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Give the Gift of Knowledge 
Give Books as Gifts 365!


We Appreciate the Book Lovers of the World!

EDC Creations, The Sankofa Literary Society and The Black Authors Network are proud to announce the launch of the  2016-2018  "Give the Gift of Knowledge Campaign," bringing readers and authors together to help improve literacy. We encourage readers to purchase books to give as gifts all year long. Listed below are just a few of our book suggestions. Each week we will bring many more! The books are available in our bookstore and in bookstores near you! 

Each year thousands of people - educators, concerned parents, community leaders, authors, poets and publishers - devote their time and resources to presenting the reader with great books!   However, too many outstanding books do not get the attention and reader support that they deserve.   It is our mission to connect readers with these hidden gems and bring them books that will change their lives.   

Instead of giving expensive items that don't shape lives --- let's "Give the Gift of Knowledge" and help to strengthen our future generations by sharing our wonderful literary legacy!  We have selected several hundred books for your library, check them out at our bookstore, go here.

Ella Curry, President of EDC Creations
Black Pearls Magazine Online-Founder
Black Authors Network Radio-Founder
Social Media Strategist - Internet Publicist - Branding Coach

 


The Book Club Legacy Collection



View the entire selection here.



 


Intimate Conversation with Lady LOTUS Book Club


Tammy Washington, Lady LOTUS Bookclub Founder
, is a country girl at heart, with a love for reading that takes her imagination beyond the stars. She is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She is an Early Childhood & Elementary Ed. Curriculum Monitor. 

Tammy has been married to the love of her life, Rod Washington for 17 years. Together they have two delightful and daring boys, and two fun and feisty girls. She says her family is heaven sent and truly her JOY.

She enjoys so many authors and quotes, but she most admires author, Maya Angelou. One of her favorite quotes by Maya Angelou is, "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." 

Most of her adult life has been dedicated to mentoring and servicing children and families. Tammy said, this is not just a passion, but her ministry. She loves to encourage others with a famous quote by Dr. Seuss, "Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You." She shares this quote in an effort to help others embrace who they are in spite of what society says they should be. Tammy's very own quote is, "True beauty begins with the heart and mind, and then flows to be seen through the eyes and smile."

Amanda Presley Lady LOTUS Bookclub Co-Founder,  is somewhat of an Army brat. Both her parents were in the army. She was raised and still lives in Monroe, Louisiana. She currently works at an elementary school as a Pre-K Paraeducator. She has been in this position for the last seven years. Amanda also does after school tutoring through the school's tutoring program. 

Within the last year she has started her own business, a LadyBugz a party supply store. She is praying that her business is successful enough for her to go at it full time. Amanda is a wife and mother. She has been been married to her husband Richard for 11 years. She has three daughters that keep her very busy with various activities. She is very active in the church. She sings in the church singing group and also work with the mentor program. She loves spending time with her family and friends, especially her girls. In her alone time, give her a good book and she is good to go.

BPM: Share with us the history of the organization. How did you get started?  What was the first book that you read as a group? What literary events do you attend each year?
Tammy has always enjoyed reading, but for a short while, she allowed the hustle and bustle of life to pull her away from taking advantage of it more. Her mother-in-law (Barbara) in Shreveport, LA, showed her another level of reading pleasure when she began sharing books that her book club was reading; as well as, inviting her to the meetings and events. Tammy searched the internet and asked around to find a local book club in Monroe, LA, but was unsuccessful. Barbara encouraged Tammy to start her own book club for quite a while. 

It wasn't until Tammy and her friend Amanda, who also has always shared a love of reading, began sharing books. It was shortly afterwards that they then decided to begin a book club together.

The Lady L.O.T.U.S (Loving Others Through United Sisterhood) book club began in July 2013. They are located in Monroe, Louisiana. The Lady L.O.T.U.S book club consists of 20 sisters (members).The first book that they read was "The Reverend's Wife" by Kimberly Lawson Roby. Their first literary event will be the National Book Club Conference to be held in August of theat year.


BPM: Do you host events? Donate to charities or provide any service for the community?
In 2013, the Lady L.O.T.U.S's hosted their 1st annual Christmas Gala, in which they invited three authors and two bookclubs from the surrounding area to attend. During the month of December, Lady L.O.T.U.S. held a book and toy drive for less fortunate families. The toy drive culminated at their Christmas Gala as the guest and authors also donated. They were blessed to surpass their toy-giving goal, and was able to help six families (ranging in size from 4-11 people per family). This year they plan to host an even bigger Christmas event.

Also in 2013, they provided Thanksgiving meals to eight families. The L.O.T.U.S bookclub has also established an annual book club scholarship fund, and in May 2014, awarded financial scholarships to two deserving graduating seniors. The Lady L.O.T.U.S. book club is also planning to do something in support of cancer awarenesss. Members of the bookclub have participated in breast cancer (Susan G. Komen) and Down syndrome (Buddy Walk) walks. They even visit various schools within their community and read to the students. 

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? Have there been any books that help shape your life? Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Other than the Holy Bible, books and poetry such as those by Maya Angelou, Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston, The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison and a host of other books capture Tammy’s undivided attention. These books have helped shape her life because of the reality in the stories. The thought provoking richness in the story lines comes to life. Tammy enjoys Christian Fiction, Poetry, Romance, Suspense and many other genres. 

BPM: What legacy will your bookclub leave for those watching in the community? 
The lesson and legacy that Lady L.O.T.U.S bookclub purposes to leave is that reading is not only an outlet, but can unlock doors in the mind to build, strengthen, and enhance knowledge (spiritually, mentally and academically). They strive to model UNITY and SERVICE to our community. As God allows us to be a blessing to one another, so shall we be to our community.

BPM: How many books do you read in one month? Would you say you read more for escape, for educational purposes or for entertainment? 
The book club reads one to two books a month. Lady L.O.T.U.S, Michelle Esters reads two books a month. She reads for ESCAPE. This is a way for Michelle to get away from life and escape to a new land. 

Amanda may read three to four books a month. She uses reading mainly as an escape and for entertainment.

La-Shondra states, "As a child I used to read for an escape. While "escaping" I felt like I was apart of the book and I could feel and see everything hands on. It gave me hope outside the small town that I lived in. As an adult I read more educational books so I can spiritually and mentally. I enjoying learning new thing about God and myself. I read inspirational books so I can be a better mother, wife and friend." (Lady L.O.T.U.S, La-Shondra Weathersby)

BPM: Do you prefer a hard copy book or a digital book, such as a Kindle book? Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
Lady L.O.T.U.S, Natasha Bosworth prefers to read digital books because she loves technology. She thinks eventually with the changing times digital books will replace hard copies. 

Tammy loves to read digital books also. However, she does not feel digital books will replace hard copies because of the history, value and appreciation still shown for hard copies.


BPM:  Let's have some fun now!  Finish these fun loving sentences with the question and answer:

BPM: On your nightstand now: 
Me Before You, by Jojo Moyes & Blessings From the Father, by Michelle Larks (Lady L.O.T.U.S, Tammy Washington)

BPM: Favorite book when you were a child:
The giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein as a child& Sweet Valley High Series, by Francine Pascal as a preteen/teen (Lady L.O.T.U.S, Tammy Washington).  A Piece of Cake by Cupcake Brown and The Shaggy Dog which was one of the Golden Book Series. (Lady L.O.T.U.S, Jamekia Dial-Hunter)

BPM: Book all readers should own excluding the Bible: 
“The Shack”, by William P. Young (Lady L.O.T.U.S. Rose Lee) As a person of deep faith who is constantly striving to develop a deeper, stronger relationship with God and a better understanding of the connection between religion and spirituality, I was both astounded and uplifted by the novel, The Shack, by William P. Young. As stated in an online review: In a world where religion seems to be growing increasingly irrelevant, The Shack wrestles with the timeless question, “Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?” 

Although the Bible is barely ever mentioned in the novel, the narrative centers on dialogues between Mack, the main character, and three unorthodox characterizations of the Holy Trinity. The answers the main character receives in his quest for understanding both comforted and reiterated to me that God is an ever-present, loving force in our lives, even in the midst of our darkest hours. The sense of peace I felt after reading the novel compelled me to encourage fellow book club members and others I know to read this book. (Lady L.O.T.U.S Rose Lee)

BPM: Book you gave as a gift:
The most recent books gifted are, Taylor’s Strawberry, by Taneka Fuller and Naughty or Nice, by Eric Jerome Dickey.  Taylor’s Strawberry is a book for young children to promote self-awareness, self-confidence and acceptance of oneself no matter what physical flaws exist.  Naughty or Nice is of course an adult novel that I gifted to a friend & bookclub member. (Lady L.O.T.U.S. Tammy)

BPM: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
Lady L.O.T.U.S, Andresca Moss would read Afterburn by Zane over and over. It’s just simply a good love story even with a sad ending. Also, The Coldest Winter Ever, by Sista Souljah. She loves the raw and gangsta storylines.   Lady L.O.T.U.S, Jacquie Matthews plans to read again The Blessings of Brokeness by Charles Stanley and The Tongue: a Creative Force by Charles Capps.

BPM: Favorite genre, series or sequels:
Andresca’s favorite genre is Erotica and Fifty Shades of Grey is her favorite series. Amanda's favorite genre's are romance, exotica, mystery and drama. Her favorite series are The Westmorelands by Brenda Jackson and The Family Business Series by Carl Weber.  Jacquie’s favorite series is Bride Quartet, by Nora Roberts. Her favorite character is Alex Cross from James Patterson books.  Lady L.O.T.U.S Alecia Murphy’s favorite series include: Kimbela Lawson Roby: Reverend Curtis Black Series and Mary B Morrison: The Darius Jones Series.

BPM: Book that should be a movie or play:
Little Black Girl Lost Series, by Keith Lee Johnson (Lady L.O.T.U.S Adrian Williams)
Mama, by Terry McMillan (Lady L.O.T.U.S Shafonda Kline)
The Gift, by Danielle Steele(Lady L.O.T.U.S La-Shondra Weathersby)

BPM: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Amanda would love to do a phone chat with: Carl Weber, Lutisha Lovely and Brenda Jackson.
~You can find our group on Facebook as, Lady LOTUS Bookclub
~Website is currently being created at this time. Update will come soon.

Again, thank you so kindly for allowing us the opportunity to share our group with you and the rest of the reading world.

Second Photo:  Lady LOTUS Book Club Leaders
Tammy Washington, President
Amanda Presley, Vice President
 

 

 


Go On Girl! Book Club - National Chapters

Responses submitted by Willette Hill. Willette is the Corresponding Secretary for the Go On Girl! (GOG) Book Club. As the Corresponding Secretary, Willette writes letters to the authors and publishers based on members' review of the books on the GOG reading list. Willette is the facilitator of the DC1 chapter and is a member of the organization's Executive Committee. She also chairs the book club's National Awareness Committee and is a member of the book club's Reading List Committee. With the exception of a three-year break, she has been a member of GOG since 1993. 

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! When did your group begin, what year? How many members do you have? 
The Go On Girl! Book Club is the largest national reading organization in the U.S. for black women. Our national headquarters are in New York. In 1991, founders Monique Greenwood, Lynda Johnson and Tracy Mitchell-Brown decided to turn their office chat about the latest offerings from Black authors into formal book discussions with their immediate circle of girlfriends in New York City. 

At the end of the club's first year, Evalyn Rose Hamilton relocated from New York to her native Washington, D.C., and the second chapter of the Go On Girl! Book Club was born. Since 1992, more than 30 chapters have sprung up across the country in much the same way — started by former members relocating to new cities or by members' relatives and friends living in other or the same cities. 

Chapters are limited to 12 members to keep meetings intimate and manageable. In 1995, the club became a legally incorporated non-profit organization, and it currently boasts more than 300 members in cities across the country. We currently have chapters in Alabama, California, DC, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington and Virginia. 

The overall agenda, goals and duties of the organization are administered by an executive committee of 10 women: Lynda Johnson (Co-founder/Chair and Media/Author Relations Chair), Vivian Phillips-Husband and Shirley Coker (Co-Chairs); Valeria Porterfield (Recording Secretary); Evalyn Rose Hamilton (Historian); Tracy Grady (Treasurer); Willette Hill (Corresponding Secretary); Elaine Spears (Parliamentarian); Judy Ivory (Membership Chair) and Joyce Williams (Reading List Chair).

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? 

Our purpose: To expand the members' personal literary experience by:
* Reading quality works written by authors of Black African descent
* Reading a selection of titles that vary in genre from new and classic fiction to science-fiction/fantasy and mystery to social commentary and history to autobiographies/biographies

To encourage responsible writing and publishing of literature written by people of Black African descent by:
* Providing book reviews and letters of encouragement to authors and publishers
* Presenting recognition awards for outstanding literary works
* Purchasing books preferably from African-American booksellers
* Supporting literary events
* Making group investments towards worthy literary endeavors

To provide an open forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions by:
* Having monthly book discussions
* Networking with other book clubs and literary organizations

To expose the Black African Diaspora to literature written by people of Black African descent by:
* Sponsoring Junior Go On Girl! book clubs for young girls
* Hosting/sponsoring literary events on our own or jointly with other organizations and institutions
* Sponsoring/supporting Community Literacy Projects

To strengthen the world community's recognition of literature written by people of Black African descent by:
* Partnering with media outlets to showcase Go On Girl! book selections, discussions, and events in print, radio and television

* Maintaining a comprehensive website that features the complete list of Go On Girl! book selections and award winning authors

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group? How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole?
GOGs range in age from twentysomething to sixtyplus and they have varied professional backgrounds and personal interests. Each chapter is unique, but what we all share is a love of reading books by authors of the Black diaspora and our love for the Go On Girl sisterhood.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
Our Reading List Committee researches and puts together a list of books it feels will be of interest to our members. Every chapter reads the book assigned for that month. The reading list is created twice a year. While our focus for each meeting is the discussion of that month's book, it is common for members to discuss other books of interest at our meetings. 

We use social media to share our featured books with other readers and members in other GOG chapters. In addition to our organization's website, GOG has a Twitter handle, a Facebook page, a Goodreads page, and a Pinterest page. And we will soon launch a GOG blog.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? 
GOGs like variety. We have discovered that having books on our reading list from a variety of genres ensures that our members will read books that they might not otherwise read and be introduced to new authors. Our reading list contains titles from the following genre categories: anthology, short story, new author, classic fiction, novel/pop fiction, science-fiction/fantasy, mystery, social commentary, history, and autobiography/biography.

BPM: Do you write and post book reviews to online retailers? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?
The Corresponding Secretary sends a letter to the author and the publisher. During the chapter meeting, members complete a questionnaire and send it to the Corresponding Secretary. She uses the members' feedback to write a letter to the author and publisher of the book. It's rare that a book on our reading list is disliked by all GOGs. Some books are enjoyed by a majority of GOGs; some books are enjoyed only by a few. When writing to the author, the Corresponding Secretary strives to write a balanced letter. She lets the author know what members liked; she uses phrases such as "we were confused as to why …" or "we weren't clear about …" or "some of our members didn't like …" to let the author know what didn't work for us. Members also post comments on our members-only Facebook page and our members-only Goodreads page. 

BPM: What are you reading now? What books are on your reading schedule?
Our book for September is Forty Acres by Dwayne Alexander Smith. This is his first book, so he is our New Author category. His book, as well as all other books, were voted on by our Reading List Committee for our July through December list. October's book will be The Sport of the Gods by Paul Laurence Dunbar in our classic category. November's book will be The Granta Book of the African Short Story by Helon Habila in our anthology category. 

And in December, rounding out the year in our autobiography/biography category will be Eslandia: The Large and Unconventional Life of Mrs. Paul Robeson by Barbara Ransby. In October, the Reading List Committee will begin looking for books for our January through July reading list.

BPM: Do you host special events during the year? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
YES! GOG hosts an annual Author Awards Weekend held in a different city every year and attended by all the chapters in the organization. Members vote for a winning author in two categories: New Author of the Year and Author of the Year. The winning authors are invited to attend our Author Awards Weekend. The chapter(s) in the designated city is our host chapter. At the author awards lunch (or dinner), the authors are given a handmade plaque especially designed for them. 

Our Author Awards Weekend serves two purposes: it gives our members a chance to express our love and appreciation to the winning authors, and it provides all the chapters a chance to get together to meet/greet and express love for our literary sisterhood. Interviews of our winning authors are published in an annual GOG Magajournal and distributed to our members. 

In between the author awards luncheon or dinner, GOGs enjoy the hospitality and activities that our host chapters plan for us. In 2016, we're excited to be celebrating our 24th Annual Awards Weekend and our 25th Anniversary as a book club in New Orleans, June 2-5. Our website, www.GoOnGirl.org has the details. 

Many of our members socialize outside of our book club meetings. Chapter members also attend author readings and signings in their area to support our writers. For the past two years we have worked collectively with the NAACP by reading, reviewing, and voting for books being considered for their Literary Image Awards. Some of the authors on our reading list were discovered from participating in this project.

BPM: Which is the preferred way to find new books: a friend's recommendation; on social media; or advertisement for the book, such as: online radio, newsletter eblast, contests or tagging on FB?
Members of the Reading List Committee use any and all resources available to find books for our reading list. We scour the internet, read book reviews in magazines (online and paper), listen to interviews and check literary websites, publisher websites, blogs, etc. Sometimes we get book recommendations from GOGs, friends; sometimes authors reach out to us. We're forever searching for that next good book.

BPM: Would you like to chat with your favorite authors on Skype, FaceTime or over the phone? 

YES! GOG has a public Facebook page, as well as a GOG-only page and our members post comments about the books we're reading. We also have a Goodreads page and a Pinterest page. Last but not least, GOGs tweet. Chapters have invited authors to book club meetings and have had phone discussions with authors as well. 

BPM: How can we follow you online? 
Our website:  http:// www.GoOnGirl.org 
Follow us on Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/gogbookclub 
Our Facebook page:  http:// www.facebook.com/GoOnGirlBookClub 
Our Goodreads page:  http:// www.goodreads.com/group/show/31026-go-on-girl-book-club 

 

 



Keisha the Librarian - Suburban Chicago

Keisha Hester is a librarian residing in Chicago. She connects readers with books on a daily basis, and is in the process of writing of her first novel. 

BPM: Please tell us about your work in the library. Are libraries still connecting readers with books?
KH: I’m currently a department manager in a suburban Chicago public library, overseeing instruction and research services for teens and adults. Part of that work is connecting readers with books (readers’ advisory) and leading book discussions. I also schedule classes and events for teens and adults, which includes bringing in instructors to teach our fiction writing classes. 

If nothing else, our library has books. This is not true in some cases, as budgets have fallen and no purchases of newer materials can be made. However, though we cannot buy every book ever printed, we are tapped into a network of libraries throughout the state and country and are likely to be able to obtain material for the reader. Furthermore, we are likely to know about forthcoming books and can put the reader on alert for it once they are published.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?

KH: Certainly we expect that everyone has read the book, even if they don’t like it. Far too often we think we have to like a book, agree with it 100%, in order to discuss it. In actuality, those who have some parts with which they disagree feed into the discussion, because more facets to the story come about to consider. Reading guides help to get a discussion started, however those questions tend to be more esoteric than anything. When we read books, we want to connect the story to our lives, our own experiences, no matter how fictional. We insert ourselves into the plot lines and begin thinking about the character’s next move as if the character were us. Reading guide questions, I’ve found, don’t really delve this deeply into the personal aspects of connecting the reader to the story.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?

KH: Decide the ground rules from day one. If your group will actually discuss the book at length, then requirement number one is that everyone reads it. If it will be more social in nature, then pick books that are light and quicker to read. Also, feel free to totally judge a book by its cover! If it is aesthetically appealing to you, chances are higher that you will read it to completion.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors?

KH: My only preference for the type of book that I read is that it is a good story. Everything that I read, whether personally or professionally, helps me to connect readers with books they might like. It’s what being a librarian is about. I have chosen not to specialize in one genre because I just love reading. There are so many ways to tell a story and I don’t want to miss out! I absolutely support self-published authors, though I wish more of them would take the time to understand what makes a book publishable. Sadly, many that we receive as donations for our collection have failed to go through any creditable editing process. They don’t understand that it’s more than just writing it and selling it on Amazon through CreateSpace. While I don’t want to be a book snob, I want self-published authors to realize that there are publishing standards that apply no matter how the book was produced. When those standards are followed, it adds an air of authority that the book will stand the test of time and continue to be read many, many years into the future.

BPM: Do you host special events during the year?

KH: We sure do! My library offers two writing classes, one for beginners and one for more seasoned writers, both hosted by award-winning, national bestselling authors. These courses help people to find their voice and tell their story. We will also host author showcases and other literary events to get people interested in other authors.

BPM: Which is your preferred way to find new books?
KH: I don’t have a preferred method, as working in a library affords me the opportunity to get pre-publishing information on lots of great titles. We are always talking about books. My patrons will also come in and tell me about books they’ve read and ask for others by certain authors.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore?  
KH: I primarily get my books through the library! I will purchase those that have made the greatest impact on my life that I would want to read again and again. And as much as I want everyone to go out and purchase the book from the author so that the author makes a sale, this just isn’t possible for everyone to do. So libraries stand in that gap. You may have a library patron who has to make the choice between buying a book or buying food. It doesn’t mean that this person forgoes all pleasures of life, including reading, but that there are other decisions to be made from the choices at hand. Being able to borrow a book from the library still exposes the reader to great writers, and is a way to track how many times that book has been shared. We do sometimes turn this data around and approach publishers, and authors, with it letting them know there is a demand for a particular work. We will also use this data to bring the author into the library for an event or class, giving them more of a platform to share their work.

BPM: How do ebooks play into this? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
KH: Libraries now offer ebooks through various platforms to patrons, though not every ebook is available for libraries to purchase. The publishers have placed certain restrictions on their digital works, which is unfortunate. Personally, I would never stop buying printed books. Here’s why: you don’t actually own the digital book itself in some cases. Publishers can essentially encrypt files to self-destruct after a certain time period, as it were, which is what happens when you borrow it from a library. After the loan period is up, you can no longer access the ebook unless you check it out again. And the platform that you use to access that ebook could also go away. What would you do with the files then, if the platform used to access them no longer existed? With the printed word, all you have to do is go to your book shelf, pull it off, sit down, and read!

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussions?
KH: I would love to be part of future events! Please do invite me.
Instagram: thatotherkeisha
Facebook: www.facebook.com/keisha.thelibrarian

 




Books and Booze - Chicago 

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! What is the name? Where are you located? 
I'm Lutisha Bass from the Books and Booze Book Club. We are based in Chicago, IL. A few of us have known each other for years and knew we shared a love for reading. One day our founder, Jomonique Moore, posted a request online asking anyone if they'd be interested in forming a book club. The response was great and we've been meeting ever since. That was over a year ago to date. Our first meeting was Aug 2014. We have 62 online members that join our chats via social media. However, we have 15 members who come out face-to-face every meeting. We have not elected any officials for the group. 

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group?  
A: The genre of our books vary. I would like to see our group venture off into possibly making our own 'books n'booze guide to 'Owning your own kind of beautiful, self love and empowering women' kind of guide. Some of the experiences we've shared with each other has the capability to reach other women in a positive way. I really don't know if the types books have change over time.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? 
A: Primary way to find a book: Usually I stick with the authors of books that I've previously read and enjoyed BUT if I step outside of that norm I seek the recommendations of friends/associates whose opinions I value.

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? 
A: Our next read is Blanche on the Lam by Barbara Neely. How we work is, the person who chooses to host the meeting at their home chooses the book. We never know exactly why they pick certain books unless they share at the meeting. Also, so far, we don't have a reading schedule. Everyone likes the element of surprise of not knowing what's coming next. 

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
A: Great characters will help a book remain in the mind long after the last page. If you can't remember the characters you are less likely to remember what they did. 

BPM: Do you host special events during the year? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
A: We don't host special events outside of our reading meetings. However, many of our members belong to other groups. We try to support our members in their other endeavors. It is always great to show support to our artists, musicians, and other authors of the group. We are planning to host an annual summer picnic for family and friends of Books and Booze.  

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them?
A: The only problem we've faced is scheduling our meetings. With everyone leading fruitful and busy lives everyone is not always available. We are now trying to be a static date, like the last Sunday every other month, to meet so people can plan their lives around the block club date.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussions?
I would love to be part of future events! Please do invite me.

 

 

 

 


TaNisha Webb - KC Girlfriends Book Club 

TaNisha Webb is the president of the award winning KC Girlfriends Book Club. TaNisha is also the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Book Club 101 Magazine, founder of Book Club 101 University and author of The Ultimate Book Club Experience: How to Create & Maintain a Successful Book Club.

BPM: Please tell us about your blog, bookstore or book club! Where are you located? 
KC Girlfriends Book Club is located in the Kansas City Metropolitan area. Our book club was established in 2002 by a group of girlfriends that decided to create a book club to discuss their favorite authors’ books. In 2003, our book club dwindled down to two members due to various reasons. The sole original member and I decided to advertise the book club on a local social event calendar and our book club grew from two members to forty-one members within one and one-half years. We are now at a comfortable and dedicated twelve members at this time.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events?
The purpose of the KC Girlfriends Book Club is to support new and underexposed authors. The books we discuss have to be written by an African American author or the main character has to be African American. Our book club have supported authors by coordinating literary events and sponsoring book signings in our area.

BPM: What has the main focus become over the years? What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
I believe our main focus over the years has been to shine a spotlight on new and underexposed author by providing years of our book selections on our website, which has provided free marketing for authors. We were also one of the first book clubs to have our own online radio show that provided opportunities for new and underexposed authors a platform to share their work, along with our literary events and sponsored book signing opportunities throughout the years.

BPM: Tell us about your blog and any contributing members. What is the demographic of your group? 
Our group is made up of all women, although we’ve had a few men join our group over the years. The age range of our group is from late-20’s to mid- 50’s.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group? 
As a KC Girlfriends Book Club member you have to be able to meet on a regular basis and keep up with the selected reading material. We look for members that is willing to help us coordinate and/or host events as well. Because we have a strong internet presence with our website we do not have any difficulties finding new members. We have an application process to help us initially figure out who would be a good fit for our book club. The applicant is invited to sit into our next book club meeting to see if we all mesh. We only accept fifteen members at one time. 

We’ve had members come and go for personal reasons over the year. Some come back and some don’t. Our former members are still family and are welcome to come back. Ultimately, we’re not concerned how big or small our book club is but more focused on attracting the right members to help sustain our book club for 13+ more years!

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?

The first thing that makes a good book discussion is when all of the members have read the entire book. Regardless if the book is good or bad you really can’t have any discussion if no one has read the entire book. Having a group in various age range also helps with having a great discussion because everyone has different prospective versus a group that’s the same age. Coed book clubs probably have better book clubs than same sex book clubs because men will bring an entirely different prospective to a discussion. 

All good book clubs will generally roam off topic! LOL Generally this happens because we’ll begin to discuss our own personal experience that the book reminded us. These particular part of the discussions actually helps book clubs to become like family because we learn more about one another when we discuss our personal experiences. 

A good facilitator will know when to move the discussion along. For our book club the reading guide doesn’t help our discussions at all because we’re already thinking of questions as we’re reading the book. We’ve never gotten through even half of the questions of a reading guide because we will generally think of better questions to ask, which will take the discussion in an entirely different direction. However, reading guides can be very helpful for new book clubs.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month?  Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?

The past 3-4 years have been rough for our book club due to the poor book selections so this past year we decided to change the way we select books. We now select a book theme/genre and the facilitator has to select three books that fit that particular theme/genre. Our book club then vote on an online poll and whichever book gets the most votes is selected. All of our book club members read outside of our book selection but we do not discuss other books other than our book selection with one another. I generally will share what our book club is reading on the day we meet. All of our book selections are listed on our website as well.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? 
Our book club mainly read books by authors of color but over this past year we have allowed books by other authors as long as the main character is of color. Our main reason for this is because we read new and underexposed authors and sometimes the selections are very slim and we’ve quite frankly have had way too many bad experiences with book selections over the past 3-4 years. 

We do support self-published authors and have had the pleasure of watching many grow into well-established authors over the years. Some of us do borrow books from the library. The library can be a great resource for book clubs and it also helps some of our members that may not be able to afford to purchase books all the time.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read? Have the types of books changed over time?
We read all books except poetry, most autobiographies, erotica and street lit.

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? What books are on your reading schedule?
We’re currently reading Supreme Justice by Gary Hardwick. I’m not sure how one of our members heard about this particular book but we’re all connected to social media, attend literary events and also take suggestions from other book clubs and readers. We do not have any other books on our schedule for this year. We will begin selection books for 2016 soon and generally try to have at least four months of books selected at a time.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? What are some things you would like to see at events? Any dislikes? Do you like to hear the author reading from the book?
We like attending book signings, literary festivals and events. Our book club generally learn about new and underexposed authors at various literary events and tend to suggest the books of the authors that we meet and like as book selections.

Honestly, I really think it depends on the type of event on what I like to see. I do like events that introduce new authors that have well-written books. Those are the authors I tend to look for at events and not so much of the well-known authors (outside of the ones that I’m a real fan.) 

I do not like events that are not well balanced and do not understand who their audience is. There’s absolutely no reason to have the majority of panel discussions focused on the publishing industry/marketing when your audience are primarily readers and book clubs. I do like to her authors read from their book but no more than five minutes.

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors? Do you like to find new authors and interact online? 

Interacting with authors on social media has definitely changed my perspective both good and bad. I think some authors share way too much about their personal and sometimes professional issues that have no place on social media and definitely changes my view on them. I’m not interested in knowing every aspect of anyone’s life, including authors. However, there are some authors that give you just enough and are quite pleasant online that enjoy quite a bit. I do like finding new authors and interacting with them online.

BPM: How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
Website: www.kcgirlfriendsbookclub.com 
Book Club 101 Magazine’s website www.bookclub101mag.com
Twitter: KC_Girlfriends
Instagram: tanishawebb1
Facebook: KCGirlfriendsBookClub

 




Reading with Soul - Columbus, Ohio

BPM:  Please tell us about your bookclub. How did you come together as a group?
My name is Sheryl Towns, President of "Reading With Soul." We are located in Columbus, Ohio. Reading has always been a passion. I had friends, family and co-workers who read all the time. We would share books and discuss them whenever we got together. I was a member of a bookclub previously and I realized I wanted to join another bookclub, but then I choose to start my own. I made fliers, posting them in places where you would see readers (hair salon/work).

In November, 2006 we had our first meeting at Barnes and Noble. We started with five members. Those same five ladies are still members. Our membership has been up and down. Thank God we are blessed to have a total of nine members.

BPM: I love the photos submitted with the interview and how you submitted the interview! 
Thank you.  Each member has answered a question for this interview.  The two pictures shown are from a recent event with author EN Joy and the next photo is from one of our meetings. We had two very special guests, Joy who is an honorary member of our book club and the author of a book we read that recently D. L Augustine. 

BPM: What is the purpose of your organization?
Our purpose is to give back to the community and to read for enjoyment, enrichment and knowledge. -Pat, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole?
We are in an age range from 40's and up. Some have known each other over the years and become close over time. We all seem so much like family and have a great time during each meeting. You will always feel the love we have for each other.  -Sandy, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: Which is the preferred way to find new books: a friend’s recommendation; on social media, or advertisement for a book, such as; online radio, newsletter e-blast, contests or tagging on FaceBook?
My preferred method of finding new books is by going through the books recommended to me on my Kindle e-reader. These selections are based on the types of books that I have purchased previously; I have found a lot of good books that way. However, if I don’t like any of the books recommended to me on the Kindle e-reader; I will ask friends and family about the books they are currently reading or have read in the past. Recently, I have found a couple of good books based on advertisements on my Facebook timeline. -Keisha M. Flood, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
We can read books by any author, but we mostly read authors of color. Yes, I will support self-published authors, yes will borrow from the library as well as downloading onto my Kindle. -Debbie, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
The key factors that I look for and remain long after the last page are, when a book club member relates, and feel happy or sad for a character, or when we want to just say a prayer for when the pain of a character effects our soul.
-JoAnna Clark, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore?
I prefer to read hard copy books, because I prefer to read hard copy books and keep them as keepsakes. The price of the books does not matter to me. I would not stop buying hard copies and I doubt that I would switch to digital books permanently.  -Deanne Payne, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation?
In my opinion a book that contains controversial characters; characters that some will like and others will dislike. I also think the topic of the book will make for good book club conversation.  -Monte, Reading with Soul Member

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities?
We haven't hosted any special events yet that invite outside guest. For our charitable giving, and as our way of giving back and supporting the community, since our book club started we have been involved with a homeless family shelter. A couple times a year we purchase food, cook and serve the residents. In addition to that, we donate items and gift cards to this shelter.  -Leslie, Reading with Soul Member




 

 


Chocolate Beauties - Pontiac, Michigan

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! What is the name? Where are you located? 
We are the Chocolate Ceauties Cookclub  located in Pontiac, Michigan.  We were established in 2010 by our president/founder Angela Hunt.  Currently we have 14 members.

BPM: what is the purpose for your organization?
We are a sisterhood of fun loving, reading women.  The Chocolate Beauties purpose:
• To have a strong, positive and divine sisterhood
• To uplift and not tear one another down
• To push each other forward when we are stuck in our situations
• To encourage each other to reach our goals
• To pray for one another
• To fellowship and have fun
• And of course to discuss the book of the month

BPM: Tell us about your members. What is the demographic of your group? 
We are all African American women (single, married, mothers, working, 35 years or older)  Our Group Personality: good hearted, comedians, some what serious – great combination that works together

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Has it been difficult to get people to join the group or to stay in the group? 
New members should love to read, ready to share, ready to have fun, enjoy working with the community and be dedicated.  We try to stay away from negative people.  Our membership goes up and down due to work, schedules and/or loss of interest. There is no online version of the group.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
A good book club conversation is when the whole group has read the book and comes to the meeting ready to share their thoughts, opinions, personal feelings and/or what they thought should have happened in the book. The questions in the back of the book helps, but the members generally come with their set of questions.  Side bar conversations are not allowed in the meeting…..helps to keep the meeting on track.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
• Our books are generally selected by the hostess for the meeting.
• Some members have time to read outside of the book of the month.
• As of today, we do not use social media to share our featured books with other readers.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
• 100% of the books that we read are by authors of color.
• Yes we support self-published authors.
• Yes, some members borrow books from the library.

BPM: What type of books have generated the most interesting discussions? Why?
True, gritty stories (storylines where the members can relate.)

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
The Stalker Chronicle Series by Electa Rome Parks;  The Man In 3B, Family Business Series, and the Choir Director Series all by Carl Weber.

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book?
We are reading “The Ties That Bind” by Electra Rome Parks. Next readings are selected by the meeting hostess.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? 
We as a group will be attending our 1st book signing on November 8th. However, some members have attended book signings prior to joining the book club.

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
No special events are held. However, we held a celebration in July 2015 to celebrate our 5th year anniversary.  Yes, we get together as a group outside of book club meeting to attend other social events and to support fellow book club members in their community activities.

BPM: What is the preferred way to find new book?
Most books are selected/found via book club members or friends.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer to read digital books? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
Members are responsible for purchasing their books. Most are purchased online and/or in bookstores. Some members use/have the Kindle reader. Cost/price does not play a part in book selection/purchase. Yes, we will continue to purchase printed books.

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them?
We have had an issue with members keeping their personal woes out of the meetings and/or group. Generally the President will have a 1 on 1 with them.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?
• Be patient
• Keep mess and messy people out
• Enjoy the fellowship/sisterhood
• Have fun

BPM: How can we follow you online? 
Facebook: CHOCOLATEBEAUTIES BOOKCLUB


 

 



Sisters With Books - Los Angeles California

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How many members do you have? 
We are "SISTERS WITH BOOKS." We are located in Los Angeles California. Our group began in 1995. A group of black women mainly educators decided they wanted to discuss books after they've read them. On roll, we have 25, we average 15 to 20 every month.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Does the name have a special meaning?
The purpose of our reading club is sisterhood, and to read books written by black women. We have made exceptions: Leonard Pitts, Amy Tan, Daniel Black, and Guy Johnson.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group?
Sisters With Books consist of black women, ages 40's 50's 60's and 70's. We're high energy, love to debate and generous.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? 
We have an open door policy. Our core members have been constant (15 members) we read a book a month, which can be challenging for some women who have younger children. If you're an introvert, Sisters With Books probably is not the group for you.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
A twist in a story leads to a good book club discussion. Loving Donanvan by Bernice Mcfadden, lead to a discussion about our black men, and how so many of them have not been taught. We almost always have "side bars," a OJ SIMPSON TRIAL TERM. Each facilitator is different. We have some pretty creative women, a reading guide is good but not necessary.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? 
We select our books for the next year in November. We don't meet in December, because that month gets busy with holiday activities. When suggesting a book, it should have been read by the person recommending. We have side books that are put on an alternative list. The side books don't necessarily get discussed in our group. Two or three will get together outside the group. Our group of women are just becoming social media friendly.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library?
Authors of color, absolutely. We feel we're their voice. Pamela Samuels is one of our favorite authors. She has been brave enough to come to our book circle. The library is our friend. It can be costly purchasing a book every month. Most of the women have a Kindle or iPad, but everyone agrees, there's nothing like holding an actual book.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group?  
We love historical fiction, we don't do well with biography, although Dorothy Dandridge was well received. We have a tendency of going back to our favorite authors: Bernice McFadden, Pamela Samuels Young, Ayana Mathis, Pearl Cleage, Anita Buckley, Dolen P. Valdez,Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant. Leonard Pitts, Dwayne Smith, and Daniel Smith. 

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
In "Freeman" the charcter's quest to find his wife.
In "12 Tribes of Hattie" each character could have been a book.
In "Silver Sparrow " we knew of someone living a double life.

BPM: Do you post book reviews? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?
Individuals have posted reviews. We give suggestions and identify what we didn't agree with. In 2011, Sisters With Books participated in DIGG INTO BOOKS web show, created by 4 Hearts Productions. It can be found on YouTube

BPM: What type of books have generated the most interesting discussions? Why?
The historical fiction "Wench" was the book we discussed on YouTube slavery vs enslaved. "Gathering of Waters" by Bernice McFadden, spirits, and so many of the women experienced spirits. "Before I Forget" by Leonard Pitts Jr., a Blackman realizing he wasn't a good father.

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
FREEMAN by Leonard Pitts Jr.
Before I Forget by Leonard Pitts Jr.
Loving Donovan by Bernice McFadden
What Looks like Crazy on an Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? 
We
're reading 40 Acres bybDwayne Smith, a recommendation from a book club member.  Next up: 
1. My Name is Butterfly by Bernice McFadden
2. Murder at Cape Three Points by Kwei Quartey
3. Balm by Dolen P. Valdez 

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? 
Love book signings and love to hear the author read from their book. We've had the privilege of having: 
Anita Buckely, Dwayne Smith, Pamela Samuels Young and Eric Jerome Dickey.

BPM: Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
We've attended Alvin Ailey dance performance of "Stormy Weather" a Lena Horn play.  Attended a garden tour. Attended an opera performance by Lauren Michelle (a book club member's daughter who is scheduled to perform at the DC OPERA HOUSE and ST. LOUIS OPERA HOUSE next year. We're proud! We also attended the Obama Inauguration. 

BPM: Which is the preferred way to find books:  recommendations, social media or advertisements?
Recommendations are how we prefer to select books for the group and personally.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? 
I still support our community black bookstore Esowon. We give them our book list for the year and they will purchase. They also give us a discount. There are some books that can only be bought online.

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them?
One of our original book club members, lost her only child in a horrific car accident. It was in the month of June, she had just retired from teaching, her anniversary week-end and Father's Day.  We rallied around her. There are some books, that are just to difficult for our sister friend to handle. She has started attending book club again. This happened 3 years ago.We had a special meeting just to talk, it was therapeutic. This is an example of how our book club has served many purposes.

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors? 
Social media has not changed me, because I seek out new authors, new books because I love to read!

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?
Do it for the love of the written word, everything else will follow. Respect other points of view. We can agree to disagree.

BPM: Do attend Twitter chats or Facebook chats? Ever viewed a Goggle Hangout or Periscope show? 

Haven't attended chats, would love to Face Time with our favorite authors, such as Bernice Mcfadden and Leonard Pitts Jr.   

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
Sisters With Books' legacy will be black women coming together through adversity as well as celebrating each other.

 

 

 

 


Marcus Book Club - Oakland, CA 


Interview with La Rhonda Crosby-Johnson & Yolanda Smith, (original members) of Marcus Book Club (MBC)

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started?
MBC: Marcus Book Club started in August of 1997, in Oakland, CA as a part of Marcus Book Store (the oldest, African American owned bookstore in the nation.) We gathered that first time as a group of 232 readers, divided into 6 “Chapters.”  Each Chapter met once per month, at the book store. Our first book was “My Soul To Keep” by Tananarive Due, who remains a favorite author. Over time the numbers decreased, eliminating the need for Chapters. Today we are 12 – 15 strong and meet on the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Meetings are still held at Marcus Book Store.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Does the name have a special meaning?
MBC: Our book club’s main focus is in alignment with the tradition of Marcus Books; to read and discuss books BY and ABOUT Black People everywhere. The book club has the name of the bookstore, which was named in honor of Marcus Garvey.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole?
MBC: Our book club is primarily female, black and over the age of 30. We tend to be serious about great literature and sometimes have to remind ourselves to “lighten up” and make some “completely fun” book selections. We enjoy diverse opinions and lively discussions.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
MBC: A good book club discussion usually includes one or all of the following: thoughtful and diverse opinions and perspectives, a moderator who is comfortable with differing ideas and is able to bring in the less talkative members, provocative and interesting discussion questions and FUN!!! 

We often develop our own questions, but have also used reading guides. We allow for “roaming”, particularly when current events connect to our book discussion, and keep the conversation on topic to respect the reason everyone came together – to discuss the book.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
MBC: Each member is responsible for facilitating a discussion. The facilitator selects 2 – 3 books for the group to vote on and the book with the most votes is then read and discussed. We usually do not discuss books outside of our selection, but often recommend books to each other that members are reading outside of the book club. While individual members most definitely share with their networks what we are reading, we do not use social media to do this.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? 
MBC: Yes and Yes again. Occasionally, we read a book by an author who is not Black, but the topic is always about Black people. We support self-published authors. As a book club that originated out of a book store and feel very strongly about supporting independent booksellers, all book club selections are purchased from Marcus Book Store.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? 
MBC: We read from a variety of genres; ranging from mystery to fantasy. We read both fiction and non-fiction. The only genre that we haven’t read has been romance. This has not changed over time.

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
MBC: The key factor that usually keeps us talking about a book is usually the characters. We also find ourselves referring back to books that were very well written or helped us to see and/or understand something from a new perspective.

BPM: What types of books have generated the most interesting discussions? Why?
MBC: Books that force us to address cultural and societal issues have generated the most interesting discussions because everyone has some level of investment in the topic. It is not out of the ordinary that we will “agree to disagree” during these discussions.

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
MBC: This is an avid reader’s least favorite question, with so many wonderful books that have expanded our horizons. Forcing ourselves to pick, here goes….1- Men We Reaped (Jesmyn Ward), 2 -Perfect Peace (Daniel Black), 3- The Warmth of Other Suns (Isabel Wilkerson), 4 – The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks (Rebecca Skloot), and 5 – Anybody’s Daughter (Pamela Samuels-Young.) 

BPM: What are you reading now? What books are on your reading schedule?
MBC: Right now we are reading Attica Locke’s “Pleasantville.” She has fast become a book club favorite. Up next for us are “Driving The King” by Ravi Howard and an author who is new to the book club, Bryan Stevenson (“Just Mercy.”)

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? Do you like to hear the author reading from the book?
MBC: Individually and as a book club, we enjoy attending book signings, literary festivals and events. Several of our members are regulars at the National Book Club Convention held in Atlanta and The United California African American Bookclubs “Fall Into Fiction Event” held each September. There is nothing like hearing the author read from the book. It often brings a better understanding of book and/or characters. Raffles and Gift Giveaways at these events are always a PLUS!

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
MBC: We purchase all our book club selections from Marcus Book Store. While most of our members also read digital books outside of the book club we would never consider not buying printed books.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who are in or who might want to start a book club?
MBC: Have fun, give everyone equal voice and be open to reading books you might not choose on your own. There have been many times when we did not like the book and had amazing discussions or developed a different appreciation for the book.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussions? How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
MBC: We don’t have an online presence separate from the bookstore. Gives us something to consider. In the meantime you can reach us via Marcus Books on Facebook. 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/marcusbooks

Shown in the  First Picture: 
(Left to Right) Standing: Dera Williams, Freda Pleasants, Denise Crawford

(Left to Right) Seated: Yolanda Smith, Iris Brooks

Members not pictured:

Blanche Richardson (founder), Deborah Burton, Tira McDonald, Jim McDonald, Christine Munroe, Barbara Taylor, Phil Wilhite, Bernardean Broadous, Monica Brandon, Lucretia Cotton

 

 

 


Soul Sistahs Book Club - Chattanooga, TN

Soul Sistahs Book Club was founded in 2011 by Kenya Ervin of Chattanooga, TN. Initially comprised of coworkers, membership has been extended to close family and friends that share a passion for books. Soul Sistahs Book Club's mission is to promote literacy and encourage sisterhood among women of all ages and backgrounds through the love of reading and lively conversations.  Interview questions completed by Kenya Ervin, President, Soul Sistahs Book Club.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How many members do you have? 
SSBC: Soul Sistahs Book Club was founded in September 2011 by Kenya Ervin. Currently, we do not have officers assigned, but everyone comes together to get things done. We are located in Chattanooga, TN and we have five active members. Our club was started because I loved to read but I never had anyone to talk to about the books after I finished. I sought out like-minded individuals that were looking for the same thing and a book club was born. 

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
SSBC: Our group consists of professional African-American women in our thirties. We all have extremely different personalities so when we come together, it makes for a very animated discussion. We really enjoy having fun and thought provoking discussions during our meetings.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person?  Do you have an online version of the group?
SSBC: When accepting members into the group, we explain all of our requirements in detail. We look for people that love to read and are willing to commit to attending meetings once per month. Over the years, it has been difficult for people to stay in the group due to their lack of commitment and participation. We do not offer an online version of the book club at this time but we do have dedicated Facebook and Twitter pages to interact with other readers and authors.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
SSBC: In my opinion, being honest and open-minded makes a good book club conversation. Our conversations roam to different topics most of the time but we are usually able to reel everyone back in to finish the topic at hand. We use reading guides for some of our discussions and they can be really helpful in keeping the discussions on track.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? When do you select the books? 
SSBC: When we started the book club, I would search online and best sellers lists to choose our book of the month. I would choose three books and allow my members to vote on the book they would like to read for the following month. Recently, I started a "Book Box". I allow my members to write names of books on a slip of paper and drop it into the box whenever they like. Each month, I draw from the box and that's what we will read. It's been very interesting so far.

BPM: Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month?
SSBC: Absolutely! We're always reading and if someone reads a book that they enjoyed, we love to talk about it and possibly add it as a book of the month selection.

BPM: Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
SSBC: Yes. Twice a month I share what we're reading on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer to read digital books? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
SSBC: We primarily purchase our books online. Most of my members prefer to read digital books. I am still partial to printed books and I will never stop buying them.

