions, please contact us at gmbf-sponsor@urban-reviews.com and we will get back to you right away. This will be the first of many literary events that we plan to hold for the Milwaukee area in the years to come. We hope that you can support the Great Midwest Book Fest in anyway that you can.

Radiah of Urban Reviews
http://www.urban-reviews.com
http://www.blackbookreleases.com
http://gmbf2009.info

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Marketing for Career Authors



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SORMAG is going on tour.

SORMAG is going on tour.
We invite you to come along on our tour.


Meet SORMAG

April 6 - Elaine Cantrell - http://www.elainepcantrell.blogspot.com
10 Tips For A Perfect Online Interview

April 7 - Dara Girard - http://www.daragirard.com/blog
10 Tips For Promoting OnTwitter

April 8 - Chelle Hicks - http://chellehicks.blogspot.com
Tip For Writers Who Are Promoting Online

April 9 - Ty Moody -http://WrittenVoicesBlog.com
10 Tips For Promoting On A Blog

April 10 - Wanza Leftwich - http://thegospelwriter.blogspot.com
5 Reasons Why You Should Attend An Online Conference

April 13 - APOOO –http://www.apooobooks.com
Meet LaShaunda Hoffman

April 14 - Vanessa Richardson - http://thecertainones.blogspot.com
10 Tips For Promoting Online

April 15 - Patricia Woodside - http://readinnwritin.blogspot.com
10 Tips For Promoting With A Podcast

April 16 - Bettye Griffin –http:// www.chew-the-fat-with-Bettye.blogspot.com
5 Low Cost Ways To Promote With An Online Magazine

April 17- Andrea Jackson - http://www.pbdiva.wordpress.com

Book Spotlight:That Was Then, This Is Now

That Was Then, This Is Now

ISBN# 978-1-60462-554-7
Publisher: www.tatepublishing.com
Authors website: www.bvministry.org
Authors email: paulet_harper@yahoo.com
Genre: non-fiction, inspirational, encouragement


Book Video Trailer: That Was Then, This Is Now



BAN Interview with author Paulette Harper

Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
There are several things I would like the readers to gain from reading That Was Then, This Is Now. I want them to be empowered, each chapter builds from the previous chapter. The first chapter lays a foundation to ones faith and hope in Christ and from that we can be empowered knowing that our faith is what we need in these difficult times.

I want the readers to be encouraged. We live in such uncertain times, yet we serve a God who has promised to provide and meet all our needs. We can be assured that God will take care of us because of the covenant He has made with us.

I want the readers to know that the best is yet to come. I realize that some people are not going to believe that statement because they are looking at a situation that looks impossible, however I know because of my own experiences I can say with complete confidence that what ever people are facing it will get better.

What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
My most significant achievement as a writer has been touching the lives of those that have read the book. When I have captured the readers attention in my writings and have pulled them into the story and they walk with me through the pages, I believe that is a great achievement. Writing is my ministry so if I have encouraged and have given someone hope when there was none, I've achieved much.

What advice would you give a new writer?
Promote, promote, promote. I would suggest they start early. Contacting everyone that could possibly help with the finances and marketing. Looking on the Internet for ways to reach your readers, getting a website, flyer's and if you could afford it, hire someone to help promote.

Name 3 things that it takes to make a successful author, in your opinion?
In my opinion a successful auhor has these qualities: determination, patience and finances.

A successful author has to be determined to complete his/her manuscript regardless of the delays one may face. Life will constantly put distractions before you but your project must take priority.

A successful author must be patient. Although you may have a time frame when your manuscript will be completed but the production of a book depends on others. You must be patient with the process when your release date gets pushed out, when there are printing problems or when something happens that you have no control over.

A successful author must have finances. Without properly considering the cost to promote and market your book you will get discouraged when opportunities present themselves and you are not financially able to take advantage of those opportunities. Do your research to determine how you are going to get your book published, mainstream traditional publisher or self-publishing. There are disadvantages and advantages to both.

Paulette Harper
Best Selling Author of That Was Then, This Is Now This Broken Vessel Restored
www.bvministry.org
www.myspace.com/pauletteh

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Intimate Conversation with Dr. Evelyn Murray Drayton

Intimate Conversation with Dr. Evelyn Murray Drayton and Ella Curry of EDC Creations

Dr. Evelyn Murray Drayton, an ordained minister from Georgetown , South Carolina , holds a doctorate degree in Christian Counseling. Evelyn speaks about her experiences of heartaches, trials, and victories on her Christian journey. She effectively deals with church hurt and forgiveness to help bring healing in the Body of Christ.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I have lived in beautiful Georgetown , South Carolina for the past 20 years where I am happily married to Mr. Russell Drayton and together we have two handsome sons, Justin and Nicholas. My first book was published in 2004 and now I am proud of my recently published book number five titled, “Watermelon Faith.”


Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader to pick it up?
My book has a beautiful eye-catching cover and the book title “Watermelon Faith” is thought provoking and catchy. The book is newsworthy because it addresses deception in leadership which we are experiencing in all facets of life today and is on the increase; however, people are looking for true leaders. The book compares the heart of the watermelon to the heart of man in an effort for us to look within for true leadership qualities. The book shows that true leadership starts and ends in the heart; not based solely on outward appearances.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I want readers to be inspired and motivated to go through life’s problems with strength, courage, and optimism. I want readers to know that my book addresses many of the typical issues that they may face in their religious experiences. The body of Christ is experiencing increased deception. I want people to know the Truth and that not all people in the church are bad watermelons (hypocrites). I want people to know that there is possibly a bad watermelon in every patch, but this book will help them to make better selections and hopefully “pick good melons.”
Ella: What has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
My most significant achievement as a writer has been… for readers to tell me that my book has encouraged them to have a closer relationship with God. To me that is significant because the purpose of my writing is to inspire, motivate, and educate in an effort to bring healing to people’s lives. I hope all of my readers will become empowered to take back their spiritual power and be proactive to achieve desired results for their lives spiritually.

Ella: What advice would you give to a new writer?
I would advise a new writer to know what it is he/she wants the book to accomplish, stay focused on that purpose, believe in that product, and be willing to work long hours to accomplish all goals.
About the book Watermelon Faith
In Watermelon Faith, author Evelyn Murray Drayton offers spiritual empowerment. She compares the heart of the watermelon to man’s heart. “Watermelon Faith” carefully tackles difficult church issues with intelligence and compassion. The book detects wolves in the watermelon patch and exposes the wolves in sheep’s clothing that present colossal problems in groups of organized religion. Her book takes readers on a journey through the watermelon patch as she parallels the excursion to the life of the church. Dr. Drayton’s book describes in poignant details how to become one who prays instead of one who preys. Watermelon Faith is more than just a mere book. It is a testimony of God’s ability to do exceedingly and abundantly more than we could ever ask.

CONTACT:
Dr. Evelyn Murray Drayton
Email: draytonevelyn@yahoo.com
Web: http://www.evelyndrayton.org
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I Didn’t Work This Hard Just to Get Married by Nika C. Beamon

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

It's a startling fact: Most American women spend the majority of their adult lives unmarried.

A new non-fiction title: I Didn’t Work This Hard Just to Get Married by Nika C. Beamon examines this trend through the eyes of single Black women. Statistics show that 70 percent of African American women live without a man, despite traditional expectations within the community this trend.

Advance Praise:
I Didn’t Work This Hard was really positively reviewed in the April 1 issue of Booklist (circ. 24,150). The complete review follows:

I Didn't Work This Hard Just to Get Married (Chicago Review Press, ISBN: 9781556528194)

“Despite the continued cultural emphasis on marriage, 70 percent of black women will live their lives as singles--widowed and divorced, but mostly never married. Whether this statistic is viewed as good, bad, or indifferent depends on a woman's individual perspective. Beamon, a television news writer-producer, presents interviews with 21 successful black women fully enjoying singlehood with a range of opinions on their marriage prospects. Among the women interviewed are actress Kim Coles, author Deborah Gregory (of Cheetah Girls fame), movie producer Effie Brown, and an assortment of other professionals. The women applaud the television shows Living Single and Girlfriends for depictions of beautiful and successful single black women, and discuss the sometimes negative images of black women and the impact of the high unemployment and incarceration rates of black men on marriage prospects. Mostly, they recount their own personal journeys to accepting, enjoying, and capitalizing on their times as single women. Though written from black women's perspectives, this book has appeal for all women looking for a fresh take on being single.”