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussions? How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
SSBC: Yes to all of the above! We can be reached at the following locations:
Twitter: @BookSistahs
Facebook: www.facebook.com/soulsistahs.bookclub

 

 

 


Book Pearls Book Club- Chester, Virginia 

There are readers, individuals who may casually stroll from series to series as film adaptations have peaked their interest and driven them to the nearest bookstore or library. Then there are literary advocates, individuals who believe that books are as recreational as they are academic and socially impactful; these are individuals who have made it their life's work to foster and nourish the livelihood of literature despite society's shift and focus on media that can be absorbed quickly. 

Opting to combine the base philosophy of literary advocates like herself with her personal beliefs, Yvonne Bailey has founded Book Pearls, a book club devoted to increasing readership within Black communities and uniting women through sisterhood and fellowship. 

The Book Pearls meet monthly to discuss the chosen book of the month. Each discussion is different as these women have chosen to embrace all literary genres. "We love to read all genres, each book that we read carries a different message and has touched our lives in various ways".

Often, the monthly meetings carry the Pearls to various locations within their community and surrounding areas as they believe literature is a moving art form that reflects the world we live in. As the Pearls grow, they hope to become more involved within their local communities and reading communities worldwide. 

Currently, the Book Pearls are reading Crazy Rich Asian by Kevin Kwan. You can join their discussion by liking them on Facebook at Book Pearls.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How many members do you have?
Book Pearls: We are an awesome group of women who love books, family and each other. The name of our book club is Book Pearls and we are located in Chester, Virginia which is located about ten minutes outside of Richmond, Virginia. The group was started in September of 2012 after an interest meeting and as of today we currently have six members.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole?
Book Pearls: I have the pleasure of knowing five spirited women who not only love me and allow me to be in their presence but also uplift and nourish who i am destined to be. These women share a love of life that only comes around once in a lifetime and I am honored to be a part of their lives. Book Pearls is composed of six strong willed, enjoying life, open-minded women.

BPM: In your opinion what makes a good book club discussion? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
Book Pearls: A good book club discussion should always have you wanting more. As a reader, I am always searching for ways that I can either relate to the characters or the story, in the event i am unable to personally relate to the character or topic of the book then i revel in the opportunity to have been introduced to new ideals. As a group we are always looking to better our discussions by being able to relate or place ourselves in the characters shoes. As the leader I try to keep the discussion on topic as much as I possibly can however, there will be times when it is necessary to go off topic as it relates to either of the members lives or we may just need a moment to vent. I have found in the past that a reading guide can be helpful but it is also intriguing to see what questions the host may create as well.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
Book Pearls: Whoever host for that particular month gets to choose the book. This gives each member a voice and a chance to pick a book they may have been wanting to read for some time. We generally do not read and discuss books outside of our book club pick. We may read other books during the month and suggest them to one another but we do not discuss them. We are currently on Facebook and will be branching out to Instagram and twitter within this month. We share our bookclub meetings as well as our featured books on Facebook.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
Book Pearls: As a group we love our authors of color and try to support them as much as we possibly can but we generally read all authors. We support self-published authors and the public library is our friend.

BPM: Do you write and post book reviews to online retailers? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?
Book Pearls: We love to write reviews. This allows us to voice our opinion and to give the author honest feedback. As for bad reviews or flopped books, the authors should be told. As readers we pay for a book hoping for the best, in many cases the books turn out to be decent and in the event that is does not, the author needs to know the readers thoughts.

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? What books are on your reading schedule?
Book Pearls: We are currently reading, Crazy, Rich, Asians by Kevin Kwan. This book was chosen by Lady Pearl Candice. We choose books on a month to month basis so we do not have a reading schedule.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? Do you like to hear the author reading from the book?
Book Pearls: Book Pearls love to attend book signings and literary events. We just attended The Black Authors and Readers Rock literary event. While we love self-published authors, we would love to see more known authors at some of these events. 

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who are in or might want to start a book club?

Book Pearls: The biggest advice to give to someone who is wanting to start a book club, Go for it! Life is too short to not live it beautifully, so why wait or let fear cripple you. Call a few friends who share the love of reading and choose a book. If you would like please follow us on Facebook: Book Pearls. Interview submitted by Renee Bailey, president of Book Pearls Bookclub.

 



Mocha Girls Read Book Club 

BPM: Please tell us about your book club!  How did your club get started? 
Hi there, I'm Alysia Allen. We are Mocha Girls Read an online and in person book club for Black women. We are located in five cities right now in Los Angeles and San Diego, California; Tempe, Arizona; New Lenox, Illinois and now Waldorf, Maryland. For our members who can’t make a meeting or don’t live near a meeting area they can go online to http://mochagirlsread.com and at http://goodreads.com

Mocha Girls Read started in October, 2011 after I looked all over the internet for a book club, I found two and joined them both. They were good and I have made a few new friends from them. But I noticed one thing about both of them…I was the only black, woman of color, African-American, mocha girl in the clubs. I thought about this for a while and finally said to myself, “Self, there has got to be some sistas in LA who like to read.” After much thought and discussion with family and friends MOCHA GIRLS READ was born. As of today Mocha Girls Read book club has about 2,000 members world wide.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Does the name of the club have a special meaning?
We are a group of black women who love to read, want to read more and meet like-minded women. The books we read range from fiction, self-help, historical romance, best sellers, good ol’ short stories and basically anything we can get our hands on. Mocha Girls Read brings black women in the community together to read great literature, online and in person chit chatting about the monthly selection and a whole lot more. We are different form other book clubs because:

1. We read all genres, by authors of all genders and races, and from any publication date. 
2. We are free to all women.
3. We never close meetings and membership. 
4. We are ageless. We just ask that members under 18 years old have the permission of a parent each month. 

The name of the book club is based on our skin color, our gender and our hobby. Mocha Girls Read.

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
Our main focus has been sisterhood. Our members are so diverse and have various reasons for joining but the end result seems to be the same. We love being in each other company. I hope Mocha Girls Read brings the joy of read to each community and uplifts the Black women in each chapter through fellowship.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole?
Mocha Girls Read members are all ages. Our youngest member in 21 years old and our oldest is in her 80’s. We have working mom’s, single women, grandmothers and newly weds. We even have a few non Black members who just love what we are about and want to support us in all our efforts. 

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person?
We are an open book club so members can come and go, as they like. We understand life, family, work come first and reading is a past time when permitted. We have two policies about membership. Members never have to host meeting in their homes and you don’t have to read the book to join in. Come as you are. Those two things seem to bring women in to the club (and it’s free) more than anything. 

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
Each month I pick a theme (ie, October’s theme is a scary book), the members then have the chance to nominate one book based on the theme. Then the following week all members get to vote on three titles from the list of nominated books. The book with the most votes wins. We are bookworms so yes we talk about books each of us are reading outside of the book of the month at meeting or other book club gatherings. We are going to start using our social media outlets for more month interactions with members.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library?
We read books by all authors despite race. So far in our 4 years of reading together we have read books by Chinese-American authors, Indian authors and White authors. To make the book of the month available to all members it has to be in e-book and physical form. Some members share books, buy the books from Amazon, or get them from the library. So anything goes. 

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? 
We read all genres so that at the end of the year a Mocha Girl has read at least read one non-fiction, one fiction, one poetry and one award-winning book. 

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them?
We have faced some really big challenges with the building of this book club. The location for the Los Angeles chapter is too small and we are desperately seeking a new free venue to hold 40 plus members. The Waldorf chapter is also looking for a place to call home. Other chapters are having a hard time getting members to understand the mission of reading outside of their race. But the big hurdle we have is finding a core group that will be dedicated to the building of the online community. 

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? How can we follow you online?
Twitter: @mochagirlsread
Website: http://mochagirlsread.com 
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mochagirlsread  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mochagirlsread 

BPM: Thank you Alysia Allen and Classandra "Classy" Green.



 


Unique, Sophisticated, Girlfriends Inspirational Reading & Literary Society 

U.S.G.I.R.L.S. Interview conducted by Founding Members: Karen Lewis, Jennie Blue, Valerie Jefferson and Ardee Harris.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started?
Founding Members: Unique, Sophisticated, Girlfriends Inspirational Reading and Literary Society (U.S. G.I.R.L.S.), located in Jacksonville, Florida formed in October 2004.

It all began with an email from founding member, Karen Lewis, in September 2004 entitled: “Calling All Bookworms.” With the new phenomena of book clubs forming throughout the city, Karen visited several, with intentions of joining, but was not impressed with any of them. She called upon her friend, Jennie who was in another book club and her sister-in-law Ardee “Dee” to consider forming a book club. Jennie then called her friend, Valerie who was also in a book club at the time.

Karen hosted our first meeting in October of 2004 with The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips. During this meeting, the four of us formed by-laws for our book club and gave suggestions for a name. We were nameless and simply referred to ourselves as “the book club” until 2007, when Karen came up with our clever name and acronym “U.S. G.I.R.L.S.” During the formation meeting we also agreed that we would not elect officers, and preferred to have the "Founding Members" designated as the governing body. 

We have a membership limit of twelve and currently have nine active members. Last month we lost two members due to job relocations, and created a new non-member title of “permanent visitor.” This title gives these individuals an open invitation to our meetings. 

In addition to the aforementioned Founders, our members are: Bonnie Surrency, Ka Saundra Hosea, Celeste Merrix, Rosalyn Amaro and Sharron Marshall.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something in particular that makes your group/blog different from other groups? Does the name of the club/blog or store have a special meaning?
Founding Members: When we started the book club our purpose was to share our love of reading and have fun while engaging in passionate discussion of books about people of color, with the African-American experience being the common theme. 

U.S.G.I.R.L.S. is different in that we try to keep the focus on actually discussing the book and not let the main agenda be just a social gathering with no book discussion. While keeping our meetings tasteful, we often have lively, thought-provoking discussions while keeping an open mind regarding the topic of the day. We love bringing the readers and the writers together through author participation because often while reading you try to delve into the minds of the writer. Through active participation by the author we get a much better understanding of their thought processes while writing the book. 

We came up with the name U.S. G.I.R.L.S. (Unique, Sophisticated, Girlfriends Inspirational Reading and Literary Society) because it describes just who we are – a unique family of educated and sophisticated women who have an avid love of reading. 

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
Founding Members: As our mission statement says, our main focus is to bring attention to issues of interest to women of color, while encouraging and increasing an appreciation for literature. Over the years we have become more than a book club. We are not only “black women who read” but we are have also extended our involvement through book drives and other community outreach ventures. We feel that those watching in the community see us an active group of black women operating with a spirit of excellence in our endeavor to uplift, inspire, promote and encourage women both young and old, while building lifelong friendships and relationships. 

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole?
Founding Members: We are all professional women of color; our youngest member in her early 40s. We have various undergraduate and graduate degrees, and possess strong, diverse personalities which always make for an interesting meeting. We enjoy debating and agreeing to disagree on various book discussion topics.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? 
Founding Members: Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, a serious reader and recommended by a current member. All applicants must attend a meeting and membership is voted upon by the founding members. We are not a book club that gets together for wine and cheese and the book discussion is secondary. We take our literature seriously. 

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
Founding Members: Our discussions are always engaging and typically stay on point of the current book. At one point the books we were reading centered on discussions about family bloodlines. During those discussions it often came up about family secrets and if it was okay to have family secrets. Those discussions were always interesting, insightful, and debatable. Our group is very conscientious of our time together and holds that time sacred to ensure the discussions are relatable and if we veer off point, the host quickly brings everyone back to the discussion at hand.

The reading guides (when available) are helpful, however we generally either add to the reader’s guide or generate our own. In December 2012, we read The Healing by Jonathan Odell and the hostess developed a reading guide. The guide was sent to Jonathan Odell, who participated via Skype. He was so impressed with the guide that added it to his website, with an “U.S. G.I.R.L.S.” By-line. We were very excited.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers?
Founding Members: Each book club member selects the book they are hosting, the club members are responsible for checking the website for the selection as well as checking for the questions at least one week in advance. 

Recently, one of the founding members signed U.S.G.I.R.L.S on Twitter. Prior to our Twitter account we used our personal Twitter accounts to connect with authors and other book clubs. Our book club meets every other month, and takes a sabbatical during the summer. During our off months individually, members often read other books and share at meetings, or utilize that time to research and plan for their meetings.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
Founding Members: Upon inception of the book club, we decided to mainly read books that deal with issues facing African American women and women of color, while at the same time using our book choices as a way to extend our support to black authors. While our preference is to be the audience of black authors, we have read several selections by white authors whose topics were related to the African-American experience. We do and have supported self-published authors, including authors Angelia Vernon Menchan and Shakira R. Thompson. Some of our members choose to borrow books from the library while others prefer purchasing their books, be it e-books or hard cover books.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? 
Founding Members: U.S. G.I.R.L.S. makes an attempt to read different genres throughout the year to keep our reading experiences exciting. By allowing each member/hostess to choose the genre of book up for discussion, our varying literary tastes often open new doors and interests for us. We have read several novels of historical fiction about African-Americans, where it feels as if we are re-living history through the stories and experiencing first-hand what the characters had to endure in the past, however this genre is not our main focus. We also love reading that allows us to travel the world through books, taking us places and allowing us to experience different cultures and traditions via literary travels. 

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
Founding Members: Books that we can connect to will remain on our minds long after the last page. If we can make a connection such as book to self, book to book, or even book to world today. Those are the books that we remember long after the last page is turned.

BPM: Do you write and post book reviews to online retailers? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?
Founding Members: Individually each member is responsible and asked to post book reviews on Amazon. We have reminders on our website, as well as encourage members to complete the reviews after our meetings. Our group is not shy, and does not hesitate to appropriately rate a book. If a book is bad, our individual members, call it from, 
“ A Sleeper to Wasteful Reading.”

BPM: What type of books have generated the most interesting discussions? Why?
Founding Members: There is not one particular type of book that has generated the most interesting discussions. Strangely, some of our liveliest discussions came from books that many of us really disliked. . I believe that our various backgrounds and life experiences cause differences of opinion whether we are debating about an unliked character or questioning the author’s style of writing and thought process. 

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons?
Founding Members: There have been several books that we have considered 5-star; namely:
* The Healing: Jonathan Odell
* The Supremes at Earl’s All You Can Eat: Edward Kelsey Moore
* Calling Me Home: Julie Kibler
* The Secret of Magic: Deborah Johnson
* Queen Sugar: Natalie Baszile
* Forty Acres: Dwayne Alexander Smith

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? What books are on your reading schedule? 
Founding Members: Our next meeting, will be hosted by Celeste Merrix, and is scheduled for October 3rd at One Ocean Resort located on Jacksonville Beach. This will be our 11th Anniversary and Celeste selected Toni Morrison’s God Help The Child after a very laborious internet search. She read over six before selecting Ms. Morrison’s newest offering. 

Our next hostess, Bonnie Surrency has selected Kimberla Lawson Roby’s The Ultimate Betrayal for our December meeting. We have a library of all the books we have read since our conception on our website.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? Do you like to hear the author reading from the book?
Founding Members: Many of our members have attended book signings and literary events. We like to meet the authors and have an opportunity for a photo opportunity and to have question and answer sessions with the authors. It’s okay if the author wants to read his or her favorite parts of the book and share why they chose to write certain scenes.

BPM: Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities? Do you get together as a group to socialize outside of your book club meetings?
Founding Members: U.S. G.I.R.L.S. has worked with several non-profit organizations over the years, and have hosted several events. As a group, we have gotten together to socialize with other book clubs and support charitable fund raisers hosted by members.

BPM: Which is the preferred way to find new books: a friend's recommendation; on social media; or advertisement for the book, such as: online radio, newsletter eblast, contests or tagging on FB?
Founding Members: I think that the best way to find new books is on a friend’s recommendation. We check out different book sites that will recommend books, but the best books are the ones that someone we know has already read or recommended.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer to read digital books? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
Founding Members: Our group is very diverse in how we purchase books. Some members make a point to visit local Libraries, most purchase e-books, while others prefer having hardbacks. Often when a local author is invited, each member purchases a hard copy to have signed by the author. As an example, a hostess gift of a signed hard copy of “Forty Acres” was presented to the host, when a member purchased the hard back, and requested the author personally sign and ship back in time for the meeting. I can say at each meeting, all three methods are seen, library, e-books, and hardbacks. I can say our group will never stop buying printed copies.

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them?
Founding Members: We faced the serious illness and passing of one of our members recently. We watched our member/sister’s health deteriorate for almost two years as she battled lung cancer. She was very private about her illness and although it was difficult, we all respected her decision to remain private. After she transitioned in February of 2014, we remembered her at our next meeting with a vacant chair, balloon release and a pictorial tribute on our website. 

Fortunately, we have not faced any challenges that relate to membership or membership discord. 

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors? Do you like to find new authors and interact online? 
Founding Members: Yes, social media has had an impact on our viewpoints about certain authors. Some authors are very receptive when reaching out for book club meeting interaction, and some are not. I remember one incident where we reached out to an author, and he committed to participating via Skype, however when the designated time arrived, we could not reach him. He never sent us an email as to what happened and it did leave U.S. G.I.R.L.S slightly disenchanted to say the least. 

We have found that newer authors are more receptive to book club interactions vs. veteran authors. This is by no means a “snub” to seasoned authors, but an observation that maybe they should be more receptive to their core market.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?
Founding Members: Remember to have fun, plan your meetings months in advance, prepare discussion questions, invite guests, invite authors, and again have fun. We look forward to our book club meetings because we all share a love for reading and discussing books.

BPM: Do you attend Twitter chats or Facebook chats? Have you ever viewed a Goggle Hangout or Periscope show? Would you like to chat with your favorite authors on Skype, FaceTime or over the phone? 
Founding Members: We have not participated in any chats; however we have had several authors Skype or phone into our meetings. The first author to join our meeting (prior to our current technological advances) via telephone was L.Y. Marlow in November of 2007. Since that time, the following authors have joined our meetings via Skype: Jonathan Odell, The Healing; Julie Kibler, Calling Me Home; Deborah Johnson, The Secret of Magic; and Dwayne Alexander Smith, Forty Acres.

We have also had local independent authors Angelia Vernon Menchan, Glowing Embers in a Dying Fire and Shakira R. Thompson, High Noon Justice, physically join our meetings

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussions? How can we follow you online? Do you have a website or social media pages?
Founding Members: Yes, U.S. G.I.R.L.S. would love to be invited to future events. Our follow, website and contact information are below:
Twitter: @usgirls2004
Website: http://usgirls04.wix.com/usgirls

Founding members in collage photo from top left: Karen Lewis and Ardee “Dee” Harris; bottom left: Valerie Jefferson and Jennie “JayBee” Blue

Please feel free to connect with U.S. G.I.R.L.S. online
Thank you,
Karen Lewis
Jennie "JayBee" Blue
Valerie Jefferson
Ardee "Dee" Harris

 

 

 

 


Real Divas Read and More, Social Club - Conley Georgia

BPM: Please tell us about your reading group!  How did your club get started? 
The Real Divas Read & More Social Club, located in Conley Georgia, began in 2013, and currently has 10 members. The conception of RDR was an idea that Diva Wanda established, after not receiving the fulfillment and satisfaction that she truly desired out of other groups, therefore; she blended her love of reading and interacting with other women that shares the same passion as she does. 

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something in particular that makes your group different from other groups? Does the name of the club have a special meaning? 
The RDR social club was conceived, to build everlasting friendships with beautiful women who are ambitious, hardworking, optimistic, passionate and enthusiastic about life and reading. As a “Sisterhood”, our book club signifies the words of our mission statement as follows: “Enlightening, Uplifting, and Empowering Women through Fellowship, Service and Support”. The women of this group portray a more positive, sisterly and supportive attitudes with one another to debunk the myths about all of us being catty and confrontational, which ideally sets us apart from groups.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
The demographics of the RDR are all women between the ages of 33 to 55. The personality of the group is that of Performing. This is a stage of a fully functional group where members see themselves as a group and get involved in the task. Each person makes a contribution and the authority figure is also seen as a part of the group. Group norms are followed and collective pressure is exerted to ensure the Process of Group effectiveness.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Do you have an online version of the group? 
The Real Divas Read is a social club with a flair for reading, with that being said we welcome women who are authentic. They must enjoy participating in community awareness events, social events, and of course have a passion for reading. We would like to have divas that have the time, dedication, and openness to be a part of our club. Life happens to all of us, therefore ones priorities change because of circumstance, so we understand when a diva wants to leave the group. Ladies do request to be a part of the group all the time. We utilize Meetup as a way to invite potential divas to be a part of our club. Meetup and our Real Divas Read Facebook page are the two ways women who are interested can learn more about our group.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation? Do you keep the conversation on topic, or roam? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion? 
To have a good book club conversation, foremost you must have read the book to be a part of the discussion. Stating open ended questions will keep the dialog going instead of asking yes/no questions. A character analysis of the main character(s), would allow the readers to see how their views may differ from that of other readers. Also asking readers if they can relate to any of the characters will allow the conversation to flow.

It is best to keep the conversation on topic to allow time for the book to be discussed in detail. Although at times it’s easy to get off the subject, but try to keep it to a minimum amount of time.

Yes, a reading guide does help. Often the guide assists in posing questions that the reader would not have thought of, and it helps with the flow of the book discussion.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you read and discuss books outside of the book of the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers? 
We individually select a book we think will be interesting for the group to read for the month, when the prologue is read out loud on a few of the selections, we vote, and then the decision is made.
Some Divas are avid readers, yes some read additional books but the Divas only discuss our book once a month in our intimate setting.

Yes. We are on social media on Meetup.com and Facebook.com. Search for us at (Real Divas Read & More Social Club), we encourage others to see what we are reading and attend a meeting if they are interested.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library? 
We actually don't have a preference, however, the topic and delivery (whether Fiction or Non Fiction) plays a big part in our selection of authors. Yes. Absolutely, we do support self-published authors. We have read and met a number of Authors who have written and published their own novels. We love to see authors promote their literary work. 

Yes. Currently they are a few of our members that borrow their books from the library.

BPM: What are you reading now? How did you find out about this book? What books are on your reading schedule? 
The group is currently reading My Wife’s Lover by RM Johnson. A few of the Divas met the author at the National Book Club conference; he introduced his novel and was invited to be our guest at our October meeting. Unfortunately; this will be our last book for the year as the holidays are approaching, but the club will resume again beginning a new year in January 2016.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? Do you like to hear the author reading from the book? 
Several of the Divas had the privilege of attending the “The World's Largest Book Club Meeting” The National Book Club Conference. Attending events like this gave us the opportunity to see famous authors and interact with other book clubs who shared the same passion in reading as we did. The conference included everything and much more, that consisted of numerous book club meetings, panel discussions and other events that gave readers face time with the authors of their choice. It was a great forum to offer authors, both newly published and established an opportunity to interact, both formally and casually, with so many fans. There were breakout sessions at the conference in which the audience was given the opportunity to listen to authors reading from their books. As the reader, hearing the author's voice adds a wonderful dimension to the words of the story.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer to read digital books? Does the price of ebooks play a part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books? 
The days of purchasing printed/hard copy books has become obsolete, but in order to support authors that are invited to our meetings we do support them by purchasing their novel and having it signed. Although, the price is cheaper that is not our deciding factor. Ebooks come in to play because they are convenient. A member can log on from any device to enjoy a great read on a tablet, phone or desktop at work. Being avid readers who may travel a lot, digital books provide the convenience (no packing) of having several books on hand at once not to mention purchasing a book in a matter of seconds.

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them? 
Yes. We have faced challenges as a group. We all are from different cultures, back grounds and upbringings. Being in a group especially with deferent personalities, it can be quite challenging to agree on one thing and communicate effectively. All members of RDR have a common goal in which we practice first and foremost, and that is to Encourage, Enlighten and Uplift other woman.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club? 
A book club brings together a group of people to discuss something they all have in common a book everyone has read. Book clubs can be a whole lot of fun and provide a great social outlet. All it takes is a few attentive readers, a book of interest to the group, a place to meet, and a bit of planning and don’t forget the refreshments.

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community? 
The main focus has always been about uplifting and supporting women and we are able to do this through fellowship, services and support of each other and our community. For those watching in the community they can tell we love helping others. Whenever organizations reach out to us (due to prior volunteer work) we are eager to help. We also do not skip out once we have committed to an event even if there is one of us going someone will always be there.

 

 

 

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Soul Sistahs Book Club



Read all of the book club interviews, click here now.

The Soul Sistahs Book Club was founded in 2011 by Kenya Ervin of Chattanooga, TN. Initially comprised of coworkers, membership has been extended to close family and friends that share a passion for books. Soul Sistahs Book Club's mission is to promote literacy and encourage sisterhood among women of all ages and backgrounds through the love of reading and lively conversations. 

BPM: Introduce us to your group. What was the first book you read as a group?
SSBC: Soul Sistahs Book club was founded in September 2011 by Kenya Ervin. Currently, we do not have officers assigned, but everyone comes together to get things done. We are located in Chattanooga, TN and we have seven active members. The first book that we read was G-Spot by Noire. It was a very lively and interesting discussion.

BPM: Why was your organization created? Do you write and post book reviews? Do you host events?
SSBC: Initially, our organization was created because I loved to read and I wanted to discuss what I read with an interested party. Most people that I talked to did not share the same passion that I had for reading. I asked a few coworkers if they would be interested and it took off from there. Now we are a group of sisters that not only share a love of reading, but we share things about our personal lives as well. The members that write book reviews are Kenya Ervin, Shannon Pasley, and Treneka Jackson. Our club anniversary is usually a festive occasion. We have author visits (Tameka Newhouse and Electa Rome Parks), food, entertainment and lots of dancing. We have also hosted other authors during the year. In 2014, I hope that we can have a greater presence in the community.

BPM: What are some of your pet peeves when it comes to book promotions?
SSBC: Flooding our newsfeed and email with their books and flyers. It's ok to post one or two. Anything more than that can become annoying. 

BPM: Do you prefer to only read books written by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? 
SSBC: We try to support all authors but we do prefer authors of color. I think it's easier to identify with the subject matter that's presented by authors of color based on life experiences. We also support self-published authors. 

BPM: Would you ever stop buying printed books? Do you think digital books will ever replace printed books? 
SSBC: I love printed books! I don't believe I will ever stop buying printed books. Although digital books have become very popular, I don't believe they will ever replace printed books. I have several book club members that love digital books and I am slowly embracing them. I love that it allows you to get a book faster than regular mail.

BPM: Does the price of a digital book play a big part in your purchase? 
SSBC: I think the price of a digital book plays a part in my purchase. If the digital copy is the same price as a printed book, I would purchase the printed book instead. I think the free ebooks are a double-edged sword. It's great that the price makes it easier to get books in the hands of more readers but the quality of the material in the books have decreased somewhat.

BPM: Does social media influence your reading selections at all? Would a online radio interview, video chat or Twitter chat influence you enough to purchase a book?
SSBC: Social media is a huge influence on our reading selections. I have chosen several of our book of the month selections based on online radio interviews and Facebook chats. It allows the reader to get up close and personal with an author to see how passionate they are about their work. An author's passion, dedication and great attitude makes us want to support them as much as we can.

President: Kenya Ervin, Soul Sistahs Book Club
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/soulsistahs.bookclub 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Sistah Minds In Motion Book Club - Atlanta, GA

I'm Bobbi Ramey Founder and President of Sistah Minds In Motion Book Club (SMM). 

Sistah Minds In Motions Book Club (SMM) was established in November, 2009 by Bobbi Ramey. The first official book club meeting took place on January 16, 2010. Bobbi Ramey is an avid inspirational reader happily married for almost 16 years with two children. Her idea was to bring together a diverse group of women who enjoy reading and to bond spiritually. She asked her family and friends if they would be interested in joining and the rest is history! SMM was born! SMM is a small African American book club and social organization for positive, spiritual women who enjoy reading.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started? 
Sistah Minds In Motion Book Club (SMM) is located in Atlanta, GA. Bobbi Ramey asked family and friends if they would be interested in joining the rest is history! SMM was established in November 2009 by Bobbi Ramey. Our first official book club meeting took place on January 16, 2010. SMM currently has ten members.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Is there something in particular that makes your group different from other groups?  
The purpose of SMM is to advocate sisterhood and share our love for reading with others. To advocate literacy throughout our community with volunteer efforts, to have women contributing to a collection of wisdom with an environment of lively discussions and to build lifelong friendships, to fellowship and host monthly meetings in order to share ideas and dialogue about a variety of books and finally to build strategic relationships, advocate book clubs, African American authors and other literary organizations and events. 

What makes SMM different? SMM values and lives in a manner that shows leadership and respect for all living beings by fostering healthy relationships and mutual respect. To work together as a team to respect opinions and views of others while appreciating and discussing quality literature as well as the power of unity among women. Sistah Minds In Motion Book (SMM) Book Club Enlightens your mind through the power, spirit, soul of sisterhood and reading. SMM means Sistah’s minds forming together in motion to promote one cause.

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
SMM main focus is support surrounding areas charity events. SMM would like to leave a legacy on building strategic, relationships with advocate book clubs, also with African American authors and other literary organizations and events.

BPM: Tell us about your members. How would you describe the personality of your group as a whole? 
SMM are women that are married, single, employed, in school, educators, working moms, stay-at-home moms and women from all walks of life. The demographics of these ladies are diverse backgrounds located in the surrounding areas of the greater Atlanta area. The ladies of SMM chose to come together to share wisdom, advice, opportunities and discuss the ripples of day to day issues in life.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Do you have an online version of the group?
When accepting new members, SMM looks for members that enjoy reading. Yes and No. Getting people to join is no problem but due to day to day issues, it’s hard for some members to be consistent and they began to drift off. But each former member is still in contact and also friends with SMM book club and they also try to attend events when they are able to. At this time SMM does not have an online group.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you use social media to share your featured books with other readers? 
Each member is unique and has the opportunity to choose a book and location once a month. Yes we do discuss other books outside of the book if the month. Yes, SMM posts monthly on Facebook & Twitter for the book of the month.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? Do you borrow books from the library?
Yes, SMM enjoys reading selections by authors of color. Yes, SMM support self-published authors. No, SMM will mostly purchase each book of the month.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? Has this changed over time? 
SMM reads all genres to include Christian fiction, non-fiction, fiction, inspirational, romance and a wide variety of other topics chosen by our members. No, the types of books have not changed over time.

BPM: Do you write and post book reviews to online retailers? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?
Yes, SMM writes reviews on Amazon.com. SMM really does not write bad reviews, like my mother always said, if you cannot say anything good, do not say nothing at all!

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussions? How can we follow you online?
Yes, SMM would love to be invited to your future events, social media chats and discussions.
Website: http://smmbookclub.com 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sistahmindsinm1 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Sistah-Minds-In-Motions-Book-Club-119574314731811/timeline/ 

 

 

 


Prominent Women of Color - Jacksonville, FL 

PWOC or Prominent Women of Color is a group of women dedicated to the exploration of collected written works in all platforms. This a collection of eclectic perspectives dedicated in enhancing the minds of its members and others in the intricate world of literature. PWOC is well versed and well-traveled in all manner of the written word and that devotion is shown in this delicate array of women who make up this sisterhood. 

BPM: Where is your book club located? How many members do you have? 
PWOC is located in Jacksonville, FL and St Mary’s GA. And was formed in 1999 and we currently have 14 members. The purpose of PWOC is to enrich and enhance our knowledge through our love for reading and encourage one another through fellowship. We promote literacy in every way possible.

BPM: How do you make your book selection?
Our BOM (Book of the Month) is chosen by our hostess for that month based on the theme for that month. Yes, several members do read other books and they are shared throughout the month with others in the group. We share our BOM on Social Media monthly and a picture of the current hostess with their chosen book and/or author. We also often Skype with various authors when we have chosen to read their book for that month.

BPM: Do you prefer to read book by authors of color only? What genre does the group prefer?
The majority of the books we read are from authors of color. We do support various self-published authors and often borrow books form the local library. The majority of our members have e-readers, but some still prefer hard copy books. We read books of all genres, we have member that prefer romance, Sci-Fi, murder mystery and others who prefer urban lit and biography. So as you can see, we dabble in all types of genres.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? 
When we hear about a book signing, or literary event we are ecstatic. If it is within a 2 hour driving distance, we are there supporting the author, (we call these Road Trips) We also as a group try to attend most of the literary festivals and events such as Romance Slam Jam, National Book Club Conference, and authors sponsored cruises. These are the things we plan for throughout the year.

BPM: Do you host events throughout the years? Do you get together to socialize outside the meetings? 
We as a book club invite other authors to Jacksonville, and also invite other local book clubs and various book lovers to help the authors promote their books.  

We support local charities such as Clara White Mission where we go and assist in distributing much needed clothing and food. We also donate to local outreach programs for nursing homes in which we supply blankets, pajamas, arts and craft supplies, etc. We donate school supplies to schools in both Jacksonville and Georgia at the beginning of each school year. 

We look forward to attending movies, pool parties, and we have a mother’s day luncheon every year. We also host an annual Christmas party for our book club members and their families. 

BPM: When accepting new members in your book club, what are you looking for in this person? 
We look for a person who is an avid reader and has a genuine love of books. Qualities should include a person who loves to travel, loves to host meetings and has great sense of humor and adventure because we are a unique group of women who have been together for many years. It would take an equally unique person to feel at home in PWOC.

BPM: What has your main focus become over the years regarding your book club?
 Incorporating sisterhood with the love of literature. 

BPM: Can we invite you to future events, social media chats and discussion? 
Yes, we look forward to being included in any social media chats and literary events. You can find us at:  https://www.facebook.com/pwoc.jacksonville 

BPM:  Thank you Vanessa Phillips, Karesa Ruffin and Mrs. Nelson for this interview.

 

 

 


The Book Worm Diva's Book Club

Hi I am Shabrika Mitchell, The Secretary/Treasurer of The Book Worm Diva's Book Club. The members consists of Val Hinton as The President, Tamika Cloud as The Vice President, and myself, as The Secretary/Treasurer.

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How many members do you have? 
The Book Worm Diva's Book Club is located in Newnan, Georgia. Myself (Shabrika), Val, and Tamika started the club because we all had an interest in reading. We started the club in March, 2010 and we consist of 9 members. 

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Does the name have a special meaning? 
We are a group of women together reading books and doing a lot of things for our community. We are women doing something we enjoy doing. Of course our name has its own special meaning each letter stands for something different. BOOKWORM DIVAS means Brilliant Obedient Observative Kind Women Outstanding Reliable Mindful Dedicated Intelligent Vibrant Awesome Sisterhood...

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community? 
We enjoy reading and meeting with authors and helping others and putting smiles on people faces as well. We will be remembered and recognized as those women who did a lot for our community and enjoyed doing it.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person? Do you have a online version of the group? 
We are looking for a commitment and passion for reading and helping others. We have a probation period before you become a member. Basically a trial period to see if your heart is really in it. We have a Facebook page which is open to the public. 

BPM: Do you host special events? Do you go out together as a group to socialize? 
Yes, we host several events yearly such as an Easter Egg Hunt, Family and Friends Day, Thanksgiving Dinner, and a Christmas Toy Drive. We sometimes do a girls night out or just hang out other times. 

BPM: How do you feel about attending booksignings, literary festivals and events? 
We love attending book signings, literary festivals and events and love meet and greet with Authors. We enjoy hearing the authors reading from their books. 

BPM: What type of books have generated the most interesting discussions?
Romance and Christian reads because they are very interesting and based on real life events and stories. We seem to relate to those topics. 

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who want to start a book club? 
Yes, make sure everyone has love and passion for reading and set goals and achieve them. Also, set rules for everyone to follow and it should help the club last a long time. We are 5 years and counting and we love it!!! 

Interview submitted by: Shabrika Mitchell, Secretary/Treasurer of The BookWorm Diva's BookClub

 

 

 

 


Victorious Ladies Reading Book Club - North Carolina

Michelle Chavis is a native of Brooklyn, New York and now lives in Creedmoor, North Carolina. She has 2 children, Laticia and Trevon. Michelle Chavis is the President of Victorious Ladies Reading Book Club. When she started reading novels it gave her a peace of mind and helped her relax. She has encouraged and helped others to also fall in love with reading. Recently Michelle has become a Total Life Changes (TLC) Representative. Her genuine, honest spirit allows people to feel comfortable talking her about anything. She has also been called a “Life Coach”. She is very passionate about helping people find their true purpose and becoming their best. 

BPM: Please tell us about your book club!  How did your club get started? 
Victorious Ladies Reading is located in the Raleigh/Durham North Carolina area. God gave Lacha Mitchell the vision to start the book club, through that vision we started the Victorious Ladies Reading Book Club. We first met as a group almost a year ago. Our second anniversary is in October. We currently have 10 members. We are group of  beautiful women, of all personalities, that mesh well together.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Does the name have a special meaning? 
I feel the purpose of our organization is to unite monthly and discuss great books and fellowship. I think what makes us different is we are all women of God. The name of our club let's everyone know we are victorious. 

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? 
When I first joined the group the President and Vice President alternated months and picked the books, we now take suggestions from the members. Yes we have read other books that was not the book of the month and had a call to discuss the book. We may post book covers and suggestions on our own Facebook post and share them. 

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library?
Yes, I prefer to read books by authors of color, but I will read others also. Yes, I support self published authors and I also borrow books from the library. To add to that, I give the library a list of AA authors and their books every quarter for them to add to their selection.

BPM: What genre/types of books do you prefer to read as a group? 
As a group we read Christian fiction. We did step out this month and read a non- Christian fiction.

BPM: Can you share a few 5-star books that have expanded your horizons? 
Mama's Boy and Stand Your Ground. 

BPM: What are you reading now? What books are on your reading schedule?
Jezebel's Daughter, we are hosting the author for our October meeting, Water Colored Pearls is on our reading list. 

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? Do you like to hear the author reading from the book? 
I love attending book signings and literary events. To me, authors are celebrities and I have a chance to meet the person that wrote the wonderful book I love to read. I love hearing their voice as they read from their book. If I have not read it yet, when I do read the book, in my mind I hear their voice.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?
Communication is the key to every relationship, when you have that you will have a successful book club. Be passionate about your membership, participate as much as you can.

 

 

 


Lady LOTUS Book Club - Louisiana


Tammy Washington, Lady LOTUS Bookclub Founder
, is a country girl at heart, with a love for reading that takes her imagination beyond the stars. She is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She is an Early Childhood & Elementary Ed. Curriculum Monitor. 

Tammy has been married to the love of her life, Rod Washington for 17 years. Together they have two delightful and daring boys, and two fun and feisty girls. She says her family is heaven sent and truly her JOY.

She enjoys so many authors and quotes, but she most admires author, Maya Angelou. One of her favorite quotes by Maya Angelou is, "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude." 

Most of her adult life has been dedicated to mentoring and servicing children and families. Tammy said, this is not just a passion, but her ministry. She loves to encourage others with a famous quote by Dr. Seuss, "Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You." She shares this quote in an effort to help others embrace who they are in spite of what society says they should be. Tammy's very own quote is, "True beauty begins with the heart and mind, and then flows to be seen through the eyes and smile."

Amanda Presley Lady LOTUS Bookclub Co-Founder,  is somewhat of an Army brat. Both her parents were in the army. She was raised and still lives in Monroe, Louisiana. She currently works at an elementary school as a Pre-K Paraeducator. She has been in this position for the last seven years. Amanda also does after school tutoring through the school's tutoring program. 

Within the last year she has started her own business, a LadyBugz a party supply store. She is praying that her business is successful enough for her to go at it full time. Amanda is a wife and mother. She has been been married to her husband Richard for 11 years. She has three daughters that keep her very busy with various activities. She is very active in the church. She sings in the church singing group and also work with the mentor program. She loves spending time with her family and friends, especially her girls. In her alone time, give her a good book and she is good to go.

BPM: Share with us the history of the organization. How did you get started?  What was the first book that you read as a group? What literary events do you attend each year?
Tammy has always enjoyed reading, but for a short while, she allowed the hustle and bustle of life to pull her away from taking advantage of it more. Her mother-in-law (Barbara) in Shreveport, LA, showed her another level of reading pleasure when she began sharing books that her book club was reading; as well as, inviting her to the meetings and events. Tammy searched the internet and asked around to find a local book club in Monroe, LA, but was unsuccessful. Barbara encouraged Tammy to start her own book club for quite a while. 

It wasn't until Tammy and her friend Amanda, who also has always shared a love of reading, began sharing books. It was shortly afterwards that they then decided to begin a book club together.

The Lady L.O.T.U.S (Loving Others Through United Sisterhood) book club began in July 2013. They are located in Monroe, Louisiana. The Lady L.O.T.U.S book club consists of 20 sisters (members).The first book that they read was "The Reverend's Wife" by Kimberly Lawson Roby. Their first literary event will be the National Book Club Conference to be held in August of theat year.


BPM: Do you host events? Donate to charities or provide any service for the community?
In 2013, the Lady L.O.T.U.S's hosted their 1st annual Christmas Gala, in which they invited three authors and two bookclubs from the surrounding area to attend. During the month of December, Lady L.O.T.U.S. held a book and toy drive for less fortunate families. The toy drive culminated at their Christmas Gala as the guest and authors also donated. They were blessed to surpass their toy-giving goal, and was able to help six families (ranging in size from 4-11 people per family). This year they plan to host an even bigger Christmas event.

Also in 2013, they provided Thanksgiving meals to eight families. The L.O.T.U.S bookclub has also established an annual book club scholarship fund, and in May 2014, awarded financial scholarships to two deserving graduating seniors. The Lady L.O.T.U.S. book club is also planning to do something in support of cancer awarenesss. Members of the bookclub have participated in breast cancer (Susan G. Komen) and Down syndrome (Buddy Walk) walks. They even visit various schools within their community and read to the students. 

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? Have there been any books that help shape your life? Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Other than the Holy Bible, books and poetry such as those by Maya Angelou, Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston, The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison and a host of other books capture Tammy’s undivided attention. These books have helped shape her life because of the reality in the stories. The thought provoking richness in the story lines comes to life. Tammy enjoys Christian Fiction, Poetry, Romance, Suspense and many other genres. 

BPM: What legacy will your bookclub leave for those watching in the community? 
The lesson and legacy that Lady L.O.T.U.S bookclub purposes to leave is that reading is not only an outlet, but can unlock doors in the mind to build, strengthen, and enhance knowledge (spiritually, mentally and academically). They strive to model UNITY and SERVICE to our community. As God allows us to be a blessing to one another, so shall we be to our community.

BPM: How many books do you read in one month? Would you say you read more for escape, for educational purposes or for entertainment? 
The book club reads one to two books a month. Lady L.O.T.U.S, Michelle Esters reads two books a month. She reads for ESCAPE. This is a way for Michelle to get away from life and escape to a new land. 

Amanda may read three to four books a month. She uses reading mainly as an escape and for entertainment.

La-Shondra states, "As a child I used to read for an escape. While "escaping" I felt like I was apart of the book and I could feel and see everything hands on. It gave me hope outside the small town that I lived in. As an adult I read more educational books so I can spiritually and mentally. I enjoying learning new thing about God and myself. I read inspirational books so I can be a better mother, wife and friend." (Lady L.O.T.U.S, La-Shondra Weathersby)

BPM: Do you prefer a hard copy book or a digital book, such as a Kindle book? Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
Lady L.O.T.U.S, Natasha Bosworth prefers to read digital books because she loves technology. She thinks eventually with the changing times digital books will replace hard copies. 

Tammy loves to read digital books also. However, she does not feel digital books will replace hard copies because of the history, value and appreciation still shown for hard copies.


BPM:  Let's have some fun now!  Finish these fun loving sentences with the question and answer. What's on your nightstand now: 
Me Before You, by Jojo Moyes & Blessings From the Father, by Michelle Larks (Lady L.O.T.U.S, Tammy Washington)

BPM: Favorite book when you were a child:
The giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein as a child& Sweet Valley High Series, by Francine Pascal as a preteen/teen (Lady L.O.T.U.S, Tammy Washington).  A Piece of Cake by Cupcake Brown and The Shaggy Dog which was one of the Golden Book Series. (Lady L.O.T.U.S, Jamekia Dial-Hunter)

BPM: Book all readers should own excluding the Bible: 
“The Shack”, by William P. Young (Lady L.O.T.U.S. Rose Lee) As a person of deep faith who is constantly striving to develop a deeper, stronger relationship with God and a better understanding of the connection between religion and spirituality, I was both astounded and uplifted by the novel, The Shack, by William P. Young. As stated in an online review: In a world where religion seems to be growing increasingly irrelevant, The Shack wrestles with the timeless question, “Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain?” 

Although the Bible is barely ever mentioned in the novel, the narrative centers on dialogues between Mack, the main character, and three unorthodox characterizations of the Holy Trinity. The answers the main character receives in his quest for understanding both comforted and reiterated to me that God is an ever-present, loving force in our lives, even in the midst of our darkest hours. The sense of peace I felt after reading the novel compelled me to encourage fellow book club members and others I know to read this book. (Lady L.O.T.U.S Rose Lee)

BPM: Book you gave as a gift:
The most recent books gifted are, Taylor’s Strawberry, by Taneka Fuller and Naughty or Nice, by Eric Jerome Dickey.  Taylor’s Strawberry is a book for young children to promote self-awareness, self-confidence and acceptance of oneself no matter what physical flaws exist.  Naughty or Nice is of course an adult novel that I gifted to a friend & bookclub member. (Lady L.O.T.U.S. Tammy)

BPM: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
Lady L.O.T.U.S, Andresca Moss would read Afterburn by Zane over and over. It’s just simply a good love story even with a sad ending. Also, The Coldest Winter Ever, by Sista Souljah. She loves the raw and gangsta storylines.   Lady L.O.T.U.S, Jacquie Matthews plans to read again The Blessings of Brokeness by Charles Stanley and The Tongue: a Creative Force by Charles Capps.

BPM: Favorite genre, series or sequels:
Andresca’s favorite genre is Erotica and Fifty Shades of Grey is her favorite series. Amanda's favorite genre's are romance, exotica, mystery and drama. Her favorite series are The Westmorelands by Brenda Jackson and The Family Business Series by Carl Weber.  Jacquie’s favorite series is Bride Quartet, by Nora Roberts. Her favorite character is Alex Cross from James Patterson books.  Lady L.O.T.U.S Alecia Murphy’s favorite series include: Kimbela Lawson Roby: Reverend Curtis Black Series and Mary B Morrison: The Darius Jones Series.

BPM: Book that should be a movie or play:
Little Black Girl Lost Series, by Keith Lee Johnson (Lady L.O.T.U.S Adrian Williams)
Mama, by Terry McMillan (Lady L.O.T.U.S Shafonda Kline)
The Gift, by Danielle Steele(Lady L.O.T.U.S La-Shondra Weathersby)

BPM: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Amanda would love to do a phone chat with: Carl Weber, Lutisha Lovely and Brenda Jackson.
~You can find our group on Facebook as, Lady LOTUS Bookclub
~Website is currently being created at this time. Update will come soon.

Again, thank you so kindly for allowing us the opportunity to share our group with you and the rest of the reading world.

Second Photo:  Lady LOTUS Book Club Leaders
Tammy Washington, President
Amanda Presley, Vice President
 

 

 


Round Table Readers Literary Book Club - Danville, VA

The Round Table Readers were founded by La Sheera Lee. The book club is located in Danville, VA. The group was founded on the principles of spreading literacy, fostering sisterhood, and assisting their local community. 

The Round Table Readers has hosted three events to date. Each event presented their local communities with the opportunity to meet their favorite authors and to learn about the world of publishing. The literary events have also served their communities. One event featuring Zane, raised funds for a Breast Cancer Survivor. Attendees of other events, have donated can goods and school supplies for admission. 