"What an incredibly liberating and inspiring collection of stories...about learning to be comfortable in your skin and what u got –and that we are not alone in our journey. Thank you Nika for this gift."
Terrie M. Williams
Author, Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We're Not Hurting

"This is an exciting book that fully explores the option of single status and the lives of the women who choose it… Nika Beamon gives women making life choices a window into the thought processes of other women who have made similar choices. It is an important addition to work on the lives and options of African American women, and it is an absorbing read."
Julianne Malveaux
President, Bennett College for Women

"Although I am an award-winning filmmaker, TV personality and author, many of my family members feel as though I lead a shallow and empty life because I choose to be unmarried without children. In this well-researched and thoughtful tome, Nika Beamon has given a voice to true choice among women in this post-millennial era."
Abiola Abrams, BET host
Author of the novel, Dare


I Didn’t Work This Hard Just to Get Married: Successful, Single Black Women Speak Out

Release Date: May 1, 2009 (in sale now)
Publisher: Chicago Review Press, Incorporated
ISBN: 978-1-55652-819-4

To read an excerpt: log onto www.mcbeamon.com
To order the book: log onto Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com
To watch video trailer for the book: Log on to Youtube.com
To contact the author for speaking engagements: Denali17@optonline.net or 973-230-0923

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
MTamanika (Nika) C. Beamon is an African-American female currently residing in Newark, New Jersey. Currently, she is a Writer/Producer for WABC-TV Eyewitness News in New York; the number station in the country.

In her fifteen years as a journalist, she has worked at various television stations including , WABU-TV in Boston, ESPN Classic and WABC-TV in New York. She also served as Coordinating Producer for “Like It Is with Gil Noble,” the country’s longest running African American public affairs show, airing on WABC-TV.

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Intimate Conversation with Author and Pastor Sheila Pace


Ella: Hello Shelia! Please tell us a little about you and your passion for writing.
My name is Sheila Pace. I am a mother of four and grandmother of seventeen. I have been happily married for nineteen years. Presently I pastor along side of my husband in a small church that was formed after we started a transitional housing center for formerly drug addicted adults that were homeless and needed to regain their place in society. My passion began long ago and until recently I never realized how many others benefited from the sincerity that goes into my writing.

Ella: Please introduce us to your first book. Isn't it exciting?!
My first book The Lord is my Light is about my own struggle to deal with the abuses that had occurred in my life. I was tired of it and had come to the end of myself and thought I had no other option by to take my life. In my despair I picked up a bible and it opened to Psalm 27: which starts out by saying, “The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?” I began to weep and those words gave me the strength to call for help.

Ella: Please finish this sentence for me: I am powerful because...
I am powerful because I am a survivor. All that took place in my life was meant to cause me to end my life. Nevertheless, there was another plan that I wasn’t aware of. There was a plan for good and not evil to give me a future and a hope. All I had to do to receive it was to cry out for help. When I did, help was there immediately. For the Lord promised to be a present help in the time of trouble. Although I didn’t know it at the time, now the Lord is using me in the same way he used the woman I called to be that bridge for hurting women and the hand to help them to cross over into the bosom of God’s love.

Jeremiah 29:13 - And you shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

Intimate Chat with Ella Curry of EDC Creations Media Group

Ella: Where are you from?
I am originally from Washington Heights , New York City.

Ella: How did you start your writing journey?
I started my writing journey after being coached to do so by my teacher, going through a great time of devastation.
Ella: What makes your book stand out and would entice a reader pick it up?
My book is a true story of verbal abuse, physical abuse and life’s struggle and hope.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
I would want a reader to be inspired to preserver though there will be all types of obstacles in their way.

Ella: What is the most surprising thing you have learned in creating books?
I am surprised with how quickly each book took on character and shape.