The Round Table Readers also likes to connect with other book clubs. The Sisters of the Red Tent, Sistahs of Urban Literature, and Victorious Ladies of Reading are all considered their sister book club. The Round Table Readers have enjoyed organizing book club events with these wonderful ladies! 

BPM: Please tell us about your book club! How did your club get started? 
The Round Table Readers were founded by La Sheera Lee. The book club is located in Danville, VA. The group was founded in 2010. Currently, we have eight members. There names are Tora Ballard, Latonya Terry, Hannah Lee, Kay Edmondson, Traci White- Williams, Twozynn McGhgee and Joyce Laverne Mayo. 

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors?
Generally speaking, the majority of the books we read are from authors of color. We have hosted several self-published authors at our book clubs and literary events.

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about authors? Do you like to find new authors and interact online? 
Social media has forever changed the literary landscape. Authors, book clubs, readers are able to engage and discuss books. Video sharing platforms have also made it easier for readers to virtually host authors for meetings etc. 

However, I think that authors need to be mindful of comments or pics presented online. Everyone is certainly entitled to their own opinions. However, if you are a public figure, you must be mindful of the impact your actions might have own your readership. 

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? 
The group was founded on the principles of spreading literacy, fostering sisterhood, and assisting their local community. 

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club?
It is essential for all members to respect the time and opinions of all members. It is also important to make sure you have members who personalities click. 

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? How can we follow you online?
Contact Round Table Readers Literary Book Club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Round-Table-Readers-Literary-Book-Club-130723156983225 

Contact La Sheera Lee, Founder Read You Later Communications: 
http://www.readyoulater.net  
https://twitter.com/readyoulater 
https://www.facebook.com/lasheera.lee
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/readyoulater 

 

 



Girl Fridayz Book Club - Buffalo, New York

BPM:  Give us the history on your organization. How many members do you have?
The Girl Fridayz Book Club was conceived in August 2005 out of the founder’s love of reading. She brought together a group of “sisters” who also have a love of reading and on September 30, 2005, the Girl Fridayz Book Club was born. We meet the last Friday of each month with different members hosting the meeting. The founder’s name is Karyn Davis and she and the other members of the book club reside in Buffalo, New York. We currently have ten active members.

BPM:  What is the misson for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
The main purpose of our book club is to strengthen our passion for reading, share our faith, explore quality works by African-American authors, share ideas and opinions and fellowship with like-minded friends. We have supported authors who have come to our city for book signings/workshops (Virginia DeBerry, Kayla Perrin and Beverly Jenkins), as well as other book clubs who host authors. Also, at least once a year, we contribute to a young adult pursuing his/her dreams. This year we contributed to a young athlete so that she would be able to attend the regionals for track and field. Last year, we contributed to a young lady’s fundraising efforts for Jabberwock, an evening of elegance and entertainment that showcases the gifts and talents of the young women participating in the program while advancing the goals and objectives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s scholarship program.

BPM:  Has there been any books that helped shape your life or gave you inspiration?
Yes, there have been several, The Allure by Jackie King-Scott, Perfect Peace by Daniel Black, The Deal, the Dance and the Devil by Victoria Christopher Murray and Redeeming Waters by Vanessa Davis Griggs. There seemed to be a common factor in these books; that being the character(s) had life-changing decisions to make and the decisions they made had a huge impact on the lives of their loved one. The decisions made by these character(s) resulted in lengthy discussions and caused us to take a hard look at the decisions we make sometimes and how we want to make better decisions for ourselves and our loved ones while always keeping God in the mix.

BPM:  Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
Our book club read mostly African-American Christian fiction. Although some of the characters get themselves into situations that are not very Christian-like, they usually find their way out through prayer and a willingness to do what is right. What we feel puts African Americans in a bad light is when characters consciously conduct themselves in a certain way without thought of consequences and repercussions.

BPM:  Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of eBooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
We don’t believe that digital books will ever replace a printed book. We love to be able to turn the pages in the book and most of our members will not purchase a e-book priced more than $5.00 The majority of our members will NEVER stop buying printed books and the only way we could be forced to not buy them is if they stopped selling them.

BPM:  What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
Our book club would like to leave a legacy of improving literacy in our community. For those watching in the community, we hope they will see us as Christian women who were consistent in trying to teach the community, especially children the importance of reading.

BPM:   How may we find out more about your club? 
Please visit our Facebook, GirlFridayz BookClub. We are currently putting together a website, but in the meantime, if anyone needs more information about our book club or just needs to contact us, please contact Karyn Davis on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/girlfridayz.bookclub

 

 


Book Referees Founder Orsayor L. Simmons 

Orsayor L. Simmons is the founder of Book Referees. Book Referees spotlights/reviews/promote all genres in the literary world. She is the recipient of the 2013 Top 25 Literary Leader Award - 2014 Top 25 Literary Leader Award (presented by Ella Curry) and 2015 AAMBC Blogger of the Year.

BPM: Please tell us about your blog and review team. How did you get started? 
Book Referees was formed by me (Orsayor L. Simmons) - it was formed to get me amd my book loving friends to read/review/and to spread the word out about their favorite book.. but now it seems to take on a life of its own. I'm now spreading the word through my blog - interviewing authors - and getting books in the hands of celebrities. The blog continues to grow so now I have added reviewers to my team. Now when readers log on to my blog they are able to read reviews from different perspectives than it being all about me. Because when it boils down to it - it's about the BOOKS!  Books are the common demoninator to bringing us together.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors?
Book Referees read and reviewed all genres!! We also support self-published authors.

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors?
Yes! Social media has changed how I feel about a few authors, but I have learned over the years that I can't hang on every word an author post on Social Media. Authors like anyone else are entitled to their opinions especially if you friend them on their personal page. When it boils down to it - you have to be able to draw a line in the sand. Are you reading to be liked by an author? or Are you reading for the joy of reading? Life is too short to get caught in the "mess" of Social Media.  On the flip side, I have been introduced to some wonderful authors on Social Media. That's life... There's always a good/bad side to things.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? 
Book Referees is here to serve the literary community by being committed to getting word out about the importance of reading, the importance of reviewing, and importance of supporting authors. Book Referees has added promotional services to our services - with over 19,000 followers on Twitter - we are a 24/7 book alert system.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book blog?
Don't let fear stand in your way! Just do it! You won't know everything when you begin your club or blog - but you will learn many new things along the way. Do not ever compare your club to other groups - every book club or blog has something special to offer to the literary community. 

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? How can we follow you online?
Yes! I would be honored!
Orsayor L. Simmons Contact Information
On the Web - http://www.bookreferees.org 
On Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/Orsayor   
Book Referees on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/BookReferees 
On LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com/pub/mrs-simmons/26/904/754 
On Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/OrsayorSimmons 
Book Referees on FB: http://www.facebook.com/TheBookReferees 

 

 




Black PageTurners Founder King Brooks

BPM: Please tell us about your blog and Black Page Turners. How did you get started?
King Brooks: Black Page Turners was formed by me (Cleavester b.k.a. King Brooks) in 2013. Before Black Page Turners, I hosted an online radio show and various other book magazines and websites. I am a team of one. What inspired me to start Black Page Turners was the closing of Black Issues Book Review. I wanted a place where I could come and find out all about African Americans books, publishing info, writer tools, etc. 

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors?
King Brooks: Yes, I love books by black authors and I support self-publish authors that are properly edited.

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors?
King Brooks: No, I have learned how to separate the work from the person. So I want be disappointed. As long as you write a good book. I have no problem with you; but if the book is not good, then we have a problem. In the words of Don Miguel Ruiz "Don't Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering." 

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization?
King Brooks: The purpose of Black Page Turners is to inform readers about books written and about African Americans. 

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book blog?
King Brooks: In the famous words of Nike 'Just Do It.' If you are getting into this business to be about yourself or to be famous. Turn and exit now. Be prepared to invest long hours into your blog and be patient. The followers, authors, and publishers don't come over night. If anyone tells you 'No,' don't take it personal. Just keep moving forward and be very creative. 

BPM: Can we invite you to future events and discussions? How can we follow you online?
King Brooks: You can.

Cleavester 'King' Brooks, Publisher/Editor

Website:   http://www.blackpageturners.com
Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/blackpageturners
Twitter:  http://www.twitter.com/bpageturners

 

 

 


Diamond's Literary World Literary Blog

BPM: How did your blog, Diamond's Literary World, get started?
One night, my future husband Darrell ( apparently very tired of hearing me go on and on and on about another fictional character) suggested that I start a literary blog, and after much consideration…Diamond's Literary World was created.

BPM: Is there something in particular that makes your blog different from the others? 
I believe Diamond's Literary World is different, because it is not focused on one particular genre. My posts include books and events from several genres, not limited to, but including Christian Fiction, Romance, Urban/Street Lit, Erotica, Biography, Autobiography, Self-Help, Muslim and Crime Fiction. The name Diamond's Literary World is special to me because my knowledge and love of books over the last 35 years, allows me to be a diamond that stands out from the rest.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book conversation? Does the availability of a reading guide help with the discussion?
A good book conversation consists of character development, climactic effect and the meat of the book. The ending also plays a large role (i.e. Did the ending surprise you?) Sometimes, it's hard to stay on topic when you have a room full of people who have various emotions about the same scene. Add a little wine, and there's no telling where the conversation may lead.  I, for one, NEVER use the reading guides, because I develop my own questions along the way.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? Do you use social media?
My book selections are determined by my mood. If I'm in a romantic mood, I'll choose Romance. When I need took feed my spirit, I immediately go to something religious based or Christian Fiction. Feeling a little perturbed, Urban/Street Lit is where I turn to. If I feel inspired, I'll reach for a self-help book. Social media has become my outlet when it comes to sharing my featured books with readers, in hopes that they will pick it up, too.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library?
I will read a good book by anyone who writes a good story…it doesn't necessarily haves to be a person of color. I believed in supporting self-published authors, because so many of them are people I actually know, she's I believe in supporting someone else's dream. You never know if or when you will need someone to support a dream of yours. I have not borrowed a book from the library in over 15 years, because I always end up buying the book for my personal collection. As a matter of fact, I received a library card 3 days ago. It felt kind of weird! LOL.

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
Key factors that always help a book remain on my mind are strong characters, some type of twist and a powerful message. I love a book that I can immediately pull from my mental Rolodex, years down the road. One such book would be The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley, which I read in the 7th grade, along with my classmates. This book depicts the life of a troubled young man who canned from humble beginnings,become a man that not only changed his life, but stood up and made a difference in the world. It blew my young, impressionable mind and remains there to this day.

BPM: Do you post book reviews to online retailers? How do you handle bad reviews?
My book reviews can be found on Amazon, Facebook, WordPress, Goodreads, Shelfari, and Twitter. If a book is mediocre, I will be honest and hope that the author will take my words and use them to improve their craft.

BPM: Can you share a few 5 star books that have expanded your horizon?
I would happy to share Stand Your Ground by Victoria Christopher Murray, Strongholds by Vanessa Davis Griggs, The Man in 3B by Carl Weber, Silence of the Nine by T. Styles, and Ghetto Bastard by K'wan. They are many more, but these are the first to come to mind.

BPM: What are you reading now? What books are on your reading schedule?
I am currently reading Mama B: A Time for War by Michelle Stimpson. I found out about this book, which is the fifth installment of the Mama B series, from several posts on Facebook. My next read is Lawful Deception by Pamela Samuels Young…another book I found out about on Facebook. I'm actually pretty excited about this upcoming release!

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events?
I love to attend book signings and literary events, because I get to meet new authors, as well as catch up with some veterans. I would like to see more people come out and support these artists, if not financially, then emotionally. Let them know what you thought of their book(s) and encouraged them to keep perfecting their craft. I really don't have any dislikes about events and I really don't mind whether an author reads from his/her but, but it does intrigued the mind sometime.

BPM: What is your preferred way to find new books?
I prefer to find new books from a friend's recommendation and social media.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore? Do you prefer digital books? 
I buy books online and at my local African American owned bookstore. I have no preference of digital or printed books, but somehow, I read the digital ones faster. The price of an e-book does not play a part in my purchase.

BPM: Do you attend Twitter chats or Facebook chats? Have you ever viewed a Google Hangout or Periscope show?
I have only attended Facebook chats and never viewed A Hangout or Periscope show. If given the opportunity, I would love to chat with Vanessa Davis Griggs or John Grisham.

BPM: Can we invite you to future social media events and discussions?  
I would love to be invited you anything literary related. I can be found online at this sites:
Website: diamondsliteraryworld.wordpress.com
Twitter: purplepassion802
Facebook: Diamond's Literary World
Goodreads: Diane Rembert

 

 

 


Indulge Book Club 
Micole Marbury, Coordinator/Founder


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Indulge Book Club.  How many members do you have?
Indulge Book Club was started December 2005. We are located in Washington DC. We currently have ten members. Indulge Coordinator/Founder is Micole Marbury, Secretary is Marcia Horton, Activities Coordinator Latarsha Reid, Photographer Chaquita Goode, Indulge little readers facilitator Mailka Watkins

We started Indulge because we love to read and we wanted an outlet from our daily lives and to fellowship with friends. We are a group of individuals who meet every 1st Sunday at various member homes from 4pm to 6pm for book discussions. We are varied in age and are of numerous backgrounds. We are passionate readers who have been reading together for ten years in December, 2015. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
The mission of the group is to free our minds from the stresses of life and indulge ourselves in great books, food and conversation. Indulge was not originally establish for community service purposes but in the upcoming years we plan to start promoting the importance of reading.

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
We meet once a month for our book club meetings. We have activities planned for every three months in the year. We have an annual game night, we see movies together, go to dinner together, and for our 5th Anniversary on went on a cruise on the Odyssey. 

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
As the Organizer/Founder of Indulge Book Club, it has been a great pleasure to know and meet so many amazing people and to hear there thoughts and emotions. The experience helps us grow as individuals. The books are a bonus

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as for the Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
These devices are good because it helps the reader now have so many books all over the place. But they do not hold the same substance as books.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
You can contact us at www.Facebook.com/Indulgebookclub,  and (website is under construction www.indulgebookclub.com).  Email us for the mailing address to send books for review.


 

 


Mississippi Magnolias Book Club 

BPM: Introduce us to your group. What was the first book you read as a Group?
MMBC: Mississippi Magnolias Book Club was founded November, 5, 2012 in Gulfport, Mississippi by Antionette Gates, President.  MMBC officers are Antionette Gates, President, Ethel Smith, Vice-President, Taironzika Wesley, Secretary, Angela McNair, Treasurer, Photographers, Lisa Ladner and Kimberly Robins. MMBC currently have ten active members. Our first book read was Money Can’t Buy Love by Connie Briscoe.

BPM: Why was the organization created? Donate to charities or provide any services for the community?
MMBC was created from avid readers that also happen o be members of Unity Festival, Incorporated, a non-profit organization. Yes, a few of us post reviews on Amazon. We contribute to all UFI events throughout the community; Thanksgiving baskets to needy families, books or prizes for the Children’s Book Jamboree, and sponsor Angel Tree children, at Christmas. MMBC members also volunteer at the organizations various functions including the neighborhood Unity Festival in March of each calendar year.

BPM: What type of books does your group read? Are there any genres that you will not read? 
MMBC: Romance, Contemporary Fiction, Erotica and Mysteries are group favorites. Some members thoroughly enjoy paranormal books as well. There is no genre that we absolutely will not read. A book excerpt does not help in the book selection.

BPM: Do you prefer to only read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors?  
MMBC: The majority of books read by MMBC are by authors of color, but books have been chosen by authors who aren’t of color. MMBC members definitely support self-published authors. Any support given self-published authors help promote awareness of the book and enlighten other readers about both the author and their books. This action in turn will someday garner a larger following for the self-published author.

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
MMBC: A few key factors are great characters, realistic problems or events, and a fantastic location.

BPM: What authors have been able to capture your imagination and support far beyond the last page?
MMBC: Authors Beverly Jenkins, Francis Ray, Brenda Jackson, Marissa Monteilh, Janet Evanovich, Kimberly Lawson Roby, Eric Jerome Dickey, and the E. Lynn Harris have created characters with strong personalities, endearing qualities and life situations. They make you wonder about the characters and events they will write about next.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
MMBC: Our goal is to improve our community through literacy and literature. We hope to bring a sense of joy, hope, and adventure associated with the love of reading, and volunteerism to the youth on the coast. It is our goal to further these efforts in future through a youth reading group or book club.

BPM: How may we find out more about your book club?
MMBC: For more information contact us on Facebook at  Mississippi Magnolias Book Club @ www.facebook.com.


 

 

 


Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned

BPM: Give us the history on your club. How many members do you have? Tell us about the members.
My name is Toshona E. Carter and I am the Founder and President of this great group of women called Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned.  My bookclub got started on July 17, 2010 as a request from some sister friends whom loved to read. They knew I had previously been a member in another club. 

The members names are the following:
LaToshia Enoch-Elston
Cassandra Wallace
Tacarla Young
Jayla Davis
Angela Davis
Erica Whitfield
Jennnifer James
Shantwan Vickers
Shereen Watkins

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
Our bookclub focuses on community service. We want to promote literacy and help provide a positive atmosphere for children & families. Also to provide a nuturing environment for all women of color. When were not reading and having a book discussion, we are usually participating in some type of community service project. We recently participated in a homeless facility called the Union Rescue Mission where we packed boxes for families for Thanksgiving.  We also donated to the Ronald McDonald House and  took up a cash donation forThe Salvation Army.

BPM:  Have you always liked to read?  What you love most about reading? Favorite authors? 
I have loved reading since I was a small child. I feel that reading opens your mind to so many possiblities. I do believe knowledge is Power.  Some of my favorite authors include Mary Monroe, Adrienne Thompson, Francis Ray, Terry McMillan, Daniel Black, E.Lynn Harris, Rita Williams- Garcia, Zane, Toni Morrison, and Dr. Maya Angelou.

 

 


 


Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club 

BPM: Welcome!  Please share with us the history of the organization. How did you get started? 
Hi my name is Sheridan Akens founder of  Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club but you can call me Mz. Coffee Bean. I was born in Los Angeles  CA. and moved to Texas at an early age. I currently reside in Houston, Texas where I’m raising two beautiful daughters. I’ve always had a strong passion for reading, so it was no surprise when I began my search within the city to find a book club to join. But to my surprise I found this task somewhat challenging. So I decided to do the next best thing and start my own club. 

Because of my cheerful spirit and the strong family-oriented values bestowed upon me, I made the choice of this not being just a club but a SISTAHOOD.  The name Coffee Beanz N Readz was created from my thoughts of snuggling up with a good book and having a smooth cup of coffee.  The two together are a great blend and well the ladies are the whip cream on top. The club is a way for each “Bean” to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A place and time where you can sit, relax and savor a great discussion with your “sisters”. 

Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club  began in April 2010 in Houston, Texas . The motivating factor to start a club came with the network of the book Push by Sapphire to my co-workers on the job. It was then, that I realized there were many people around me that shared my same passion. I asked co-workers, family and friends to join. We were blessed to have our first meeting with a noted author, Brianne Smith.  Her novel, Ms. Onda-Stould became our first book to read. 

Our family consists of 12 members from different walks of life. And like our background differences, each sister has a nickname derived from different flavors, roasts and blends of coffee (i.e. Mz. Richly Brewed, Mz. Columbian Bean, Mz. Frappuccino and Mz. Premium Roast). We meet every third Saturday of each month. We select a different host each month. The host does make the selection for our “Book of the Month”.   Our reads are compiled from different genres, but  all from African-American Literature.  We are also actively involved in community volunteer events (i.e. Methodist Hospital Stride for Stroke Walk, Walk to Cure Diabetes, Susan G. Komen Walk, etc.).   December 2010 we started our own Adopt-A-Family program in which we were able to make a mother of three, holiday season less stressful.

Beanz Cabinet
Chellsi Akens (Miss Vanilla Bean Whipped) – Spirit Leader
Katashia DeWalt (Mz. Frappuccino) – Administrative Assistant
Sheila Henry (Mz. Café Latte) - Treasurer
Antrese Knighten (Mz. Premium Roast) – Photographer

BPM: What is the vision for Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club?
Our mission is to enhance our member’s passion for reading and inspire others to appreciate the joy of reading. To promote sisterhood by building lifelong friendships.  To support and  network with African-American authors, while purchasing their books and  attending their literary events. To support our community by volunteering in different organizations. 

BPM: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading will open your eyes to a world you’ve never known. It gives you a world of knowledge, power, relaxation, inspiration, travel, courage, hope, love and much more. Reading is the BEST gift a person can give to themselves.

BPM: On your nightstand now:
The Eternal Engagement by Mary B. Morrison

BPM: Favorite book when you were a child:
Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

BPM: Book you've bought for the cover:
Moth To A Flame by Ashley Antoinette. Those eyes read “something serious is going down – turn the pages and follow me now.”

BPM: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
72 Hour Hold by Bebe Moore Campbell . This book was very emotional and eye-opening to the issues on mental illness. It also showed the unconditional love a mother has for their child(ren).

BPM: Book that should be a movie or play:
The Million Dollar Divorce by R M Johnson

BPM: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Mary B. Morrison, Allison Hobbs and Kimberla Lawson Roby

Sheridan Akens, President and Founder Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club
“Enhancing your passion for reading”
Facebook: www.facebook.com/coffeebeanznreadz

 

 

 

 


Fourth Sunday Book Club - Maryland

A Book Club wrote a book about The Journey of a Book Club. The six authors of Fourth Sunday – The Journey Of A Book Club, Francesca Cook, Chyla Evans, Clarita Frazier, Allita Irby, Donna Neale, and Yolanda Yates are members of a book club based in Maryland. They have been featured in various publications, showcasing their decision to write their own novel.  Add Fourth Sunday – The Journey Of A Book Club to your list of books to read!   What happens when a real life book club decides to write their own novel? The result is a fresh, fun story about a group of women who have more in common than just the books they read.

FOURTH SUNDAY written by B.W. Read (aka “Because We Read” ) is the tale of seven women and their journey towards friendship by way of a simple book club.  Over time, their friendship grows beyond books, as their lives, relationships, careers, and families become one. The core group of women—Gwen, Natalie, Allana, Brianna, Camille, Destiny, and Adriane—shares not only their love of books at these monthly meetings but their life experiences as well.  During a two year period, the women undergo a number of trials within their own lives as they confront divorce, illness, romantic highs and lows, sexual experimentation, and career challenges. Throughout the good times and bad times, their book club family provides support, encouragement, laughter, and love.

Written by six women of a real-life book club who no longer wanted to read about characters they could not identify with, FOURTH SUNDAY is the answer for the everyday woman. FOURTH SUNDAY is timeless cosmopolitan literature.   The novel incorporates intellect and riveting facts about medical, political and small business state of affairs while balancing playfulness and sensuality. It is funny, it is sad, it is contemporary, but most of all it is real.


BPM: Give us a little history on the 4th Sunday Book Club
The 4th Sunday Book Club was founded in the 1994 by six professional African-American women from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area . These women shared a desire to read books of quality and substance and formed a loosely structured book club simply referred as “the book club”.  The objective was to read books written by African-American authors. Over time the club diversified to include at least one non-fiction book per year and has grown beyond solely African-American authored works.

The book club, which met on fourth Sundays, soon found that contemporary literature did not reflect them or their lives. Motivated by this realization, the club began writing its own book. The result is Fourth Sunday: A Journey of Book Club, which was written under the pseudonym B.W. Read and published in May 2011 by Strebor Books for Simon and Shuster. In honor of the success of the book, “the book club” was renamed “4th Sunday Book Club.”

The 4th Sunday Book Club has grown in membership and purpose. The club now has 13 active members. However, it remains an unstructured, intimate club where books are our connection and our bond is our strength.

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives?
Reading is important because it exposes us to experiences and information we may not otherwise encounter. Reading helps us to become more educated and well rounded. Books, like "A Wrinkle In Time" by Madeleine L'Engle, influence lives at an early stage and have lasting effects.

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books?
The club reads11 books per year. At least one non-fiction and a book with a romantic theme or undertone are read each year in February. The club meets only once during the summer months of July and August, for a co-ed meeting where spouses or significant others are invited is held. Books are selected at the January meeting and are selected by consensus. 

BPM: What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection? 
This year’s co-ed book is “Before I Forget” by Leonard Pitts.  The club attempts to select co-ed books that are (1) fiction with contemporary stories and themes that may appeal to the male perspective or (2) non-fiction and address contemporary issues and subject matters. 

BPM: What are your all-time favorite book  selections? 
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, everything written by Tananarive Due, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, Red Tent by Anita Diamante, and Topping from Below by Laura Reese to name a few.

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy books written by African American authors will leave our future generations?
NO and NO. For the past 20 years or more, books written by black authors that are profiled or placed front and center by bookstores and the media are classified as “Urban Literature.” Most often found under this classification are books that reflect the urban hip-hop culture, baby mama drama, hustler, or mad black woman perspectives that feed the majority’s opinion. Contemporary books are capturing the moment, the flavor of the month, sometimes for shock value. Only a few of these books will be classics 20, 30, years from now. 

Books of depth and substance are painted with this broad monolithic “Urban Literature” brush and are too often looked over when books get promoted. They are ultimately lost to the readers and we are left with a legacy of more widely read black books that stereotype us, our lives, and our desires. 

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in books? 
YES. More diversity including, but not limited to mixed race couples, gay characters that aren't caricatures or stereotypes, people doing meaningful things with their lives that make them happy, and people being accountable for the decisions (good and bad) they make without blaming society, lack of money or their parents.

Interview submitted by Allita Irby, Fourth Sunday Book Club


 

 


Our Reading Circle of Friends - Washington, DC

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
Our Reading Circle of Friends (RCOF) was founded in 1995 by sixteen African American women bound by friendship, a love of reading and a commitment to support African American authors. We all live in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Most of us have been friends for more than 20 years and Circle members for at least 10 years. Seven of the current members are founding members of the Circle! 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community

Our mission is to: 
· encourage African American women to find time for themselves 
· read and promote books penned by African American authors 
· encourage reading as a lifelong hobby 
· inspire others to read by demonstrating our commitment to literacy 
· heighten awareness of social and cultural issues 
· provide a forum where friends share life lessons 
· share our time and talents with our community 
· serve as activists for social justice 

BPM: How does your book club celebrate special occasions? 
In honor of Valentine's Day, the February gathering is open to men. Each member may invite her spouse, significant other or good friend to attend. The book for Men's Night is selected and moderated by a male guest. 

Each November, we have a special pre-Thanksgiving dinner as we discuss that month's book. It serves as a gentle reminder of all the things for which we are grateful; including one another and our beloved RCOF. 

The RCOF provides opportunities for friends to reconnect, read regularly and reflect as we explore literary works together. Our monthly gatherings allow us to etch out some time for "us" as we share our hopes, dreams and concerns through lively discussions. 

BPM: How are book selected? What happens at a RCOF gathering? 
Individual Circle members make book recommendations to the group. Once the recommendation is made, the group commits to read the selected book. Though we prefer that the books be written by African American authors, we do sometimes read books written by non-African American authors. The Circle member who selects a particular book, serves as the moderator for the discussion of that book and helps members make personal connections with the text. Most times, gatherings are hosted in a member's home. The evening consists of dinner and conversations that are sparked by the book. 

BPM: How does your book club make the connection between the book and real life? 
Each year, after we have read his/her book, one author is selected to join the Circle discussion in person. A few of the authors the Circle has hosted include: A'Lelia Bundles, AJ Verdelle, Pearl Cleage, , Lyah LaFlore, Pearl Cleage, Dr. George Jenkins, Pulitzer Prize winner, Edward P. Jones, The Honorable Kweisi Mfume and Pamela Samuels-Young. In some instances we have even been able to introduce our children to these prominent authors and they have welcomed the opportunity to interact with literary giants they never dreamed that they would meet. 

BPM: WHO'S IN THE PICTURE? 
Front row: Melissa Hinkson*, Denise Simmons, and Karen Murrell 
Second row: Stephanie Fulcher, Robin Evans, DeVon Caldwell-Brown, Deborah Crimes*, and Myla Moss* 
Back row: Shebbie R. Rice*, Joy Jackson*, and Yvette Downs 

BPM: WHO'S MISSING FROM THE PICTURE? 
Trisana Cephas, Ronicsa Chambers, Dana Duncan, Kathryn Keys, Laverne McAllister, Aricka Porter*, Robyn Simmons*, Marchetta Powell, Carolyn Tharpe-Robinson*, and Rhonda White 
* Members since 1995 

 

 

 

 


Smooth Essence Book Club - Orlando, Florida

Smooth Essence Book Club "SEBC" has originated in July, 2012 in Orlando, Florida by a young lady name Deborah "Diva Dee" Walker . This organization is fairly new however the group of women are very close. SEBC is a group of women who has monthly chats and craft sessions of books they have select for that particular month.They cater to African American novels from fiction to non-fiction. They are also in the process of doing community events with women who have survived Domestic Violence. They will be donating used books to the shelters in the Downtown Orlando area for the women who love to read. Smooth Essence Book Club is not only a book club but a group of women who grow and bond together as a whole. 

BPM:  Give us the history on your organization. How many members do you have? 
Prior to this book club, actually me and two other member were in an existing book club but i decided to branch out on my own and start my own club. So in July, 2012 SEBC came to life, with only 2 members and now we are at 6 and growing. SEBC member consist of me, Deborah"Diva Dee" Walker- President, Monik Obrin- Vice-President, Marva Rodriguez- Secretary and Carlyn Herard, Barabara Loiseau, Marjorie Valmir. We are located in Orlando, FL.

BPM:  What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
The purpose of our organization is to empower each other with love and encouragement. We are more than just a book club. We are here to support each other in every aspect of life. Our mission statement is "The essence of women growing and bonding".  As of right now we haven't hosted any events but we're just getting started and have numerous goals we want to accomplish within our book club.

BPM:  As a loyal reader, what are some of the things you want to see more of in books? Do you read mostly fiction or non-fiction?
We are happy with what we see in African American books. Just keep the drama coming! The books Smooth Essence Book Club read currently are fiction and non-fiction.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the books you read?
I do feel African American are represented in good light in our books. Our author are keeping it real by writing about various characters ranging in all degrees and stages in life. Expressing the low and high struggles we as black people go through. 

BPM:  Speak directly to the writers of the world, what advice would you offer them on capturing a reader's attention and keeping it? 
I would say to my writers, keep it real!! never lose your touch, write what's on your heart because a reader can and will notice if the writer is truly sincere on what they are writing. That is what keep us Book Clubs going and purchasing when a writer is real and is true to there story.

BPM:  What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
The legacy we hope Smooth Essence Book Club leave for those watching n the community is that we together as black women can unite and have meaningful, deep conversation from books to everyday life. We are here to support the people in our community, each other and bring positive atmosphere.

BPM:  How may we find out more about you or your group? 
You can contact Smooth Essence Book Club via Facbook at: www.facebook.com/smoothessencebookclub 

Interview submitted by Dee Dee Walker, President & CEO Smooth Essence Book Club
"The Essence Of Women Growing & Bonding"




 



Literary Ladies Book Club - Rahway, New Jersey

BPM:  Give us the history on your club. Where are you located? How many members do you have? 
In October 2008, the Literary Ladies Book Club was established in Rahway, New Jersey by sisters, Sandi and Maria. As busy career women with little free time to enjoy friends, fellowship, adult conversation and a good “Girl’s Night Out”; the sisters decided to start a book club driven by their love of African American Literature and their shared desire to engage in honest, enthusiastic, enlightening discussions with other individuals that truly enjoy reading. In order to rise to their fullest and purest potential not only as readers but also as women, they encouraged members to empower one another by sharing ideas and materials throughout the month that promote personal growth and enhance awareness within literary, social, spiritual and economic areas. 

In a nutshell, the original eight members gathered with the purpose of creating unity, friendship, and sisterhood amongst positive women of color. Presently, we have 11 active members who are in the process of determining to which organizations this year’s charitable donations will be made as well finalizing the details for our annual bowling party and literary luncheon. 

*  PRESIDENT / FOUNDER - Sandra Randolph
*  VICE PRESIDENT / FOUNDER - Maria Jackson
*  TREASURER - Paola Colon
*  SECRETARY - Deanna Wharton
*  CHAPLAIN - Ayona Hill
*  FACEBOOK ADMIN/PHOTOGRAPHER - Rashonda Jones-Aiken

In addition, our members are busy scheduling authors to participate in future monthly discussions. Currently, approximately 80% percent of our monthly discussions entail author participation either in person or via video or phone conference.

BPM:  What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community?
The purpose of our group is to gather literary women who enjoy reading. We come together to fellowship and discuss our book of the month along with what is going on in the literary world. We explore many different genres and writing styles. Literary Ladies looks forward to growing the club, possessing a stronger presence in the literary world and to whatever the universe has in store. We host an annual bowling party every August and we recently had our first "Lunch with the Literary Ladies Book Club & Friends” on October 20th.

BPM:  As a loyal reader, what are some of the things you want to see more of or less of in books?
The African American community includes people from all socio-economic levels; so we’d like to see a broader representation of us as a people overall in African American Literature. We would also like to see more books for teenagers. As loyal readers, our biggest pet peeve is poor editing. Often, there are so many typographical and grammatical errors that it becomes necessary to go back and reread a sentence, paragraph or worse yet an entire page in order to understand and follow the storyline. It is very frustrating to say the least.

BPM:  Has there been any books that helped shape your life or gave you inspiration?
*  The Holy Bible
*  Don't Sweat the Small Stuff by Richard Carlson
*  When Your Past Becomes Your Present by Dr. Henry Cloud
*  I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

BPM:  What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
The Literary Ladies Book Club’s collective purpose is still evolving. Having just hosted our first luncheon which showcased 11 local authors, we hope to continue to showcase authors in a more formal setting allowing veteran author to mentor up and coming writers. We will continue to support local African American authors, host fundraisers and make charitable donations to various charities. We not only gather to fellowship and talk about our monthly book(s) but we also socially conscious.

BPM:  Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? If so, who?
We feel that the books written today are speaking of life, the streets and not all have a happy ending. The books of yesterday are more about history, where we come from as a race; they taught you something…made you think. You can't compare history with "entertainment." With writings from authors such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Maya Angelou and Alice Walker just to name a few; the legacy of black books is strong. In our opinion, not enough of today’s authors are building upon this legacy. However, authors’ such as Pamela Samuels-Young, Bernice L. McFadden and Moody Holiday give us hope.

BPM:   Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the books you read?
Although negative stereotypes are perpetuated far too often, it really depends on the author and what they are writing about. In some of the books we’ve read African Americans are represented in a positive light; however, in other books we were our non black equals; educated, religious, prosperous, entrepreneurs, executives, valued high in society but still have to struggle to prove ourselves... We feel that African Americans are often represented as we have been socially regarded.

BPM:  Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of eBooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
No, not 100% because you will always have people who like the feel and smell of a new book, but as history has proven electronics are the way of the future. Yes, price does matter, but overall convenience will probably win You have to ask, is it less expensive to download an electronic version that costs $1 more or drive to the store or pay shipping to purchase the hard copy? No, we would never stop purchasing printed books. In fact, we purchase printed books, if the author is in attendance and signing for keepsake purposes.

BPM:  What are some of the changes you have seen in the last 5 years, in publishing, that you dislike?
We have a problem with the overall lack of support given to African American Literature by larger publishing houses. Authors are now forced to self publish their work. The authors lose the value of editing, marketing and distribution when that happens. In addition, it seems that many authors who by chance are able to land a deal with a major publisher are pigeon holed into writing what they (the publishers) think the black audience wants.

BPM:  Speak directly to the writers of the world, what advice would you offer them on capturing a reader's attention and keeping it?
Be creative in your approach. Don't involve too many characters in the plot. Keep the readers interested by feeding them just enough to keep them hungry and thirsting for more. There should not be multiple plots and definitely don’t drag them out. Please, please, please have your books properly edited and also take into consideration how that printed copy will appear when converted to an electronic version. 

BPM:  How may we find out more about you or your group? 
We are on Facebook at: LiteraryLadies Bookclub

Photo credit: Literary Ladies of Central NJ with Bernice L. McFadden

 


 


Girlfriends Book Club -  Dallas Chapter

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have? 
My name is Shameka Latimer, President of Girlfriends Book Club Dallas Chapter. GBC was founded in 2004 by Tamika Shamberger, CEO in Sacramento, CA. Dallas Chapter Officers are: Shameka Latimer- President/Secretary, Tonya Henderson-Smith-Vice President and LeTanya White-Kennedy- Treasurer. GBC Dallas was founded in July 2009 and is the fifth out of seven chapters. As of now we have a total of eight members.

BPM: What is the mission of the group? 
Our mission is to promote sisterhood and utilize this book club for self, as a stress reliever and a motivational tool. We look forward to working with all local and mainstream authors as much as possible to promote their novels. 

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel? 
We meet every third Saturday of each month to discuss our featured selection. Each member hosts a meeting either in their home or a surrounding venue. Since we love good food each member brings a dish. We also try to have authors attend our meetings which is always fun. The authors we've featured were the ladies who wrote "MANY PATHS, MANY FEET"  and Brian W. Smith author of  "MAMA LIES, DADDY PAIN."

Our organization has three Annual Events (Family Day, Group Trip, and Holiday Christmas Party). Our chapter does things from movies, to shopping, team building, and etc. 

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will you have a group party?
We will all celebrate the holidays with family and friends. We also have our holiday party to exchange gifts, talk, eat, awards, and just party and have a great time. 

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? 
Reading has been a stress reliever for us. It helps to take our mind off of things we may be going through. Reading has opened me up to new author and great discussions.

BPM: What impact has being in a organized group had on your life? 
GBC has been more then just a book club, it has been an outlet for me. All women face challenges, everyday, be it at home or in the work place. When we get together we open up our hearts to each other. This organization has led me to meet some wonderfully encouraging women. It's like having an extended family. 

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
This is a tough question. We enjoy Contemporary, Memoirs, Biography, Self help, Mystery, Romance, and other genres. Since we all have different personalities our taste in books varies. Books that relate to our everyday lives are the ones that remain on our mind long ever the books are closed. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
As far as electronic book, I think its convenient and great. I think it depends on the person because some people want to collect the books they have read and some don't. 

BPM: Do you think our authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
Yes, I do think the authors of today are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations and some are leaving even better ones!

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
Corporate website: www.girlfriendsbookclub.com 
Dallas Chapter website: www.gbcdallas.webs.com  
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gbcdallas 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/gbcdallas 

 

 

 


Girlfriends Book Club
Germeko Murray, GBC Atlanta President


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Girlfriends Book Club, Atlanta Chapter. 
Our organization name is Girlfriends Book Club and we are the Atlanta Chapter. Our organization was founded in 2004 in Sacramento, CA. by CEO Tamika Shamberger. The Atlanta Chapter was founded in 2008 and we are the fourth of seven chapters. Officers of the Atlanta Chapter are Germeko Murray- President;  Vegletta Cook-Lewis- Vice President, Sherica Tate- Treasurer and Stephanie Jett- Secretary. As of now we have nine members. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about the GBC work in the community. 
In the process of doing what we love which is reading we want to promote sisterhood. We would like to be a national known book club combating the stereotype that African American women can not get along, we would like show that it can be done in a positive way. 

BPM: What type of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel? 
Well, we do have our monthly book meetings, but we also try to get together as often as we can for social events such as: Book Expos, Birthdays and Girls Night Out. We have several annual events Parent/Family Day, Holiday Party and Annual Trip also we do several community services per year. 

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party? 
All of the members are very family oriented and will be celebrating the holidays with their families but we will most definitely get together for our Annual Holiday Party which will consist of dinner, games, gift exchange, a little partying and most of all enjoying the sisterhood!!! 

BPM: What impact has reading and being in an organized group had on your life? 
Reading is a comfort zone that sometimes takes you out of your element and it gives you a visual of situations and people that you may have never encountered or some you may know. Being in Girlfriends Book Club has allowed me to meet women from different backgrounds and experiences. I have also been able to participate in things that I would have not normally in return it has made me more open minded and appreciate sisterhood more. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club?
You can find out more about all our organizations chapters at www.girlfriendsbookclub.com  and more about the Atlanta Chapter at www.gbcatlanta.webs.comwww.facebook.com/gbcatl

Submitted by: 
Germeko Murray, GBC ATL President
www.gbcatlanta.webs.com 
www.facebook.com/gbcatl 
www.girlfriendsbookclub.com   

 

 


The Sista Girl Book Club - PA and NJ

BPM: Give us the history on your organization.  How many members do you have? 
Sista Girl:  It was my personal challenge to read at least one book a month that lead me on this literary journey. My name is Michelle and I started “The Sista Girl Book Club” back in September, 2005, with some of my co-workers. It has been an interesting adventure to say the least. If any book club has been together more than a couple of years they can attest to the fact that a positive book club is hard to maintain. We started with five members ,we at one time had eleven members and back down to the four core members and the last three years we had five members. This May we added our sixth member to our club, we will wait another year see how this works out and may consider adding another member and take it a year at a time. We are primarily located in PA with one member from NJ.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community? 
Sista Girl:  We are a group of ladies whom love to read and get together the last Saturday of each month to break bread, relax and catch up on each others lives in the midst of discussing a common book we have read. Our sole purpose is having a Sista Night Out! We all have busy lives, families, jobs and such and we are taking one night out of our busy months for some Sista time!

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? If so, who?
Sista Girl: I am so proud to introduce someone to the African American authors that I have come to know. The writings of my people can not be housed in just one category as even I thought when I began my reading journey almost seven years ago. We have authors such as Mary Monroe and then you go all the way to the other side with a Monique D. Mensah and I will throw in a Eric Pete, Lori Johnson, Daniel Black, Tracy Brown and my newest author Victor McGlothin in the middle. What you have here is Good reading for the young and the old.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
Sista Girl: This is an internal debate that I have with myself about the books by my people. Do I pick a book just because I want to just support my people or do I pick a book because the author is a good author?   The Sista Girl Book Club has chosen to support whom ever we tell can tell a good story, simple! 

The Urban/Hood books that I read, it’s like the lights are out!  Don’t get me wrong these are some of the best books that I have come to know and authors that I continue to support, but face it we look bad in most of them.   My husband always tells me to stop reading those comic books. Then we have some books that I tend to remove from that Urban category but are by African American authors and these books tell stories that shed better lighting to us as African American people. These books make you think a little harder it seems and they definitely lend to a better discussion.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
Sista Girl:  Well what can we say about technology? The price of the e-books definitely caused me to purchase more books than I would have normally. I think the easy access to purchase and read the books right away also lends to why e-books have become more popular. I have noticed that my son reads more than he did with his e-reader than his printed books, not sure why but he does. I have some diehard friends whom swore that they were not going to stray from printed books and where are they getting their books from right now? You guessed it, from the comfort of their homes, work. or wherever they are on their electronic e-readers! I will buy a printed book when necessary or at an event to support an author that I like, so I won’t rule out buying a actual printed book!

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? Please share your FB link and website address. 
Sista Girl: Like us on Facebook as Sista Girl Book Club.  You can check out the Sistas & Sista Happenings on our website:  www.Sistagirlbooks.com  

 

 

 


Intimate Conversations with Mississippi Magnolias Book Club 

BPM: Introduce us to your group. What was the first book you read as a Group?
MMBC: Mississippi Magnolias Book Club was founded November, 5, 2012 in Gulfport, Mississippi by Antionette Gates, President. MMBC officers are Antionette Gates, President, Ethel Smith, Vice-President, Taironzika Wesley, Secretary, Angela McNair, Treasurer, Photographers, Lisa Ladner and Kimberly Robins. MMBC currently have ten active members. Our first book read was Money Can’t Buy Love by Connie Briscoe.

BPM: Why was the organization created? Donate to charities or provide any services for the community?
MMBC: MMBC was created from avid readers that also happen o be members of Unity Festival, Incorporated, a non-profit organization. Yes, a few of us post reviews on Amazon. We contribute to all UFI events throughout the community; Thanksgiving baskets to needy families, books or prizes for the Children’s Book Jamboree, and sponsor Angel Tree children, at Christmas. MMBC members also volunteer at the organizations various functions including the neighborhood Unity Festival in March of each calendar year.

BPM: What type of books does your group read? Are there any genres that you will not read? 
MMBC: Romance, Contemporary Fiction, Erotica and Mysteries are group favorites. Some members thoroughly enjoy paranormal books as well. There is no genre that we absolutely will not read. A book excerpt does not help in the book selection.

BPM: Do you prefer to only read books by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors?  
MMBC: The majority of books read by MMBC are by authors of color, but books have been chosen by authors who aren’t of color. MMBC members definitely support self-published authors. Any support given self-published authors help promote awareness of the book and enlighten other readers about both the author and their books. This action in turn will someday garner a larger following for the self-published author.

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
MMBC: A few key factors are great characters, realistic problems or events, and a fantastic location.

BPM: What authors have been able to capture your imagination and support far beyond the last page?
MMBC: Authors Beverly Jenkins, Francis Ray, Brenda Jackson, Marissa Monteilh, Janet Evanovich, Kimberly Lawson Roby, Eric Jerome Dickey, and the E. Lynn Harris have created characters with strong personalities, endearing qualities and life situations. They make you wonder about the characters and events they will write about next.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
MMBC: Our goal is to improve our community through literacy and literature. We hope to bring a sense of joy, hope, and adventure associated with the love of reading, and volunteerism to the youth on the coast. It is our goal to further these efforts in future through a youth reading group or book club.

BPM: How may we find out more about your book club?
MMBC: For more information contact us on Facebook at  Mississippi Magnolias Book Club @ www.facebook.com.



Intimate Conversation with Soul Sistahs Book Club, TN

Soul Sistahs Book Club was founded in 2011 by Kenya Ervin of Chattanooga, TN. Initially comprised of coworkers, membership has been extended to close family and friends that share a passion for books. Soul Sistahs Book Club's mission is to promote literacy and encourage sisterhood among women of all ages and backgrounds through the love of reading and lively conversations. 

BPM: Introduce us to your group. What was the first book you read as a group?
SSBC: Soul Sistahs Book club was founded in September 2011 by Kenya Ervin. Currently, we do not have officers assigned, but everyone comes together to get things done. We are located in Chattanooga, TN and we have seven active members. The first book that we read was G-Spot by Noire. It was a very lively and interesting discussion.

BPM: Why was your organization created? Do you write and post book reviews? Do you host events?
SSBC: Initially, our organization was created because I loved to read and I wanted to discuss what I read with an interested party. Most people that I talked to did not share the same passion that I had for reading. I asked a few coworkers if they would be interested and it took off from there. Now we are a group of sisters that not only share a love of reading, but we share things about our personal lives as well. The members that write book reviews are Kenya Ervin, Shannon Pasley, and Treneka Jackson. Our club anniversary is usually a festive occasion. We have author visits (Tameka Newhouse and Electa Rome Parks), food, entertainment and lots of dancing. We have also hosted other authors during the year. In 2014, I hope that we can have a greater presence in the community.

BPM: What are some of your pet peeves when it comes to book promotions?
SSBC: Flooding our newsfeed and email with their books and flyers. It's ok to post one or two. Anything more than that can become annoying. 

BPM: Do you prefer to only read books written by authors of color? Do you support self-published authors? 
SSBC: We try to support all authors but we do prefer authors of color. I think it's easier to identify with the subject matter that's presented by authors of color based on life experiences. We also support self-published authors. 