Ella: What would you say has been your most significant achievement as a writer?
The most significant achievement as a writer was to actually see my thoughts in print. Then to have others read it and feel the same release of freedom and healing that I experienced while writing.

Ella: What advice would you give a new writer?
My advice to new writers would be to write no matter who tells you that you shouldn’t. There is someone out there that need’s to hear what you have to say.

Contact Information
Name: Minister Sheila Pace
Email: leon.pace@comcast.net
Website: www.forhymn.com
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Shop for Book Stores IndieBound.org

IndieBound.org
http://www.indiebound.org

indiebound

What is IndieBound?
IndieBound is a community-oriented movement begun by the independent bookseller members of the American Booksellers Association. It brings together booksellers, readers, indie retailers, local business alliances, and anyone else with a passionate belief that healthy local economies help communities thrive. Supporting local, indie businesses means that dollars, jobs, diversity, choice, and taxes stay local, creating strong, unique communities and happy citizens.

It's a powerful tool for booksellers to communicate their part in a national movement supporting independents--and lets everyone know just how many independent bookstores there are. It's powerful for authors to show their dedication to indies nationwide, easily done through linking to thousands of indie bookstores through IndieBound.org.

It's powerful because IndieBound encompasses and supports all types of independent retailers, not just booksellers--and local or regional shop local campaigns and independent business alliances, as well. And it's powerful for consumers to feel a part of a larger movement, to know that their choices make a difference and that others are working toward the same goals.

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Unexpected by Tinisha Nicole Johnson

Unexpected by Tinisha Nicole Johnson

Please view the book video trailer of Unexpected:


Unexpected is the story of Dahlia Ray, a hard-working woman in the corporate world, who doesn’t necessarily believe in love after experiencing one disappointment after another. After winning a multi-million dollar case at her law firm as a Paralegal, she decides to take a get-a-way with her two best friends Janet and Sasha at a cabin in the mountains of Winter Park, Colorado for the annual Jazz Festival. Dahlia’s looking to get a peace of mind, while her friends are looking to get their freak on.

While there, she meets Jackson Bell, a Denver Bronco. He’s tall, dark and sexy. However, will he be just another name added to her list of disappointments? Is he too good to be true?

After a weekend of lust and fun, the mutual attraction between Dahlia and Jackson are evident, and things get steamy, but will it only last the weekend? The story takes on the notion of love and fame and how they mix.

Meet the Author
Tinisha Nicole Johnson is an author, writer, and poet. She resides in Denver, Colorado with her family. Besides writing, she also hosts political and sports teleconferences throughout the US. Learn more about this author and her upcoming books at her website: www.TinishaNicoleJohnson.com

Tinisha Nicole Johnson
Writer/Author/Poet

Proud Member of ASA (Authors Supporting Authors)
www.asanetwork.webs.com

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Secrets, Sins and Shameful Lies by DeiIra Smith-Collard

Secrets, Sins and Shameful Lies by DeiIra Smith-Collard

Five years have passed since a storm of betrayal and deception swept through the halls of Synergy Wireless. Everything seems calm, but just as things have settled and everyone is back to the comfortable norm, long forgotten secrets and lies threaten to expose sins, both past and present. Nicole, still hungry for love and craving attention is desperate to find a man to show her true affection.

True to her nature she is willing to have it at all cost. Carmell constantly longs for Louis, but is she willing to sacrifice herself for the sake of his love?
Natina is devastated by loss, and blames others for her misfortune. Anger causes her to employ her by any means necessary tactics of revenge. Years after, Kendra is still torn between desire and obligation, as she struggles to find her way, can she end up finding herself?

Secrets, Sins and Shameful Lies will again satiate your appetite for drama. Some secrets will be revealed while others concealed. Get ready for another turbulent voyage.n. It is a literary treasure and a must read for any mature, sophisticated reader’s collection.