BPM: Would you ever stop buying printed books? Do you think digital books will ever replace printed books? 
SSBC: I love printed books! I don't believe I will ever stop buying printed books. Although digital books have become very popular, I don't believe they will ever replace printed books. I have several book club members that love digital books and I am slowly embracing them. I love that it allows you to get a book faster than regular mail.

BPM: Does the price of a digital book play a big part in your purchase? 
SSBC: I think the price of a digital book plays a part in my purchase. If the digital copy is the same price as a printed book, I would purchase the printed book instead. I think the free ebooks are a double-edged sword. It's great that the price makes it easier to get books in the hands of more readers but the quality of the material in the books have decreased somewhat.

BPM: Does social media influence your reading selections at all? Would a online radio interview, video chat or Twitter chat influence you enough to purchase a book?
SSBC: Social media is a huge influence on our reading selections. I have chosen several of our book of the month selections based on online radio interviews and Facebook chats. It allows the reader to get up close and personal with an author to see how passionate they are about their work. An author's passion, dedication and great attitude makes us want to support them as much as we can.

President: Kenya Ervin
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/soulsistahs.bookclub

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Fourth Sunday Book Club 

A Book Club wrote a book about The Journey of a Book Club. The six authors of Fourth Sunday – The Journey Of A Book Club, Francesca Cook, Chyla Evans, Clarita Frazier, Allita Irby, Donna Neale, and Yolanda Yates are members of a book club based in Maryland. They have been featured in various publications, showcasing their decision to write their own novel.  Add Fourth Sunday – The Journey Of A Book Club to your list of books to read!   What happens when a real life book club decides to write their own novel? The result is a fresh, fun story about a group of women who have more in common than just the books they read.

FOURTH SUNDAY written by B.W. Read (aka “Because We Read” ) is the tale of seven women and their journey towards friendship by way of a simple book club.  Over time, their friendship grows beyond books, as their lives, relationships, careers, and families become one. The core group of women—Gwen, Natalie, Allana, Brianna, Camille, Destiny, and Adriane—shares not only their love of books at these monthly meetings but their life experiences as well.  During a two year period, the women undergo a number of trials within their own lives as they confront divorce, illness, romantic highs and lows, sexual experimentation, and career challenges. Throughout the good times and bad times, their book club family provides support, encouragement, laughter, and love.

Written by six women of a real-life book club who no longer wanted to read about characters they could not identify with, FOURTH SUNDAY is the answer for the everyday woman. FOURTH SUNDAY is timeless cosmopolitan literature.   The novel incorporates intellect and riveting facts about medical, political and small business state of affairs while balancing playfulness and sensuality. It is funny, it is sad, it is contemporary, but most of all it is real.


BPM: Give us a little history on the 4th Sunday Book Club
The 4th Sunday Book Club was founded in the 1994 by six professional African-American women from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area . These women shared a desire to read books of quality and substance and formed a loosely structured book club simply referred as “the book club”.  The objective was to read books written by African-American authors. Over time the club diversified to include at least one non-fiction book per year and has grown beyond solely African-American authored works.

The book club, which met on fourth Sundays, soon found that contemporary literature did not reflect them or their lives. Motivated by this realization, the club began writing its own book. The result is Fourth Sunday: A Journey of Book Club, which was written under the pseudonym B.W. Read and published in May 2011 by Strebor Books for Simon and Shuster. In honor of the success of the book, “the book club” was renamed “4th Sunday Book Club.”

The 4th Sunday Book Club has grown in membership and purpose. The club now has 13 active members. However, it remains an unstructured, intimate club where books are our connection and our bond is our strength.

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives?
Reading is important because it exposes us to experiences and information we may not otherwise encounter. Reading helps us to become more educated and well rounded. Books, like "A Wrinkle In Time" by Madeleine L'Engle, influence lives at an early stage and have lasting effects.

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books?
The club reads11 books per year. At least one non-fiction and a book with a romantic theme or undertone are read each year in February. The club meets only once during the summer months of July and August, for a co-ed meeting where spouses or significant others are invited is held. Books are selected at the January meeting and are selected by consensus. 

BPM: What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection? 
This year’s co-ed book is “Before I Forget” by Leonard Pitts.  The Co-ed meeting was held in August 2011.  The club attempts to select co-ed books that are (1) fiction with contemporary stories and themes that may appeal to the male perspective or (2) non-fiction and address contemporary issues and subject matters. 

BPM: What are your all-time favorite book  selections? 
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand, everything written by Tananarive Due, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, Red Tent by Anita Diamante, and Topping from Below by Laura Reese to name a few.

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy books written by African American authors will leave our future generations?
NO and NO. For the past 20 years or more, books written by black authors that are profiled or placed front and center by bookstores and the media are classified as “Urban Literature.” Most often found under this classification are books that reflect the urban hip-hop culture, baby mama drama, hustler, or mad black woman perspectives that feed the majority’s opinion. Contemporary books are capturing the moment, the flavor of the month, sometimes for shock value. Only a few of these books will be classics 20, 30, years from now. 

Books of depth and substance are painted with this broad monolithic “Urban Literature” brush and are too often looked over when books get promoted. They are ultimately lost to the readers and we are left with a legacy of more widely read black books that stereotype us, our lives, and our desires. 

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in books? 
YES. More diversity including, but not limited to mixed race couples, gay characters that aren't caricatures or stereotypes, people doing meaningful things with their lives that make them happy, and people being accountable for the decisions (good and bad) they make without blaming society, lack of money or their parents.

Interview submitted by Allita Irby, Fourth Sunday Book Club


 


Intimate Conversation with Debra Owsley 

In 2005, Debra Owsley turned her love for reading and her hobby to support her book habit, into the reading accessory and consulting business, www.Simply-Said.net. Debra works with several major bestselling authors, and independent book stores creating unique gift-marks, book thongs, creative displays and promoting literacy. She also coaches authors on how to promote and market their book on a budget.

Debra never dreamed her two loves would turn into a marketing and promotional business, allowing her to meet authors she has read and admired, working at book events and book festivals selling her treasures. She enjoys meeting other avid readers and book club members. Debra is quoted as saying, “These are my passion marks!”

BPM: How did you get your start in this business/industry?
Honestly I started this business quite by accident! I am a hair stylist and every year I give my clients a gift as appreciation for their business. We always discuss books we’re reading and most clients read under the dryer. I simply decided to give them bookmarks as a Christmas gift that year. They loved them! Some asked me to make more so they could give as gifts. These were something I only made for myself at that time, just because I loved to read and love collecting quotes, so I put them on bookmarks so I could enjoy them!

Marcia King-Gamble was a client of mine at the salon before I knew who she was! She was also one of the clients who saw the bookmarks and asked me to customized some for her for the Goodie Room at the Romantic Times convention. I had been reading her for years and just never put the two together. She is also the person who told me about the trade shows, book events and different festivals that went on. She introduced me to a whole new world I never knew existed.

BPM: Tell us about your most popular service and products.
The “Gift-marks” are bookmarks have great quotes or sayings that are designed to inform, encourage and inspire. They can be customized to any book, event, or occasion. They are durable and are heavily laminated and cut by hand with scalloped or torn paper edges to add to their uniqueness. They are the most effective and versatile item because they are more of a gift than just a bookmark.

The Paper Chase Collection was added to the line earlier this year. These have sarcastic book remarks and other things that readers say when reading their books. This collection contains bookmarks, card sized bookmarks and door hangers.  The Book Thongs are book jewelry for book lovers. They are gorgeous bookmarks that can be beaded or with charms. They will fit just about any size book and they absolutely deliciously girly and we call them Book Charming! 

BPM: How would you describe your experience as a entrepreneur?
Extraordinary! I can’t believe I get to meet people I’ve loved reading and admired all my life. Authors are my rock stars! Even 6 years later, I still get absolutely giddy talking to them. Every note and email I have ever received from an author I have and cherish. When they contact me for an order, I do the “Happy Feet Dance” all over my kitchen! This experience for the most part has been an absolute joy.

BPM: What do you hope to offer your clients or customers to shape their lives?
I offer every client longevity and a way to be a constant memory in readers lives. Also, I strive to offer a different way of marketing with a more personal touch. I show them how to get the seven touches of exposure needed for people to really see their importance and how to be effective in reaching all of the reader's senses.

Even when I’m doing a brain storming session with a client, thing come up they never thought of, because they are too close to their book or project. I love to bring out of them a new way of seeing things. It could be a very simple thing to bring their project to life. I love helping and guiding them with that process.

BPM: How can readers connect with you online and how can we follow your new projects?

Thank you so much for this awesome interview! I can't wait to start meeting new book lovers! The easiest way to see what I’m doing is by signing up for my blog: www.simplysaidreadingaccessories.blogspot.com 

Debra Owsley, Simply Said Reading Accessories
Website: www.simply-said.net

Blog: www.simplysaidreadingaccessories.blogspot.com
Like on FB: Facebook.com/smplysaidreadingaccessories

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Marilyn G. Diamond
Daughters of Royalty Book Club 

Marilyn G. Diamond, a Sankofa Literacy Society Reviewer began reading at an early age and continued through college reading Harlequin novels. At an early age books became as an escape mechanism for her while growing up in Brooklyn, New York. While working full-time Ms. Diamond raised three boys and other neighborhood children with a strict demeanor insisting on finishing homework and visiting libraries as positive incentives.

After finishing college in Central New York, weather and medical issues bore down on Ms. Diamond, causing her to relocate. She now resides in South Carolina, where she is not only a book reviewer, but she is also vigilantly working on a upcoming novel herself. “Having always maintained a journal there was a great desire to write my book one day.”As a reviewer she takes her occupation to heart. You can find this survivor, reading and reviewing various literature alongside starting a book club and inspiring the upcoming generations.

BPM: Give us the history on your club. How many members do you have? Tell us about the members.
Daughters of Royalty formed and created out of an idea ten to fifteen years ago from two best friends. It has been two years and counting since Daughters of Royalty was formed formally in South Carolina. We have eight adult members and three youth members. Since then, a group of young people have been inspired through the efforts of Daughters of Royalty. Besides inspiration gained from the reading of books by their parents, they have also formed a arts and craft team who create bookmarks from beads.

Marilyn G. Diamond (Facilitator), Fredrinne Green (Vice-Facilitator), Tracy Turner (Secretary), James Washington (Designer and Logo Exec); have currently established as a group that reads and loans books through Kindle amongst each other.  We frequently post our reviews and discuss various books that are read amongst each other. We meet quarterly and plan on sending one of our members to Literary Conferences and Book Fairs as we expand. We also have a member who actively seeks and finds new books and announcements. For the upcoming year we plan to include Skype and conference calls to the executive body as part of our expansion.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
Purposes and services towards Community: Our purpose is to expose and promote all avenues of literature. We feel that literature by African-American authors are not promoted through local efforts as a New York Times Best Seller book should and would be.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
We hope to donate five-ten books to thrift stores and Public Libraries that generally do not have the books we as a book club love to read. We hope to promote services towards working with illiteracy clients. Many of our young people are falling through the cracks and crevices of society and are not seeking their GED.

BPM: Has there been a book that helped shape your life?
Books as a group that have inspired us:  “The Bible,” “A Purpose Driving Life,” “Besides the Still Waters,” “Redeeming Waters,” and “One Day My Soul Opened Up” were some of the great novels that have inspired us to continue on in this journey.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
We do not think that digital books will replace hard copy books:  No technology will never replace printed books and we will not stop buying printed books. We try to maintain a balance by reading and purchasing hard copy books. “There is nothing like opening a book for the first time to read.”

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
We as a group are finding upcoming authors are giving away their first books in order for readers to read their continuing work. Upcoming authors also a hard find in major book stores. We have a problem with that; hence why we seek out newer authors in order to give their work a chance for exposure; especially if it is a trilogy.

We are concerned as a group with the independent African-American book stores that are closing. We have as much purchasing power of books as other minorities. However, in some states there are segregated sections in the libraries and bookstores of African-American literature. If a member is in a major metropolitan city we encourage them to visit and support an independent struggling book store.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
We do not feel that African-Americans are being shown in a positive light in regards to Urban Literature:  We do not feel that African-Americans are being shown in a positive light with the Street Urban Literature. We are finding the same plots, themes and repetitive story of drug usage, violence and turning out of young girls and young boys. That is not the legacy that Toni Morrison, Terri McMillan, Be Be Moore Campbell or Walter Mosley gave to us.

BPM: How may we find out more about you or your group?
We can be found on Facebook under Daughters of Royalty:  https://www.facebook.com/msdiamondtoou 

 

 

 


Intimate Conversation with The Sista Girl Book Club

BPM: Give us the history on your organization.  How many members do you have? 
Sista Girl:  It was my personal challenge to read at least one book a month that lead me on this literary journey. My name is Michelle and I started “The Sista Girl Book Club” back in Sept 2005, with some of my co-workers. Our seven year anniversary is September 2012!   It has been an interesting adventure to say the least. If any book club has been together more than a couple of years they can attest to the fact that a positive book club is hard to maintain. We started with five members ,we at one time had eleven members and back down to the four core members and the last three years we had five members. This May we added our sixth member to our club, we will wait another year see how this works out and may consider adding another member and take it a year at a time. We are primarily located in PA with one member from NJ.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community? 
Sista Girl:  We are a group of ladies whom love to read and get together the last Saturday of each month to break bread, relax and catch up on each others lives in the midst of discussing a common book we have read. Our sole purpose is having a Sista Night Out! We all have busy lives, families, jobs and such and we are taking one night out of our busy months for some Sista time!

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? If so, who?
Sista Girl: I am so proud to introduce someone to the African American authors that I have come to know. The writings of my people can not be housed in just one category as even I thought when I began my reading journey almost seven years ago. We have authors such as Mary Monroe and then you go all the way to the other side with a Monique D. Mensah and I will throw in a Eric Pete, Lori Johnson, Daniel Black, Tracy Brown and my newest author Victor McGlothin in the middle. What you have here is Good reading for the young and the old.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
Sista Girl: This is an internal debate that I have with myself about the books by my people. Do I pick a book just because I want to just support my people or do I pick a book because the author is a good author?   The Sista Girl Book Club has chosen to support whom ever we tell can tell a good story, simple! 

The Urban/Hood books that I read, it’s like the lights are out!  Don’t get me wrong these are some of the best books that I have come to know and authors that I continue to support, but face it we look bad in most of them.   My husband always tells me to stop reading those comic books. Then we have some books that I tend to remove from that Urban category but are by African American authors and these books tell stories that shed better lighting to us as African American people. These books make you think a little harder it seems and they definitely lend to a better discussion.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
Sista Girl:  Well what can we say about technology? The price of the e-books definitely caused me to purchase more books than I would have normally. I think the easy access to purchase and read the books right away also lends to why e-books have become more popular. I have noticed that my son reads more than he did with his e-reader than his printed books, not sure why but he does. I have some diehard friends whom swore that they were not going to stray from printed books and where are they getting their books from right now? You guessed it, from the comfort of their homes, work. or wherever they are on their electronic e-readers! I will buy a printed book when necessary or at an event to support an author that I like, so I won’t rule out buying a actual printed book!

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? Please share your FB link and website address. 
Sista Girl: Like us on Facebook as Sista Girl Book Club.  You can check out the Sistas & Sista Happenings on our website:  www.Sistagirlbooks.com  

 


Intimate Conversation with The Butterfly Book Club 

BPM:   Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
The Butterfly Book Club officially started on May 7, 2003. We are located in Columbus, Ohio. Prior to us becoming an official book club, the founders of the book club (Afonda Johnson and Mala Robinson) discussed books over the telephone. Mala and I would go to the library, choose the same book, and after we finished reading the book we discussed it over the telephone. Over a period of time, we decided that it would be more interesting to start a book discussion group. Therefore, we had our first book club meeting on May 7, 2003. The first book that we discussed was, Reinventing the Woman by Patty Rice.

We currently have seven members. Our officers are: President – Afonda Johnson; Vice President – Danielle McKnight-Zellner; Secretary – Alva Cunningham-Collins; and Treasurer: Shannon Cunningham.

BPM:   What is the mission of the group?

Our mission statement is: “To inspire reading and the discussion of various literary works of African-American authors, while providing an atmosphere that fosters sisterhood and unity.” Our book club is limited to women, but we do not exclude anyone based on her race or color. Our first objective is to promote reading and communication within our organization and our community. And our second objective is to promote unity within our group as well as into the community.

BPM:    What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
We have our monthly book discussion group on every third Saturday of the month. Each book club member has a chance to facilitate the discussion group. The facilitator chooses the book and hosts the meeting. We have a group of very creative women, so each meeting is different. For example, we have played games that were created from the specified book of the month. 

Also, if there was a movie based on the book we would read the book, watch the movie, and discuss the similarities and differences of the two works of art. In addition to our monthly meetings, we go on a yearly book club retreat. We have, within the past few years, incorporated traveling to various cities into our schedule. Also, we have a gift exchange and holiday gathering in December of every year. We have also had a few successful prayer breakfast events, so this could possibly become an annual event.

BPM:   What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page?
Some personal favorites of our Vice President Danielle’s are: drama, mystery, humor, and fiction books. She stated that the things that make her remember a book are things or similar events that have either happened to her or someone else; if it was really good it’ll stick with her. I also enjoy the same types of books as Danielle, but I also enjoy the type of book that takes me back in history. There were a few books that two members selected that I really enjoyed. I would have never thought to choose the books myself, but they truly remained on my mind long after I read them. The titles of the books are: The Wake of the Wind by J. California Cooper and Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe.

BPM:  How may we find out more about your club? 
Our website address is: http://thebutterflybookclub.tripod.com.

 


Intimate Conversation with Tiffany Craig
Founder of Tiffany Talks Books 

BPM: Tiffany, tell us a little about yourself and introduce us to your book blog.
I am a woman who loves books! I am an Army wife currently living in Maryland with my husband and our two Yorkies: Lucky and Lina. I love to read all genres with the exception of paranormal. horror, fantasy, and science fiction. Indie and self-published authors as well as books that make a personal connection hold a special place in my heart!

I am a graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelors of Arts in Communications and a minor in Linguistics. And, outside of reading, I love sports, traveling, and everything fitness/nutrition related.

It is important to note that I represent DIVERSITY on my blog! Tiffany Talks Books (formally Read It All Book Reviews) was founded in 2010. I am an avid reader who loves ALL genres (generally, I do not read paranormal, horror, or science fiction). It is my wish to promote the lost art of reading and I take a special interest in new and self published authors. I read, review and recommend based on MY opinion.

BPM: When and how did you decide to become a book blogger?
I decided to become serious about being a book blogger in 2011. I was living in Germany with my husband who is a soldier and I needed an outlet where I was free to express my own thoughts and feelings. I say that because as an Army wife you must always be mindful of what you say and/or what you express because it can reflect negatively on your husband. Another reason is because I have always loved to read and I wanted to share that with others in hopes that it would inspire at least one person to decrease their television time and increase their reading time.

BPM: What makes your blog unique and/or different?
I think there are two main things I believe that make my blog unique:

1. As much as I adore authors and their craft, I speak truthfully in my reviews, so you won’t always see me posting that a book is excellent and that it receives 5 HEARTS from me. I see so many blogs that only rate books highly.

2. I represent diversity on my blog meaning I read and feature books from all nationalities which I rarely see on other blogs or in books.

BPM: What is your “philosophy” regarding book reviews?
My philosophy is to be truthful and be you. Use your own style. And, never personally attack the author; keep your review based on the content of the book.

BPM: What are your favorite genres to read/review, and why?
I love reading Christian fiction books because I am a Christian and God plays an important part of my life. I love reading Coming of Age books because I love to see how people overcome and/or begin to feel comfortable in their own skin. I love reading Erotica because I love sex! And, I love romance because I believe in the power of love!! (And, I know this isn’t a genre, but I always like to see some type of drama in a book as well).

BPM: What are your biggest turn-offs in a book? How about that special thing that always wins you over?
Nothing turns me off more than horrible grammar. I do not understand if an author takes the time and effort to write a book, why wouldn’t they get it edited properly? I also am turned off by covers that do not relate to the content of the book.

The special thing that always wins me over is a book that is so well-written and unique that it absolutely captivates me and makes simply forget about life. Nowadays, most books somehow seem the same but every so often I find a gem that takes my breath away!

BPM: Where do you see your blog a year from now?
I see it still growing and becoming a respectable name in the blogging community, one that has a reputation that authors/publishers know they can turn to for honest feedback, and hopefully my blog will become a place that readers know they can visit for some great recommendations and hopefully learn about some new (to them) authors.

BPM: What do you think the next “big” thing in fiction will be?
I think the YA/NA trend will continue for a while. I would like to see more “dark contemporary fiction” because not everyone has lived a happy go-lucky life.

BPM: If money were no object, how would you spend your days?
I would read on a balcony and/or beach with some wine and/or a drink with an umbrella with my two Yorkies (Lucky and Lina) running around acting crazy!!!

BPM: How can readers and writers find you?
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tifftalksbooks 
TTB Blog: http://tiffanytalksbooks.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/tifftalksbooks

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Orsayor L. Simmons

Orsayor has always wanted her voice to be heard when it came to books. Being a book reviewer has strengthened her love for books, and now she makes it her duty to share her love of books with the masses.

Orsayor is a mom, wife, judgment worker, cake stylist and owner of Simmons Sweets. She is a book reviewer for OOSA Online Book Club, Urban Reviews, Book Sneeze, Tyndale Publishing, Astraea Press, and NetGalley. She also runs her own book review blog, The Book Referees. 

BPM: How did you form your lit blog? Give us your history.
Book Referees was formed by me (Orsayor L. Simmons). It was formed to get me and my book loving friends to read/review/and to spread the word out about our favorite books. Now it seems to have taken on a life of its own. I'm now spreading the word through my blog - interviewing authors - and getting books in the hands of celebrities.
Book Referees was created to promote the Love of Books - promote the Love of Authors - and to promote Giving Back. 

BPM: What do you love most about reading? Who are your favorite authors?
I love reading because it serves as a mental escape from the stresses of the real world. I'm able to meet new people, travel to new places without leaving the comforts of my home.

My favorite authors are Donald Goines - E. Lynn Harris - Brian W. Smith - Electa Rome Parks - Victoria Christopher Murray - Lutisha Lovely and Rickey Teems III.

BPM: How does your blog serve the literary industry?
Spreading the word about the gems of the literary world...

Book Referees: We Call It Like We See It
Follow me on Twitter: @Orsayor
Website: www.bookreferees.com
Blog: http://bookreferees.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bookreferees

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Carmela Hicks Gordon
Virtual Branch of Sistahfriend Book Club

Carmela Hicks Gordon is the site leader for the Virtual Branch of Sistahfriend Book Club. She also is a contributing writer for the BookClub University Magazine started by fellow panelist TaNisha Webb and a reviewer for the Book Referees started by fellow panelist Orsayor Simmons. She enjoys reading and volunteers in her community as a tutor to help children to read and write and firmly believes if you can read, you go anywhere and do any and everything! 

BPM: How was your bookclub or reading group created? Give us your history.  
The SistahFriend Book Club was founded by Tasha Martin in 2004 in Columbia, SC. It was decided a little over a year ago to branch out and form a virtual branch where I am the site leader. The SistahFriend Book Club is a live and online reading and networking group for women that focuses on reading and discussing books by or about African-Americans and promoting unity through women empowerment and fellowship.

Online book club members drop in 24 hours a day on our forum, where lively book discussions and sistah bonding occurs all day. Chats are held Monday evenings at 9pm. 

BPM:  What is the vision for SistahFriend Book Club?
Our vision for the SistahFriend Book Club is to be a source of promotion and support for African-American literature by authors of various cultural backgrounds and to build intimate discussion groups everywhere, appreciating and discussing quality literature as well as the power of unity among women.

BPM: What do you love the most about reading? Who are your favorite authors?
Reading is relaxing. Reading is therapeutic. Reading is definitely fundamental. My favorite authors are Rickey Teems, ReShonda Tate Billingsley, Victoria Christopher Murray, Kimberla Lawson Roby, Rhonda McKnight, Patricia Haley, Brian W. Smith, Trice Hickman

BPM: How does your group serve your community or the literary industry? 
The virtual branch contributes to the literary industry by reading AA authors as well as we do a community service event. This year the virtual branch decided to help someone who is ill and has no income. We also will be purchasing a book to donate for a child for Christmas.

Thank you,
Carmela Hicks Gordon
SistahFriend Book Club Website:  http://www.sistahfriend.com 

 


Intimate Conversation with Toshona E. Carter
Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned

BPM: Give us the history on your club. How many members do you have? Tell us about the members.
My name is Toshona E. Carter and I am the Founder and President of this great group of women called Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned.  My bookclub got started on July 17, 2010 as a request from some sister friends whom loved to read. They knew I had previously been a member in another club. 

The members names are the following:
LaToshia Enoch-Elston
Cassandra Wallace
Tacarla Young
Jayla Davis
Angela Davis
Erica Whitfield
Jennnifer James
Shantwan Vickers
Shereen Watkins

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
Our bookclub focuses on community service. We want to promote literacy and help provide a positive atmosphere for children & families. Also to provide a nuturing environment for all women of color. When were not reading and having a book discussion, we are usually participating in some type of community service project. We recently participated in a homeless facility called the Union Rescue Mission where we packed boxes for families for Thanksgiving.  We also donated to the Ronald McDonald House and  took up a cash donation forThe Salvation Army.

BPM:  Have you always liked to read?  What you love most about reading? Favorite authors? 
I have loved reading since I was a small child. I feel that reading opens your mind to so many possiblities. I do believe knowledge is Power.  Some of my favorite authors include Mary Monroe, Adrienne Thompson, Francis Ray, Terry McMillan, Daniel Black, E.Lynn Harris, Rita Williams- Garcia, Zane, Toni Morrison, and Dr. Maya Angelou.

BPM: How may we find out more about you or your group?
Readers can join our group on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/142447232464866

 



Intimate Conversation with Sistah Minds 
in Motions Book Club Atlanta

Sistah Minds in Motions enlightens your mind through the power, spirit, soul of sisterhood, and reading. We want to address every aspect of a women's world, physically, spiritually, socially and emotionally. We are a small, newly formed African American book club and social organization for positive, spiritual women who enjoy reading! Our book selections will fluctuate to include non-fiction, fiction, inspirational, romance and a wide variety of other topics chosen by our members. We meet once a month, on the 4th Saturday.

BPM: Give us the history on your organization. How many members do you have?
SMM was established in November 2009 by Bobbi Ramey, our President. Our first official book club meeting took place on January16, 2010. Lashandra Searcy is the Treasurer, Rhonda Sidibe is the Events Coordinator, and I am Shannon Powell the Secretary. We are in Atlanta, Georgia and we have about 10 members.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
The idea was to bring together a diverse group of women who enjoy reading and to bond spiritually. . . Sistah Minds in Motions stemmed from a vision of desiring to bond resilient African-American women in cultivating friendships, encountering new and unique experiences, social gatherings, networking, taking part in community events and the overall encouragement of each member. We will be attending the Cancer Walk this year and we are in the process of choosing a family in need for our annual Thanksgiving Basket, that we put together based on the need of the family that includes but not limited to food, toiletries, clothes and books for inspiration and books for the kids 

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
We hope to show that reading can be fun and show especially our young kids that reading is not something you have to do only in school. It allows you escape and use your imagination. 

Bobbi has also started Sistah Minds in Motions Little Divas, which is a Book Club for young girls from the ages of 8-13 to show them that getting together and reading can be fun and show them how girls can come together in "Sisterhood" and support one another. They also learn things such as cooking, sewing, braiding and other things girls love to do

BPM: Has there been a book that helped shape your life?
The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah is the book that got me started to reading. I was not going through anything at the time, but the story captured me and I was not able to put it down and from there on out, I was hooked.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
I think all the books that I have read show us in a good light, whether good or bad, if it's real, the story needs to be told. I love to read positive novels but the ones that compel me most are the ones that tell about the struggle of day to day life and stuff that I see or have seen in real life and the outcome still comes out good.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
There are only two members of our group at this present time that has an E-Reader, I have one, a Kindle, and I love it. The price is cheaper yes and that does play a big part in my purchase decision, and no I will never buy another printed book because of the Kindle. I have been introduced to some authors that I know I would not know of if it wasn't for the Kindle, but we have another member LaShandra that states that she will NEVER buy an E-Reader, she loves the feel of printed books and she likes to see them on her book shelf and she also never buys used books. So no I do not think E Books will replace printed books, publishers may just start printing as ordered. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
http://www.sistahmindsinmotionsbc.com or visit us at: https://www.facebook.com/#!/bobbi.ramey 

Interview completed by: Shannon Powell (Secretary)

Sistah Minds in Motions, Atlanta, Georgia

 


Intimate Conversation with Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club 

BPM: Welcome!  Please share with us the history of the organization. How did you get started? 
Hi my name is Sheridan Akens founder of  Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club but you can call me Mz. Coffee Bean. I was born in Los Angeles  CA. and moved to Texas at an early age. I currently reside in Houston, Texas where I’m raising two beautiful daughters. I’ve always had a strong passion for reading, so it was no surprise when I began my search within the city to find a book club to join. But to my surprise I found this task somewhat challenging. So I decided to do the next best thing and start my own club. 

Because of my cheerful spirit and the strong family-oriented values bestowed upon me, I made the choice of this not being just a club but a SISTAHOOD.  The name Coffee Beanz N Readz was created from my thoughts of snuggling up with a good book and having a smooth cup of coffee.  The two together are a great blend and well the ladies are the whip cream on top. The club is a way for each “Bean” to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A place and time where you can sit, relax and savor a great discussion with your “sisters”. 

Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club  began in April 2010 in Houston, Texas . The motivating factor to start a club came with the network of the book Push by Sapphire to my co-workers on the job. It was then, that I realized there were many people around me that shared my same passion. I asked co-workers, family and friends to join. We were blessed to have our first meeting with a noted author, Brianne Smith.  Her novel, Ms. Onda-Stould became our first book to read. 

Our family consists of 12 members from different walks of life. And like our background differences, each sister has a nickname derived from different flavors, roasts and blends of coffee (i.e. Mz. Richly Brewed, Mz. Columbian Bean, Mz. Frappuccino and Mz. Premium Roast). We meet every third Saturday of each month. We select a different host each month. The host does make the selection for our “Book of the Month”.   Our reads are compiled from different genres, but  all from African-American Literature.  We are also actively involved in community volunteer events (i.e. Methodist Hospital Stride for Stroke Walk, Walk to Cure Diabetes, Susan G. Komen Walk, etc.).   December 2010 we started our own Adopt-A-Family program in which we were able to make a mother of three, holiday season less stressful.

Beanz Cabinet
Chellsi Akens (Miss Vanilla Bean Whipped) – Spirit Leader
Katashia DeWalt (Mz. Frappuccino) – Administrative Assistant
Sheila Henry (Mz. Café Latte) - Treasurer
Antrese Knighten (Mz. Premium Roast) – Photographer

BPM: What is the vision for Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club?
Our mission is to enhance our member’s passion for reading and inspire others to appreciate the joy of reading. To promote sisterhood by building lifelong friendships.  To support and  network with African-American authors, while purchasing their books and  attending their literary events. To support our community by volunteering in different organizations. 

BPM: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading will open your eyes to a world you’ve never known. It gives you a world of knowledge, power, relaxation, inspiration, travel, courage, hope, love and much more. Reading is the BEST gift a person can give to themselves.

BPM: On your nightstand now:
The Eternal Engagement by Mary B. Morrison

BPM: Favorite book when you were a child:
Freckle Juice by Judy Blume

BPM: Book you've bought for the cover:
Moth To A Flame by Ashley Antoinette. Those eyes read “something serious is going down – turn the pages and follow me now”.

BPM: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
72 Hour Hold by Bebe Moore Campbell . This book was very emotional and eye-opening to the issues on mental illness. It also showed the unconditional love a mother has for their child(ren).

BPM: Book that should be a movie or play:
The Million Dollar Divorce by R M Johnson

BPM: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Mary B. Morrison, Allison Hobbs and Kimberla Lawson Roby

Sheridan Akens, President and Founder Coffee Beanz N Readz Book Club
“Enhancing your passion for reading”
Facebook: www.facebook.com/coffeebeanznreadz

 


Intimate Conversation with Smooth Essence Book Club 

Smooth Essence Book Club "SEBC" has originated in July, 2012 in Orlando, Florida by a young lady name Deborah "Diva Dee" Walker . This organization is fairly new however the group of women are very close. SEBC is a group of women who has monthly chats and craft sessions of books they have select for that particular month.They cater to African American novels from fiction to non-fiction. They are also in the process of doing community events starting the new year of 2013 with women who have survived Domestic Violence. They will be donating used books to the shelters in the Downtown Orlando area for the women who love to read. Smooth Essence Book Club is not only a book club but a group of women who grow and bond together as a whole. 

BPM:  Give us the history on your organization. How many members do you have? 
Prior to this book club, actually me and two other member were in an existing book club but i decided to branch out on my own and start my own club. So in July, 2012 SEBC came to life, with only 2 members and now we are at 6 and growing. SEBC member consist of me, Deborah"Diva Dee" Walker- President, Monik Obrin- Vice-President, Marva Rodriguez- Secretary and Carlyn Herard, Barabara Loiseau, Marjorie Valmir. We are located in Orlando, FL.

BPM:  What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
The purpose of our organization is to empower each other with love and encouragement. We are more than just a book club. We are here to support each other in every aspect of life. Our mission statement is "The essence of women growing and bonding".  As of right now we haven't hosted any events but we're just getting started and have numerous goals we want to accomplish within our book club.

BPM:  As a loyal reader, what are some of the things you want to see more of in books? Do you read mostly fiction or non-fiction?
We are happy with what we see in African American books. Just keep the drama coming! The books Smooth Essence Book Club read currently are fiction and non-fiction.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the books you read?
I do feel African American are represented in good light in our books. Our author are keeping it real by writing about various characters ranging in all degrees and stages in life. Expressing the low and high struggles we as black people go through. 

BPM:  Speak directly to the writers of the world, what advice would you offer them on capturing a reader's attention and keeping it? 
I would say to my writers, keep it real!! never lose your touch, write what's on your heart because a reader can and will notice if the writer is truly sincere on what they are writing. That is what keep us Book Clubs going and purchasing when a writer is real and is true to there story.

BPM:  What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
The legacy we hope Smooth Essence Book Club leave for those watching n the community is that we together as black women can unite and have meaningful, deep conversation from books to everyday life. We are here to support the people in our community, each other and bring positive atmosphere.

BPM:  How may we find out more about you or your group? 
You can contact Smooth Essence Book Club via Facbook at: www.facebook.com/smoothessencebookclub 

Interview submitted by Dee Dee Walker, President & CEO Smooth Essence Book Club
"The Essence Of Women Growing & Bonding"

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Sandra "Sandi" Randolph
Literary Ladies Book Club

BPM:  Give us the history on your club. Where are you located? How many members do you have? 
In October 2008, the Literary Ladies Book Club was established in Rahway, New Jersey by sisters, Sandi and Maria. As busy career women with little free time to enjoy friends, fellowship, adult conversation and a good “Girl’s Night Out”; the sisters decided to start a book club driven by their love of African American Literature and their shared desire to engage in honest, enthusiastic, enlightening discussions with other individuals that truly enjoy reading. In order to rise to their fullest and purest potential not only as readers but also as women, they encouraged members to empower one another by sharing ideas and materials throughout the month that promote personal growth and enhance awareness within literary, social, spiritual and economic areas. 

In a nutshell, the original eight members gathered with the purpose of creating unity, friendship, and sisterhood amongst positive women of color. Presently, we have 11 active members who are in the process of determining to which organizations this year’s charitable donations will be made as well finalizing the details for our annual bowling party and literary luncheon. 

*  PRESIDENT / FOUNDER - Sandra Randolph
*  VICE PRESIDENT / FOUNDER - Maria Jackson
*  TREASURER - Paola Colon
*  SECRETARY - Deanna Wharton
*  CHAPLAIN - Ayona Hill
*  FACEBOOK ADMIN/PHOTOGRAPHER - Rashonda Jones-Aiken

In addition, our members are busy scheduling authors to participate in future monthly discussions. Currently, approximately 80% percent of our monthly discussions entail author participation either in person or via video or phone conference.

BPM:  What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community?
The purpose of our group is to gather literary women who enjoy reading. We come together to fellowship and discuss our book of the month along with what is going on in the literary world. We explore many different genres and writing styles. Literary Ladies looks forward to growing the club, possessing a stronger presence in the literary world and to whatever the universe has in store. We host an annual bowling party every August and we recently had our first "Lunch with the Literary Ladies Book Club & Friends” on October 20th.

BPM:  As a loyal reader, what are some of the things you want to see more of or less of in books?
The African American community includes people from all socio-economic levels; so we’d like to see a broader representation of us as a people overall in African American Literature. We would also like to see more books for teenagers. As loyal readers, our biggest pet peeve is poor editing. Often, there are so many typographical and grammatical errors that it becomes necessary to go back and reread a sentence, paragraph or worse yet an entire page in order to understand and follow the storyline. It is very frustrating to say the least.

BPM:  Has there been any books that helped shape your life or gave you inspiration?
*  The Holy Bible
*  Don't Sweat the Small Stuff by Richard Carlson
*  When Your Past Becomes Your Present by Dr. Henry Cloud
*  I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

BPM:  What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?
The Literary Ladies Book Club’s collective purpose is still evolving. Having just hosted our first luncheon which showcased 11 local authors, we hope to continue to showcase authors in a more formal setting allowing veteran author to mentor up and coming writers. We will continue to support local African American authors, host fundraisers and make charitable donations to various charities. We not only gather to fellowship and talk about our monthly book(s) but we also socially conscious.

BPM:  Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? If so, who?
We feel that the books written today are speaking of life, the streets and not all have a happy ending. The books of yesterday are more about history, where we come from as a race; they taught you something…made you think. You can't compare history with "entertainment." With writings from authors such as Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, Maya Angelou and Alice Walker just to name a few; the legacy of black books is strong. In our opinion, not enough of today’s authors are building upon this legacy. However, authors’ such as Pamela Samuels-Young, Bernice L. McFadden and Moody Holiday give us hope.

BPM:   Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the books you read?
Although negative stereotypes are perpetuated far too often, it really depends on the author and what they are writing about. In some of the books we’ve read African Americans are represented in a positive light; however, in other books we were our non black equals; educated, religious, prosperous, entrepreneurs, executives, valued high in society but still have to struggle to prove ourselves... We feel that African Americans are often represented as we have been socially regarded.

BPM:  Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of eBooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
No, not 100% because you will always have people who like the feel and smell of a new book, but as history has proven electronics are the way of the future. Yes, price does matter, but overall convenience will probably win You have to ask, is it less expensive to download an electronic version that costs $1 more or drive to the store or pay shipping to purchase the hard copy? No, we would never stop purchasing printed books. In fact, we purchase printed books, if the author is in attendance and signing for keepsake purposes.

BPM:  What are some of the changes you have seen in the last 5 years, in publishing, that you dislike?
We have a problem with the overall lack of support given to African American Literature by larger publishing houses. Authors are now forced to self publish their work. The authors lose the value of editing, marketing and distribution when that happens. In addition, it seems that many authors who by chance are able to land a deal with a major publisher are pigeon holed into writing what they (the publishers) think the black audience wants.

BPM:  Speak directly to the writers of the world, what advice would you offer them on capturing a reader's attention and keeping it?
Be creative in your approach. Don't involve too many characters in the plot. Keep the readers interested by feeding them just enough to keep them hungry and thirsting for more. There should not be multiple plots and definitely don’t drag them out. Please, please, please have your books properly edited and also take into consideration how that printed copy will appear when converted to an electronic version. 

BPM:  How may we find out more about you or your group? 
We are on Facebook at: Facebook: LiteraryLadies Bookclub

Photo credit: Literary Ladies of Central NJ with Bernice L. McFadden

 


Intimate Conversation with Girl Fridayz Book Club

BPM:  Give us the history on your organization. Share with us your leader's name and any other officers in the group. What year did you start? Where are you located? How many members do you have?
The Girl Fridayz Book Club was conceived in August 2005 out of the founder’s love of reading. She brought together a group of “sisters” who also have a love of reading and on September 30, 2005, the Girl Fridayz Book Club was born. We meet the last Friday of each month with different members hosting the meeting. The founder’s name is Karyn Davis and she and the other members of the book club reside in Buffalo, New York. We currently have ten active members.

BPM:  What is the misson for your organization? Do you host events during the year?
The main purpose of our book club is to strengthen our passion for reading, share our faith, explore quality works by African-American authors, share ideas and opinions and fellowship with like-minded friends. We have supported authors who have come to our city for book signings/workshops (Virginia DeBerry, Kayla Perrin and Beverly Jenkins), as well as other book clubs who host authors. Also, at least once a year, we contribute to a young adult pursuing his/her dreams. This year we contributed to a young athlete so that she would be able to attend the regionals for track and field. Last year, we contributed to a young lady’s fundraising efforts for Jabberwock, an evening of elegance and entertainment that showcases the gifts and talents of the young women participating in the program while advancing the goals and objectives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s scholarship program.

BPM:  Has there been any books that helped shape your life or gave you inspiration?
Yes, there have been several, The Allure by Jackie King-Scott, Perfect Peace by Daniel Black, The Deal, the Dance and the Devil by Victoria Christopher Murray and Redeeming Waters by Vanessa Davis Griggs. There seemed to be a common factor in these books; that being the character(s) had life-changing decisions to make and the decisions they made had a huge impact on the lives of their loved one. The decisions made by these character(s) resulted in lengthy discussions and caused us to take a hard look at the decisions we make sometimes and how we want to make better decisions for ourselves and our loved ones while always keeping God in the mix.

BPM:  Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
Our book club read mostly African-American Christian fiction. Although some of the characters get themselves into situations that are not very Christian-like, they usually find their way out through prayer and a willingness to do what is right. What we feel puts African Americans in a bad light is when characters consciously conduct themselves in a certain way without thought of consequences and repercussions.

BPM:  Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of eBooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
We don’t believe that digital books will ever replace a printed book. We love to be able to turn the pages in the book and most of our members will not purchase a e-book priced more than $5.00 The majority of our members will NEVER stop buying printed books and the only way we could be forced to not buy them is if they stopped selling them.

BPM:  What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
Our book club would like to leave a legacy of improving literacy in our community. For those watching in the community, we hope they will see us as Christian women who were consistent in trying to teach the community, especially children the importance of reading.

BPM:   How may we find out more about your club? 
Please visit our Facebook, GirlFridayz BookClub. We are currently putting together a website, but in the meantime, if anyone needs more information about our book club or just needs to contact us, please contact Karyn Davis on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/girlfridayz.bookclub

 


Intimate Conversations with Shameka Latimer
Girlfriends Book Club Dallas 

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have? 
My name is Shameka Latimer, President of Girlfriends Book Club Dallas Chapter. GBC was founded in 2004 by Tamika Shamberger, CEO in Sacramento, CA. Dallas Chapter Officers are: Shameka Latimer- President/Secretary, Tonya Henderson-Smith-Vice President and LeTanya White-Kennedy- Treasurer. GBC Dallas was founded in July 2009 and is the fifth out of seven chapters. As of now we have a total of eight members.

BPM: What is the mission of the group? 
Our mission is to promote sisterhood and utilize this book club for self, as a stress reliever and a motivational tool. We look forward to working with all local and mainstream authors as much as possible to promote their novels. 

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel? 
We meet every third Saturday of each month to discuss our featured selection. Each member hosts a meeting either in their home or a surrounding venue. Since we love good food each member brings a dish. We also try to have authors attend our meetings which is always fun. The authors we've featured were the ladies who wrote "MANY PATHS, MANY FEET"  and Brian W. Smith author of  "MAMA LIES, DADDY PAIN."

Our organization has three Annual Events (Family Day, Group Trip, and Holiday Christmas Party). Our chapter does things from movies, to shopping, team building, and etc. 2011 will be the Dallas chapter's first annual trip..... We are so looking forward to this!

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will you have a group party?
We will all celebrate the holidays with family and friends. We also have our holiday party to exchange gifts, talk, eat, awards, and just party and have a great time. 

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? 
Reading has been a stress reliever for us. It helps to take our mind off of things we may be going through. Reading has opened me up to new author and great discussions.

BPM: What impact has being in a organized group had on your life? 
GBC has been more then just a book club, it has been an outlet for me. All women face challenges, everyday, be it at home or in the work place. When we get together we open up our hearts to each other. This organization has led me to meet some wonderfully encouraging women. It's like having an extended family. 

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
This is a tough question. We enjoy Contemporary, Memoirs, Biography, Self help, Mystery, Romance, and other genres. Since we all have different personalities our taste in books varies. Books that relate to our everyday lives are the ones that remain on our mind long ever the books are closed. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
As far as electronic book, I think its convenient and great. I think it depends on the person because some people want to collect the books they have read and some don't. 

BPM: Do you think our authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
Yes, I do think the authors of today are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations and some are leaving even better ones!

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
Corporate website: www.girlfriendsbookclub.com 
Dallas Chapter website: www.gbcdallas.webs.com  
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gbcdallas 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/gbcdallas 



Intimate Conversation with Sharon Lucas
The Reading Divas Book Club-DMV

BPM: Give us the history of your organization. How many members do you have?
In August 1998, Sharon Lucas – a wife and mother who worked fulltime - founded The Reading Divas Book Club. Sharon loved to read but she was felt that she had no time for herself. So she invited several women to start a book club – their motto “a little time for me.”   We currently have 14 members. We’ve never elected officers but Sharon serves as President and Brenda Hart as Treasurer. The members all live in the Washington, DC/Maryland area.

BPM: What is the purpose of your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community?
The purpose of our organization is to provide an oasis once a month for members to share a good read and a bottle of wine, relax, and enjoy the sisterhood. In 2008, to celebrate our 10th Anniversary we began hosting a Literary Brunch each year; in 2012, we expanded to a weekend format. Our format has been to bring in a celebrated author as our keynote speaker and introduce other authors to our audience through an “Author Expo”. Our speakers have included Mary Monroe, Virginia Deberry & Donna Grant, Daniel Black, Bernice McFadden and Pamela Samuels-Young. To contribute to our community, during our event this year, we will make a donation to “All Shades of Pink” a local organization, which provides programs and services to breast cancer patients.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
Through our annual literary event and our support of local authors and book clubs, the legacy we hope to leave is that of a well-organized group of African American women who loved to read and who supported reading and African American authors.

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today’s authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? If so, who?
Speaking for myself, Sharon Lucas, and not necessarily for all members of The Reading Divas: I am disturbed that so many people today “think” they are authors – because a lot of them aren’t; I am disturbed that so many authors think that everything they write must contain “erotica” and so-called “street language” in order to be well-received – because a lot of great books don’t contain either. 

There are many “excellent authors” today– but given the number of books that are published each month – it’s hard to sift through and find them. I believe the words “great, fantastic and awesome” when describing books and authors of today are grossly overused. I would love to see the bar raised! Maybe if readers and reviewers were more honest in their reviews, there might be more of an effort on the part of real writers to work at improving their craft. 

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
I would rather respond to the question “Do you feel African Americans are fairly portrayed in the novels you read that are written by African American writers”? I believe there are African Americans living in every spectrum of the world today – so why are we so often seen in church, in clubs, and the projects? After all “we” are in the White House!

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
I (Sharon), have personally “gotten over” the printed book and so have must members of the group. I enjoy not having to pay extra when I’m traveling to bring along 5 or 6 books, when I can have a hundred on my Kindle to choose from. I also love being able to sample a book before I buy – when buying books, I often got home or received them in the mail only to discover I had already the book. Price doesn’t play a big part in the purchase – if the sample seems good, if the reviews are going well, and especially if it’s an author that I have read previously and enjoyed, or it’s the club’s read for the month – I just buy it! 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club?
Website:  www.thereadingdivas.com
Facebook – the reading divas of the DMV Twitter.com/the 16 divas

 


Intimate Conversation with Deep In Thought Bookclub

"Embracing Literature and Sisterhood" -- Takisha M. Tillie - Founder/President

BPM: Tell us a little about you and your favorite things. Share your favorite music, plays or activities.
My name is Takisha Tillie, Founder and President of Deep in Thought Book Club. I started the Deep in Thought Book Club as a means for women to come together to embrace literature and sisterhood - Which is our club motto. 

I was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. I am currently attending the University of Phoenix studying Business Management. I actively volunteer with many organization where I can make a difference in the lives of all people. I am a wife, mother, and new grandmother. I listen to Christian and R & B music, I enjoy almost all of Tyler Perry plays, as well as related plays by other play writers. Some of my favorite authors are Steve Harvey, Curtis Bunn, Carl Weber, TD Jakes, RJ Washington, and Susan Orman. Just to name a few.....

BPM: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
I enjoy reading as a means of relaxing and nourishing my mind. Most importantly, I enjoy reading Christian books that reference a relationship with God and how family and marriage are part of Gods divine design.  I have a passion for writing and is currently working on my first novel. 

BPM: Share with us the history of the organization. What was the first book that you read as a group? 
Deep in Thought Book Club was established July 2008 in Jacksonville, Florida by Takisha Tillie as a means for women to come together to discuss various topics while encouraging literacy. We are an elite group of women who embrace literature and sisterhood through unity of purpose, social interaction, and intellectual conversation. 

The group meet the first Saturday of each month at 5:00 pm with the exception of holidays where we meet the following week. We discuss an variety of books elaborating on family values, life experiences, women issues as well as world topics. The Deep In Thought meetings consist of fun activities and lively discussions all in a relaxing environment. Club meetings are just one resource for women to get away from everyday life to relax, laugh, and play in an social environment. 

The club consist of 11 members at this time and have a 12 member cap per chapter. As we continue to grow, our plans are to branch out to have a chapter in several cities across the country. The first book we read was by Author Carl Weber. 

BPM: What is the mission for your organization, Deep in Thought Book Club? 
Deep in thought is more than a book club. We strive to make a difference in everything we do. We take pride in using our talents to enhance the community through being positive role models for developing youth and seeking diverse avenues to bring moral values, promote literacy, and enhance the lives of all people. Through unity of purpose, we envision one day that we can offer scholarships to African American students who want to attend College.

BPM:  Is there anything you would love to see more of in novel? Any topics that need covering more?
I would like to see more books related to intellectual women who has defied the odds of poverty and through life's struggles made choices that has catapulted them into success. Additionally, I enjoy reading books that reference various types of relationships that inspire and gives a in-depth views of how women and men differ on certain issues. 

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
I do not download books, I prefer a hard copy book.  I think we, as readers, are moving in that direction. People enjoy the new technology and the benefits it offers. However, I think that there are some that prefer to snuggle up with a good old fashion book in the true essence of the reading experience.

BPM: What literary events do you attend each year? 
We are planning to attend the National Book Club Conference again next year. 

Submitted by:
Deep In Thought Book Club

Takisha M. Tillie - Founder/President

 


Intimate Conversation with Lift a Sistah Up Book Club

Lift a Sistah Up Book Club  is a retreat for some and a piece of mind for others. Our goal is to lift each other up and our communities. we also strive to support authors of color and literacy through our communities. 

BPM:    Give us the history on your organization. Where are you located? How many members do you have? 
LaSU: Lift a Sistah Up started in August of 2011. It was birthed through the idea of club President Shalonda McGhee. The name came from the poetic mind of member Mercedes Munoz. She was inspired to write a poem after the first book club meeting. All the members of LaSU are connected in some type of way. Most of them are friends that know each other through a mutual person in the club. The club is located in Portland, OR. Portland does not have a huge African-American community so Shalonda wanted to bring sistahs together in a more positive and productive way. We currently have six active members and we just opened up our membership to recruit more positive women. 

BPM:    What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community? 
LaSU: The purpose of LaSU is to promote literacy and sisterhood in our communities. We also want to provide a space for black women to explore, grow, engage with each other and to serve the community. We fellowship through good books, not so good books and where God guides our spirit. We don't currently host any events, but we are in the works of constructing some phenomenal things. 

BPM:     As a loyal reader, what are some of the things you want to see more of in books? Do you read mostly fiction or non-fiction?
LaSU: All of us consider ourselves avid readers. What we all would like to see in books is a message that speaks to our hearts and betters us as a human beings. Most of us are mothers and we would like to see positive images that we can share with our children through literacy. Our club mostly reads fiction. 

BPM:    Has there been any books that helped shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life?
LaSU: Each of us have a special book that has shaped our life or given us inspiration. We all agree that the Bible is the number one book that has guided us through life. Some other books are many of  Pema Chödrön's books, Bell Hooks “Wounds of Passion: This Writing Life” Toni Morrison “Beloved”,  Sister Souljah “The Coldest Winter Ever”, Alice Walker "The Color Purple" and J. California Cooper "The Matter is Life." These books have spoken to our hearts, experiences and existence as black women. Each unique in their vantage points, they individually and collectively gave voice to us as a whole person. 

BPM:     Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? If so, who?
LaSU: African-American writers are covering all areas (fiction, Christian-fiction, sci-fi, etc). This makes it very satisfying to be able to find a book written by an African-American author in almost any genre. Many African-American writers are experiencing wide exposure through the support of black literature clubs and proved that there is not only a desire to hear our own stories but there is financial support for them. The downfall has been that once those stories became more marketable, our writers have been stifled by the labeling of “Urban literature or Urban novels” and it is insulting. Either we have a genre/label that pigeon holes us with wide exposure, or we break molds and hope for the best. When white writers write, it is either a good read or it isn’t, it’s a masterpiece or it is isn’t, it’s a love story, drama, fiction or non-fiction. Not so with us. Our stories are categorized by color. Black. Period. There are writers like Alice Walker, Toni Morrison, bell hooks, Victoria Murray who leave us with something to chew on, something that transcends.

BPM:    Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the books you read?
LaSU: It all depend on why is doing the writing. Money is to be made so sometimes we put our people into very stereotypical situations.

BPM:    Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
LaSU: There is nothing like the high you get when I walk into a book store and smell the pages of a book. We love printed books so we would NEVER stop buying them. There is nothing like having a bookshelf of memories, intimate journeys with various characters. Though we do like ebooks, they will not replace the purpose, feel and experience of print novels in our hearts or the commitment of our pocketbooks. Some people seem to forget...NOT everyone has access or even updated access to technology! The ebook technology is leaving out certain groups of people...which we are calling technological gentrification.

BPM:    What are some of the changes you have seen in the last 5 years, in regards to publishing, that you dislike?
LaSU: We don't feel that African-American writers are getting enough support from the publishing houses. Their books are not being promoted nearly as much as their counter partners. Also, the way that publishers look at sales and promotions to determine if an author's contract gets renewed or not is unfair. We have noticed a few African-American authors are not even in the picture any longer because they no longer have contracts. It all comes down to who's book would you buy. The reality star that makes a living portraying African-American women in a negative light or the author that gives us something to think about. We can help our favorite authors by supporting them (buying their books, getting the word out) so that we can see more work from them. 

BPM:    What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
LaSU: Lift a Sistah Up would like to leave the legacy that African-American women are drama free and we can support each other in a positive way. That we can promote unity and community through literacy and encourage our youth that reading is fun, and a way for them to gain independence. 

BPM:    How may we find out more about you or your group? Please share your FB link, website address and public email address. 
LaSU:  You can learn more about Lift a Sistah Up by visiting our web page at liftasistahupbc.weebly.com or facebook.com/liftasistahup 


 


Intimate Conversation with Black Diamonds Book Club
Rochelle Ragas, President - Arlington, TX



BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Black Diamonds Book Club. Share with us your president’s or leader’s name and any other officers in the group. What year did you start? Where are you located? How many members do you have?
Hello Ella! My name is Rochelle Ragas and I am the President of the Black Diamonds Book Club. Our club started in January 2010 with four (4) charter members: Sheila Brown (Photographer), Wanda Fuller (Treasurer), Rochelle Ragas (President) and Janet Smith (Secretary). 

Since then we have added two new members: Kirstin Johnson (Historian) and Robin Jones (Social Media Coordinator). We are based in Arlington, Texas; however our members live throughout the metroplex. 

BPM: Do you host events during the year? Donate to charities or provide any service for the community?
We hosted a recent book signing for former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and we also support other book clubs at their signings. We recently donated items to the non-profit organization Women Called Moses which focuses on victims of domestic Violence and we hope to partner with more charities in the upcoming year such as Breast Cancer initiatives. This year we also adopted a young girl through the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree.

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the books?
We read a variety of genres to include biographies, thrillers, self-help, and of course fiction. All members of the club submit five (5) titles and we draw names for our reading selections for the following year. We also have a list of five (5) alternates just in case one of the books does not keep our attention.

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives? What impact has reading had on your life? Have there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life?
In each book we read there has been a message of some type. Not every reader will identify with a character, but there will be a lesson to be learned from the characters read. The Black Diamonds Book Club (BDBC) read Color Me Butterfly by L.Y. Marlow in September 2011. For one of our members this book left an indelible impression on her because of the trials and triumphs of this story and how it impacted a family for over four decades. 

Reading is such and important factor in all our lives. Reading provides an outlet and lets readers discover a whole world, whether fact or fiction. We think it is the basis for all success in life. As the old saying goes ‘If you can read you can achieve’. Most, if not all, of our club members can be found with a book at any given time whether hardback, paperback, or electronic. We always have something to read.

BPM: What are the key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page?
We have found that the quality of the story, depth of the characters and plausibility have contributed to us discussing a book long after we have read it. We still talk about books that we read in 2010.

BPM: Do you feel as if you have to identify with one of the leading characters in order to tell others about it?
We are divided on this aspect. For some of us we are able to ‘step’ inside the characters because the story is well written. For others, if we closely identify with the characters it makes them seem more real and life-like.

BPM: How do you feel about digital ebook downloads from Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
We love ebooks! The convenience of being able to carry around several books at a time in one small device is great. But, it also depends on the person. I (Rochelle) personally, still love the feel of a book in my hand. I love the idea of going to the library and/or bookstore and holding that book in my hand and looking at the cover. However, our club is concerned about those who cannot afford a device and will one day not be able to enjoy books should book stores close and/or libraries limit the genres of books they carry, especially books by African American authors.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
Eventually there will be a total shift in the book world as is evident by the closing of small book stores as well as larger chains. However, sometimes the ebooks cost the same if not more than the printed book. But, for us, we still love the printed book. Just something about having that book in your hand that makes it seem more alive. 

BPM: If you shop for Kindle or Nook ebooks, does the price play a big part in the purchase?
Yes and no. As stated before, the price of the ebooks and printed books is sometimes not that much different. However, if the quality of the book is excellent a Kindle/Nook purchase can be justified.

BPM: What legacy will your club, the Black Diamonds Book Club, leave for those watching in the community?
What our club hopes to achieve is to show young women that literacy is not only important but can also be fun. Give your girlfriend a book instead of a new sweater. Read the book, talk about it, and share it with another girlfriend. Pretty soon you have a group of young women reading and writing about what they have read and how it impacted them and/or how they can relate. And, guess what? You have a book club.

Each woman in our book club has a testimony and it is important to each of us to share our blessings with others. It is not about the recognition that we receive, but the fact that we could spend a few hours helping someone besides ourselves. We do not go out into the community to be praised, but rather to follow the lessons taught in the bible in how we are to live a life of service by being a blessing to others. 

 


Intimate Conversation with Women of Character 


BPM: Join me in welcoming Jenelle of the Women of Character Book Club. Tell us how The Women of Character Book Club was developed.
WOC:  I was introduced to Christian fiction in 2004  by an angel in disguise, Pamela, who suggested that I read Jamellah Ellis' book, "That Faith, That Trust, That Love." This novel was given to me at a time in my life when I was going "THROUGH IT" both spiritually and emotionally! It was as if the Lord spoke directly to me through this novel. 
Soon after, I began reading so much that it had become like oxygen; I needed it to survive. This divine intervention caused a new-found interest in Christian fiction, which was very empowering and inspirational because I was able to see myself in many of the characters with a spiritual lesson being revealed in each one. I believe that because of the seed that was sown into my life, it is now my ministry to share the word of God by blessing others with the opportunity of experiencing God's love through Christian fiction.

WOC: The Women of Character Book Club is located in Orlando, Florida and was 'born' in 2005, with the makings of eight women. The interest and excitement of the group members sort of fueled a reading frenzy and is continually growing by word of mouth. We are a group of women of all ages from different backgrounds, but share a common bond- we love the Lord and enjoy reading Christian Fiction. The fellowship and new friendships that have been formed have really been a blessing. We have open membership at this time. For more information, please e-mail Jenelle at jb@womenofcharacterbookclub.com.  Our website is: http://www.womenofcharacterbookclub.com

The Women of Character Book Club Mission

To provide women an arena to fellowship, encourage and empower each other by discussing personal experiences as it relates to the Word of God through Christian Fiction. The "Women of Character Book Club" has a sincere desire to be used as a vessel to enable a passionate discovery of each woman's destiny, to share the Word of God, and to advocate for women with compassion.  Romans 1:12- "When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but I also want to be encouraged by yours."

BPM: What format does  your meetings take place?
WOC: We currently meet on the 3rd Saturday every other month at a member's church. We always open up in prayer for the Lord to lead our discussions. When we have women that are visiting, we discuss our mission statement and review the importance of confidentiality. A designated member will open up with an Ice Breaker. This is a time for them to share a word of inspiration, empowerment and sister-building.

BPM: What do you define as Quality Literature?
WOC: In speaking to several authors, it is my impression that quality literature is when an author allows the Lord to minister through them onto the pages of a novel. It is through the story lines portrayed in the novels that hit really close to home, which allows an opportunity for self-discovery. Our discussions are based on real-life experiences as it relates to the word of God.

BPM: Who are some authors that your group has featured?  What are you reading now?
WOC: We have had the opportunity to talk with authors such as Kendra Norman-Bellamy, Stacy Hawkins Adams, Victoria Christopher Murray,  Sherri L. Lewis  and ReShonda Tate Billingsley via speakerphone.   We were blessed to have met Patricia Haley at a book signing for "Let Sleeping Dogs Lie."   We have also been blessed to have Tia McCollors visit us to discuss "The Truth about Love."

WOC: We are currently reading, "Chosen", written by Patricia Haley. This novel was sent to me by Patricia's publicist. I enjoyed it so much that it became one of our selections. 

BPM: How does the Women of Character Book Club stand the test of time?
WOC: I feel our book club has lasted as long as it has, mainly because God has always been the center of every decision. In the beginning the majority of us came together with mostly one thing in common, and that was our love of reading. Over time a bond was formed from the discussions and personal testimonies. So over the years it has become about more than reading a book. We are excited to see each other, to encourage and be encouraged in our daily walk. We are a small intimate group that truly love each other.

The W.O.C  is also a safe haven, a place where members can share their joys and sorrows, it's a sisterhood built on faith, bound by our desire to go beyond the boundary of books and see what God is speaking into our hearts and minds. It is for this reason that I think we have been able to maintain and grow. The W.O.C has allowed me to experience sisterly fellowship with women who understand that we are all 'Water Colored Pearls' (a novel written by Stacy Hawkins Adams that was our 2007 book of the year).

Thanks for giving the Women of Character an opportunity to share with you why we love our book club. We ask for your prays and your continued support, and when you need a break, grab a good book, kick back, let go, and let God!! 

BPM: Jenelle, it has been a pleasure speaking with you. The Women of Character Book Club is a wonderful literary group. Thank you for Giving the Gift of Knowledge.

 



Intimate Conversation with Soul Sistah Book Club, Chicago

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Soul Sistah Book Club
Soul Sistah Book Club started with several co-workers that constantly shared stories from different books we all read. Eventually that lead to swapping books and even more stories. After some time, we decided that we should form a book club - get together and discuss the books that we all were reading. We held our first official meeting in November 2008 and we're located in Chicago, IL. To date, we have sixteen active members. 

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? What type of yearly events to you have?
We have a monthly meeting at a different member's home each month with the other members making a monetary contribution for food/drinks. For our first anniversary author Earl Sewell came to facilitate our discussion for his book Have Mercy. We just celebrated our second anniversary this month at Waterbird Inn and Spa in Chesterton IN. We enjoyed an overnight stay with a manicure, pedicure and massage. Currently, we have no plans to travel, but we are considering that for the future. 

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
We all agree that this book club has brought us closer together as friends and co-workers. Recently, a member lost her mother and we banded together to support her during her time of loss and grief. Having a connection with the book club has opened us to new thoughts and ideas. It's like having sixteen extended family members. 

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
This was a tough question for us to answer because we read such a variety of books as individuals let alone as a group. We mainly focus on African American authors, but are open to other authors as well. One of the key factors that make a book remain on our minds is how much it relates to real life, i.e. Hittin' the Bricks by Noire and The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips sparked very engaging conversations for us because some of the storylines hit home. 

BPM: Do you believe a character's culture, sexual orientation or religion are important to understanding their point-of-view in a novel? Why?
Yes we do. We read In My Father's House by E. Lynn Harris and some members couldn't really relate to the main character's homosexual lifestyle. It's important to be able to relate to a character when reading. The character has to be believable - even if you don't like him/her or their lifestyle. 

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in literature and TV - plus size women/men, sassy seniors, diverse personalities, gay culture, financial advice or religious beliefs, etc.? 
We all said yes to the examples in the question, particularly, we'd like to see more seniors as main characters. We couldn't recall any books we've read recently where a senior has been a main character and not someone's grandparent or older family member. Seniors still have drama, romance and crime happening in their lives so it would be interesting to see it in a novel. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
We have a few members in our group that have electronic books/readers and they love them! We even have a couple of members that read books through their iPhones and Blackberrys. Electronic books save space and are very convenient: no traveling to the bookstore or waiting for books on back orders. A few mouse clicks and you have your book right there. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
Soul Sistah Book Club can be reached on Facebook at SoulSistah BookClub. 

 



Intimate Conversation with Sistah Girl 
Reading Club Atlanta Connection

BPM: Welcome to Black Pearls Magazine! Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Karen Anderson-Archer and I am a true “Georgia Peach.” That’s right I was born and raised in the metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia area. I currently reside in Loganville, GA with my husband of four years . We recently celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary.  I am one of those 070707 brides, lucky me.  I am the biological mother of two, a step-mom to three and a surrogate mother to the hundreds of students whom have blessed and enriched my life immensely. 

My purpose in life is to “make a difference in the lives of those I meet and teach.” My passion is Teaching — I teach to touch lives forever—I teach to make a difference!  I am an avid reader and I love, love, love, to dance (I am a Liturgical Dancer) and listen to praise and worship music. You can find me on Facebook as Darling Swan! 


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Sistah Girl Reading Club.
In July of 2003, the first meeting for Sistah Girl Reading Club Atlanta Connection was held at the Borders Bookstore located in Stonecrest Mall, Lithonia, GA.  At the conclusion of the meeting Cover 2 Cover Book Club (which was originally established in the mid 1990’s) was re-established and we moved forward with a total of eight members. To our dismay we later found out that another metro-Atlanta-based book club had a similar name. Research was done to find the perfect name for our unique group of sisters and the friendships that we had formed. One of the new members had recently relocated to the metro-Atlanta area and shared with our group the organization and by-laws of the bookclub she had previously belonged to,  The Sistah Girl Reading Club based out of Miami, Florida. 

As a group we discussed the pros and cons of joining the SGRC on a connectional level. The pros certainly outweighed the cons so, on our first weekend getaway in August 2006, the decision was made to join The Sistah Girl Reading Club, Inc.   Although our membership has fluctuated over the years many of the original members are still active.  Today, we have a total of eleven members and we anticipate future growth. We are located in the metro-east Atlanta area, quite a few of the members belong to the same church home and we all reside in neighboring towns. The founder/establisher of the club Karen Anderson-Archer is co-president along with her sister Ylonda Radcliff. Other officers include Prestina Rogers (secretary), Brenda Williams and Fyphine O’Neal (co-treasures), and Martha Carter and Katherine Richardson (historian). 

BPM: What's the mission for your club?  Do you provide any service for the community? 
The mission of Sistah Girl Reading Club Inc.  is to build a strong sisterhood through Reading, Fellowship, Love and Community Outreach.  In 2012 the SGRC Atlanta Connection will host the Annual SGRC Connectional Retreat. (We currently have chapters located in Miami and Jacksonville, Florida as well as Dallas, Texas). 

For the past several years a portion of our annual dues were used in the months of November (to purchase Thanksgiving Baskets) for families in need as well as, the month of December (to fulfill the Christmas Wish List of one to two families) residents of the Nicholas House.  Nicholas House  is a nonprofit agency that operates a transitional housing shelter for homeless families. 

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? Has there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life? 
Reading and literacy have always been a huge component of my daily life. I have found that reading whether for pleasure or self-empowerment has broadened my knowledge as well as my understanding and acceptance of today’s moral, political and social issues. Another member stated that “There has been many books that have shape my life as a black mother whose son died of AIDS”.  I feel that I can speak not only for myself but for my “sistahs” as well; by saying that the Bible is our greatest source of inspiration. 

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in society? 
Just thinking about having a desire to read or learn to read and not being able to do so deeply move me. When I think about our heritage and those ancestors/fore-fathers/mothers that were not allowed to read I look at this privilege as an honor and tribute to their struggles. Many of the members in the book club come from a long line of educators that stressed the importance of reading. We know the history and stories …  “That during slavery we were not allowed to own a book(s) yet alone know how to read. ”  In addition, reading takes us to places we may not actually visit. It refreshes the soul and allows intermittent interjects that we may never experience but may understand as we travel with our own imagination of times past and present. 

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books? 
One of the by-laws in our club is that we as a group will only read books written by African American authors. Each month we have a new host for the month. The hostess selects the book that the group will read. Sometimes the hostess may ask for suggestions; others choose to look on the Internet to see what authors are interesting enough to read. There are times when members of other clubs or our connectional sistahs will recommend a book. 

BPM: What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection? 

The month of July is our planning month so, we will not be reading as a group. However, during the month of June many of the members read “Color me Jazzmyne” by Marian L. Thomas which was the prelude to our month’s selection; “My Fathers’ Colors. ”  Both books were featured on Ella Curry's  website and after reading a few reviews our June hostess (Karen) chose the book “My Fathers’ Colors” as our June selection. 

BPM: What are your all-time favorite book or music selections? 
As a group we all agree that anything from J. California Cooper is an excellent read. Other all time favorites include the “Little Black Girl Lost” series by Keith Lee Johnson, “What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day” by Pearl Cleage, “The Darkest Child” by Delores Phillips, “Reaching Back” and “Reborn” by Nea Anna Simone and our latest read “Color Me Jazzmyne” and “My Father’s Colors” by Marian L. Thomas. 

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations? 
Not all black books will leave a legacy that will teach and empower but, most will impact what has been taught at one point or another. The legacy left by some prolific authors such as:  M. Angelou, O. Butler, P. Cleage, J California Cooper, A. Haley, Z. N. Hurston, T. Morrison, I. Vanzant, and A. Walker have touched lives and left them better for living. 

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community? 
We are striving to leave a legacy of footprints that will become one of DETERMINATION, FAITH, HOPE, and INSPIRATION for our daughters and their daughters and their daughters to come. A legacy that will encourage them to continue to strive and reach for higher heights and higher ground and the wisdom to know that every woman need and should embrace a circle of literary sisters that enjoys good reading, good conversation and most importantly “sistah” time. 

BPM: Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
No, I think today’s authors have picked up where other generations have left off. Times have changed a great deal - for the better. Many of today’s authors can only write and sell books that their publishers think will be sold and or read. As a club we may only read books that are written by African-American authors but, as individuals we read everything: fiction, non-fiction, suspense and mysteries. I (we) do think our authors are moving in the right direction … and that’s U-P-W-A-R-D! 

BPM: Francis Ray, Lawrence Hill, Terri Williams, Ernessa T. Carter, Alice Walker, Octavia Butler, Maya Angelou, Alex Haley, Langston Hughes, and Zora Neale Hurston have all left a profound footprint on literature. Do you see others following their path? If so, who? 
The above mentioned authors brought us through a literature legacy. Today’s writers now have the challenge of taking us to the next level. Authors like J California Cooper, Pearl Cleage, L. Y. Marlowe, R. M. Johnson, Laurence Cook, Kimberla Lawson Roby, Blair Underwood, Marian L. Thomas and Daniel Black are a few that I (we) foresee leaving a footprint in the literary world. 

BPM: What are the key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
The story line and how the characters are introduced. One big component is being able to make a direct connection where the story was so profound and it all seemed so real that imprints were left on your soul. Check out "Color me Jazzmyne" and “My Father's Colors" by Marian L Thomas. 

BPM: Do you feel as if you have to identify with leading characters in the book to tell others about it? 
No, not really but, on a few occasions I have turned the pages of a book and felt as if I were reading a part of my life, my story, my past. K. Richardson stated that “there have been many times that she too identified with a character in the book. She took the liberty of and gave examples: for instance “The Coldest Winter Ever” and “A Long Way Gone”. She wondered how and if the authors knew her or knew that this was something she would do. 

BPM: What authors have captured your imagination and support far beyond the last page? 
There have been several books that have not only captured my imagination and led me to not only collect but also follow the author’s works. I enjoyed the “Little Black Girl Lost” series by Keith Lee Johnson, “Reaching Back” and “Reborn” by Nea Anna Simone and “Color Me Jazzmyne” and “My Father’s Colors” by Marian L. Thomas. For Katherine it is Delores Phillips “The Darkest Child” and for Martha it is Daniel Black’s writings “They Tell Me of a Home” and “Perfect Peace” as well as, Dwight Fryer’s  “The Legend of Quito Road” and “The Knees of Gullah Island.” We all agree that these authors have left us wanting to see and read more of their works and contributions. 

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read? 
Fairly so, I believe that at some point and to a certain extent we have all experienced or we know someone that has experienced many of the storylines. For instance Laurence F. Cook’s novel "A Choice to Yield" addresses the social issue of inter-racial relationships. How many of us can attest to this concern within in our own families? 

BPM: How do you feel about digital books such as e-book downloads from Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc? 
I personally love them and as 21st Century readers e-book downloads are simply a part of technological/generational growth we are experiencing. Digital books and e-book downloads are convenient and cheaper than printed books. However, in my opinion they do not compare to the feel of a hard copy book. One distinct advantage hard copy books have over electronic books is the ability for one to get the author’s autograph unlike a digital book you can’t do that. 

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
Yes, 60% of our club own e-readers. We all agree that we like the tangible book; to hold, to mark and to highlight  as we turn the down pages. At some point the demand for e-books will supersede that of print books. This is evident as we see more and more book stores closing and electronic e-readers and e-books sales reaching new heights every quarter. 

BPM: If you shop on Kindle or the Nook, does the price play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books? 
The price and the author play a huge part in my decision to buy the printed book or download to my Kindle. I don’t think I would ever stop buying printed books simply because there will be books that I would much rather have in print. Martha stated that we are in a recession and we are striving to maintain a habit and/or hobby. However, she too would not stop buying printed books simply because she likes a good recipe book, poetry book and autobiographies. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club and possibly your book reviews? 
The Sistah Girl Reading Club Atlanta Connection is part of a connectional net-work please feel free to visit our website: http://sistahgirlreadingclub.com 

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Diverse Divas Book Club

The Diverse Divas Book Club (referred to as “The Diverse Divas”) is a group of women that reside in the Washington , DC metropolitan area who have been friends for many years and some are family members. They formed their book club in 2004. They originally started with thirteen members. Four of the original members are no longer actively a part of the group, but are always welcome to return. They later welcomed two additional members, so currently their membership stands at nine. 

The Diverse Divas decided on the name for their club because they are a diverse group of women from diverse backgrounds, in diverse professions, and they read a diverse genre of books. They come together for friendship, fellowship, reading enlightenment and fun! In addition to their book club name, they decided it would be fun to have "alter ego" Diva names that match their personalities, professions or interests. The members are Glenda Barlow (Bossy Diva), Sharon Brown (Natural Diva), Regina Hunter (Quiet Diva), Patsy Lee (Real Diva), Doxie A. McCoy (Foxy Diva), Kelli McCoy-Burkett (The Diva), Shari L. McCoy (Deputy Diva), Tira McPhail (Baby Diva), and Marianna "Brandy" Raynor (AKA Diva).

BPM:   Give us a little history on your organization the Diverse Divas. 
The name of our book club is the “Diverse Divas.” We started our book club in 2004. We are a group of women in the Washington, DC metropolitan area who have been friends for many years and some are family members. One of the members approached another member about wanting to form a book club, and the rest is "HERSTORY!" 

We are nearing the end of our sixth reading cycle. We originally started with 13 members. Four of our original members are no longer actively with us but we have a saying in our book club:  "Once a Diverse Diva, always a Diverse Diva."  We later welcomed two additional members, and currently, our membership stands at nine. 

We have no leader or officers in our group, but whatever decisions or activities we do, we attempt to reach a consensus and go with the wishes of the majority. We have one member who has volunteered since the book club's inception to compile a summary or debriefing of past book club meetings, provide updates to the reading cycle with book club meetings dates, as well as group member demographic information. 

We decided on the name "Diverse Divas" by a majority vote after members submitted various suggestions. We are the Diverse Divas because we are a diverse group of women from diverse backgrounds, in diverse professions, and read a diverse genre of books. We come together for friendship, fellowship, reading enlightenment and fun! 

In addition to our group name, we thought it would be fun to have "alter ego" Diva names that match our personalities, professions or interests. The group members are Glenda Barlow (Bossy Diva), Sharon Brown (Natural Diva), Regina Hunter (Quiet Diva), Patsy Lee (Real Diva), Doxie A. McCoy (Foxy Diva), Kelli McCoy-Burkett (The Diva), Shari L. McCoy (Deputy Diva), Tira McPhail (Baby Diva), and Marianna "Brandy" Raynor (AKA Diva). Former members include Sherry Battle, Patrice Britt (A Diva), Denise "Peaches” Moore, Sandy Mapson, and Hope Ramsey. 

We also have a "Calling Call"... When you need to capture the attention of one, two, or all of the Divas, simply say "Divas," and the response will be "Holla," and you have our attention!!

BPM:   Do you host events during the year? Donate to charities or provide any service for the community? 
Among the goals of the Diverse Divas Book Club is to provide members with opportunities for gaining information and expanding their knowledge. Our members are quite busy with family, work and personal responsibilities--and without the book club--we might not take the time to read and experience new horizons through books. Monthly book club meetings also provide a setting for fellowship and camaraderie. In addition, this camaraderie extends beyond book club meetings because we attend many social functions together and support each others’ families. 

We have had discussions about hosting a fundraising event. Many of us provide service to the community in various organizations. Therefore, we’ve discussed performing service as a book club as well as discussed donating proceeds from a fundraiser to a charity. So stay tuned! 

BPM:   What impact has reading had on your life? Have there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life?
Reading helps us break away from reality and escape into another world. Good authors and good stories can do that. We very much enjoy reading and have too many favorite books to pick just one that provided inspiration. The various books we’ve read seem to affect all of us in one way or another. Reading helps to not only keep us busy but also keeps our minds sharp. 

Reading on a regular basis is not only good for the soul; it’s also good for improving our writing skills. No single book comes to mind in terms of providing inspiration and getting us through trying times. However, just being around our book club members, as well as support from other friends and family, helps us deal with difficult times. This proved true when we suddenly lost one of our dearest male friends in 2010. We thank God for allowing us to be in each others’ lives. We are family!

BPM:   What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books?
The Diverse Divas are open and not limited to the types of books we read because we are versatile and enjoy reading a variety of subjects. The featured book is chosen by the host for the next book discussion and is introduced at the preceding meeting. Upcoming books are never revealed in advance because the next host gives a synopsis of her selection at the meeting prior to hers. 

BPM:   What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection? 
We are currently reading Fourth Sunday, by B.W. Read. One book club member noticed that the authors would be featured at the National Book Club Conference (NBCC) in Atlanta, which we were planning to attend, and selected this book. She was intrigued by the fact that Fourth Sunday was written by a book club about a book club. In addition, the authors are from our area.

BPM:   What are the key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page? 
A gripping plot and/or well-rounded characters tend to remain on our minds after the last page of a book. Characters with whom we can identify personally also may have a lasting impression. We often go through a fun exercise before we end our discussions: matching characters in a book with actors. This helps us to take a character off the pages of the book and visualize how they might dramatize the story lines. 

BPM:    Do you have to identify with one of the characters in the book to tell others about it? 
We don’t necessarily have to identify with a leading character to tell others about a book. However, meeting a friendly author at an event like the National Book Club Conference, at a book signing or having them join our meeting discussion in person or via phone can move us to tell others about a book. We were thrilled to meet some of the authors of books we previously read at the recent NBCC in Atlanta. 

BPM:   How do you feel about digital books such as ebook downloads from Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
Digital books are fine given this age of technology. They have become more accessible because you can download books in a matter of seconds. We believe digital books are a matter of preference and of convenience. However, they can never replace the value of books in print. Many of our book club members prefer books in print over digital books. One downside to digital books is that you cannot get a book signed by the author like you can do with books in print. 

Connect with the Diverse Divas Book Club
Facebook: Diverse Divas

 


 

Conversation with Sistah Minds in Motions Book Club


Sistah Minds in Motions enlightens your mind through the power, spirit, soul of sisterhood, and reading. We want to address every aspect of a women's world, physically, spiritually, socially and emotionally. We are a small, newly formed African American book club and social organization for positive, spiritual women who enjoy reading! Our book selections will fluctuate to include non-fiction, fiction, inspirational, romance and a wide variety of other topics chosen by our members. We meet once a month, on the 4th Saturday.

BPM: Give us the history on your organization.  How many members do you have?
SMM was established in November 2009 by Bobbi Ramey, our President. Our first official book club meeting took place on January16, 2010.   Lashandra Searcy is the Treasurer, Rhonda Sidibe is the Events Coordinator, and I am Shannon Powell the Secretary. We are in Atlanta, Georgia and we have about 10 members.

BPM: What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community?
The idea was to bring together a diverse group of women who enjoy reading and to bond spiritually. . . Sistah Minds in Motions  stemmed from a vision of desiring to bond resilient African-American women in cultivating friendships, encountering new and unique experiences, social gatherings, networking, taking part in community events and the overall encouragement of each member. We will be attending the Cancer Walk this year and we are in the process of choosing a family in need for our annual Thanksgiving Basket, that we put together based on the need of the family that includes but not limited to food, toiletries, clothes and books for inspiration and books for the kids 

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
We hope to show that reading can be fun and show especially our young kids that reading is not something you have to do only in school. It allows you escape and use your imagination. 

Bobbi has also started Sistah Minds in Motions Little Divas, which is a Book Club for young girls from the ages of 8-13 to show them that getting together and reading can be fun and show them how girls can come together in "Sisterhood" and support one another. They also learn things such as cooking, sewing, braiding and other things girls love to do

BPM: Has there been a book that helped shape your life?
The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah is the book that got me started to reading. I was not going through anything at the time, but the story captured me and I was not able to put it down and from there on out, I was hooked.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?
I think all the books that I have read show us in a good light, whether good or bad, if it's real, the story needs to be told. I love to read positive novels but the ones that compel me most are the ones that tell about the struggle of day to day life and stuff that I see or have seen in real life and the outcome still comes out good.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Does the price of ebooks play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
There are only two members of our group at this present time that has an E-Reader, I have one, a Kindle, and I love it. The price is cheaper yes and that does play a big part in my purchase decision, and no I will never buy another printed book because of the Kindle. I have been introduced to some authors that I know I would not know of if it wasn't for the Kindle, but we have another member LaShandra that states that she will NEVER buy an E-Reader, she loves the feel of printed books and she likes to see them on her book shelf and she also never buys used books. So no I do not think E Books will replace printed books, publishers may just start printing as ordered. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
http://www.sistahmindsinmotionsbc.com  or visit us at:  https://www.facebook.com/#!/bobbi.ramey 

Interview completed by:  Shannon Powell (Secretary)
Sistah Minds in Motions, Atlanta, Georgia

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Bookworm Diva's Bookclub

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization,  Bookworm Diva's Bookclub.
Our organization is Bookworm Diva's Bookclub . The president name is Valrechea Hinton, the Vice president is Tamika Cloud, and the secretary/treasurer is Shabrika Mitchell. The club was established in 2010. We are located in Newnan, Ga. We have 12 members.

BPM: Do you host events during the year?  Donate to charities or provide any service for the community?
We host Annual Fish Fry events and Annual Christmas Parties. We donate to a local women shelter, we give out fruit baskets to the elderly, and we host annual Toy Drive for Christmas.

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the books?
We read all types of books. We draw names each month and that person selects the book for the month.

BPM: What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection?
We are now reading The Trophy Wife by Ashley and Jaquavis. Member, Keisha Pace, was chosen to pick the book for the month of November and she chose this novel.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
No because some people prefer to have the printed book. Therefore they can read it as many times as they like. No I would not stop buying printed because I prefer to have my own copy of the books to read..

BPM: How may we find out more about your club and possibly you book reviews? Please share with us your website address and public email address.
We have a Facebook page which we will have to accept you as a member so you can view our page. Our Facebook page is BookWorm Divas Bookclub and our email address is Bookwormdivas@aol.com

 


Intimate Conversation with Lovely Ladies Book Club


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Lovely Ladies Book Club. 
A: Lovely Ladies Book Club was founded in November 2008. We are located in Minnesota and we meet the 2nd Saturday of every month. At the present time we have 9 members and we are continuously growing. Our purpose of coming together was to broaden our horizons in all areas of literature and meet new people while ding so. We are a women's only group who take pride in our meetings and discussions times while we also actively participate in the community. We love the variety of books that each member brings to the group and we are always looking for new books to review. We have hopes of traveling to meet other book clubs around the world.

President- Katrina Rhodes
Vice President- Jamila Reid
Treasurer- Bobbie Miller

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
A: Our group volunteers three times a month at different organizations such as Feed my Starving Children, local food shelf's, senior citizen homes, schools, boys and girls clubs, and much more. Giving back to the community is very important to all our members. Along with giving back we also like to show our members just how much we really appreciate them so we have a middle and end of the year event every year. They can be anything from parties, spa treatments, dancing lesson, dinners to gift cards, special recognition at meetings, present and more.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you have read the last page?
A: One difference of our group from others is that we read it all. There is no limit as to what we might read. We read drama, fiction, auto biographies, urban fiction, spiritual, horror and so much more. In order for a book to stay on your mind it has to have tons of suspense that keeps you guessing. It should start off with a little background and slowly build on the plot but throw things in there that the reader may not have even imagined therefore making it unable to be put down because it is so exciting.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
A: At this we do not have a website but are currently working on one. The best way to find out information about us is to check us out on Facebook under Lovely Ladies Book Club or email us at lovely_ladies_book_club@live.com Also for authors who would like us to consider their book for our a meetings, please email us for the mailing address.

BPM: Do you feel as if African American are represented in a good light in today's media and books?
A: I think that there are some books that have a lesson to be learned and portray African Americans as good people but the majority of urban fiction books do not portray a positive outcome. They portray the African American males as drug dealers, hustlers, pimps and so on while the African American women are portrayed as hoes, groupies, gold diggers, and uneducated. The media has a more positive outlook than books do when it comes to African Americans.

Submitted by:
Katrina Rhodes, President
Jamila Reid, Vice President 

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Go On Girl! Book Club

BPM: Share with us the Go On Girl! history and chapter details. Share your founder(s) introduction. 
Go On Girl! Book Club was founded in February 1991 by Monique Greenwood, Lynda Johnson and Tracy Mitchell, three co-workers from New York City. The organization grew as members moved to other states and wanted to begin GOG chapters in their new cities. Today, Go On Girl! Book Club is one of the largest national reading organizations in the U.S. for black women with over 300 members in 31 chapters in 13 states including New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, Illinois, Virginia, Indiana, South Carolina, Texas, Alabama, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. 
(Photo taken by Ella Curry June, 2009 at Black Bookclubs Rocks Award. GOG won the Literary Legends award.)


Meet Lynda M. Johnson, Co-founder Go On Girl! Book Club
Lynda M. Johnson is co-founder and chair of the largest national reading group for African-American women, the Go On Girl! Book Club. Lynda spear heads the organization and its popular annual traveling Author Awards Weekend taking place in Washington, DC in 2011.  
In addition she co-authored The Go On Girl! Book Club Guide for Reading Groups by Hyperion with co-founders Tracy Mitchell and Monique Greenwood.  

Mrs. Johnson grew up in Syracuse, New York the city that helped nurture her love of literature, fashion and wanderlust. After graduating high school she studied fashion journalism and media studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Fordham University which led her to a career as a fashion journalist where she travels extensively covering fashion here and abroad.  She has received numerous awards, including two Atrium Awards for her fashion journalism coverage and an Art Direction Magazine Award for her styling of fashion photo shoots.

Mrs. Johnson is a partner in an online content based website for the children’s industry with Go On Girl! co-founder, Tracy Mitchell called www.kidstylesource.com.  She also teaches journalism and advertising and promotions at her alma mater, the Fashion Institute of Technology and works as a freelance fashion journalist/stylist.  She lives in Harlem, New York where she is slowly restoring an 1892 townhouse with her husband, musician, Alonzo Wright.



Meet Tracy Mitchell,  Co-founder Go On Girl! Book Club
For nearly 20 years, Tracy Mitchell covered the children’s product industry in various editorial roles at Fairchild Publication’s Children’s Business magazine. From 1996 to late 2005 (when Children’s Business closed its doors), Mitchell was at the helm of the monthly magazine. Under Mitchell’s direction, Children’s Business developed and produced a consumer shopper magazine as a viable supplement, entitled Spree, The Ultimate Guide to Shopping for Kids; negotiated an agreement with Nordstrom to distribute Spree in 90 stores nationwide; introduced two quarterly supplements – Kid Luxe and Tween Business – in response to the lack of public information available on these emerging trends in the kids’ business; and launched a weekly e-mail alert service to provide additional information on fashion and market news to Children’s Business subscribers.

A children’s market expert, Mitchell has been quoted and interviewed by mainstream press, including: The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, L.A. Times, Reuters, Chicago Tribune and CNN, on children’s business topics, ranging from luxury children’s wear and tween style trends to plus-size children’s wear and industry developments. Mitchell straddles the other side of the fence as a major consumer of children’s products as well. Mother to a toddler, a tween and a teen, she is well acquainted with the issues and concerns shopping parents encounter in the aisles and online.

KidStyleSource.com  represents Mitchell’s second entrepreneurial endeavor. In 1991 she helped launch what is now the #1 reading club targeting African-American women – The Go On Girl! Book Club (www.goongirl.org). She co-authored The Go On Girl! Book Club Guide for Reading Groups for Hyperion in 1999. 


BPM: What is the mission of the Go On Girl! Book Club? What are your group goals? 

Key among the Go On Girl! goals is encouraging the continued publication of works by authors of African descent. The reviews to the authors and their publishing houses ensure the club's message is heard: "African-Americans do indeed read, so keep the quality books coming. This is not just a trend!"
 
The mission of Go On Girl! Book Club is to support the development of literature by authors throughout the African Diaspora. To that end we maintain on-going communication with authors and publishers of each book on our reading list to let them know our praise and and rage for each title. Go On Girl! Book Club's chapters support their respective communities through book drives, reading to the elderly and incarcerated, breast cancer walks, charity fundraisers as well as organizing Jr. Go On Girl! Book Club chapters for young girls.

The following support our mission:
GOG Literary Magazine - 7th edition will be distributed in 2011
GOG Website - being redesigned; will feature advertising
Jr. Go On Girl! - Encouraging good reading habits in young girls
GOG National Archives - Capturing GOG's history for future generations
Writing Awards - Two monetary awards given to an amateur scribe and a student at an historically black college
Annual Author Awards - some past winners include Jewell Parker Rhodes, Lawrence Hill, Tananarive Due, Lawrence Hill, J. California Cooper, Sonia Sanchez and many others.

BPM: What legacy do you think Go On Girl! Book Club will leave for those watching in the community?
We believe that Go On Girl! Book Club's legacy will be the support and guidance that we provide to black authors and publishers and the inspiration that our longevity and size gives to other bookclubs.  In 2009, Go On Girl! Book Club won the Literary Legend award from the Black Book Club Rocks Foundation for 18 years as a national reading organization for black women.  In 2011, Go On Girl! Book Club will host its 20th anniversary celebration at its 19th annual author awards event. The festivities will take place from May 20 - 22, 2011 in Washington, D.C. at the Marriott at Metro Center. All authors, bookclubs, publishers, bloggers, journalists who love black literature are invited to attend, For more information visit www.goongirl.org

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
Go On Girl! Book Club hosts an annual author awards event in a different city. In 2009 we travelled to Houston, Texas and in 2010 we were in Birmingham, Alabama. Each awards event features the winners of our Author of the Year and Best New Author Awards as well as Life Achievement, and Unpublished Writer and Scholarship Award winners. We are also joined by local authors. Some of GOG's winning authors include Lawrence Hill (Someone Knows My Name), Jennifer Baszile (The Black Girl Next Door), Sonia Sanchez (Morning Haiku), J. California Cooper (Life is Short But Wide), Stephen Carter (The Emperor of Ocean Park), Jewell Parker Rhodes (Douglass' Women) and many others. For our 20 year gala in 2011, 11 awards will be given to authors representing each genre reflected on our reading list in addition to the Author of the Year, Best New Author and writing award winners.

BPM: What adventures did GOG have in 2010? What will GOG do for the 20th anniversary in 2011?
2010 has been a tremendous year for Go On Girl! Book Club. We celebrated our 18th Annual Author Awards event in Birmingham, Alabama with authors Lawrence Hill 2009 Author of the Year (Someone Knows My Name), Jennifer Baszile 2009 Best New Author (The Black Girl Next Door) and Sonia Sanchez 2009 Life Achievement Award Winner (Morning Haiku). Special Guest authors included Vanessa Davis Griggs, Patricia Haley, Chaundra Sparks Taylor, Tina Kay and A. Faye Boykin.

In 2011, Go On Girl! Book Club will celebrate 20 years as an organization at our 19th Annual Author Awards gala. The festivities will take place from May 20-22nd in Washington, DC at the Marriott at Metro Center. We are looking for a tremendous turnout! Every author on our reading list will be invited to attend along with publishing professionals, bookclubs, bloggers, journalists - anyone who supports black literature. In addition to our 2010 Author of the Year and Best New Author, we will give 11 awards in each of the genres that Go On Girl! Book Club reads throughout the year.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
Go On Girl! Book Club reads a book from a different genre each month so that our members are exposed to a broader view of literature. The genres are: anthology, autobiography/biography, classic, historical fiction, international, mystery/suspense, new author, science fiction/fantasy, short story, novel/popular fiction and social commentary

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle or iPad, etc?
Go On Girl! Book Club supports new technology as long as the works of all black authors are readily available on these devices.