The books can be purchased at book stores nationwide and online at http://www.amazon.com/, http://www.deiira.com/ and http://www.anexanderbooks.com/

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EDC Creations Joins Losing 4 Literacy

**** FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ****

April 13, 2009
Baltimore, Maryland

National Campaign to Promote Health and Literacy

Maryland’s Ella D Curry of EDC Creations Media Group (http://www.edc-creations.com/) has partnered up with The RisquĂ© CafĂ© to promote health and literacy through a fundraising campaign called “Losing 4 Literacy” which is a 12-week weight-loss/wellness challenge with the purpose of helping to fund a foundation which will empower inner-city and troubled youths to express themselves in a positive manner, bring awareness to the literary community and promote healthier lifestyles.
The challenge will be hosted and facilitated by The Risqué Café - a website and marketing company created to connect authors and readers (http://www.therisquecafe.com/). At the conclusion of the 12-week challenge, the top (3) three teams with the highest percentage of weight loss will be rewarded a cash prize, products, books, and more!

The challenge is designed to encourage and promote literacy, as well as help participants develop healthier lifestyles so they can live longer. Lifestyle/Wellness coaches from “Healthy You 4 Life” will provide support, meal plans, and wellness consulting throughout the teams 12 week journey to a healthy you.

Over 12 weeks, the teams will learn healthy eating habits, and how to make optimum food choices for life. Studies show the camaraderie, encouragement, accountability and motivation of group weight loss competitions lead to greater success. Statistics show weight is a key predictor of a number of chronic, life-threatening diseases such as diabetes. Not only can healthy weight loss turn those disorders around, but it leads to increased energy and productivity, and higher self esteem.

Ella D Curry of EDC Creations Media Group says, "Losing4Literacy is a positive cause that will bring more awareness to education and healthcare plus bring communities together on a local as well as national level. This is a wonderful opportunity to reach back and give to others and possibly touch the lives of youths who have taken or are on the wrong path.”

Registration begins March 25, 2009 and ends May 17, 2009. Adults and youth are welcomed to participate. This is for a great cause.

Registration fee is $30 per team of 5 members. To be best prepared and find out the rules, interested individuals should visit http://www.therisquecafe.com/

For coverage or additional information:
C. Jay – Email: losing4literacy@gmail.com

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Book Spotlight: No Matter What!

From bestselling author and motivational speaker Lisa Nichols comes a unique and powerful inspirational program that will both move you and empower you to realize your dreams. Millions are trying to live by The Secret's Law of Attraction, but the truth is it won't work unless you flex your all-important "bounce-back" muscles, which give you the ability to successfully navigate life's speed bumps.

By developing and toning her own bounce-back muscles at critical points in her life, Lisa found the power to become her authentic self and achieve everything she dared to hope for. Now, in NO MATTER WHAT, she offers a groundbreaking program that outlines these 9 Steps or "muscles", which include among others your Confidence, Faith-in-Myself, Honesty Out Loud and Forgiveness muscles, and explains how anyone can use them to achieve happiness and off-the-charts success.

In this powerful guide Lisa Nichols introduces her dynamic plan, shares her own remarkable story, and prescribes specific exercises and action steps to inspire readers to learn from their past and move toward a courageous future.




Intimate Conversation with Ella Curry and best-selling author Lisa Nichols

Ella: Can any one of us be truly content with only our dreams?
--Having a dream is only the beginning, the seed of possibility, to what can be created. It is your heart’s way of saying "you’re alive!" You will only feel fully alive when you are in "action" toward what you value.

Ella: What action steps did you take to help your dream, of being a writer, become a reality?
--I first had to stop judging my writing skills based on my past writing experiences. My last year in English, I received a failing grade. I had to detach myself from my past and create a new possibility for myself. This was done with a lot of “mirror work” that's mentioned in the "Inspired Action Steps" in my new book No Matter What! I actually list the very same things that I did. I had to allow my voice to come out uniquely and not compare myself to anyone else. I began to see myself as a best selling author before my first book was ever sold. Most people stay in conversation about what they want to achieve but I stayed "in action", there is a difference.

Ella: Lisa, how do you go about connecting with your audience? What “out of the box” ways do you convey your message and hold their attention? What makes you unique?
--First, I am disarmingly honest. I say the things that we normally don't want people to know and that we normally would take so much time to get comfortable enough to share. I tell the truth, sooner quicker, faster. I make it OK to share with my audience that I did it all wrong before I did it right. I say that there was a time when I did not love myself, so I looked for love and validation in men and relationships. I make it OK to share the truth by putting some skin in first. I am very humorous on stage and I use my own quirks and lessons learned as the humor, so that people can relax in their own situations. I hug a great deal and I allow myself to cry on stage and still move forward. This allows the audience to again see that we don't have to pretend that it all perfect and we get to move through everything, No Matter What!

Ella: We are who we are; our actions define who we really are. Our actions create our brand! What are some of the actions you have taken, in life or in your writing, which will create an impact on your readers?
--The rawness and unedited truth. I pour myself out, for all to see. I come off the stage, off the platform and into the reader’s safe and intimate space. In my writing, I make all of our breakdowns OK. And we need to know that our mistakes are OK. This way we will stop holding ourselves hostage to guilt, shame, blame and anger. In my writing, you will see baby step by baby step how I cut the shackles to those toxic feelings, then I will guide you to discover anything that is consciously or unconsciously limiting your greatness and give you action steps that you can do today to have a breakthrough.

Ella: In your new book, No Matter What!, what is the overall message you hope to relay to your readers? What is it you hope they take away and share with other readers?
--We all have a set of "Bounce Back Muscles" that when fine tuned and developed, they are our greatest assets. The overall message is that you can turn every single breakdown into a breakthrough and every single setback into a set up for something greater. Before you can truly reach for the stars and stay in that place you need to know how to bounce back when life's speed bumps occur. When you know how to bounce back then you inevitably begin to bounce forward with new energy and possibilities.


Ella: Why was it so important to bring out this message?
--In the time that we are in right now, people are living inside of powerless, scarcity, fear based thinking. This book will give each person the inspiration and knowledge to understand their ability to build their own bounce back muscle and make it through this time. People are looking for REAL and HONEST hope, no fluff and no false promises. No Matter What! will be like a healing balm of candid, forthright yet loving tolls to help each person navigate through this period and come out on the other side powerful and resilient because they understood what it means to adopt a No Matter What mindset.

Ella: What is the best way for readers and the media to contact you for event invitations or to share reviews?
--No Matter What is becoming a worldwide movement and we would love for you to join us in living a No Matter What life. To join thousands of others who have taken this stand, go to www.NoMatterWhatTour.com there you can click on free downloads and allow me to give you a great gift called "Setting Your Champion Free" then purchase a book, next explore the site to see where all of our free events will be and join us. We would love to welcome you to our community.
Web: www.Lisa-nichols.com -- Tour: www.NoMatterWhatTour.com -- Buy the Book
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The Ministry of Motherhood CONTEST

Cheryl Lacey Donovan's
The Ministry of Motherhood CONTEST

WIN A MOTHER'S DAY SPA DATE!!!!

Be among the first to pre-order your copy of The Ministry of Motherhood and you could win a Mother’s Day Out Spa Date with Cheryl Lacey Donovan.

This contest is open to mothers of all ages. To enter, all you need to do is pre-order your copy of The Ministry of Motherhood by visiting http://www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com/. All books must be purchased between April 15, 2009 and April 30, 2009.

[Read More Details Here on Contest]

Cheryl will be traveling to the city where the winner resides and will be taking the lucky lady for lunch and a luxurious spa treatment! Additionally, she’ll be selecting (5) runners-up who will receive a spa treatment gift card.


**Official contests details at http://www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com/

Please join in the discussion by leaving comments or congrats below.
Black Authors Culture Center-- Twitter with Ella--Black Pearls Mag

The Right Mistake by Walter Mosley

The Right Mistake
by Walter Mosley

Walter Mosley creates lovably flawed characters that resonate long after you’ve put down the book, and Socrates Fortlow is no exception.
A 60-year-old ex-convict, he’s still strong enough to kill men with his bare hands, but this street philosopher has much better things to do now than muddle in the kind of mayhem that earned him 27 years behind bars—he wants to reform his South Central L.A. world.