BPM: How may we find out more about Go On Girl! Book Club? 
To find our more information about Go On Girl! Book Club, please visit our website at www.goongirl.org

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Our Reading Circle of Friends 

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
Our Reading Circle of Friends (RCOF) was founded in 1995 by sixteen African American women bound by friendship, a love of reading and a commitment to support African American authors. We all live in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Most of us have been friends for more than 20 years and Circle members for at least 10 years. Seven of the current members are founding members of the Circle! 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community

Our mission is to: 
· encourage African American women to find time for themselves 
· read and promote books penned by African American authors 
· encourage reading as a lifelong hobby 
· inspire others to read by demonstrating our commitment to literacy 
· heighten awareness of social and cultural issues 
· provide a forum where friends share life lessons 
· share our time and talents with our community 
· serve as activists for social justice 

BPM: How does your book club celebrate special occasions? 
In honor of Valentine's Day, the February gathering is open to men. Each member may invite her spouse, significant other or good friend to attend. The book for Men's Night is selected and moderated by a male guest. 

Each November, we have a special pre-Thanksgiving dinner as we discuss that month's book. It serves as a gentle reminder of all the things for which we are grateful; including one another and our beloved RCOF. 

The RCOF provides opportunities for friends to reconnect, read regularly and reflect as we explore literary works together. Our monthly gatherings allow us to etch out some time for "us" as we share our hopes, dreams and concerns through lively discussions. 

BPM: How are book selected? What happens at a RCOF gathering? 
Individual Circle members make book recommendations to the group. Once the recommendation is made, the group commits to read the selected book. Though we prefer that the books be written by African American authors, we do sometimes read books written by non-African American authors. The Circle member who selects a particular book, serves as the moderator for the discussion of that book and helps members make personal connections with the text. Most times, gatherings are hosted in a member's home. The evening consists of dinner and conversations that are sparked by the book. 

BPM: How does your book club make the connection between the book and real life? 
Each year, after we have read his/her book, one author is selected to join the Circle discussion in person. A few of the authors the Circle has hosted include: A'Lelia Bundles, AJ Verdelle, Pearl Cleage, , Lyah LaFlore, Pearl Cleage, Dr. George Jenkins, Pulitzer Prize winner, Edward P. Jones, The Honorable Kweisi Mfume and Pamela Samuels-Young. In some instances we have even been able to introduce our children to these prominent authors and they have welcomed the opportunity to interact with literary giants they never dreamed that they would meet. 

BPM: WHO'S IN THE PICTURE? 
Front row: Melissa Hinkson*, Denise Simmons, and Karen Murrell 
Second row: Stephanie Fulcher, Robin Evans, DeVon Caldwell-Brown, Deborah Crimes*, and Myla Moss* 
Back row: Shebbie R. Rice*, Joy Jackson*, and Yvette Downs 

BPM: WHO'S MISSING FROM THE PICTURE? 
Trisana Cephas, Ronicsa Chambers, Dana Duncan, Kathryn Keys, Laverne McAllister, Aricka Porter*, Robyn Simmons*, Marchetta Powell, Carolyn Tharpe-Robinson*, and Rhonda White 
* Members since 1995 

 



Intimate Conversation with R.A.R.E. Book Club
Reading And Rapping Experience

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
R.A.R.E. Book Club ( Reading And Rapping Experience)  came to fruition on September 7, 1997 under the leadership of Salena Castle. There are a total of seven members, we have set a maximum of ten. Our President is Yolanda Marshall, one of the founding members...Secretary Latrice Dyson...Treasurer Tawanda Hardy......Event Coordinator Sandra Brown.....Webmaster Lisa Puckett ......Historian Sarita Baker.....Chaplain Sharlet Nunn. We are located in Memphis, TN. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? What legacy will your club leave for the community?
Our mission is to infuse intellectual minds, strengthen sisterhood, offer time and service within the community and build lasting relationships through literary genre. our ultimate desire is to network with other book clubs, coordinate and host author's book signing events and all other literary influences as we promote the importance of literacy. We are scheduling reading time at some city schools. 

R.A.R.E. has for years participated in the Christmas Angel Tree Program. We have also provided food and clothing for several adoptive families. After the death of one of our members, Joyce Campbell, these projects were continued in her memory.

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
We meet once every six weeks to discuss the featured book (Black/African American authors only) chosen by a designated member. The meeting place is chosen by this person whether it is her home or maybe a restaurant. R.A.R.E has an annual outing to celebrate its anniversary. Past celebrations have included extended weekend getaways to Atlanta, Nashville, and Tunica (riverboat dinner cruise and casino stay). We also periodically take in plays and movies together. We attended the National Book Club Conference for the first time this year. We so enjoyed it that we want to make it an annual trip.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in an organized group had on your life?
Being introduced to R.A.R.E. has been a great experience. I have been a devout reader all my life. As a child because serious allergies I was not always allowed to play outside with my sister and friends, so books were always with me. It is so great to discuss what you have read with someone else who thinks of the characters of the books as real people. The camaraderie of the book club is so satisfying.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
R.A.R.E. has a website:  http://ladiesofrarebookclub.weebly.com/index.html  we are also located on Facebook.

Submitted by:
Event Coordinator, Sandra Brown



Intimate Conversation with the BSURE Book Club
(Brothers and Sisters United for Reading Enjoyment)


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
BSURE Book Club (Brothers and Sisters United for Reading Enjoyment) was founded in 2003. We began as 7 members and currently stand with 18 members strong. We are based out of Dallas and meet at various places throughout the metroplex. 

The current officers are as follows: Kellye Hillery (President), Arnecia Collins (Vice President), Patriece Alexander (Secretary), Carol Blakes (Treasurer), Veronica Morgan (Historian), Gloria Morrison (Financial Secretary), Carla Dixon (Event Coordinator), Mary Hamilton (Parliamentarian), and Phillip Salter (Financial Advisor).

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
As a group, we have two special annual events. One is our Annual Social where we meet as a group, not to discuss a book, but to have fun as friends. In the past, we have enjoyed jazz concerts together as well as a day at the movies. Also, we have our Annual Christmas party in December, and to this day, every year is an amazing fun time of gift sharing and games together. We have not travelled together as of yet, but the more we continue to grow, we hope to add travelling into our yearly activities.

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in literature and TV?
There should be more stories of plus size or the "not so perfect" size person finding love. Also, we need more brothers and sisters portrayed on TV as something other than pimps, and hookers - bring on more positive images of Black America.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books, such as downloads for Kindle, Nook, or iPad, etc.?
While it's understood that technology continues to advance, we still need our hardcover books. We will continue to read them and it is a concern that electronic books may cause some authors to not be financially successful and may decrease the need to even go to the public libraries.

BPM: Do you believe a character's culture, sexual orientation or religion are important to understanding 
their point-of-view in a novel? Why?

A character's culture helps us to understand their point-of-view because we are all different. Some of us have opinions of what we think a person should or should not do. We often times do not give people a chance that are different from us. Everyone has a right to be heard, but that doesn't mean that everyone has to agree with their point-of-view. It just means we are all different.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in an organized group had on your life?
Our members feel that being in a group of this size has had a great impact. Some feel they have grown by hearing the different perspectives on books that the members have. While others enjoy being around people of different backgrounds and being able to get out of the house for some relaxing fun.

Respectfully Submitted,
Kellye Hillery, President BSURE Book Club 

http://bsureclub.bravehost.com 
Facebook: BSURE Club



Intimate Conversation with Motown Review Bookclub

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
Motown Review Bookclub was founded in the fall of 1999. The co-founders of the group were Jeanette Wallington and Sherri Stanley. We decided to form a bookclub after attending a literary event in Virginia Beach with Ruth Bridges. There we meet several bookclub and some of our favorite authors, i.e Victoria Christopher Murray, Lolita Files, Valerie Wilson Wesley to name a few. We were delighted to find other avid readers. Upon return home, we posted a notice at the DHS office we worked at and ask other if they were interested in forming a bookclub. We got a lot of responses, but the book club ended up with only 4 members for several years. 

We currently have six members. Membership is invitation only and only open in January of each year.  Yes, we were a bookclub that met monthly and did not have a name for several years. We finally decided on the name Motown Review, which is a play on Motown Revue, of the R&B era. 

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
We meet on the third Sunday of each month. Each member host the meeting in their home and the other six months we go to a restaurant. Members who turn it is to host also selects the book of the month. Besides discussing the book, we love to have good food at our meetings, so the hostess usually scours the internet and cookbooks to come up with an original and succulent meal. When possible, we like to have authors come to the meetings. We have hosted such authors as Kimberla Lawson Roby, Freddie Lee Johnson III, and Suzetta Perkins.

Every December on the third Sunday, we have our annual Christmas brunch. Several of your members are really into crafts and have presented some very nice gifts that they make themselves

Our bookclub also likes to travel together. Sometimes it's all six of us or maybe one or two of us. We have attended literary retreats in New Orleans, New York,  Savannah GA, Sedona, AZ. BEA in Chicago,   NBCC is Atlanta, to name a few places. We also try to attend all the literary events that go on in Detroit and the surrounding suburbs. You can usually find at least one of us and most booksignings. 

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life?
We have all stated at one time or another that being in a bookclub has really helped us broaden our reading taste. Sometimes books are chosen that one would have never picked up on their own and it ended up being book that they really enjoyed. 

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that makes a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page. 
We stick with AA fiction. However, street lit or urban fiction is not a genre that any of us are interested in. Books that can be related to our everyday lives, current issues or history then to have the most impact. Mostly everyone in the group have at one time or another worked in Social Services. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle or IPad, etc?
So far none of us have taken to these alternative means of reading. I know people who swear by them, but personally, I like having a book in my hands and turning the pages. 

BPM: Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as author from other generations?
Yes, there are some such as Daniel Black whose books I think will be classics. They are thought provoking and very interesting reads that cover a wide scope of topics. Then there are others who are turning out poorly written, poorly edited books about a bunch of hogwash that when their phase is over, they will be soon forgotten. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
We can be followed on Facebook at www.facebook.com/motownreview 

Submitted by:
Jeanette Wallington
Melvindale, MI 



Intimate Conversation with Divine Sister Book Club


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?

Divine Sister Book Club was created April, 2009 as a tool to help escape day to day stress from work and home. Nevertheless, it was a way for a group of women to come together through reading to empower, to encourage and to inspire one another by expressing our thoughts and experience with each other. Needless to say ,we became more than a book club.

Divine Sister Book Club is located in Memphis, TN. We presently have eighteen members from age 26 years old to 57 years young. We meet monthly at various locations to discuss the book of the month, selected by the host for that month. We host at least three authors during the year, and we have our annual "Parade of Characters" in December. Our book club volunteers and provide community services at various agencies. Divine Sister Book Club (DSBC) will celebrate our two year anniversary with a Blast in April 2011. All members in the book club are assigned to various committees. 

Our officers are:
Sandra Washington - President
LaTorya Washington - Vice President
Janice Wade - Secretary
Dedra Freeman - Treasurer

BPM: What is the mission of the group? What legacy will your club leave for the community? 
Our Mission is to empower, be proactive, and magnify a positive image of each committed member. We strive to form a strong sisterhood between women whose attribute is reading and supporting the talents of authors. We value a sense for caring for our community by volunteering our services. 

We have provided community services for:

1). Family Reading Night at Doubletree Elementary - Read books to elementary children

2). Breast Cancer Walk - Walked and raised funds for the cause

3). Ronald McDonald House- Serve food to Cancer stricken children at St. Jude Hospital 

4). FIT (Family In Transition) provided funds to set-up a savings account for women who are transitioned back into society. 

5). Holiday Outreach - Provide sandwiches and coffee to various Emergency Rooms during the holidays. 


BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
1). Attending Book Signings
2). Attended The Mid-South Book Lovers Conference, Hosted by Alesha Yvonne, National Best Selling Author
3). DSBC "A Parade of Characters" (members dress as their favorite character from one of the monthly readings)
We have not traveled, but we have tentative plans for our 1st trip to New Orleans for the 2011 Essence Festival.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
DSBC favorite genre is urban fiction and urban Christian. Books that have realistic characters and situations that can be associated to personal experiences, trials, and tribulations.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in an organized group had on your life?
Developing meaningful and lasting friendships and meeting some Awesome AUTHORS!

BPM: How may we find out more about your club, Divine Sister Book Club? 
Facebook - facebook.com/divinesisters.bookclub; Contact person: Delores Freeman, PR


Intimate Conversation with Chasing Books 
Christian Book Club



BPM: Give us a little history on Chasing Books Christian Book Club. Where are you located? How many members do you have? 
Chasing Books Christian Book Club
is a quarterly online book club that was formed in March 2011 and founded by author and motivational speaker Quiniece Sheppard, who is also the founder of I am the Chase Ministries , LLC.   As of today, we have over 100 members in the book club and the list is growing daily.   At the end of the quarter, we have what we call  “Chat with the Author” in which the author makes himself or herself available via teleconference that gives readers a chance to call in and talk with the author about their book and it also gives the book club members a chance to talk and get to know one another especially since we are an online book club.  It makes it more personal. 

I formed this book club as a way to support African American self publishers, independent authors and those who have published with a traditional publisher. I wanted an avenue where we support the up and coming authors and it was important to me that we support our own people of color.  Being a self-published author myself, I know how much time and money goes into the publishing process and how difficult it is to expand your marketing reach, so I created this book club as a way to support other authors and to spotlight those authors who have written great books and all they need was more exposure. Hopefully, some of the books we read will make it to the best sellers list.

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives? What impact has reading had on your life? Has there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life?
Reading is so important for our growth and development. So many people rely on books to help them in certain situations in their lives, so books have a profound impact in people’s lives. Some people will read a book before they go to church, so you have to reach people where they are. Since I am a Christian author and have my own singles ministry, I use my writing as a form of ministry and I know many others do the same. 

I have personally been touched by the books that I have read that really enhanced my level of thinking and challenged me to live up to my full potential. Some of those books include No more Sheets by Juanita Bynum, How to Get Out of Your Own Way by Tyrese Gibson, Color Me Butterfly by L.Y. Marlow, Conversations by Hill Harper, Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Myers and so many others have shaped my life. I enjoy reading all types of books.

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the books? 
My book club reads all types of books but the book must meet certain criteria in that it must not be sexually explicit, contain little or no profanity and be at least 140 pages. This is a Christian book club, so the books don’t have to be Christian based, but they must meet certain criteria as I want our readers to know that profanity, sex and violence doesn’t define a good book. 

A good book is based on quality and substance, so those are the types of books we read. The author or book club member sends me a recommendation and I look into what type of book they have and if it meets the basic criteria. There is an agreement the author must sign and pay a small fee that is part of the selection process. I do all the marketing and promoting of the author’s book, so the author doesn’t have to do anything but be available for the  Chat with the Author Day Teleconference call. Overall, the process if fairly quick and simple and the turnout time is usually one to two weeks when the author knows if his book has been selected.

BPM: What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection?
Currently, the book club is reading The Olympian: An American Triumph by Craig T. Williams and we will chat with the author via teleconference in February 2012 as we are a quarterly book club so we don’t want our readers to be overwhelmed with having to read a book every month and due to the economy, money is tight with a lot of people. I selected this book based on the author’s submission and meeting the required guidelines and really enjoyed the book and I believe the book club will enjoy it as well.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club and possibly your book reviews? 
You can find more about Chasing Books Christian Book Club by visiting the website at www.chasingbooks.com  and join for FREE to read along with us.  The book club doesn’t review books. We strictly read for pleasure and enjoyment. Authors are always welcome to submit their books to me once they review the submission guidelines on the website. They can also email me at:   info@chasingbooks.com for more information.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
I hope that people will see this book club as a positive, inspirational book club where books have real substance and value. I also want people to know that self publishers have great books out there and just because they haven’t sold 1000’s of books doesn’t mean their book isn’t a good book. This book club was designed to increase an author’s book sales and give them more marketable. 

I want others to know that it’s okay to support each other and see someone else’s vision come to pass and we don’t have to compete with one another. There’s plenty of room at the top. I want people to have pride and confidence in each other’s work and abilities and support a great book. A great book is a great book. Period. This book club will hopefully be known as a book club who helped support and uplift one another and encouraged each other’s dreams. We didn’t have to read erotic, sexually explicit books or books filled with profanity and violence in order to sell books, but to know that good, clean wholesome books still sell and is still what many people want to read. 

Quiniece Sheppard
I am the Chase Ministries
Alexandria, VA 22320
Website: www.iamthechase.com 

Chasing Books Book club
Website: www.chasingbooks.com 




Intimate Conversation with Exquisite Ladies Book Club

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have? 
Exquisite Ladies Book Club (ELBC) is based in Camden, NJ and was founded in December 2010 by Te'Amo Edwards. Currently, we have 8 active members and growing. ELBC is the acronym for Exquisite Ladies Book Club. The name for this book club came about several years ago when a few of my girlfriends on-line and myself wanted to have a social forum/book club for females. We thought of the environment as being a place where females could go to vent, uplift, and encourage one another so Exquisite Ladies was absolutely befitting as the title of the forum. While the forum started out as a Yahoo group and later became an official forum it didn't last more than a year or so. I kept my passion for wanting a book club and in December 2010 I started ELBC once again on Meetup. Our 1st meeting was conducted in January and we had 5 members show up and we have been doing well since. We're still growing and encourage other females to join. 

Exquisite Ladies Book Club: Sisters joined in literary bliss!
President: Te'Amo Edwards
Vice President: Shanowya Jackson

BPM: What is the vision/mission for your organization? Do you host events during the year? Donate to charities or provide any service for the community? 
Our Mission and Purpose is to provide a comfortable setting for a group of diverse readers and discuss African American fiction and nonfiction novels. Unite as sisters and socialize together for book discussions and other events in the community. Support new and upcoming authors by reading, reviewing, inviting authors to our discussions, and attending book signings. Although ELBC is dedicated to African-American females, we will not exclude non African American authors or members. We come to the group as equals. All have an opportunity to read and express thoughts and feelings. This is also a great way for us to get to know new people, enjoy stimulating discussion and most importantly discover wonderful books. Above all, let’s learn from each other while sharing our thoughts and ideas.

We're still in our first year so we're learning the ins and outs of maintaining a successful book club. Our goals for next year are to implement community service projects, plan at least 1 literary event on an annual basis, and expand to have 12 active members at every discussion. Right now we do plan different outings outside of our monthly discussions to keep the members in touch and continue building bonds/friendships.

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? Has there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life?
Reading takes me away from my realities. I can forget whatever I have going on in my life, good and bad, and take on the characters role until the novel is completed. It's a more positive way for me to temporarily escape. I recently read "Who Said It Would Be Easy?" by Cheryl Faye and this book spoke volumes to me. It helped me realize that there is someone out there for everyone. I was dealing with a complicated relationship and found myself feeling depressed with very low self esteem. Reading this really uplifted my emotions and opened my eyes and brought me closer to God.  [Lady Te'Amo, ELBC President in photo]

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives?
Reading is important because it expands the mind and keeps the imagination growing. You can travel the world without ever leaving your living room. 


BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books?
ELBC mostly reads African American fiction but we don't exclude other genres. We vote on books for 2-3 months at a time.

BPM: What are you reading now as a group? How did you come by this selection?
We just finished reading Love, Honor, and Betray by Kimberla Lawson Roby, this was our July selection. For August, we're reading The Deal, the Dance, and the Devil by Victoria Christopher Murray. Each of these selections were voted. 

BPM: How do you feel about digital books such as ebook downloads from Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc? 
I love ebooks it's convenient for on the go reading. With 3 daughters, work, and running errands, I'm always on the move and love being able to use my kindle app to read. 

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
There will be a huge increase in digital purchases over printed purchases but I don't believe it'll fully be replaced. Some people are set in their ways and prefer printed material. 

BPM: If you shop on Kindle or the Nook, does the price play a big part in the purchase? Would you ever stop buying printed books?
I do make purchases on both the Nook and Kindle and price plays a major part in my purchasing. If the price is about the same as me getting the printed version then I'll just go out and get the printed copy. I don't believe I'll stop getting printed books altogether, I do still like filling up my book shelves and having the physical copy for autographing. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club and possibly your book reviews? 
You can find out more about ELBC at www.exquisiteladiesbookclub.webs.com  

 

 


Young Readers Unite Book Club (Y.R.U.) 
Founder Mar'Kisha Warrick 

Young Readers Unite (Y.R.U.) was founded by Mar'Kisha Warrick. Mar’Kisha was inspired to start her own club after hearing her mother talk about how exciting being in a book club can be. She was particularly impressed with all the positive things her mother’s club does in the community. 

With a newly found passion, Mar’Kisha realized that children and teens would greatly benefit from developing a love for reading. Her new passion prompted her to asked her mother if she could start a book club for children and teens. 

After her mother, Takisha Tillie, Founder/President of Deep in Thought Book Club presented the idea to her club members, Deep in Thought Book Club accepted the honor of overseeing Young Readers Unite Book Club. Now a subsidiary of Deep in Thought Book Club, Y.R.U. opened its doors January 15, 2011 with great success. 

About the Founder/President of Young Readers Unite (Y.R.U.) 
Mar’Kisha Warrick was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. She is in the medical program at Darnell Cookman Middle High School. She plans to continue her academic studies after high school to obtain her Doctorial Degree in Pediatrics. Her hobbies include: basketball, reading, going to movies, and helping the community in any way possible. 

Young Readers Unite Mission - Young Readers Unite (YRU) is committed to encouraging, inspiring, and empowering children and teens to become lifelong readers through peer mentorship and being positive role models. We believe young readers can become world leaders.

Young Readers Unite Vision - To continue to provide positive reading practices and life skills needed to become world leaders.

Join Young Readers Unite Book Club - Join Y.R.U. book club and experience the joy of reading captivating mysteries, crazy comedies, and awesome fantasy books. We meet each month to discuss the exciting reads in a age appropriate environment. To join contact Mar’Kisha Warrick at: youngreadersunite@gmail.com 

Takisha M. Tillie - Founder/President Deep in Thought Book Club 
"Embracing Literature and Sisterhood"

Deep in Thought's Mission
Deep in Thought strives to make a difference in everything we do. We take pride in using our talents to enhance the community through being positive role models for developing youth and seeking diverse avenues to bring moral values, promote literacy, and enhance the lives of people.

 


Intimate Conversation with Sebri Book Club

Sebri Bookclub was formed in 2010 in Farmington Hills, Michigan by  K. Lynn Brown author of Control Issues and other books in the Stearnes family series. Because of her love for all things literary and her deep admiration and respect for authors she wanted to develop an organization that stood as an advocate for writers and their hard work.   Sebri Bookclub is predominantly an online book club that boast an online following of more than 700 members in it's short existence. 

BPM: What is the vision/mission for your organization? Do you host events during the year? Donate to charities or provide any service for the community?
Our goal is to be an advocate to writers and serve as personal connection between writers and readers. We are also strong advocates of literacy and are very involved in promoting summer reading programs in inner city communities.

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives? 
Reading is not only a source of entertainment, but it is a proven fact that those that read more have better grammar usage and writing skills. Essential tools in succeeding in life. 

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books? 
The beauty of Sebri book club is that we have reviewers and readers from all walks of life and interest. This being the case, we read and review anything from paranormal sci- fi to erotica. Nothing is off limits.

BPM: What are your all-time favorite book or music selections?
Anything by Carl Weber, Tananarive Due, Electa Rome Parks, Brandon Massey, or Francis Ray. The list is endless.

BPM: Are you concerned with the quality of books on the shelves today?
We are strong supporters of all types of fiction, but quality is extremely important. Grammar, punctuation, spelling, is always important. It is a huge concern to our organization that books that promote positive images of blacks and the black community are promoted. 

BPM: Are you satisfied with the legacy black books will leave our future generations?
I am very proud of the number of black books and black authors that have taken control and published their own work. Excellent work that otherwise would have been ignored waiting for a big publishing house to approve their work.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?
The importance and need to promote literacy. Informing the community of the awesome talent that we have right in our own neighborhoods.

BPM: Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
I have to admit that some do and some don't. I support all types of literature. I don't however condone using street lit to glorify bad behavior and promote false stereotypes and black exploitation. 

BPM: What are key factors that help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?
A good story line and colorful, interesting, identifiable characters.

BPM: What authors have been able to capture your imagination and support?
Carl Weber, Electa Rome Parks,  and Dr. Maya Angelou.

BPM: Do you feel African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read? 
Yes. I don't really read and support books that don't. 

BPM: How do you feel about digital books such as ebook downloads from Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
I love ebooks and have heard many success stories about authors who's book sales drastically increased due to this technology. The freedom and low cost ability to purchase a book instantly is fantastic.

BPM: Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
No. I think there will always be a desire to have that physical book in hand. 

BPM: If you shop on Kindle or the Nook, does the price play a big part in the purchase? 
Would you ever stop buying printed books?

I would never stop buying printed books  but the price is extremely important.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club and possibly your book reviews? 
More information about Sebri Book Club can be found on our FaceBook page, our website: http://sebribookclub.weebly.com  You can also follow us on twitter at:  http://twitter.com/#!/sebribookclub 

 


Intimate Conversation with Sista Girl Book Club PA

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have? 
My name is Michelle Morris and I am the founder of The Sista Girl Book Club. I started my reading journey with the club September 2005. 

We started with six members grew to ten members and today we a five member book club, and this size works for us. Members Max, Cap Alethia, Blanche and myself. We are located outside of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly LOVE!

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
My mission for starting this club was to read at least one book a month, our mission as a group is to introduce each other to new authors, embracing dialog and the gathering of the ladies, did I say me time? 

We each individually pay a part in our communities through work and our personal lives, we want to help those who need help and are willing to help themselves.

BPM: What types activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel? 
The Sista’s get together for our monthly meeting that last Sat of each month. We are always looking to plan a Sista outing when we can. We have not had any major trips together as a club yet, but were are looking at Vegas in 2011.

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party? 
I host our December meeting each year and we look forward to our Christmas party to cap the year off! This year it will be a Red Carpet Christmas event and a Winter White after party. We will top that off with a New Years celebration at Sista Blanche’s to bring in the New Year!

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
I thank my sister Cap for giving me the book that started it all, “True To The Game.” She gave me this book and told me to read it, I carried that book around for over 5 months. I broke down and started reading it and I was hooked on reading, I decided that I would read one book a month. Starting this book club has brought valuable lessons, reading, showing my kids that it’s a good thing, sharing that with them and my friends. Setting goals and reaching them!

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
You know we love the hood books, we call them, my husband calls them comic books. We enjoy Urban fiction the most, but we subject our members to all different genres. I think a book that gets you in the first chapter and never lets you go, has you staying up till 2 in the morning trying to read just one more page, will be that book that you will never forget and won’t stop talking about. You have to create a unforgettable character, give that character a commanding presence that makes you say well dam! It doesn’t happen every day but it does happen.

BPM: Do you believe a character's culture, sexual orientation or religion are important to understanding their point-of-view in a novel? Why? 
I think it depends on the story because there some stories that if you don’t go there with the character's culture, sexual orientation or religion , you won’t get it. Religion does not really play a part in most urban fiction books, but it would be important in a Christian fiction book. It makes the book more than just a book, it makes it a story.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in today's media and books? 
Not always, but it’s better now than it ever was. Now you know they are going to always try and put us down when that can, but, I think it harder now. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc? 
LOVE IT! LOVE IT!! Some of our members have the Kindle and some have the Nook. As long as we can get the E-Books that we need it’s lovely! I think this is great, and an exciting way for kids to get into reading as well. 

BPM: Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
I say yes, some with the same message but with a different tone and a new voice. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club?
FaceBook Fan Page: Sista Girl Book Club

Submitted by:
Michelle Morris
Sista Girl Book Club Founder
Glenside, PA 


Intimate Conversation with Girlfriends Book Club
Germeko Murray, GBC Atlanta President

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Girlfriends Book Club, Atlanta Chapter. 
Our organization name is Girlfriends Book Club and we are the Atlanta Chapter. Our organization was founded in 2004 in Sacramento, CA. by CEO Tamika Shamberger. The Atlanta Chapter was founded in 2008 and we are the fourth of seven chapters. Officers of the Atlanta Chapter are Germeko Murray- President;  Vegletta Cook-Lewis- Vice President, Sherica Tate- Treasurer and Stephanie Jett- Secretary. As of now we have nine members. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about the GBC work in the community. 
In the process of doing what we love which is reading we want to promote sisterhood. We would like to be a national known book club combating the stereotype that African American women can not get along, we would like show that it can be done in a positive way. 

BPM: What type of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel? 
Well, we do have our monthly book meetings, but we also try to get together as often as we can for social events such as: Book Expos, Birthdays and Girls Night Out. We have several annual events Parent/Family Day, Holiday Party and Annual Trip also we do several community services per year. 

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party? 
All of the members are very family oriented and will be celebrating the holidays with their families but we will most definitely get together for our Annual Holiday Party which will consist of dinner, games, gift exchange, a little partying and most of all enjoying the sisterhood!!! 

BPM: What impact has reading and being in an organized group had on your life? 
Reading is a comfort zone that sometimes takes you out of your element and it gives you a visual of situations and people that you may have never encountered or some you may know. Being in Girlfriends Book Club has allowed me to meet women from different backgrounds and experiences. I have also been able to participate in things that I would have not normally in return it has made me more open minded and appreciate sisterhood more. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club?
You can find out more about all our organizations chapters at www.girlfriendsbookclub.com  and more about the Atlanta Chapter at www.gbcatlanta.webs.comwww.facebook.com/gbcatl

Submitted by: 
Germeko Murray, GBC ATL President
www.gbcatlanta.webs.com 
www.facebook.com/gbcatl 
www.girlfriendsbookclub.com   

 


Intimate Conversation with Women of Essence SC

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. How many members do you have?
We are Women of Essence Social Club. I'm very new to the club and I love because the women that were in before me are great role models. I recently joined the group in July of this year. I am located in Houma, Louisiana about 45 miles from New Orleans. 

President - DeMona Harrison-Alexander
Vice President - Chevelle B. White
Secretary - Tuesday W. Pierce
Treasurer - Penny Thomas
Event Coordinators - Lisa James & Shanta Berry 
Members:  Natasha Edwards, Latoya Turner, Venessa Dunn-Collins, Shanta Phillips and Chandra Scott

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
I enjoy every social event that we attend and also give. Clubs such as this gives myself and others the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. We also travel as a group and if everyone cant attend, whoever can will, near of far.

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Do you have strong family traditions for the holidays? Will your club have a group party?
For the holidays my family and I will be celebrating Thanksgiving day and Christmas Eve as as one in Florida this year. Thanksgiving will be spent together and sharing what we all are very Thankful for and Christmas this year we will be "Christmas Around The World", learning about different cultures. Our family tradition every year is to put the Christmas tree up and a family the day after Thanksgiving and take it down January 2nd as a family also.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
African-American-oriented erotica. It is something that I enjoy reading because most of them seem so real and they also teach me alot :-)

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in literature and/or TV? 
I would love to see more on the gay culture because it is definitely out there and you don't see much of it on TV, movies or in literature. I would also love to see more on strong families, because that is something that is very much needed in our society.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle?
Electronic books are a plus in this century because you have people as myself who are always on the go and if we don't have anything with us we have our laptops, iPad, cellular devices, etc. that we can access at any time. It is very convenient

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
They can find us by clicking the link to our Facebook group, GO.

Submitted by:  Natasha Monique Edwards, Gray, LA

 


Intimate Conversation with Sistahs of Urban Literature
Karen Waiters,  S.O.U.L. President 


BPM:  Karen, give us a little history on Sistahs of Urban Literature. 
Sistahs of Urban Literature is a face to face book club that was formed in January 2009 in Winston-Salem, NC. S.O.U.L  enjoys reading different genre of African American authors. Our book club meets once a month at restaurants and coffee shops. Our mission is to continue our appreciation of African American literature and support African American authors . The President is Karen B. Waiters who is also the founder. Lashanda Hanna is the Vice President of the club. We have a total of twelve members which includes the officers.

BPM:  What impact has being in a organized reading group had on your life? 
I have always been avid reader which led me to creating a book club. Being in a book club has allowed me to be exposed to even a larger genre of authors. I have read authors that I have never heard of and I have developed a great appreciation of our African American authors even more. S.O.U.L. has allowed me to meet authors and network with other book clubs. Our book club has allowed me to have a desire to introduce young girls to reading. We are currently organizing a summer book club for girls in 2011. I look forward to continuing to fellowship with a great group of women that I consider friends. 

BPM:  What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
My favorite genre of books is fiction. I enjoy a story that can invoke many emotions within me. I appreciate the detail information the author has chosen to include in their work in which I can visually place myself there. I have read some exciting prologues alone that have gotten me very interested in what type of story the author is getting ready to tell. 

A good book is like a movie, if you can still picture the ending and wonder what if or you are still talking about certain characters after you have the read the book. If I am wishing for a part two of an author’s work, they have definitely 
done their job.

BPM:  Do you believe a character's culture, sexual orientation or religion is important to understanding their point-of-view in a novel? Why? 
A character’s background tells a lot of how the character is going to react. Culture affects a lot of people’s motive on how they will react to a situation or life in general. 

BPM:  How may we find out more about your club?
To find out more about the Sistahs of Urban Literature, our website address is www.soulurblit.com.  
We welcome and encourage interests in our book club.

Submitted by: Karen Waiters, S.O.U.L. President 

 


Intimate Conversation with Readers Journey Book Club 
Karen Brundage-Johnson, President 

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. 
In 2004, I founded the Readers Journey Book Club Network as there were no author events being offered at local book stores in Atlantic County, New Jersey. Various book clubs support the events that are held on a quarterly basis with attendance up to 25 attendees/members. 

In May 2008, The Readers Journey Book Club Network was featured in Essence Magazine with author Gloria Naylor (The Women of Brewster Place). I love to read and it is so wonderful to be in the company of other avid readers who share the passion for reading books. 

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party?
I have a small family and we traditionally cook a wonderful meal at home and enjoy each other’s company. The holiday season is another wonderful time to get in touch with one’s spirituality. It’s also a tradition for me to re-read The Memory Quilt: A Christmas Story for Our Times by Bishop T.D. Jakes.

I have been invited to a book club holiday party and we will be reading Boardwalk Empire by Nelson Johnson. The theme for the party is the “roaring 20’s.”

BPM: What is the mission of Readers Journey Book Club Network?  
The mission of the Readers Journey Book Club Network is to bring together book clubs, reading groups and book lovers in the Atlantic County New Jersey areas to fellowship and experience African-American author discussions with well known and up and coming authors, and poets. We generally meet and a local bookstore . Authors who have attended include Gloria Naylor, Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant, Haki R. Madhubuti, Kristin Hunter, Toby Tompkins, Gail Ramsey, Anya Nicole, Mark Anthony, Zelda Lockhart, Allison Hobbs, and Zane. Author Dolan Perkins –Valdez will join us in the early part of 2011. 

BPM: Tell us about your work in the community.
For me the Readers Journey Network is a community service initiative. By creating these events, book clubs are inspired, motivated, challenged and broadening their horizons through the author discussions. 

I am also an author and speaker. I co-authored the Beyond the Body! Developing Inner Beauty. This book is a must-read for women who wish emotional support on their life journey. Topics include Living a Life of Purpose, Positive Self-Talk, Overcoming Fears, Handling Emotions, and 15 Strategies for Overcoming Negative Thinking.

BPM: What legacy do you think your club will leave for those watching you in the community?
I believe the legacy I will leave is that these free events were inspiring and though provoking to people of all walks of life.

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group?
Readers Journey Book Club Network generally hosts an author event at a local bookstore quarterly. I plan an outing to the Harlem Book Fair each year.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
Being part of a book club network provides for such a great support group with interesting and knowledgeable people -- good friends. The beauty of a book club is that it permits open discussion and opinion without rules. There are always interesting and unusual insights about one book character or another, or their situations, because book club members have different experiences. I enjoy the diversity that takes place in the group. The book club network is an interesting and fun way to discover new authors and each other, and it's a great motivator to read something different each month.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
This is a tough question. I enjoy Mystery, Romance, Historical Fiction, Biography, Auto Biography, some Urban Lit. The key factors that make a book remain on my mind after reading the last page are that there will be a sequel, or the author allows the reader to draw their own conclusion to the ending.

BPM: Do you believe a character's background,  culture, sexual orientation or religion are important to understanding their point-of-view in a novel? Why?
I don’t think these things are absolutely necessary; I like reading a book and often not knowing the race of the characters. I think this is important in order for all authors' books to have a fair chance of being read by all people. For example in Total Eclipse of the Heart by Zane, the reader is not aware of the race of the characters. This added such intensity to the novel.

BPM: Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in today's media and books?
I would like to see African-American couples and families represented more in media and books related to African -American culture and history. African-Americans are not represented enough in prime-time TV programs with positive images.

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in literature and TV? 
I’m of the Baby Boomer Generation. Any books written about, for or by Baby Boomers are interesting to me. I plan to write a fictional book about Boomers.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books?
I’m getting acquainted with Kindle and have used it. I still prefer the traditional hardcover/paperback book reading experience. 

BPM: Do you think our authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
Yes, I believe that all authors leave a legacy. All authors are creators and originators of ideas--be it written or spoken word, paint, dance, etc. An author’s legacy is in the messages of the creative process that engages someone.




Intimate Conversation with For Readers Only Book Club

BPM: Give us a little history on For Readers Only Book Club.
For Readers Only Book Club of Morrow, Georgia was in the thought process for many years, but officially began on October 2, 2010. At our first meeting, along with my self we had eight ladies to join. A week later we had four more, with the committee and readers, we now have a total of fifteen members. 

Our committee consists of the President & Urban Chapter Chairperson, Neisha Holloman; Administrator & Christian Chapter Chairperson, Anna Cunningham; Youth Chairperson, Nikeya Cunningham; Photographer, Deondre Holloman; Web Designer, Marvin Cunningham; Computer Support, Melvin Cunningham; Culinary Committee, Dion Holloman and Andreana Armour; more officers and committees are being formed in the beginning of 2011.

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
Our mission is to broaden our horizon and embrace the culture around us through fellowship, food and sharing good books. Keeping up with the latest books and meeting the writers that wrote them. We have not done anything in the community yet, but our goal is to attend local book signings, festivals, adopt a daycare, fun activities for kids and many other things. 

BPM: What legacy do you think your club will leave for those watching you in the community?
We want to do so much that our legacy will remain in the minds of the people of the community even after the founder and the original members are long gone.

BPM: What types of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
Our monthly activities consist of a monthly meeting which is held on the first Saturday of each month. So far on our yearly events consist of a Book Synopsis contest in January, Red and White Affair in February, Youth Summer Fest in June, Anniversary Celebration in October and Christmas Gala in December. We do plan to travel to the mountains in North Georgia and to some out of town book signings.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
Being in For Readers Only Book Club had made a big impact on my social life and it has enhanced my reading skills. 

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
My favorite genre of books is Urban Fiction, but I enjoy reading other books also, which is the reason why we have Urban, Christian and Youth Chapters in the book club. The key factor that makes a book remain on my mind is the ending, seeing resolution of problems or issues being solved that was mention at the beginning of the book.

BPM: Do you feel as if African American are represented in a good light in today's media and books?
I feel that the African America couples and families are represented truthfully and in a good light in some books and the media, but it seems that sometimes they only show or write the part that will make a good sale.

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in literature and TV? 
I would love to see more sassy seniors, plus size women, financial advice, religious beliefs and happier black marriages.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
As far as electronic books, I think that they are great and convenient for the readers who like them. I myself prefer to buy the hardcopy of a book because have a passion for collecting that books that I read.

BPM: Do you think our authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
Yes, I do feel that the authors of today are leaving the same legacy or even a more better one.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club?
We have a website that is presently being constructed www.forreadersonlybookclub.weebly.com

Submitted by:
Anna Cunningham, Admin
For Readers Only Book Club

 


Intimate Conversation with S.A.G.E. Bookclub
Sistahs Acquiring Goals Through Excellence


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Sistahs Acquiring Goals Through Excellence.
In November, 2002, a group of basketball mom’s got together and started SAGE, Sistahs Acquiring Goals Through Excellence, at the suggestion of one Mary Johnson of Germantown, M. Since then, SAGE has grown to a total of eleven active members. While there is no president, SAGE is guided by our two remaining founding members, Mrs. Acqueetta Ragland-Higdon and Ms. Carlette “Sissy” Laing, both of whom reside in Germantown, MD the remainder of our members reside throughout Montgomery County, Frederick County and Prince George’s County, Maryland

BPM: What type of activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
The SAGE year kicks-off in November with our anniversary brunch at a fine DC eating establishment in commemoration of the founding of SAGE Book club. This is also the month in which the schedule for the coming year is set. Each member is assigned a month to host the club which includes choosing a book and preparing a place (usually their home) for the discussion, and an enjoyable meal. In December SAGE adopts a family in need, a local cause like the “Secret Santa” charity, to help make the holiday season a little lighter by donating new clothes, toys and food. This is one of our favorite things to do as part of “giving back” to our community.

In the spring, we all go on a retreat. From Friday to Sunday, we pack up and go to some wonderful chalet/resort to hold our book club for that month, enjoy a little R&R and sneak in a spa day and even wine tasting. It’s a great time to take a break and enjoy a little getaway. Each year we rotate which sister host’s the book club at the retreat. 

Rounding back to fall, SAGE holds our annual book bag/school supply drive every September and judging by the reviews from the schools we choose, this is our popular and rewarding undertaking. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
SAGE has a strong sense of community. We feel it is important, not only as a group, but as individuals that we “give back” to society, to our community. We do our small part largely in the months of September and December with our school supply drive and adopt a family, respectively. 

Ms Laing, eagerly coordinates our charitable efforts. She locates needy schools, contacts the officials, and then takes charge of our delivery efforts – usually capped off with a celebratory brunch. 

As you can see we require energy to do our community service and we do not hesitate to take time out to get our nourishment and to be in each other’s company! Community service can be so rewarding. Our Secret Santa charitable activity operates in a similar fashion. The families in crisis are suggested or referred to us from a local school counselor. We divide up the shopping responsibilities and then we get together again – this time for a potluck, gift-wrapping event! Delivery to the family is done discreetly, so the parents of the children can give the gifts as if they had purchased them. We really enjoy this fundraiser the most!

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
We find that when reading in an organized group, it requires us to respect our differences in taste, as well as, appreciate our similarities in reading materials. We do not always like the book of the month, but because the love and respect that we share, it requires us to be flexible and tolerant. We have realized that flexibility, tolerance, patience and true sisterhood is required for the cohesiveness and continued success of our book club.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books? What are the key factors that make a book remain on your mind long after you read the last page? 
Initially, SAGE wanted to support only black authors as we hear constantly how black authors do not receive much support from their own community. So in our small way, we tried to do our part to support our own community. However, we have found we also enjoy “other than black” authors as well. Some members find books that tell the story of social struggles and obstacles that reflect morality issues of love and fidelity are considered a “good read.”

While others enjoy stories with villains and heroines as great page-turners, all of SAGE appreciate books that have in their conclusion, moral and ethical lessons, to be considered on an individual scale. We have enjoyed page turners by authors such as: Trice Hickman, Mary Monroe, Eric Jerome Dickey, Kimberla Lawson-Roby, Beverly Jenkins, GiGi Gunn, Walter Mosley, Dolen Perking –Valdez, Lutisha Lovely and last, but certainly not least, the late E. Lynn Harris.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
SAGE has several members who use and enjoy electronic reading devices. It is a fact that if all of us go to our local library or bookstore for the book of the month, there would be a shortage. Having the ability to order a book in an instant has increased readership. Having the ability to download the book at one’s leisure is very satisfying, although some of our members just love feeling the pages and “the smell” of a great book, or if luck has it, having that book signed by the author. Overall, a hard copy of a book will never go unappreciated.

Submitted by:
Acqueetta Ragland-Higdon and Members of the S.A.G.E. Bookclub
Sistahs Acquiring Goals Through Excellence (S.A.G.E. Bookclub)

 


Intimate Conversation with Indulge Book Club 
Micole Marbury, Coordinator/Founder


BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Indulge Book Club.  How many members do you have?
Indulge Book Club was started December 2005. We are located in Washington DC. We currently have ten members. Indulge Coordinator/Founder is Micole Marbury, Secretary is Marcia Horton, Activities Coordinator Latarsha Reid, Photographer Chaquita Goode, Indulge little readers facilitator Mailka Watkins

We started Indulge because we love to read and we wanted an outlet from our daily lives and to fellowship with friends. We are a group of individuals who meet every 1st Sunday at various member homes from 4pm to 6pm for book discussions. We are varied in age and are of numerous backgrounds. We are passionate readers who have been reading together for eight years in December, 2013. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
The mission of the group is to free our minds from the stresses of life and indulge ourselves in great books, food and conversation. Indulge was not originally establish for community service purposes but in the upcoming years we plan to start promoting the importance of reading.

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
We meet once a month for our book club meetings. We have activities planned for every three months in the year. We have an annual game night, we see movies together, go to dinner together, and for our 5th Anniversary on December 4, 2010 we are going to cruise on the Odyssey. 

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
As the Organizer/Founder of Indulge Book Club, it has been a great pleasure to know and meet so many amazing people and to hear there thoughts and emotions. The experience helps us grow as individuals. The books are a bonus

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as for the Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
These devices are good because it helps the reader now have so many books all over the place. But they do not hold the same substance as books.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
You can contact us at www.Facebook.com/Indulgebookclub,  and (website is under construction www.indulgebookclub.com).  Email us for the mailing address to send books for review.


 


 Intimate Conversation with Sister’s United Book Club 

BPM: Give us the history on your organization, Sister’s United Book Club. How many members?
Sister’s United (SU) Book Club is an African American Women's Book Club organized to learn and experience the world of African American Literature in a fun, exciting, and enlightening atmosphere among our peers. We were established January 2002 in Jacksonville, Florida. Our current membership is at nine and following are officers: President: Sherrell Moore, Vice President: Vanessa Thomas, Secretary: Cassandra Matthews, Treasurer: Yvette Stallings and Historian: Angie Brown.

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
Our mission is to promote and Support African American authors. Our goal is to collectively gain knowledge of the African American experience, collaborate through literary dialogue, build sincere and loving relationships and serve the African American community by promoting literacy and sisterhood. 

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
SU tries to engage as many authors as we can throughout the year. We often invite authors to come to our monthly meeting to discuss their books. SU also attend The Romance Slam Jam events annually when our schedules permit. To date we’ve joined authors Zane and Brenda Jackson on their cruises. In additional to all of our activities and events we have our Annual “Waiting to Exhale Trip” where all of us travel to designated vacation spot for a weekend of fun and relaxation. 

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party?
SU has an annual Christmas celebration where we exchange gifts, enjoy a meal and fellowship as sisters.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in an organized group had on your life? 
This group has been more than just a book club, it’s been an outlet for us as women to discuss life and its challenges as well as benefits. Our book club emulates the true meaning of sisterhood.

BPM: Do you believe a character's culture, sexual orientation or religion are important to understanding their point-of-view in a novel? Why?
Yes, understanding the character’s whole being makes the character more relatable to readers and helps to further illustrate the message the author wants to convey. I’ll use Tyler Perry’s latest movie “For Colored Girls” as an example. That movie touched on reality in today’s society even though the play was written some time ago. Tyler used his craft and the right actors/actresses to bring it to life. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc? 
We have a very diverse group and we all enjoy different ways of doing things. With that being said I must give a shout out to Angie she’s our Kindle Queen. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
www.facebook.com/sistersunitedbookclub   

Submitted by:
Sisters United Book Club

President: Sherrell Moore 
Jacksonville, Florida 
Email us for the mailing address to send books for review.