With the help of his gambler friend, Billy Psalms, he brings together local people of all races and social stations to create a Thinkers’ Club, a forum to discuss unanswerable questions and find ways to change the world, but even as tensions rise in this unlikely crew, Socrates and his followers actually start making a difference. Buy the Book
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In Love With A Younger Man by Cheryl Robinson

In Love With A Younger Man
by Cheryl Robinson

Cheryl Robinson’s Sweet Georgia Brown was hailed by Romantic Times as “... filled with humor and the revealing, touching moments of everyday life.” Now she’s back with the story of a woman who falls for a man young enough to be her son.... At forty-two, Olena Day has her life under control. Her professional life, at least.

As a corporate sales professional, she has a lucrative career that consumes most of her time. But having earned a years’ sabbatical, what will she do now? Enter Matthew Harper, a management trainee for a large auto dealer, who has big plans when it comes to his career. But relationships? He’s never been serious about any of the young girls who have thrown themselves at him.
But this ambitious and fine bachelor’s world gets rocked when sexy, sophisticated Olena walks into his dealership. She may be looking for a new car—but she’ll end up with a lot more than she bargained for when she realizes the young man showing her around the showroom can’t take his eyes off her. The feeling is mutual and the sexual tension between them is undeniable. But besides their eighteen year age difference, there is another secret that could threaten this May-December romance. Buy the Book

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Death, Deceit & Some Smooth Jazz by Claudia Mair Burney

Death, Deceit & Some Smooth Jazz
by Claudia Mair Burney

Frazzled forensic psychologist Amanda isn’t getting any younger, so she doesn’t exactly fight things when her sexy ex, Lieutenant Jazz Brown, comes back into her life. Out of the blue, he wants them to pick up where they left off and make things right again. But Amanda’s about to get a shock. Looks like Jazz’s ex-wife, beautiful, bisexual Kate, has just been found murdered…in Jazz’s apartment. As Amanda and her pathologist sister Carly search out clues, Carly believes Jazz is guilty—unlike Amanda, who stands by her man. Now she’s in a race against time to discover the truth and save the man she loves. But as the body count rises and surprise clues pop up, Amanda wonders if her heart may be getting in the way again... Buy the Book

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The Battle For The Mind by Noel Jones

The Battle For The Mind
How You Can Think The Thoughts Of God
by Noel Jones

Does it ever feel like there’s a war inside your head? Do thoughts of self-condemnation and regret take precedence over the healing power and promise of the Holy Spirit? In The Battle for the Mind, respected Christian scholar Bishop Noel Jones offers practical insights aimed at “overhauling your mind” and defeating your mental enemies. Featuring vital Scripture and biblical principles to protect your mind from assaults such as negativity and powerless thinking, Bishop Jones reveals how to eliminate the obstacles that stand in the way of your spiritual, emotional, and professional success. No wonder National Public Radio’s Tavis Smiley says “Noel Jones is without equal on the circuit of today’s prophetic witnesses.” Buy the Book

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Adventures Of Grandmaster Flash by Joseph Ritz

The Adventures Of Grandmaster Flash
My Life, My Beats
by Joseph Ritz

He was the heart of the Furious Five and the creator and architect of hip hop as we know it. He’s Joseph Saddler—though we know him as Grand Master Flash—and he’s ready to speak out! The South Bronx native opens up about his personal life—from his abusive childhood to his tumultuous relationships to his cocaine abuse.
He also shares his early forays into music and his imminent rise to hip hop superstardom. Discover how the encouragement of family and friends played an integral role in his redemption and fresh start. This moving and provocative memoir lets you experience the mix-master’s journey —from turmoil, tragedy and triumph of living his dreams— to the funk, flair and iconic flavor of his music. Buy the Book

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God Has Not Forgotten About You by Leslie Haskin

God Has Not Forgotten About You
. . . And He Cares More Than You Can Imagine
by Leslie Haskin

More than ever, it’s easy to believe God’s lost sight of you. Maybe you lost your job and are falling behind on your bills or are suffering a loss brought on by divorce or the death of a loved one. Even in less-serious situations, when things don’t go our way, we just can’t help but think, Why me? What have I done to offend God? Does He care about me at all? A survivor of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center, Leslie Haskins used to wonder the same, but only when she restored her faith in His plan did she find peace. Now she’ll help you with biblical insights and real-life stories to stir your heart, recharge your mind and, ultimately, to renew your faith in the One who is always looking out for you—no matter what. Buy the Book