 


Intimate Conversation with Ladies of the Round Table

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, Ladies of the Round Table. 
Ladies of the Round Table or LRT as we affectionately call it, began with a vision of Veronica Jackson wanting to start a book club. She asked a few co-workers and the group was formed. We all shared a passion for reading and possess different opinions on subject matters. We began in November 2009 and during this first year a president was not appointed. We govern ourselves by a set of bylaws that each member helped to organize. Our secretary is Tyliekia Webb and our Treasurer is April Stewart. LRT is located in Memphis, Tennessee and has eighteen members. 

BPM: What is the mission of the group? Tell us about your work in the community. 
The mission of LRT is to build strong sisterly bonds with each other and extend that love into the community. We have collected and donated household items and food to the Ronald McDonald house in Memphis, TN. We recently took part of a photo shoot campaign, “Think Pink”, where all monies raised were given to the Susan G. Komen fund for Breast Cancer Awareness. Our upcoming goals are to complete three (3) projects in the community. 

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party?
During this holiday season we plan to have a fellowship with all members. Discuss and reflect on the past year, establish goals for the upcoming year and provide a needy family with gifts that may not have been normally possible. 

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
LRT has impacts my life by being a great social network that allows me to step outside of the box by reading books that I normally would not have chosen. It has given me a broader perspective on authors. 

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as downloads for Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?
Electronic books such as Kindle, Nook and IPad seem to be the wave of the future. We recently raffled off a Nook for our one year anniversary. The Nook offers various options of books with the touch of the hand at a reasonable price. The device pays for itself several times for the serious reader. 

BPM: How may we find out more about your club?
LRT can be found on Facebook, Ladiesofthe RoundTable-Bookclub

Submitted by:
Tyliekia Webb, LRT Secretary


 


 Intimate Conversation with ReadPeriod Book Club

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization, ReadPeriod. How often do you meet?
We are a book club located in the Dallas-Ft Worth, Texas area. The name of our "club" is ReadPeriod. We started in 2007 with four members and we've grown to 12 enthusiastic members, who enjoy the fellowship as much as we enjoy the critique. We meet once a month, rotating the meeting locations. Our President is Milledge Caldwell. Some members are related which adds to frank and honest discussions.

We sometimes see a movie that is our book of the month. We have also traveled to San Antonio, Texas to participate in Black Book Club seminar that featured Black Authors. On occasion we go out socially, i.e dinner, drinks and good wholesome fun.

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party?
ReadPeriod, President Milledge Caldwell -- As president I will be spending the Holidays with family. I'm originally from the Mid-West as are five other members, so we often have extended family visiting during that time. One of our members gives a annual Christmas Party for our members (just the ladies, LOL).

BPM: What genre of books do you select for book-of-the-month discussions? Why?
We choose to read Black Authors for ten months during the year, because we want to support African American authors financially and because we can relate to the works and understand the point of view that the authors are writing from. We also feel that African American literary works ensure lively discussions! We do however, read other authors twice, during the year. 

BPM: Do you feel as if African American couples and families are represented in a good light in today's film, music, media and books?
We find that many of the Black Authors have the common theme of misogyny and unfaithfulness, which can be disappointing because of the negative characterizations.

BPM: Do you think our authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 
I feel that because of the commercialism of today many black authors won't live up to the standards of writers in the past whom wrote from real hardships and were trying to paint black people in a more positive light i.e Ralph Ellison, Richard Wright, John Hope Franklin, Frederick Douglas etc. It seems that some of the largest African American book sellers are not the best writers but are instead the writer with the largest publicity budget. 

Submitted by:
Nikki Coe and Deborah Sanders
ReadPeriod, President Milledge Caldwell

 

 


Intimate Conversation with Proverbs 31 Book Club

BPM: Give us a little history on your organization. What year did you start? Where are you located? 
Proverbs 31 Book Club formed October 4, 2009 in Montgomery, AL. We consist of five members, President -Carolyn Lucas, Secretary-Chelsa Brown, Treasurer-Regina White, Book Reviewers-Alesha Judkins and Nicole Duff.

Proverbs 31 Book Club supports Christian fiction literature by African-American authors. If you are an author and would like to have your book considered by the Proverbs 31 Book Club or featured on our blog, please contact us at proverbs31bookclub@gmail.com  We are interested in helping, promoting and supporting African-American authors and we will do our best to get the word out about your books. 

BPM: What legacy do you think you club will leave for those watching you in the community?
Not only are we a book club but we are women who encourage, and inspire each other through Christian fiction and literature so that God can shape us into the virtuous women He made us to be, a Proverbs 31 Woman. We also try to reach out to other women through our postings on our blog as well. We have donated to the organization Aid for Inmate Mothers for the Pack a Purse Project so that women released from prison with have necessities to help them on there journey of getting out in society. We are planning many community service projects in the near future.

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?
On occasion we have a movie night at a member's home or we got out for dinner and a movie just to keep in touch with other. Our book discussion meetings are held once a month. We are looking forward to doing some traveling to book conferences in the future.

BPM: How are you celebrating the holidays? Will your club have a group party?
We will be having Christmas Party in the month of December and will be participating in Secret Santa. We're very excited about it!

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 
Proverbs 31 mainly reads Christian fiction novels. Because we are being ministered to in those books, it has been very beneficial to each member in developing and strengthening her walk with the Lord. Because of that we have also formed a sisterhood with each other and have become great friends and prayer partners.

BPM: How may we find out more about your club? 
You can find out more about us on Facebook, on our blog at: www.proverbs31bookclub.blogspot.com. If you visit the site please feel free to leave a comment or sign our Guestbook!

Submitted by Chelsa Brown - Secretary

 


Intimate Conversation with 
Black Author Book Club aka BAB Club


The Black Author Book Club was created to bring a group of friends together that enjoy reading. The book club has increased the members volume of reading. Book club members meet at each others homes to give each member a chance to host a book club discussion. We use a standard set of discussion questions, if we can't find the discussion questions that exist for a particular book. We are celebrating our eight year anniversary in November 2013.

What year were you founded? 
• The Black Author Book Club aka BAB Club was established in 2005. 

What state are you located? 
• We are located in Birmingham, Alabama. 

How many members? 
• We currently have 5 members. You can read more about them below!

Tina Jones- Founder & Member 5 years 
*Favorite authors?  Kimberla Lawson Roby, Eric Jerome Dickey, and Carl Weber
*Favorite books?  A Piece of Cake, Too Much of a Good Thing, Invisible Life
* What impact has reading had on your life?  It has changed my reading habits. I read more books since creating this book club.

Kimberley Washington- Member 5 years 

Jeanise White- Member 5 years 
*Favorite authors?  Kimberla Lawson Roby
*Favorite books?  Too Much of a Good Thing, Be Careful What You Pray For
* What impact has reading had on your life?  It has exposed me to new people and activities.
*Hobbies besides reading?  Tennis 

Santauisha Mcguire- Member 4 years 
*Favorite authors?  Carl Weber, Zane, and Mary B. Morrison 
*Favorite books?  G-spot by Zane
*What impact has reading had on your life?  It frees my mind from my everyday life and allows me to escape into fantasy. 
*Hobbies besides reading?  Member of the Order of Eastern Star. I do a lot of community volunteer.

Debra Taylor- Member 5 years
* Who are your favorite authors?  Kimberla Lawson Roby and Carl Weber
* What are the titles of your favorite books? Too Much Of A Good Thing, Be Careful What You Pray For, Best Kept Secret, One In A Million, The Preacher's Son and Baby Mama Drama. 
* What are your hobbies besides reading? Bowling, playing cards and hanging out with my friends when time permits us too.

Debra Taylor- Member 5 years
*What impact has reading had on your life? Has there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life? 
Being in a book club has made me stay consistent when reading a book with determination to finish it. Yes, several of them has allowed me to evaluate some things in my life, especially relationships. 
 
What was the first book that you read as a group? 
• The first book we read as a group is "Too Much of a Good Thing" by Kimberla Lawson Roby. 

What literary events do you attend each year? 
• We attended the Black Book Expo in Atlanta, Georgia this year. We plan to attend the National Book Club Conference in Atlanta 2011. 

How many books do you read in one month? Would you say you read more for escape, for educational purposes or for entertainment? 
• The BAB Club reads and discuss a book by a black author every other month. We read for escape and entertainment purposes. 

Interview submitted by Tina Jones 
Birmingham, AL 35215 


Intimate Conversation with Sistahs United 
on the Eastern Shore Book and Social Club


Sistahs United on the Eastern Shore Book and Social Club was found on July 26, 2008 by Lori Morris. She got the idea to start the book from family and co-workers. The conversation of books always came up at family gatherings and at work. A co-worker told her she should start a book club. She invited friends and family members to the first meeting, there were 6 ladies that registered at the first meeting. Now we have 11 members. 

We are a small group of women on the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Delaware, we coming together once a month, for at least three hours to discuss books. Our first book of the month was “Jezebel” by Jacqueline Thomas. We have attend the Chocolate Social and National Book Club Conference each year. The vision for our organization is to come together as sisters to share our feelings, love of reading and to socialize. We host the Mother's Day Social each year.

On your night stand now: 
• Shack by William P. Young

Favorite book when you were a child: 
• The series from author Mildred D. Taylor "Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry" "Road to Memphis" 
and "Let the Circle Be Unbroken".

Book you bought for the cover: 
• A Change Had to Come by Gwynne Forster 

Book that should be a movie or play: 
• Up To No Good by Carl Weber 

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year: 
• Wes Moore, Victor McGlothin, and Jacqueline Thomas 

Lori, much do you like to read? Do you download books? Will digital books ever replace a hard copy?
I love to read a good story, especially when I see the characters as if I were looking at a movie and it keeps my attention thru the whole book. I read two to three books in one month, reading more for the escape and entertainment. I do not download books, preferring to have a hard copy book. In my opinion, digital books will replace printed books in the near future.

 


Intimate Conversation with Book Talk Book Club

Meta, tell us a little about you. Share your favorite books, music, plays or family activities.
My name is Meta Anthony and I am an 50+ avid reader and president of Book Talk Book club in Atlanta. My favorite authors are James Patterson and Kimberla Lawson Roby. I enjoy all types of plays, mostly geared toward black artists. 

Share with us the history of the organization. How did you get started? 
Our book club was formed in 1997 by four co-workers who worked at a local company in Atlanta, GA. Since that time we have had many members, fortunately some have stayed and unfortunately some have decided to move on to other things. We have had as little as five members and as many as twenty-one. As you can see Book Talk goes on. Our current active members are twelve. I'm not sure of the first book we read back in 1997, but the first one we read in January of 2004 was Mary's Little Lamb by Lawrence Christopher. 

We are currently reading Uptown by Dewberry and Grant for August, 2010. We usually attend the National Book Club conference in July/August in Atlanta. We also attended the 1st Black Book Club Expo on August 7th in Atlanta, GA this year. Also, in December we will be attend the DeKalb County Jubilee Annual Book Conference in Decatur, GA

What is the vision for your organization?
Our vision to make life better for someone by reading and making dreams come true. We are not currently involved as a book club in donating to charities, but several members donate their time and energy on their own. 

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you. 
Reading is very important to me, for it helps me to look at this in a different prospective.

What impact has reading had on your life? Has there been any books that help shape your life?
Reading has been a great impact on life. Mainly, because I come from a background of teachers....mother, grandmother, aunts and uncles.  I always loved to read, because it took some places I may never visit. I usually read at least books a month, if time permits. One for the book club and two on my own.

Do you prefer a printed book or digital book? Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book?
Yes, I have been introduced to the kindle and I enjoy the books on digital. I do have some authors that I collect their writings and I prefer them on hardback. No, I don't think the digital will ever replay the hardback, for some just like the feel of a book and turning pages. 

Living your best life includes: 
• Being true to yourself

On your nightstand now: 
• My kindle and Uptown by Dewberry and Grant

Favorite book when you were a child: 
• Raggedy Ann & Andy

Book all readers should own excluding the bible: 
• Write It Down, Make It Happen  by Henriette Anne Klauser

Book you gave as a gift: 
• Fifteen Years by Kendra Norman Bellamy

Book you've bought for the cover: 
• E Lynn Harris -- In My Father's House

Book that should be a movie or play: 
• Fifteen Years by Kendra Norman Bellamy

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year: 
• Kimberla Lawson Roby, James Patterson and Victoria Christopher Murray

Submitted by Meta V. Anthony 
Book Talk Book Club,   Atlanta, GA  


 


Intimate Conversation with the Savvy Book Club

BPM: Rose, tell us a little about you, your family and your favorite things. 
My name is Rose Wright, President of the Savvy Book Club and I live in Jackson, Mississippi with my family, including my husband Frank of 20 years. Our family consists of three lovely children, Takesha, Khadijah and Frank Jr.. I am an educator by profession. I have been in the education arena for 22 years. I currently teach APAC U. S. History. I love to read and spend quality time with family. I am the President and Founder of the Savvy Book Club. My hobbies include reading, cross-stitch and flora arrangement.

BPM: How did you get started? How many members? What literary events do you attend each year? 
Savvy Book Club began April 2007 in Jackson, MS. The club started because we were always talking about the good book we read, when we passed each other in the hallway at work. And people use to think we were talking about someone real and when we revealed we were talking about a book character everyone's response was, you all should start a bookclub. So, one day I told them I was ready and wanted to know if I could count on them as members. They agreed. I researched other clubs and even visited other meetings to get ideas. The librarian at the local library in the area were looking to start bookclubs in their library so we started our club at their library. We had a lot of help from the ladies at the library. Three of them joined the book club and have been faithful members from the beginning. 

Our First Book chosen was "Let the Church Say Amen" by ReShonda Tate Billingsley. We currently have 15 active members. Events: Since beginning the bookclub we have met over forty authors. Many in which we hosted Author Meet and Greets for them. We have also hosted several book release celebration. Charity donations: We have donated books to youth through day care centers, learning centers and summer programs. We hold book drives to do this.

BPM: What is the vision for your organization? Do you host events during the year? 
Our Vision Is: Keeping in tune with the latest Books and Literature, through our Love of Reading and Meeting those who have touched our lives through books. We have hosted alot of writers over the years. This year we sponsored several book release celebrations for authors. Those authors include:

Virginia Deberry & Donna Grant /NY Best Selling Author
Kendra Norman- Bellamy /Atlanta Christian Fiction 
Brian S. Smith /Texas and Bruce Wright/Atlanta

We hosted Mississippi Author Sydney Molare' (Author Pick of the Year 2009) We teamed up with author to do a Literacy Drive and she provided books to everyone who attended the event. 

BPM: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading is so important. As my pastor recently said. "Words have power". When I read a book I always try to find the message. It may not be the one the author has set for me, but a message no the less.

BPM: What impact has reading had on your life? Has there been any books that help shape your life? 
Reading had impact me alot. It is my escape. When you have a family you sometimes need some down time. So after everyone has gone to bed I curl up with a book. I can relate to many of the books I read. 

BPM: How many books do you read in one month? Would you say you read more for escape or for entertainment? 
Books are my escape. I speed read so I can finish a book in two to three days. Sometimes in shorter time (summer months). Summer months I may read six to ten books a month. Other months two at the most. Unless I have a book to review. If the book is really good I can really get through it fast. I will read a book before I watch television. 

There are so many books I have not read and many that I have read and want to read. I can't mention them all but I do love their work. I mostly Christian Fiction, Romance, little Mystery Autobiographies and Drama. I have not read Sci-Fi, Vampire etc.  It does not interest me. But it doesn't mean they don't have some good novels.

BPM: Do you download books? Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 
I have only downloaded one book. I like the hard copies and audio books. I can clean my house, exercise, and drive using audio books. I don't think it will ever replace a printed book. Some may like it. I just don't have time for it, right now.

BPM: Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations?  
I think that all writers have had a author to inspire them at one point in their lives and or career. Some authors may have more impact than others. I think that today many authors write about everyday life situations and are not limit as many earlier writers were. That's why we are finding more and more self publish authors with great little books. I think there are many that will go on to be just as great as many of those past author if not greater.

Living your best life includes: 
• Love, Trusting in God and Spending time Family & Friends.

On your nightstand now: 
• Power of the Praying Women.

Favorite book when you were a child: 
• Little House on the Prairie & Box Car Children.

Book all readers should own excluding the bible: 
• Daily Devotionals, I recommend Jacquelin Thomas's novels. 

Book you gave as a gift: 
• Kimberla Lawson Roby's " Deep Dark Secret"

Book you've bought for the cover: 
• The Vow

Favorite couple from a book or series: 
• Hosea Bush & Jasmine Lawson, series "Victoria Christopher Murray". Mary Monroe, "God Don't like Ugly series"

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor: 
• Terri Mc Millian's "How Stella Got Her Grove Back"

Favorite genre or sequels: 
• I read a lot of Christian Fiction. I do not have just one genre or series I love to read. Brenda Jackson "Madris Saga" or Kim Roby's "Curtis Black Series" or maybe Mary Morrison's "Darius Jones Sagas". There are so many...hard to select just one...LOL

Book that should be a movie or play: 
• Several of Brian S. Smith books

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year:
• Maya Angelou, Terri McMillian, Francis Ray.

Submitted by: Rose Wright, President of the Savvy Book Club
Website Address:
www.savvybookclub.com

 


Intimate Conversation with the Black Orchids Book Club

The Black Orchids Book Club of Houston, Texas was founded in February, 2005, by Sheryl McConnell and Sherral Berry. The purpose of starting the book club was to reach out to African American women who were 40+ and shared the love of reading. Presently our group consists of 21 diverse Orchids from various professions. We cover the entire relationship spectrum from married, single, divorced, and widowed.

We meet on a bi-monthly basis at homes of club members or local restaurants. Our primary goal is to get together for a lively evening of discussion, debating, eating and drinking. We occasionally have authors attend our meetings to discuss their books. We also periodically dress or decorate the meeting site based upon the theme of the book. Our members are noted for putting 100% into our meetings. All of these activities translate in fun filled events.  Vision for Organization: The vision of our club is to be more than a book club. Additionally, we also want to serve as a “sisterhood.” We are striving to expand our activities into more community outreach projects. To date, we’ve made several individual donations as well to organizations such as the Food Bank and the Covenant House.

How important reading is to you? 
Reading is very important to us because it provides the mind with nourishment. It exercises the brain and provides us with food for thought. Reading also provides a venue for traveling around the world from the comfort of your home. How awesome is that!   Reading is also beneficial to us because it is a perfect medium for relaxing. It allows us to temporarily remove ourselves from places of pain and sorrow. Books can serve as remarkable friends.

Living your best life includes: 
Being thankful for everything, everyday and throwing out the negative and embracing the positive! 

On your nightstand now: 
Starting Your Day Right & Ending Your Day Right (double-set) by Joyce Meyer 

Favorite book when you were a child: 
Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak 

Favorite line or couple from a book: 
Lindes from Now and Then, Again by Bonnie Hopkins 
“You can’t get weary in well doing. Even if it means doing good to somebody who wronged you in the worst way.” 
AND, “You shouldn’t let anyone make you have a hard heart against them. It’ll make you sick or shorten your life.” 

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor: 
Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Klyosaki 

Favorite genre, series or sequels: 
All time favorite sequels is The Pact and The Bond by Drs. Sampson Davis, George Jenkins, and Rameck Hunt. Two books of triumphant and inspiration for the youth of today.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.  
Steve Harvey, Mark Dulaney and Maya Angelou 

 


Intimate Conversation with the Literary Lunch Bunch

 How did the Literary Lunch Bunch get together? Share your history with us.
We are a group of women who retired from professional careers. Upon her retirement, the founder of our club (Evelyn Gilliard) felt that she did not want to loose contact with many of her professional friends. Thus, our club was founded in September, 2002 by Evelyn and a core group of four ladies. Each person was commissioned to recruit one to two additional members, so that our initial membership consisted of 13 people. We range in age from 62 to 87 years old. 

History – We discussed THE SISTERHOOD OF BLACKBERRY CORNER in two meetings. 
At the 1st meeting in which we discussed it, one of our members did “show and tell.” She brought the stoneware jar in which her husband’s great aunt stored their ‘juice’ and shared stories she was told about how this aunt used to go into the hinterlands of West Virginia to deliver babies. She also showed us a handmade quilt that contained photographs of the family, and genealogical information.

• Identity – We have custom made caps on which our club name is embroidered.

• Friendship/Celebrations – When people meet together on a regular basis to perform a common activity, bonding occurs. This situation is no exception to that phenomenon. New and deeper friendships have been formed. We have celebrated occasions that are special to a member, such as a birthday, a wedding anniversary or the wedding of a son or daughter. One member and her husband hosted a party to celebrate the inauguration of our new president. It started prior to the administration of the oath of office, and ended with the changing into eveningwear for the ball.

How does your bookclub work and how does your bookclub decide what to read?
On the third Thursday of each month we meet at one of Atlanta’s finest restaurants for lunch. The role of session leader is assigned in alphabetical rotation. The responsibility of the leader is to choose a reading assignment, to decide on the method of discourse for that assignment, and of course, identify a restaurant in which to hold the meeting.

What makes your bookclub unique?
• We read short stories and place emphasis on intellectual discourse. 
• We look at the authors and their possible motivation for writing the stories.
• We thoroughly dissect the story.
• The session leader will also share her rationale for the selection of the respective readings. 

Our session leader has used a variety presentation and discussion strategies such as:
• Small group (2-3 persons) discussions
• Chat with the author
• Large group discussions
• Movie/Book Comparisons
• Debates
• Power point presentation
• Prepared questions given to individual or pairs that are to be addressed and presented to the total group
• Invite younger ladies to attend meetings so that a different perspective on the story or situation can be obtained.

What have been your favorite selections?
We have read stories by Harlem Renaissance authors such as Langston Hughes, internationally recognized authors such as Maya Angelou, well-known drama playwrights such as Amiri Baraka, and numerous contemporary authors, such as Anthony Grooms, Dr. Oz and President Barack Obama. 

Are you planning any special trips or events around a book you're reading?
• Annual Sail – In June, a summer gathering consists of a meeting on the boat of one of our members. It’s a two-day meeting, consisting of a discussion of our reading selection and a sail on the lake.

• Fall Frolic – Every Fall (October or November) we go to the mountains of North Georgia for two days. On this occasion, our session leader conducts our discussion by candlelight, after a meal eaten on fine china and excellent wine.

Summary: 
What started out as a means of keeping in touch after retirement has turned out to be a stimulating and rewarding seven years for Literary Lunch Bunch members. Not only has our inquisitiveness for literary works been heightened, but also, our viewpoints on life have broadened. And most importantly, it has resulted in the cementing of relationships with each other. 

 

 


Intimate Conversation with The Pillars Book Club

BPM: Share with us the history of the organization.
History -The Pillars Book Club was established in November of 2008 by Sondra George. We meet quarterly as we have members in Louisiana and Texas. Each quarter a hostess chooses a destination location (We travel!) for our meetings. Our meetings usually last two or three day and the events are centered around the book we're discussing. 

In addition to our quarterly meetings we participate in community service events. Recently we held our 1st annual "Gift of Literacy" event gifting 400 books to children. We currently have fourteen members spanning five generations. We hold our annual Meet & Greet for new members in the fall each year. 

BPM: Sondra, please tell us a little about you and the things you are passionate about.
• I am Sondra George of Dallas, Texas. While I am an avid reader of all genres, I have a passion for history, African American, French, American and otherwise. 

BPM: What is the vision for your organization?
• It is our vision to share the love of reading with each other and to use this gift of literacy to bless others while we have fun.  My vision is to share my love of reading with others hoping to enhance their lives on all levels. To use the book club as a platform to build life long relationships. 

BPM: Living your best life includes:
• Having no regrets, learning from your mistakes and embracing all days, good and bad, while reading your heart out!

BPM: Share a book that changed your life:
• "A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini, gave us insight to the struggles of women today. It changed our perception of our Eastern sisters here in American and abroad. It gave us a new respect for their culture and their plight. 

BPM: On your nightstand now:
• The Help - K Stockett  and The Million Dollar Divorce - RM Johnson

BPM: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
• Maya Angelou,  Barack Obama and Eric Jerome Dickey

BPM: The Pillars Book Club President's favorite quote: 
• The worth of a book is measured by what you can carry from it.

Photo:  The Pillars Book Club president, Sondra George 

 


Intimate Conversation with The Regal Sisterhood 


The Regal Sisterhood was founded in October 2005 by Misty Irby, on the premise of fostering new friendships around a common activity--- reading. Misty wanted to introduce a reading club which embraced the concept of “Sisterhood”, creating a unified literary circle! 

BPM: What is the vision for your organization? 
• The vision of the Regal Sisterhood Book Club is to expand literary knowledge and personal growth amongst its members and their families. Regal stands for “ Reading , Empowering & Gaining Abundant Life.” 

BPM: Living your best life includes: 
• Living a life of joy and peace with a commitment to get better every day. 

BPM: On your nightstand now: 
• “Beater” by Brian W. Smith

BPM: Book that changed your life: 
• “Up Pops The Devil” by Angela Benson

BPM: Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor: 
• “The Shack” by William P. Young

BPM: Favorite genre, series or sequels: 
• Favorite genre is Christian Fiction. Favorite series of books is on the character Jasmine Larson by Victoria Christopher Murray.

BPM: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
• L.Y. Marlow, Victoria Christopher Murray and Stephanie Perry Moore.

BPM: Interview presented by Misty Irby, Regal Sisterhood Book Club
Website: www.regalsisterhood.zoomshare.com  

Photos:  Misty Irby, Regal Sisterhood Book Club

 



Intimate Conversation with Denise Turney
Off The Shelf Radio

BPM: Tell us a little about your favorite things. Share your favorite books, music, plays or family activities. 
I am an avid book reader and an author (Portia, Love Has Many Faces, Spiral, Long Walk Up, Rosetta's Great Hope, and Love Pour Over Me @ www.chistell.com). My favorite male singer is Maxwell. Aretha Franklin is my absolute favorite female singer (have been loving her sound for years)! Love to travel and visit with my family. The one and only, Gwendolyn Brooks, is a writing inspiration.  

BPM: Share with us the history of the organization, Book Lover's Haven. 
Founded the Book Lover's Haven ten years ago. Over 1,000 avid subscribers read the literary magazine monthly. In March 2010, founded the Book Lovers Haven Network. It's a Ning site that is free for writers and readers to join. Forums, blogs, chats, book reviews, etc. are posted at the Book Lovers Haven Network. I also host the annual Chistell Writing Contest (short stories and poetry). The contest is going into it's 11th year!!

BPM: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you. 
I'd like to see more literary pieces (i.e. James Baldwin, Edwidge Danticat) and intricate storytelling (i.e. J. California Cooper). I'd also like to read more autobiographies of people sharing their personal stories of struggle, faith, and triumph (i.e. The Pursuit of Happyness).

BPM: Has there been any books that help shape your life or gave you inspiration during a trying time in life?
Currently reading Paula Deen's, "It Ain't All About The Cooking." Her book (as do other books that I read and enjoy) encourages me, lets me know that focus and perseverance yield tremendously good rewards. Gwendolyn Brooks' and other poets' work have inspired and enlightened me as well. I love the lessons that J. California Cooper teaches through her stories. 

BPM: How many books do you read monthly? Would you say you read more for escape or entertainment?
I haven't been reading as much as I used to. My average reading is about two books a week. I read for escape, inspiration and entertainment. 

BPM: Do you prefer a hard copy book or a digital book, such as a Kindle book? 

I prefer hard copy books (print). 

BPM: Do you think the writings of today's authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? Do you see others following their path? If so, who?
Yes. Urban erotica and other urban literature that focuses on dysfunctional relationships has become popular. But there are many books (and writers) that respect and continue to hone their craft. The same Source that brought us the Mayas, Octavias and Alexes is still at work in the universe gifting us with great art.

Finish these fun loving sentences:

Living your best life includes: 

• God in you life

On your nightstand now: 
• My journal

Favorite book when you were a child: 
• Pippi Longstocking books

Book all readers should own excluding the bible: 
• A journal (so they can pen experiences from their own life journey)

Book you gave as a gift: 
• Long Walk Up, Spiral and Portia

Favorite line or couple from a book: 
• Something to the effect "The cavalry ain't coming. If you want to change or do so something, you've got to get out there and make it happen" -- from "The Pursuit of Happyness"

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor: 
• A Course in Miracles

Book that should be a movie or play: 
• Loving Donavan by Bernice McFadden

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year: 
• Bernice McFadden, Jamaica Kincaid, and  J. K. Rowling

 



Intimate Conversation with Distinct Ladies Book Club 

 

 

Tiffany Rainey is currently the President and one of the founders of Distinct Ladies Book Club. She was born and raised in Memphis, TN and currently still resides there. Not only is Tiffany a member of DLBC but she is also a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Sirius Ladies Social Club, and she is also a usher in her church. 

Distinct Ladies Book Club was founded in October of 2006 with 4 women who shared a passion for reading. When we first started little did we know we would grow to be such a tight knit family. DLBC doesn't just read books, but we attend movies, plays, book signing, and we just love to fellowship with one another. 

What is the vision for your organization? 
Our vision for our sisterhood is to continue to promote authors who are not as well known as some of the greats like Eric Jerome Dickey or Kimberla Lawson Roby. We want to continue to give back to the kids in our community.

On your nightstand now: We are currently reading The Dopeman's Wife

Book all readers should own besides the bible: The Survival Bible by Jihad

Book you've bought for the cover: Casanegra by Blair Underwood

Favorite genre, series or sequels: Urban, Erotica, Christian Fiction

Your top three authors. Why?

Brian W. Smith, President of Hollygrove Publishing is one of our favorite authors. Brian is a very down to earth person. He keeps your interest is his books from the beginning to the end. He also brings new talent to his company, that makes you just wanna read everything he has written. 

Memphis own Sheila Lipsey, author of Beautiful Ugly is also one of our favorite authors. Sheila is a Christian fiction author who always makes you wondering what's going on next. She brings everyday problems and drama into her books.

Jihad, bestselling author of Wild Cherry is a favorite author. Jihad brings erotica to street to I am gonna keep it real to you in his books. He always makes you wondering which direction he's going to write in.  We have a few more that we love, but since you only asked for 3. I think I am going to leave it at that.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year. 
Kimberla Lawson Roby, Wahida Clark, and Jane Jordan

Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group?
Distinct Ladies Book Club will celebrate their 7th  year Anniversary Celebration.  It will be on Oct. 10, 2013. 

You can find us at:
http://www.distinctladies.com 
http://dlbookclub.webs.com 
We are also on Facebook and Twitter!!

Tiffany Rainey- President   
Josula Williams- Vice President 




       Intimate Conversation with Sistahs BookClubbing Book Club

I organized Sistahs BookClubbing Book Club in Shreveport, Louisiana Our book club in July 2000 specifically to read, savor, and discuss the richness of African American literature. We meet the first Saturday of each month, at noon, to engage in a lively and stimulating discussion of the book (sometimes the after discussion is better than the book discussion). We enjoy a tasty and sumptuous meal provided by the hostess. Our gatherings provide a warm, safe environment to engage in thought provoking discussions, absorb other points of view in the hope that we can develop strategies that will enhance and enrich our own personal experiences, as we celebrate and exult in the spirit and power of being African women in America.

Since its inception, the book club has brought together a wonderful and diverse sisterhood of women who share a passion for reading and it has provided a forum for us to engage in thought-provoking discussions of books; build a sisterhood, support and nurture each other through insightful dialogue as we relate to some of the issues of the books we read.  Our theme:  Sistahs… Reading to understand, Inspire, Encourage, Uplift and Celebrate Us!!!

How important is reading to you?
I am a self-described bookacholic. I spend much of my time promoting literacy and the joy of reading. Books and reading are such an integral part of my being. I read for the escape books can provide and for the pure enjoyment of reading which helps to nourish and sustain my mind and soul.

Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes: 
Recognizing that life is a gift from God and the life I live—a life of gratitude, faith, obedience and serving Him by serving “the least of these”— is my gift to God.

On your nightstand now:
Letters from Black America edited by Pamela Newkirk, Colored People: A Memoir by Henry Louis Gates Jr., Ancestor Stones by Aminatta Forna.

Favorite line from a book:
"I don't mean to say I think everybody should be married, but....what are you going to do if you don't get married or get an education? Where is your home, or your life, going to be? I have learned there is very little playing around in the very serious game of life. You can play, but it should be after you have done what you need to do for yourself!" from The Future has a Past by J. California Cooper

Your top three authors. Why?
Pearl Cleage because she gives voice to strong black women and she gave us Blue Hamilton who created and maintained a utopian community; J. California Cooper because she is a wise and consummate storyteller; James Baldwin because of his eloquent passionate words which spoke of the pain and struggle of being black in American.

Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group?
We are  in the process of planning our 5th Sister Soldier Packing Party. Our goal is to pack and ship care packages to 150 sister soldiers stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan and Kuwait. We packed and shipped 100 care packages at our first packing party in April 2009. 

The Sister Soldier Project was founded by Myraline Whitaker who heard about the unique hair care challenges African American female soldiers face while stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait and Ships at Sea (African American hair care products were not available for them). She was so moved, she began to buy requested items shipping them to individual Sister Soldiers whose names and requests she obtained from www.anysoldier.com.  She enlisted the aid of friends and local women’s organizations, which led to group Packing Parties on both coasts, including numerous locations throughout Central and Southern California. For more information on the Sister Soldier Packing Party Project visit www.sistersoldierproject.com.  I strongly urge other book clubs to consider hosting a Sister Soldier Packing Party. It is a rewarding and worthwhile project.


Intimate Conversation with Phenomenal Women Book Club

Phenomenal Women Book Club, of New Orleans, began in October 2007 with a meet and greet.  The president Makeda Peterson decided to assemble friends, family, and church members as a way to express opinions on books and for entertainment.  We read our first book in the November 2007.  PWBC is a book club for ladies of color and now has 30 members who are dedicated readers.  We range in age from 23-67 years old, which gives us a broader variety of opinions on books.  Our meetings are held the second Saturday of each month at 3:00pm and are usually held in members’ homes and restaurants.  We read different genres and the hostess of the month picks the book title or decides how a title will be chosen.  We usually choose titles 3 months prior to the month of the meeting.  Most of our members are from the greater New Orleans area but we now have 2 members who commute from nearby Mississippi.  PWBC has also started a nonprofit in order to do more for our community with helping students, literacy, and putting books in the hands of people in our community.  Makeda Peterson is a New Orleans native, avid reader, wife, mother of three and pursuing a career in writing.

 

Ella:  What is the vision for your organization?

It is our desire to expose others to written works by or about people of color. To encourage our members to read different genres, encourage authors and publishing houses of books we enjoy, to have literary discussions that entertain and broaden our knowledge.  To make a difference in our community by pushing literacy and helping put books into people’s hands.

 

Ella:  Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.

Reading is a tool necessary to give knowledge, broaden your vocabulary, spelling and ideas, it entertains, and it never fails.  You always get something from a book, even if it wasn’t the reason why you picked the book up in the first place. 

 

Ella:  Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes...
Living your best life includes-living out your dreams while continuing to dream.

 

Ella:  On your nightstand now: 

“The Love Dare” by Alex and Stephen Kendricks, “The Daily Writer” by Fred White, and “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston

 

Ella:  Favorite book when you were a child:
  “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred Taylor

 

Ella:  Book all readers should own besides the bible: 

 “The Love Dare” by Alex and Stephen Kendricks.  It teaches you a lot about yourself and shows you how to treat the people around you, especially the ones you love.

 

Ella:  Book that changed your life: 

Mine was actually a collection of books.  When I was about 7 years old my uncle who had chosen my name gave me three books all about the Queen of Sheba Makeda whom I was named after.  Before then, he always called me queen but after reading those books I had a much greater understanding of the power of black royalty and women and was thankful for my name.

 

Ella:  Book you've bought for the cover:
“Daughters of Men: Portraits of African-American Women and Their Fathers” by Rachel Vassel

 

Ella:  Favorite genre, series or sequels:
I love short stories, books set in the South, historical and contemporary fiction.


Ella:  Your top three authors. Why? 

That is a very hard question for a diverse reader and bibliophile like me.  J. California Cooper because she writes mostly short stories based in the South using our dialect and it sometimes amazes me how she can tie you in with the characters in a small quantity of pages.  Maya Angelou would definitely be on my list because she is a totally awesome orator, writer, poet, activist, survivor, educator and a phenomenal woman with a great life story.  I would also have to add James Weldon Johnson.  His poetry like “The Creation” creates a feeling in me that is so spiritual and emotional. We love all the authors we feature at events. Pictured above is author Sherri Lewis with the Phenomenal Women Book Club members.

 

Ella:  Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year. 

Kimberla Lawson Roby about her upcoming book “A Deep Dark Secret”, L.Y. Marlow on “Color Me Butterfly”, and Dr. Maya Angelou of course because she is simply phenomenal.

 

Phenomenal Women Book Club

Website:  www.phenomenalwomenbookclub.com     

 


 

 


 

Intimate Conversation with D.I.V.A.S Divine Book Club 

Ella:  Welcome to Black Pearls and EDC Creations!  Introduce us to your bookclub.
D.I.V.A.S Divine Book Club was founded in 2006.   We are a group of talented, sophisticated, ambitious females who come together each month and discuss various books & today's current issues. We are striving to be role models for all females young and old, as well as educate and reach out to others through community service & fundraising. The acronym D.I.V.A.S. stands for Divine Intelligent Accomplished Sisters. Mission: To promote literacy & reading while upholding the bond of sisterhood. My name is Bernella Henry. I am President of D.I.V.A.S. Divine Book Club. Reading books is one of my favorite past-times. I go through in a month at least 10-15 books. I love interacting with other avid readers. Also meeting with authors because without them there would be no book club. 

Ella:  Bernella, what is the vision for your organization? 
Our vision ties in with our motto "Reach One, Teach One, One Book At A Time, Through An Everlasting Sisterhood".
In 2006, I had a vision to form a club with a group of like minded women whom are all avid readers and desired to be a part of a sisterhood. Myself and another member of the group comprised a list of 10 women that we felt would be serious and committed to this endeavor. The goal was that each woman would bring something different to our group and be an active participant. The women in our group are comprised of my friends and family members. Everyone was excited and eager to participate in the book club. Even though everyone did not know one another I was the common thread amongst everyone. To my surprise at our first meeting everyone got along so well. We quickly formed a bond and it is now easy for us to call each other family. D.I.V.A.S Divine Book Club was hence established. The acronym (Divine Intelligent Virtuous Accomplished Sisters) in our name was chosen to represent the characteristics of every woman in our group. 

Ella: Favorite book when you were a child? 
It would be a toss up between Judy Blume books & Sweet Valley Twins books

Ella: Name your top three authors. Why? 
Victoria Christopher Murray, Reshonda Tate Billingsley & Donna Hill.  They are all phenomenal writers. Everything I've read from them I just cant seem to put down. They all have a knack for keeping me entertained. I just love their work! We had the pleasure of hosting a meeting featuring Donna back in March. She was the best! I recently met Victoria at the NBCC and I kept telling her how much I love her work. (Jasmine, Jasmine, Jasmine) We'd love to either meet Reshonda or do a possible phone interview. (Let The Church Say Amen in theaters soon!) I can't wait!

Ella: Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group?
We were deeply honored and surprised at the NBCC in 2009  when we won the essay contest for "Why My Book Club Is Important To Me". It was a humbling experience. Especially since it was our first time attending the conference. In the last year we've been fortunate to have meetings with authors Janine A Morris, Karen Quinones Miller, Terrance Dean, Brooke Green, Donna Hill & Earl Sewell.  We are currently working on a fundraiser where half the proceeds will go towards buying books for schools in need and the other half to the American Cancer Society.

 

 

 


 

Intimate Conversation with Books and Beignets
 

Sonya Ward is the President of Books and Beignets (BAB) Book Club  in Monroe, Louisiana. She was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and spent many childhood summers with her grandparents in Detroit, Michigan. She currently lives in Monroe, Louisiana with her husband and stepson. Sonya is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Adult Education with the University of Southern Mississippi. Her research focus is on African American pioneers of Adult Education – W.E.B. Du Bois and Booker T.. Washington. She is an educator who teaches part-time both online and on-ground with a number of universities. 

BAB Book Club was founded in May 2009. When Sonya moved to Monroe, Louisiana, she searched for three things – a library, an African American bookstore and a book club. She found the library, but no bookstore or book club. She decided to start her own book club and BAB was born! BAB started out with five members and currently has 10 active members and 4 honorary members.   (Picture: from the BAB first meeting with Mrs. Murray and Mrs. Marlow)

Ella: What is the vision for your organization?
BAB’s vision is to support new authors in Louisiana and around the nation, along with supporting more seasoned authors. We also want to shake things up in Monroe, Louisiana with literacy awareness initiatives, partnering with the local library (hello Anna Meyer Library!), and other book clubs to show some love and support. More importantly we really would like to encourage our younger generation to READ. 

Ella: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading is a huge part of who I am. My mother and grandmother introduced me to reading at a very young age. I saw my mother and grandmother pick up books to read and I emulated what they did. The exposed me to the library, to book stores – to an entirely new world. I thank them for this. When I am feeling down or stressed, I can pick up a book and escape or sharing a love for reading with others of like mind.

Ella: Living your best life includes:
Knowing thyself. Understanding that people make mistakes. Forgiveness. Loving your family and friends unconditionally even when they let you down. Letting go…Loving God. Reading and traveling. Learning something new every day. Encouraging, helping others and genuinely giving back to the community. 

Ella: On your nightstand now:
Whew! Too many to list. J Let’s see – Make me Whole by Roishina Henderson, The Defender by Herman Jimerson, The List, by Sherri Lewis, The Secret, Do You Really Want My Life, by Patsy Dillard, a few textbooks, my beloved bible. 

Ella: Book all readers should own besides the bible: 
The Secret.. I always heard about people talking about this book and once I read it – I understood why. I live by many principles in this book.

Ella: Book that changed your life: 
The Secret. I realized that we have control of our own outcome. It’s all in our mind. We can be miserable, or we can channel positive energy and watch positive things come our way. Would you rather be negative, stressed and broke or positive, happy and broke? If you are a miserable – what does it solve? 

Ella: Favorite genre, series or sequels:
I read a little of everything and my book club members read a little of everything – Christian Fiction, Urban Fiction, Inspirational Fiction, Sci-Fi, my favorite, favorite series is L.A. Banks' Vampire Series!

Ella: Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group? 
More networking with other book clubs and authors! We will also begin reviewing books – buying books by our beloved authors is important however, reviewing these same books is equally important! We must support our authors. The economy is not the greatest right now and the literary industry is changing drastically. We can do great things in large numbers! Let’s support one another!  Our contact info: www.booksandbeignetsbookclub.com  

Sonya D. Ward, MSHRM 
President and Founder Books and Beignets (BAB) Book Club

http://www.booksandbeignetsbookclub.com 
http://booksandbeignetsbookclub.ning.com 

Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written. - John 21:24-25


 


Intimate Conversation with Circle of Color Book Club

The Circle of Color Book Club (COC) was founded by Margaret Bullocks-Matory and Yvonne Steel January 26, 2002. Margaret and Yvonne worked in the same office and often spent time discussing the books that they were reading. After looking for a book club to join and not finding one, they decided to start their own. 

Circle of Color Book Club was created to share our love of reading African-American literature with others through fun and lively discussions and to enrich our lifelong cultural education through books. We have a sister circle of 10 members in the Jackson, Mississippi area. We meet at member homes and local restaurants on the 4th Saturday of each month.

The goals of the Circle of Color Book Club are to: 

  · Meet once a month to share views and opinions on the chosen monthly book selection. 

  · Participate in book discussions with a positive attitude aimed at enhancing our knowledge of our culture. 

  · Encourage children and others to read as often as possible. 

Margaret and Yvonne, as founders, rotate every 2 years as President and Vice-President. 

Our motto is “Reading the Books that Bind Sisterhood and Community”. 

The vision for Circle of Color Book Club is to continue to have an impact by encouraging children and others to read as often as possible. As evidenced by our commitment to various community service projects in the West Jackson area, we want to reach out to as many people as possible through books. In 2008 we gave away over 300 books and in 2009 our goal is 500 books or more. 

Reading is very important to Circle of Color Book Club. So important, that our lives revolve around our book club meetings each month. We all lead busy lives, therefore we look forward to relaxing, having a great book discussion, lots of laughter, and food.  We are planning for our biggest project of the year, our Reading Fair. The Reading Fair is a major part of a local community festival. We became a community partner with the Jayne Avenue Neighborhood Association 4 years ago. We started out volunteering to serve food to approximately 300-500 attendees. In 2008, we decided to take advantage of this opportunity to get books into the hands of the attendees. COC connected with storytellers, did face painting, arts and crafts, and gave away over 300 books and magazines to children, teens, and adults. The Reading Fair was such a success last year that our plans have grown to include a health fair this year. 

The next thing for us  is to bring some of our favorite authors to Jackson, Mississippi in 2010. 

Circle of Color Book Club members include: Yvonne Steel and Margaret Bullocks-Matory, Founders; Karen Ayers, Alice Collins, Kimberley Coleman, Kimberly Belser, Anne Lovelady, Patricia Oluade, Rosalind Garner, Barbara Williams. The group picture is from our 2008 “Reading Luau” Christmas party. 

Submitted Margaret Bullocks-Matory
Co-Founder and Vice-President
Jackson, Mississippi 39209

 


 Intimate Conversation with Essence of Knowledge Book Club


Essence of Knowledge Book Club was founded in September 2003, by a group of co-workers who loved reading books. They invited family and friends to join for group sessions. From that point on, we became a book club and started meeting once a month discussing books with refreshments and going to different outings. At that time, Judy Stewart was nominated as president of the book club, along with other officers. We started with 18 members, but due to Hurricane Katrina, most of our members we displaced. We currently have 10 active members. We still consider our displaced members as our honorary members of the club. When they are home in Louisiana, they are welcome to attend our meetings.   The name "Essence of Knowledge" has a meaning of African American, educated women who strives to accomplish our goals of life. We are a group of African American women that supports literacy and decided to use literacy as a tool to support one another and share life experiences that will allow us to make wiser choices and gain knowledge within our circle.

Vision of Essence of Knowledge Book Club 
Our vision is to expand our reading level to a new level. We would like to have many meet and greets with various authors. Our goal is to continuously volunteer and donate to organizations and to our community. Some of the organizations we have participated with are Samaritan Purse and the Covenant House. We also strive to support new authors around the nation and in Louisiana, especially New Orleans.

How important is reading to you?
Reading is important because it is knowledgeable. Reading can broaden your mind and ideas. It can give you a deeper understanding on how to explain your feelings and experiences that you have encountered through your life. Reading also meditates your mind from a long day at work.

Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes... 
Living your best life includes...being happy and prosperous in whatever you may want to accomplish.

The book all readers should own besides the bible: 
"The Child of God" by Lolita Files.

The book that changed your life:  
"The Penny" by Joyce Meyers and Deborah Bedford and "The Power of Being a Women" by McKinney Hammond.

Favorite Series: 
Curtis Black  series by Kimberla Lawson Roby and Dutch by Terri Woods

Name your top three authors and why. 
Noire, Zane and Kimberla Lawson Roby - Each author writes their books as a page turner, which are full of action and suspense.

Three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Terri Woods, Zane, and Steve Harvey

News and Event:
We are planning to attend the National Book Club Conference in Atlanta, for the first time.