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As We Lay by Darlene Johnson

As We Lay
by Darlene Johnson

Breck has a successful job and a good life with her long-time boyfriend. So why is her mind and heart starting to wander over married property manager Eric? Sure, his success is sexy. And then there’s that perfect smile… But is this really the right time to mix business with pleasure?
Devoted family man Eric feels a connection to the beautiful architect who’s just signed onto his latest venture, and despite what he already has at home, doesn’t want to be without her. Soon Breck moves to be closer to him and even has his child. But after a tragic accident, Breck discovers that the survival of Eric’s first child depends on their secret life coming to light—even though the truth may destroy everything she’s worked so hard to have.
Buy the Book

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Back to Basics by Patricia Anne Phillips

Back to Basics
by Patricia Anne Phillips

Fifth-grade teacher Autumn Evans is the very picture of happiness. She has a career she loves as well as a doting fiancĂ©, Matthew, who’s a successful, ambitious—and perhaps a bit controlling—surgeon with whom she’s begun planning the wedding of her dreams. She also has a dirty little secret.
One that’s about to surface and shatter her perfect existence into painful little pieces. But the truth she’s always hidden may be what finally sets her free.... When a crisis hits, Autumn returns to her childhood home to heal. There, she slowly begins to question everything she’s come to accept about life and love and realizes she needs to make a choice—between fighting for what she once wanted, or claiming a life that’s new and untested…
Buy the Book

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BAN Pick: Naughty by Rochelle Alers

Naughty
by Rochelle Alers

Breanna’s always craved the spotlight—which is a good thing as she always seems to be in it. Her record-producer father and R&B-diva mother are starting to get tired of Bree’s attention-getting antics, and her whirlwind marriage to a struggling actor could very well be the last straw for them.
But when the relationship implodes, no one could have predicted what Bree would be up to next. Abandoning her party girl ways, she runs to Europe and gets involved with Reuben, a caring artist. They become partners, both in bed and business, and start a lingerie line called Naughty. Everything seems to be going Bree’s way until she returns to the States and a new and devastating scandal threatens to bring her new world crashing to the ground… Buy the Book

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Diary of an Ugly Duckling by Karyn Langhorne

Diary of an Ugly Duckling
by Karyn Langhorne

Audra truly believes she’s found the love of her life in hunky Detective Art Bradshaw, the first man who’s ever liked her just as she is—a dark-skinned, overweight and plain woman. That is, until she attends a party Art hosts for his teenaged daughter. As soon as the young girl sees Audra, she starts acting weird.
When Audra tries to find out what’s going on, the girl has a fit, telling Audra how angry she is at her father for always dating ugly women to prove that only personality matters. Audra is devastated, and in a desperate attempt to become beautiful, she sends an audition tape to a reality show that gives makeovers to women who need it the most. Will her obsession with changing her looks really get her what she wants—or will it keep her away from the one man who truly loves her? Buy the Book

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Book Spotlight: Change the World for Ten Bucks

Change the World for Ten Bucks
50 Ways to Make a Difference
by We Are What We Do

The big problems of the world cause the average person to become paralyzed, thinking that big issues need big solutions. But small actions can make a big difference. Change the World for Ten Bucks is created by We Are What We Do, a global social change movement that believes it’s not just politicians, institutions and big business that can change the world—ordinary people like us can change the world, too. Its aim is to bring us together to demonstrate love, using everyday actions to create a global movement of doing small actions and changing big problems.

Change the World for Ten Bucks outlines 50 simple things you can do to make a difference. You’ll find actions to take, references to organizations to help you perform the actions, related websites and more to guide you on your journey of “being what you do.”

With Change the World for Ten Bucks—in all it’s full-color, fun and not-for-profit glory— you’ll be a part of a new kind of community of independent doers, following the same banner and answering the questions that we all want answered. Included is a colorful tote that’s roomy, durable and 100% reusable and recyclable—perfect for anything from shopping to a day at the beach. Buy the Book

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