 Intimate Conversation with Sistah Circle Book Group

Ella: Welcome to Black Pearls!  What is the vision for your organization?
My name is Cynthia Harrison and I'm the president of Sistah Circle Book Group (www.myspace.com/sistahcirclebookgroup) located in Shreveport, LA. My vision for our organization is to invite authors to our city for book signings and book discussions and to network with other organizations in the city to promote the joy of reading. 

I would like to start a reading group for small children and teenagers to introduce them to the joys and adventures of the written word. I would like to see our organization get more involved in the community by participating in the library reading programs and starting reading groups for children in their neighborhoods. I would also like to see our organization teach adults who cannot read how to read. 

On your nightstand now: Nina's Got a Secret

Book all readers should own besides the bible: Their Eyes We Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston

Book that changed your life:  Woman Thou are Loosed by T.D. Jakes

Favorite genre, series or sequels:  Kimberla Lawson Roby’s Curtis Black series


Your top three authors. Why?
Kimberla Lawson Roby, Carl Weber, Reshonda Tate Billingsley - Because they are dynamic storytellers, and although their stories are fiction there is so much truth in them. They write about things that the everyday person can relate to and in the reading of the stories you can sometimes see yourself or someone you know or you will say I know someone like that about a certain character in the story. When you are reading their books it feels as if you are sitting down talking with friends and family. Their books makes for some heated discussions.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Kimberla Lawson Roby, Vickie Stringer and Carl Weber 

Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group? 
We will be celebrating our 16th Anniversary in July 2014. We are planning a weekend get-away to San Antonio , TX or Hot Springs, AR. We will be attending the Louisiana Book Festival in Baton Rouge , LA in October to support our book club member and author Shelia Goss. We will also be attending the National Black Book Festival in Houston . We will be inviting authors to visit with us for a book signing and discussion.

Submitted by Cynthia Harrison, president of the Sistah Circle Book Group




Intimate Conversation with Divine Women of Faith Book Club

The Divine Women of Faith Book Club (http://www.myspace.com/divinewomenofaithbookclub) took root after a conversation I had with my pastor. We're a fairly new book club and we're comprised of women from my church's congregation. There are currently seven active members. 

We read Christian fiction and non-fiction. Some of our book of the months for this year: Everybody Say Amen by ReShonda Tate Billingsley, Scandalous Truth by Monica P Carter, Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murray, etc. 

My name is Shelia Goss and I'm the founder of Divine Women of Faith Book Club.  Although I'm an author, I am also an avid reader. I love to be able to discuss books with others and the book club is a great reason to fellowship outside of church. I'm also a member of another book club where we read books in all genres. 

Ella:  What is the vision for your organization? 
Besides promoting literacy in the community, our goal is to also assist others in areas of need. During each quarter, our goal is to do at least one act of service. Providing clothes to a local women's shelter is our primary goal for this quarter. 

Ella:  On your nightstand now: 
Lady Jasmine by Victoria Christopher Murray

Ella:  Book all readers should own besides the bible: 
The entire Left Behind series. If you pick up one book in the series, it will forever change your life and you'll be hooked. 

Ella:  Your top three authors. Why? 
Kimberla Lawson Roby
ReShonda Tate Billingsley
Victoria Christopher Murray
All three of these authors make reading Christian Fiction entertaining and they allow readers to see that although we're all flawed that God loves us in spite of ourselves.

Ella:  Meet the president of  Divine Women of Faith Book Club/ Shelia M. Goss. 
Shelia M. Goss is the Essence Magazine and  Black Expressions Book Club Best-Selling author of My Invisible Husband, Roses are Thorns, Paige’s Web, Double Platinum and the new teen series The Lip Gloss Chronicles (www.thelipglosschronicles.com). 

His Invisible Wife is her fifth women’s fiction novel. Besides writing fiction, she is a freelance writer.  She’s also the recipient of three Shades of Romance Magazine Readers Choice Multi-Cultural Awards and honored as a Literary Diva: The Top 100 Most Admired African American Women in Literature. Her main website is www.sheliagoss.com 

Ella:  Tell us about your passion for writing. 
The passion for writing comes from deep within. It's a part of me. I've been writing the majority of my life--whether it was a poem, a song, a short story or a full length novel.

Ella:  A Legacy is something that is handed down from one period of time to another period of time. What is yours?
My writing offers readers an alternate glance at the world of African-Americans; not just the negative side that many see on the news. My books are filled with ordinary people. The kind of people that I know--hard working and law abiding citizens who want the best for their families. 

Ella:  Introduce us to your book, His Invisible Wife. 
In these hard economic times, what would you do or not do for money? HIS INVISIBLE WIFE explores that question and more. In this riveting novel, a marriage of convenience is plagued with lies, deceit, intrigue, and betrayal, as two newlyweds must learn to love each other to get through the drama and thrive. 

Ella:  What inspired you to write this story, His Invisible Wife?
Several things inspired me to write HIS INVISIBLE WIFE. Number one--the readers. Several readers of My Invisible Husband sent me emails about wanting to see Nikki and Byron again. The storyline for His Invisible Wife gave me an opportunity to re-introduce those two characters and give readers an up-to-date view into their lives. Another thing that inspired me: One day I was listening to the news and a question popped into my head, "What would you do for a million dollars?" I wrote HIS INVISIBLE WIFE based on that one question.

Ella:  How would you describe the genre in which you do most of your writing?
I've been told that my stories are romance, chick-lit, romantic comedy and inspirational, so I usually categorize my books as women’s fiction. I also write young adult books.

Ella:  Are your characters from the portrayal of real people?
I file away in my memory bank characteristics that I might find interesting in individuals I meet, and I use a combination of those characteristics for various characters. But to answer your question; no. None of my characters are based on people I know.

Ella:  What advice would you give a new writer?
If you want to be a writer, write. You'll never have enough time to write, so carve out time and stick to it. Believe in yourself and don't let the rejections discourage you. 

Ella:  Share with us your latest news, awards or upcoming book releases.
His Invisible Wife is my fifth women's fiction book. I'm real excited that the book received an EDC Creations Top Books Award.  I'm also the author of the young adult book series--The Lip Gloss Chronicles. The first book--The Ultimate Test hit the book stands in June. The second book--Splitsville will be in stores on September 29, 2009.  My sixth women's fiction novel--Hollywood Deception will be in stores in 2010. I just finished working on the third book in the Lip Gloss Chronicles series so expect to see it in 2010 as well. 

Ella:  Where can the readers find you online?
Main website: www.sheliagoss.com 
Young Adult website: www.thelipglosschronicles.com  
Myspace page: www.myspace.com/sheliagoss 
Twitter page: www.twitter.com/sheliamgoss  

Shelia M.  Goss
National Bestselling Author of His Invisible Wife (July 2009), My Invisible Husband etc. 

 


          Intimate Conversation with Only One Key Stroke Away (O.O.S.A.)

Only One Key Stroke Away (O.O.S.A.) was founded in January of 2005 by a group of readers, wishing to share their thoughts and opinions with others. We started out as a group that simply read together. Eventually we moved to inviting authors to chat with us about their books. Shortly thereafter, we decided to review our selected reads. Our reviews are posted at several sites including: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, MySpace and GoodReads. The rest is…OOSA! Our resume includes hundreds of titles of varying genres as our motto is: OOSA Gets It Read! 

Ella: What is the vision for your organization? 
We do not have a president. We are a team and there is no “I” in team. We each have responsibilities and tasks that make OOSA what it is. We are an online book club and reviewing team that focuses on African American authors. We wish to further promote African American literature by taking special interest in new and self published authors. We read, review and recommend. 

Ella: Give  a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you. 
It’s cliché, but reading is fundamental. It’s the corner stone to life. We read everyday in our lives, whether we want to or not. Because literacy is so important we believe in starting as early as possible. The Ladies of OOSA are mothers, grandmothers and aunts. We promote literacy within our families first. When our children see us reading and enjoying ourselves, it encourages them to read. They learn reading is not a chore but something fun to do. What better method than to teach by example. 

Ella: Favorite couple from a book:  
Nina and Dutch (Dutch - Kwame Teague), Yuri and Britt (The Sweetest Taboo - Risque), Portia and Jay (A Dollar Outta Fifteen Cent - Caroline McGill), Clark and Devin (Caught in the Mix - Candice Dow) and Natalia and Shawn (Triangle of Sins - Nurit Folkes). 

Ella:  Favorite genre, series or sequels:  
We are a group of avid readers with various tastes in literature. As such, we really don’t have particular preferred genres. We welcome and enjoy all genres. Some of our favorite sequels include: Little Black Girl Lost by Keith Lee Johnson, the True2Life series by Al-Saadiq Banks, Dutch by Kwame Teague, Naughty by Brenda Hampton, the Vernetta Henderson legal thrillers by Pamela Samuels Young and the Dilemma series by Reign. 

Ella: Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year. 
We’ve been fortunate enough to have had phone chats this year with several of our favorite authors including Mike Sanders, Torrian Ferguson, Kwame ‘Dutch’ Teague, Anthony Fields and Al-Saadiq Banks. We’re hoping to get in a few more before the year comes to an end. 

Ella: Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group? 
What’s next…more Author Spotlights and contests.. And as always, we read, review and recommend. It’s what we do. 

Book club and contact info: 
Website: www.oosaonlinebookclub.com  
www.facebook.com/oosaonlinebookclub    
http://twitter.com/OOSABookClub  
www.oosaonlinebookclub.blogspot.com   



Intimate Conversation with Queens Book Club of Atlanta

Queens Book Club of Atlanta was founded in 2006 by a group of friends who shared the love for reading. They felt the need to create a book club called Queens because they knew each woman should recognize the Queen they are. Queens Book Club was created to reach out to women and come together to discuss and enjoy selective books of the month. On January 2007, Queens had the first kick-off meeting with guest author Mrs. Tina Brooks McKinney (“All That Drama”) and she became our first honorary member. As of 2009, Queens Book Club is still going strong by the grace of GOD. Queens was fortunate enough to have a chapter formed in Raymond, Mississippi by Adrienne Bailey in 2008. With both chapters we continue to promote importance of reading through each other and our community. Among each other we continue to come together for the love of reading, positive fellowship and sisterhood.

President Biography:  My name is Carla Walker and I have been fortunate to have fallen in love with books at an early age. With a huge passion for reading, I joined one of Atlanta’s biggest book club for five (5) years and became member of the year there in 2004. From there GOD planted a seed in me to start my very own book club and from there Queens Book Club was born! I was blessed to have a couple of friends who decided to take the journey with me. As of this day, some of those same friends are still a part of the club. They are my backbone when I feel I cannot go on anymore. I’m so bless to have my members because without GOD Queens Book Club will not exist. With all the hard work I continue to put into the club, my members (awesome Queens) came together on our 2007 Christmas gathering and presented me a plaque for all the hard work and dedication. When I think of that moment even to this day, that’s my motivation to keep going and allow Queens Book Club to touch someone and become a part of our circle.

Ella:  What is the vision for your organization?
To offer a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere, outside of the home and workplace, to, explore many bold, adventurous, and spontaneous interests as a whole. Enjoy the bond of sisterhood and fellowship.

Ella: Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading is so important because you can reach to so many people. Giving someone a book to read can open doors to a new career, friendship and connection can be made; education can take place and so much more. Reading is something a person cannot live without. Knowledge is power.

Ella:  Finish this sentence: Living your best life includes... 
Living your best life includes... knowing and continue to learn and love GOD more, living a healthy and bless life, having wonderful family and friends in my corner, good loving relationship with a mate and just being comfortable and continuous blessings from GOD.

Ella:  On your nightstand now: 
Right now, on my night stand, “Behind Those Eyes” by TP Carter, “To Good To Be True” by E. Lynn Harris, “Why Men Fear Marriage” by RM Johnson, “Secret Society” by Miasha and so many more.

Ella:  Book all readers should own besides the bible: 
“Behind Those Eyes” by TP Carter

Ella:  Book that changed your life: 
“Behind Those Eyes” It just gives you a whole different perspective about love, finding your true mate, relationship and the belief in true love.

Ella:  Book you've bought for the cover: 
A book called “Taste Like Chicken”

Ella:  Favorite couple from a book: 
Best couple in a book is from “Red Light Special” detective agent Blessing Shields and Collyn Bazemore.

Ella:  Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor: 
“Behind Those Eyes” & “The Other Woman”

Ella:  Favorite genre, series or sequels: 
I like all type of books from romance, urban fiction, mystery, inspirational, self-help and any others that I think will interests me or just to give it a try.

Ella: Your top three authors. Why? 
Top three authors are Eric J. Dickey, RM Johnson and all the authors who are incarcerated. I feel some authors who are incarcerated are telling real true stories and from research they are some of the best writers. Sad they cannot personally meet those who enjoy reading their stories.

Ella:  Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.   
TP Carter, Risque and Wahida Clark.

Ella:  Share your news or events with us. What's next for your group? 
Our next upcoming event is, preparing Halloween bags for kids at a children’s hospital, making plans for the holidays Thanksgiving and Christmas to sponsor a needed family and to volunteer our time feeding the homeless.

Carla Walker, President and Founder
Q.U.E.E.N.S. Book Club of Atlanta

http://queensbookclubofatlanta.webs.com 
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/QueensBookClub 
http://www.myspace.com/queensbookclub 

“A true Diva is a woman who knows that life is not about her, but rather the contribution she makes to others around her and the legacy she will leave behind.” -  From ‘The Diva Principle’, 2004.


   Intimate Conversation with Literary Divas- Des Moines, IA

The Literary Divas was started in the year 2001 in Des Moines, IA. I love to read. I have many friends and family members who also enjoy reading, so I decided to start a book club. In the year 2002 I moved to Atlanta. The book club sort of fizzled out when I left. I returned to Des Moines late in 2006. I reconnected with some of my old book club members and others who also get pleasure from reading. In January 2008 a new book club was formed. 

We have twelve reading members and one honorary member who usually doesn’t read the books (because she is pursuing her degree at night) but attends all of the meetings. All of our members are Christian, college educated females, although this is not a requirement. We range in age from our late twenties to our mid fifties. 

The Literary Divas meet monthly at a different member’s home. We read all types of books. The host receives the honor of choosing the monthly book selection. Our members have a lot in common so for the most part all book selections are enjoyed by the group as a whole.  We take pleasure in each other’s company as much as we do discussing the books. Our monthly meetings are a much needed reprieve from our hectic lives. We eat, drink cocktails and catch up on each other lives. Some of us are family. Some of us attend the same church. We celebrate each others accomplishments. We support and pray for each other during difficult life circumstances. We are more than a book club. We are a family. 

Our May book selection is  “The Shack” by WM Paul Young. Our April book selection was “Unexpected Interruptions” by Trice Hickman. Ms. Hickman joined our meeting via telephone. It was a superb experience. The group was able to question Ms. Hickman about her writing process, her personal experiences revealed in the pages, and her motivation for writing the book. 

Ella:  Welcome Dani, President of the Literary Divas!  Tell us a little about yourself. 
I am an almost middle age African-American female. I am married with two children. I have a son who is college age and a daughter who is in middle school. I have an undergraduate degree in Accounting from Upper Iowa University and I am a CPA. I am employed as a criminal financial investigator. 

I am an only child and for the most part I am a loner. I suspect being an only child is one of the reasons I learned to love reading. You can do it by yourself. I read approximately four books per month. I enjoy spending my free time with my family. We go to movies, play board games and just act silly. I am blessed to have such a wonderful immediate and extended family. 

Ella:  Book that changed your life: 
I would have to say “The Purpose Driven Life” by Rick Warren. I received this book for Christmas 2002. I did not read the book until March 2003. Normally a book does not lie around my house more than a week or two before I read it, but for some reason I waited three months before I picked up this book. I woke up early one Saturday morning. I was going through some serious trials during this time. I started praying and crying while everyone else was asleep. I needed GOD to give me discernment. I must have prayed for about an hour. I was exhausted and weary. When I finally settled down I decided I would read. I picked up The Purpose Driven Life.” I will never for get the first page said, I am paraphrasing, It is no mistake you picked up this book. GOD has a plan for you. This book will help you to discover his plan. GOD spoke to me that day through Rick Warren. I have read the book both by myself and with my husband. 

Ella:  Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor: 
“ Cane River ” by Lalita Tademy. This book moved me. I truly felt the experiences of the four strong black women portrayed in the book. It seemed as though I was flipping back to the family tree every few pages so I could wrap my mind around the family relationships. I first read “ Cane River ” in 2002. I would love to read it again and I will when my daughter is finished with it. 

Ella:  Favorite book when you were a child: 
The “Fudge” series by Judy Blume. Or anything by Judy Blume. I loved Judy Blume. I could finish one of her books in a day. Fudge was such a mischievous little boy. He was into everything and always had me cracking up. He worried the heck out of his big brother Peter. When I was in elementary we had a program called RIF (Reading Is Fundamental) whereby each child received a free new book three to four times a year. I tried my best to always be one of the first in line so I could be assured a new Judy Blume book. 

Ella:  On your nightstand now: 
The Bible, Where to Find it in the Bible (biggest concordance ever), and “The Shack” by WM Paul Young 

Ella:  Living your best life includes: 
Putting GOD and your family before every thing else. Doing the very best you can every day. Apologizing for errors. Loving yourself. 

Dani Coleman, President of Literary Divas 
Des Moines, IA 50320 

 


Intimate Conversation with Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group

Ella: Welcome, Sharon Haynes, coordinator for the Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group.
It is such a pleasure to have you visit with us the chapter.

Ella: Tell us about the mission of the literary group.
The Tulsa chapter of Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group is committed to providing an opportunity for women from all walks of life to come together for a common and primary goal…reading and promoting literacy through our community outreach programs. Our pledge is to transmit our passion for literary pursuits to future generations.

Ella: Sharon, tell us a few books that you would define as "Literary Hallmarks."
The Known World by Edward P. Jones
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe
My Soul to Keep by Tananarive Due

Ella: That is a wonderful selection of books!  What do you define as Quality Literature?
Quality Literature encompasses style, characters, plot and the ability for the written words to come to life and embrace you in a way that totally consumes you. We know the characters personally and can visualize the settings and after reading the book we’re wishing for more.  Read more about us here. 

 


Diana Glasgow President of Essence of Books Club


Diana Glasgow founded the Essence Of Books book club in March 1997, due to her love of books. She grew up in Los Angeles, Ca where she attended elementary, middle and high school. Mother of two daughters and a granddaughter. Board of directors for a local mentoring youth foundation and full time job skills training specialist for a major utility company.

The Essence of Books book club was founded in March 1997 by Diana Glasgow. Diana has been an avid reader since a teenager, her first genre of books were romance novels. After years of reading alone, the decision was made to form a book club. Flyers and phone calls went out to all friends and family to attend the first book club of Essence. 50 ladies showed up to the meeting and we laughed and talked for hours, needless to say this was not the making of a good book club so the next meeting was more structured and geared towards only the serious readers. We have had 11-15 active members for more than 12 years.

Our goal is to read, discuss and reenact the events of the book. Our monthly meetings are held on Friday night where we get together for a fun filled sisterhood night of discussion, debating, eating, drinking and bonding. We have had authors attend our meetings to discuss their books, we have also indulged in a pole dancing experiment when the book we read main character was a stripper. Our members put 110% into their meeting. Each book and theme is scored monthly and hostess of the year and book of the year receives a beautiful crystal plague. We also end the year with a spectacular Christmas gift exchange and outing to a local restaurant to celebrate another year of books! We travel once a year with a weekend spa getaway, our favorite spa getaways have included Las Vegas , NV and Palm Springs, Ca. We have a Vice President, Gina Gray and an event coordinator, Euvon Cox who are extremely important to the operations of the Essence of books book club.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Eric Jerome Dickey
Maya Angelou
Terry McMillan

Book all readers should own besides the bible:
The Secret is a book everyone should own, it is an easy guide to help you get on or stay on the right path with your spirituality.

What is the vision for your organization?
Our vision is to promote good books written by us for us. We pride ourselves on having a safe zone at the book club meetings, our motto: what happens at the book club stays at the book club. My vision is to create a sisterhood that far out weighs just a book club. Promoting literacy amongst our young lady readers is extremely important and a goal is to form a young ladies of essence book club for 12-18 year olds. Our vision is to become better each year and have at least one author visit us each year.

Living your best life includes:
Good books, good conversation, good family and friends, good love and good food and wine!

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor.
Satisfy my soul by Colin Channer

 


Tina Moss President of  BLACK  P.E.A.R.L.S.  Book Club

Ella our book club started with just my sister-in-law (Tina) and I talking amongst ourselves. I personally wasn't a reader and just was looking for a hobby that was just for me. I always catered my time to other individuals and one day I said I need to do something for myself. After Tina and I talked about starting the club we invited other ladies (some read all the time and others never did read).

We meet and went over guidelines and protocols...and the fun started from there. I must say from that day forward we have been very devoted ladies; each of us have grown to love, cherish, and respect each other and even the characters in most books.

At this time we have a total of 12 members with the potentials of a new member joining in May. Each of us look forward to our meeting so we can discuss, beat-up, love and rate our monthly selection. It's always interesting to see what other members think about a book.
 
BLACK  P.E.A.R.L.S.  Book Club- Positive Ebonites Admiring Reading Learning and Sharing

Our Purpose:  Inspirational Scripture ~ Proverbs 31
Mission Statement:  “Respectable Black Women’s Thoughts Bonding Together”
Inspiring Verse:  She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. Proverbs 31:26

P.E.A.R.L.S.  believes in how the bible instructs us to be Christian women: faithful, strong, dignified, and compassionate and servants in our immediate and extended family, communities and most importantly the kingdom. We are striving to be ELEGANT Proverbs 31 women. We believe that what comes out of our mouth is what’s in our hearts. Therefore our purpose is to read, fellowship, support, and respect, encourage, laugh, and cry together. We want to be a role model for our young African- American girls. We are striving to teach them the importance of education while we bond our thoughts into our mind, body and soul.

What is the vision for your organization?
To grow in love, understanding, knowledge, wisdom, with one another. To be like the Proverbs 31 woman the Bible speaks of.

Living your best life includes: Reading, Shopping, going to dinner/movie, hanging with the family, going on out-of-town trips

On your nightstand now: Nightly devotion, Everyday Living Bible, Amaryllis, My Mom's daily devotion.


Favorite book when you were a child: Anything with Michael Jackson or Jackson Five

Book all readers should own besides the bible: Act like a Lady, Think like a Man by Steve Harvey

Book that changed your life: God's WORD ~~ The Bible!

Book you've bought for the cover: Wives and Girlfriends by Nishawnda Ellis

Favorite line or couple from a book: My favorite couple: Hunter and Jade in "In Green Pastures"

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:  uuummm, let me think...

Favorite genre, series or sequels:

Series/Sequels: "A Man's Worth" and (sequel) Amaryllis by Nikita Nichols (nope have not read it ~~ I just know its will be a great read)

Your top three authors. Why?
Zane.....she keeps it real, Nikita Nichols......I like her style!  ummmm....let me think

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Nikita Nichols---we have already but she's GOOD!
Steve Harvey----Too funny-but I'm enjoying the book! I like!

 


Kim McRae President of Readers in Motion Book Club

Share with us the history of the organization.

Hello, my name is Kim McRae and I am the president of Readers in Motion Book Club. I am a 24 year old nurse and mother. As you can tell I am very busy; however, I have always had a passion for reading. I have tried to start a local book clubs here in Chicago , but it never was successful. It was hard to find individuals that shared the same passion for reading that I hold. I became a member of my favorite author, Wahida Clark’s social network. I felt very comfortable and welcomed. After seeing that everyone on the site had the same enthusiasm for reading that I had, I decided to do an online book club.

The first step for creating the book club was to create a name. We are all busy people; however, we make time throughout our hectic day to read. The name Readers In Motion seemed to fit perfectly Readers in Motion Book Club was established in January 2009. When RIM started we held our monthly online chats at Wahida’s site. In March 2009 RIM launched its own site, www.readersinmotionbookclub.ning.com and with the help of my 2 Vice Presidents, Minah and Misha, we created our MySpace page, which is www.myspace.com/readersinmotion. I enjoy different genres, which range from urban literature to Christian literature. Therefore, I didn’t want to limit the book club to a certain genre. I will admit that urban literature and contemporary fiction is my favorite, along with most of the members.

What is the vision for your organization?
My Vision for the book club is to have a place that readers’ passion is appreciated. RIM is a place where known authors as well as aspiring authors can come and get honest feedback by people that respect their work. We are a family and we want every member to feel welcome and important. We have monthly chats on our featured book, which we collectively chose. I also try to have authors attend the chats if possible. Our past guest is essence best selling author, Wahida Clark, author of the highly anticipated book, Thug Lovin’, which is the fourth addition to her Thug series. Mike Sanders, author of the highly acclaimed book, Thirsty is scheduled to log on for our April 25th chat. Both Wahida and Mike are honorary members. At the end of the day I want RIM to be known as the place where readers, authors, and poets can come and share their excitement for literature.

Favorite book when you were a child: 
My favorite books when I was a child were the American girl Abby series.

Favorite genre, series or sequel:
My favorite genre is Urban Literature; however, contemporary fiction is a close second. My favorite series is Wahida Clark’s Thug Series.

Your top three authors. Why?
My top 3 authors are Carl Weber, Kimberla Lawson Roby, and Wahida Clark. These are my favorite authors because their style of writing is unique. You can read any of their books without their names on it and know that they’re the authors. Their styles can not be duplicated. Their imagination and insight is endless.

Book that you’ve bought for the cover:
The book that I bought for the cover is Keyshia and Clyde by Treasure E. Blues. On the cover was a woman with dark sunglasses and a man that looks like he wants to embrace her but doesn’t know how. It is a great book and I am happy that I got it.

Favorite line or couple from a book:
My favorite couple from a book also came from the novel Keyshia and Clyde by Treasure E. Blues. They had a love for each other that was everlasting and pure. The feelings were palpable while I was reading it.

My favorite Line from a book is “It’s got to be God first or nothing will work long term, whether you like it or not. He will not be ruled by you or moved by your pouting, whining, or acting out”- Tamara’s mother Playing God by Michelle McKinney Hammond

On your nightstand now: On my nightstand now is Single Husbands by Honey B

Book that changed your life:

The book that changed my life is The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah. This was the first urban book that I read. I feel like this book was something that I can relate to as well as learn from. This book really showed me how there is only one “hood” or “ghetto”. They are all the same and we face the same problems. The only thing that changes is the names, address, and weather.

Book all readers should own besides the Bible:
The book that everyone should own besides the bible is The Audacity of Hope by President Barack Obama

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
Book that I most want to read again and slower so that I can savor it is the Bible.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year:
The authors that I would love to have a phone chat with are President Barack Obama, Wahida Clark, and Carl Weber
Website: readersinmotionbookclub.ning.com

 

 


Book Reviewer Terri Schlichenmeyer 
Owner of  The Bookworm Sez, LLC

Ella: Terri, how did you get your start in this business/industry?
My then-husband was loudly complaining about my "book habit". I was working at a radio station at the time, so I thought maybe I could put my books to good use. I asked if I could do radio reviews. A couple months later, a friend-of-a-friend asked me to do a newspaper article. I saw that there was a market for low-cost, reliable book reviewers so I started marketing myself and here I am...

Ella: Did you have any formal business training?
I spent 5 years as the copywriter at that radio station. Because I was considered a part of the sales dept., I was expected to attend all sales training (even though it had no direct use for my job at the time). After I started writing my column, I took what I learned from my former job and applied it to my own business.

Ella:  What separates you and your firm from the competition?
I have a style all my own. I'm reliable and professional. I can churn out four or five quality columns each week, ON TIME and within word count, spell-checked and ready to go. Because I offer so many options, editors can choose what they want to run. And I'm inexpensive.

Ella:  How would you describe your experience as a Entrepreneur?
Freelancing isn't for the faint of heart, but I've learned to think so far outside the box that I can't even SEE the box sometimes. Being an entrepreneur often means nudging your brain in a different direction and pouncing on small things that nobody else notices.

Ella: What do you like most about your profession?
 A couple things: I work with some fantastic people! Every one of my editors knows I'm approachable... and they approach me. I love that. I also like working at my own pace and setting my own hours. Oh, and I love working barefoot... it's one of the better perks. (grin)

Ella: What is your biggest challenge in business? How did you overcome it?

I'm an impatient person since birth (I was born 6 weeks early, so....) I have a few close, trusted friends who remind me all the time that things are cyclical and that I need to remember to breathe deep and hang loose. They ground me and make me see real.

Ella: What advice would you give someone just starting out in your industry?
Failure should never be an option. Always be prepared with a Plan B, but never give up on Plan A. And remember that freelancing is HARD WORK. Don't kid yourself by thinking you're going to skid by; you're going to work harder than you ever have before, but you'll love it twice as much.

Ella: What do you hope to offer your clients or customers to shape their lives?
I am FIERCE about literacy!! I hope - through my column - that I can entice someone to read more, which will enhance her life, teach him something, give them something to share.

Ella: What are 3 things all leaders possess?
Perseverance, tenacity, and the ability to switch gears when the situation warrants.
Ella: How does your mission or vision keep your business growing? I get really excited when I can tell someone about my product. THAT is what wakes me up. When I'm having a not-so-good day, I know I need to make some cold-calls. It really gets me revved because I know there are people who share my enthusiasm and it's up to me to find them.

Ella: What's new in your company for 2009? 
I'm branching out! I now work with several different niche markets and am always on the lookout for new ones. This year, I've added parenting publications to my client list, as well as medical publications and more.

 Always Double-Booked...



Yvonne Perry  freelance writer, newsletter publisher and editor

Yvonne Perry is a freelance writer and editor, award-winning, bestselling Amazon.com author, podcast host, blogger, newsletter publisher, Internet marketing guru, and the owner of Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services (WITS). She graduated from American Institute of Holistic Theology where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Metaphysics.

What exactly does your company do for the client?
Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services offers ghostwriting and editing for books, biographical sketches, memoirs, résumés, media releases, press kits, marketing copy, Web site text, articles, brochures, newsletters, business documents, and articles. We also assist authors with online book promotion. Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services produces a free monthly newsletter filled with articles, announcements, and information about the craft and business of writing, publishing, and book marketing. Subscribe today at http://www.writersinthesky.com/writing-newsletter.html


Did your company change the way consumers were previously taught to think?
A lot of people have the idea that they need to refrain from freely sharing information in order to gain wealth. I have a different view, and I use a universal philosophy in my business practices. Sowing and reaping, giving and receiving, do unto others as you would have them do unto you, the law of attraction, or whatever you choose to call it, there really is no competition; there is enough water in the cosmic universe to float all our boats. I assist others on their path to success by sharing what I have learned and allowing people to post messages and announcements on our blog and in our newsletter. I also post content-rich messages on Twitter to help other writers and let my network know about our clients’ books and successes. This mentality seems to be prevalent among the writers with whom I network and it provides a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Additionally, I blend a spiritual mindset with my business practices without making anyone feel uncomfortable. By honoring all paths, we have allowed a wide range of people to express their views in the form of books, Web text, podcast interviews, newsletters, brochures, and marketing material.

We have incorporated social networking into our line of services offered to our clients. Many people have not heard of these sites and methods or do not know how to use them wisely. We can either provide mentoring to set up and maintain a high-traffic and sales-effective blog, or we can do the marketing on behalf of the client.

How did you get your start in this business/industry?
Writers in the Sky Creative Writing Services, also known as WITS, is my Nashville-based writing and editing services company. I started this company in 2003 with a strong belief that I could create the career I wanted by learning as much as I could about the craft and business of writing, focusing on the positive goals I had set, and doing the work necessary to reach these goals. I started out solo, but since then, I have put together a team to diversify the types of writing, editing, and promotional services we offer our clients.

What do you like most about your profession?
Having flexible hours, working from home, and meeting great people online. There is no limit on how far I can move up the ladder of success!

What is your biggest challenge in business?
Not being a workaholic!

How did you overcome it?
I put our business hours on our Web site and in our phone message. I close my office door at the end of the workday and let the machine take the calls. I can’t allow my business to take away valuable time from my family.

What are three things all leaders possess?
There are more than these listed here, but I would have to say vision, determination, and a belief in oneself/abilities is very important. Also, leaders have a willingness to set goals and do what it takes to reach them.

How does your mission or vision keep your business growing?
I’m always looking for new ways to help authors and businesses use writing as a key tool for communicating their message in a professional manner that attracts high-quality clients. When I see an unmet need, I am quick to learn all I can about new tools available so I can begin to provide that service.

What's new in your company?
We have started an affiliation with Full Circle Admin to offer virtual assistance to our clients. This includes calendar management, data entry, maintaining, Excel spreadsheets, job search services, letter writing, typing, transcribing, link building, SEO writing, social networking, and creating/posting trailers for books and businesses. I’m also looking to add technical services such as Web site building and maintenance.

Yvonne Perry
http://writersinthesky.com
http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com
www.OnlinePromotionMadeEasy.com




C. Jay founder of the Risque Cafe
The Risque Cafe purpose is to create an outlet that will bring more awareness to the Art of Literature, extend authors craft abroad, and promote unity within the literary community.  We plan and promote events to bring readers and authors together plus facilitate activities pertaining to an intimate yet fun setting.
 
Ella:  What exactly does your company do for the client?

One of our primary services is literary event planning/management.  We at The Risque Cafe are very big on themes and getting the participants to be interactive at the events. This allows them not only to attend the event but to be apart of the event which in return creates a memorable experience for them as a guest.  One of our goals is to change the perception people have when it comes to book signings, readings, or pretty much anything pertaining to literature....reading can be fun.  We showcase authors and their books as well as advertise and promote events everywhere through several creative productive outlets.
 
Ella:  What's coming soon for The Risque Cafe?

The Risque Cafe and its partners are hosting a national campaign called Losing 4 Literacy.  This campaign will bring more awareness to the literary arts and healthcare plus bring communities together on a local as well as national level. This is an excellent opportunity for anyone who is a philanthropist at heart to give back and experience a positive life change. 

Losing 4 Literacy is a 12-week weight-loss/wellness challenge organized with the purpose of helping establish a nonprofit organization that will empower inner-city and troubled youths to express themselves in a positive manner, bring awareness to the literary community and promote healthier lifestyles.
 
At the end of the 12-week challenge, the top 3 teams with the highest percentage of weight loss will be awarded a cash prize, products, books, and more.  We even have a surprise celebrity helping with the project.  I can't release that information until all the paperwork has been completed and signed. 
 
Ella:  How would you describe your experience as a Entrepreneur?
Great, I would not change it for the world!  I have had my challenges like anyone else but for the most part, GOD has been good to me.  I've been blessed to meet some great people throughout my journey, like you, Ella and a lot more.  So again, the experience has been great.
 
Ella:  What advise would you give someone just starting out in your industry?
Be ready to work.  Nothing is going to be given to you. It takes time to build but with persistence, late nights, and hard work anything is possible.
 
Ella:  What's new in your company?

The Risque Cafe is planning on doing some road trips in 2009.  We want to spread the experience of being a part of a "literary event" to people everywhere.  Plus our non-profit organization will be established and we will be collaborating with authors, publishers, and other literary base companies on different joint business adventures and workshops. 

 

 



 


Ella:  Roger, welcome to Black Pearls. Please tell us a little about  you.
[Roger Madison Jr.] I am an independent "thinker, seeker, learner." I constantly strive to avoid being defined by popular culture.  It is obvious to me as a black person, that I am an "African in America.  I cannot be Black in America without first acknowledging that I am an African.

Ella: Share with us what iZania is and why you started it.
[Roger Madison Jr.]  iZania.com is a trendsetting leader in online networking for Black people. Our goal is to enable our members to leverage Internet connectivity to act in our self-interests. The word “iZania” is derived from a combination of Internet and Azania, which means Africa. So, iZania means connecting the people of Africa via the Internet.  Our intent is to become the best virtual facilitator – a crossroads, or town center of the Virtual Black Community -- that connects and transforms the efforts of black-owned businesses and consumers into accelerated economic success. 

We host a unique social network with the following services:  A Black-owned business directory of more than 2600 businesses, an online marketplace, marketing services for our 7200 + members, blogs, forums, and a weekly newsletter to share information that makes the Black community stronger. 

Ella: Did your company change the way consumers were previously taught to think?
"It must be remembered that there is nothing more difficult to plan, more doubtful of success nor more dangerous to manage than the creation of a new system. For the initiator has the enmity of all who profit by the preservation of the old institution and merely lukewarm defenders in those who would gain by the new one." - Nicolo Machiavelli

[Roger Madison Jr.] Our driving goal is to help our online community to think about the economic value of collaboration among the descendants of Africa. We have been striving to get our members to think of themselves as a “virtual community.”  This is difficult for most people who are not fully trusting of those whom they cannot see. The new way of thinking and acting in this environment requires the trust and kindness of strangers. The nature of the technology foundation helps to validate that “I am who I say I am.”

Ella: How did you get your start in this business/industry?
[Roger Madison Jr.]  I launched my company after 30 years in the Information Technology business with a global technology company. 

Ella: Did you have any formal business training?
[Roger Madison Jr.] Yes.  I have a degree in Business Administration.

Ella: What separates you and your firm from the competition?
[Roger Madison Jr.]  Our business model is based on “collaborative added value.”  All of our services are based on industry “best practices” which yield  greater value and leverage to those who use our services.  We share the knowledge gained from our experience, which helps enhance the success of all of our clients.

Ella: How would you describe your experience as a Entrepreneur?
[Roger Madison Jr.] My experience is best described as “continuous learning.”  Working in the corporate environment, one has the benefit of the “tacit knowledge” of the organization.  An entrepreneur must become a “learning organism” that develops the knowledge required to survive in real time. There is no corporate repository.

Ella: What do you like most about your profession?
[Roger Madison Jr.] I like the satisfaction that comes from developing new solutions in a rapidly changing industry.  I thrive on learning and applying new knowledge.

Ella: What is your biggest challenge in business? How did you overcome it?
[Roger Madison Jr.] My biggest challenge was recognizing that what I knew was a short-lived  advantage.  I had to become a “lifetime learner” to succeed.  In my previous life, I was a receiver of knowledge from the larger organization.  In my role as an entrepreneur, I had to become an “acquirer of knowledge” and apply it in real time.

Ella: What advice would you give someone just starting out in your industry?
[Roger Madison Jr.] I would tell a new entrant to gather all the knowledge and assumptions about success, do your due diligence, then cut all your expectations in half before beginning.  When you fall short of those goals, take what you have learned from your early mistakes and build your business from that point.

Ella: What do you hope to offer your clients or customers to shape their lives?
[Roger Madison Jr.] I can’t do much to shape the lives of my clients.  I can only offer a value proposition that addresses their expressed needs.

Ella: What are 3 things all leaders possess?
[Roger Madison Jr.] First, leaders must have an understanding of their personal worldview and how it relates to the problems they are seeking to solve.  Second, a leader must have a clear vision of what they are trying to achieve and the ability to articulate that vision to others.  Third, a leader must have the intellectual and physical capacity to work and learn proactively in such a way that followers have confidence in their leadership into an uncertain future.

Ella: How does your mission or vision keep your business growing?
[Roger Madison Jr.] I visit our mission and vision regularly to test the progress of our business. I make adjustments to adapt to changing external factors, and test the adjustments against the core mission.  What has transpired is that our mission and vision has evolved into something that we did not envision at the outset.  The fundamental goal to provide the services we set out to provide remains, but the operational processes have changed.

Ella: What's new in your company?
[Roger Madison Jr.] We have added more online interactive tools and services to extend our reach and keep our members and visitors engaged.

More than networking... Making the 'NET WORK for you!
Roger Madison Jr. CEO of iZania, LLC
Website: www.izania.com

 


 


Desiree President of Sexy Ebony BBW African American Book Club


Desiree (aka DD) is an avid reader born and raised in NYC. She is a single mother of two children (twins), living the life of a Plus-Size Diva. Her 9-5 job at a health insurance agency in NYC pays the bills, but it is her online and literary activities that give her life passion. She is the Online Activities Coordinator for the Sexy Ebony BBWS 4 Blkmen (www.sexyebonybbws.com) discussion groups and website (groups and website dedicated to Ebony BBWS and their admirers), and Co-Moderator of East Coast SISTAZ (online discussion group for women that live on the East Coast).

Desiree's literary activities are diverse. She is founder of Sexy Ebony BBW African American Book Club (www.sexyebonybbwaabookclub.com). She is also the founder of BBW Reviews (www.bbwreviewers.com), a review group created to bring together her activities in both the literary and BBW communities. Her most recent literary pursuit is in the world of romance. As an avid romance reader she has always wanted to review and even critique the novels that have given her pure pleasure. So she created For Romance Lovers (www.forromancelovers.net) as her romance haven. Currently the majority of the reviews are historical romance but as time goes on there will be reviews from a variety of romance categories.

Share with us the history. What is the vision for your organization?
We are an online group with about 20 active members and a number of other that drift in occasionally. Don't let the name of the group fool you. It began as a book club set up for members of another online group but a lack of interest in that group pushed me to open the group and we have been growing ever since. The group as it exist today has been around since 2001. Our original website actually went live in February of 2001 so this is our 8th Anniversary. Since then we have gone a few changes here and there but our primary goal has always been to be a haven for readers of African American Literature to come talk books and whatever else. This will always be the primary goal for the group but there are a things I hope to add if not this year in the years to come including our online chat sessions and starting at least 1 offline group.

Sexy Ebony Book Club Reviews officially launched in May of 2008 though.  The Review group was created because I hated saying no to review request and wanted to give members a chance to read some of the interesting books that come to me for various reason but don't have the time to read myself. Reviewing is work and running a review group is even more work but it has been a rewarding experience for me and hopefully for the reviewers as well. Including myself we have about 5 reviewers so we are not able to review everything but we manage to do pretty well even with the small number of reviewers. As the group continues to grow I hope more members will consider reviewing and making their opinion a part of the literary world.

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading is my get away. With a good book I can let my problems go if just for a little while and delve into someone else's world. I can travel in time, see mythical creatures, learn history, or just simply place myself in the place of a character and live a completely different life at least until the book has ended. I just love a good story. If an author can manage to put together words and make me believe that this is real at least until the book is over I can get through the rest of the day. For me reading is a necessity like breathing or eating. I feel lost without a book. They give me peace in times when my life is hectic and chaotic. Books allow me to have something that is just about me not about my kids, family or friends.

On your nightstand now:
My nightstand is crowded. Since I have read my book club reads right now I am delving into the piles of books that have been sitting around for some time. Currently Reading Murder List by Julie Garwood. Next I think will be Kindred by Octavia Butler. After that I am not sure I have a few books coming in that may just bump what is currently on the nightstand to the book pile under the desk.

Book all readers should own besides the bible:
This is going to sound crazy but I honestly believe that everyone should have a copy of Oh The Places You'll Go by Dr Seuss. I read it as a child but it was not until I read it as an adult that it actually affected me and changed if only a little bit about how I thought about my future and even the future of my kids. When I was just lost I would just think of the title of the book and remember the meaning of the book. I can go anywhere. Be it in a book or in life I can go anywhere I want to go. It is a lesson that I want to pass on to my kids and a lesson I try to keep to heart when I feel stuck and unable to move.

Books you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
There are a few books I can add to this list but the top two for me are Mama Day by Gloria Naylor and Splendor by Brenda Joyce. Mama Day has some of everything I love. There is intrigue, romance, and even some paranormal. Added to that it is a testament to commitment faith and love. Splendor is the perfect example of why I fell in love with the historical romance drama. A couple that manages to find their way together against all odds. It's not about the hot sex, or how many times a couple can have sex but about two people falling in love who under normal circumstances would never have been each others orbit. A true happily ever after.

Favorite genre, series or sequels:
I primarily read AA fiction, historical romance, and paranormal or some combination of this. Though of late I goal has been to expand my reading. Actually paranormal is fairly new to me and just recently added to my list of primary genres.

I love to read sequels and series and my favorites except for 1 pretty much fall into these categories.
-- LA Banks Vampire Huntress Series (I cried when the series ended)
-- JD Robb's In Death Series (the only series that does not fit into the above categories)
-- Karen Marie Morning's Fever Series (a paranormal series based in Ireland)
-- Gwyneth Bolton's Hightower Series (these brothers just make me want to.....)
 


Tasha Martin President  of SistahFriend Book Club

Tasha Martin's love for African-American literature began in high school when she secretly read under her mother's nose, All For Love by Raynetta Manees. Her interest was further piqued after taking an African-American Literature class during undergrad at the University of South Carolina. She remembers thinking, "There must be more!" In a span of three months, she read over twenty Arabesque romances, and sought desperately to spread her newfound love. Sending out handmade pink and black invites to close friends and family in November of 2004, here passion sparked the beginning of the SistahFriend Book Club, a sisterhood dedicated to promoting literacy and women empowerment in the community.

Currently, Tasha is a marriage and family counselor, practicing in South Carolina. She is also a freelance web designer. In hopes to further promote quality African-American literature, she plans to soon establish an editing firm and transform the SFBC into an international book club. She resides in Columbia, SC with her husband and daughter, Blu.

Share with us the history of the organization.
The SistahFriend Book Club is a live and online reading and networking group for women that focuses on reading and discussing books by or about African-Americans and promoting unity through women empowerment and fellowship. Founded in November 2004 by Tasha Martin, the sisterhood began with four members in Columbia, SC. Once a month, members bond as sisters and discuss literary works in intimate settings.

In March of 2007, the SistahFriend Book Club opened its membership online, adding an interactive dimension to its website, www.sistahfriend.com. Online features include: book reviews, literary spotlights and features, author and reader chats, and a message board for both readers and writers to stay connected. The group also publishes an online ezine to highlight authors and women leaders in the community. Currently, the SistahFriend Book Club has two branches in South Carolina: Columbia and Greenwood, and branches in Raleigh, NC, Memphis, TN, and Augusta, GA.

Online book club members drop in 24 hours a day on our forum, where lively book discussions and sistah bonding occurs all day. Chats are held Monday evenings at 9pm (see chat schedule). Contact us at info@sistahfriend.com if you'd like to join a current chapter or start one in your city.

 What is the vision for your organization?
My vision is for the SistahFriend Book Club to be a source of promotion and support for African-American literature by authors of various cultural backgrounds and to build intimate discussion groups everywhere, appreciating and discussing quality literature as well as the power of unity among women.

 Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading was my savior as a child. When times got tough, I buried myself in a book, and escaped through the lives of its characters. Growing up, I was quiet and shy. My readings often provided me with good conversation starters. The same applies today. When I'm totally stressed, I bury my nose in a good book.

 Living your best life includes: Seeing the humor in any circumstance.

 On your nightstand now:

The Best of Everything by Kimberla Lawson Roby, a Burning Desire candle by Pure Romance, a book light, and my daughter's sippy cup.

 Favorite book when you were a child: Charlotte's Web

 Book all readers should own besides the bible:

I suggest not a literary work . . . but a simple binder or journal to always record your thoughts or happenings in your life.

 Book that changed your life:
Mama Day by Gloria Naylor. After reading it the first time, I knew my true passion for A.A. literature

 Book you've bought for the cover:
Ugh, I buy many of my books just for the cover. One in particular: The Living Blood by Tananarive Due, because it scared the crap out of me, but is one of my favorite works. I still can't look at the cover!

 Favorite line or couple from a book:
From a current book I'm reading: "The cool collected persuasive feminine charms always win against militant and forceful men. We women are still in control, but you can't let them know."--Tutuoba, Salem's Black Shango Slave Queen--Prince Justice

 Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:  Mama Day by Gloria Naylor

 Favorite genre, series or sequels:  Paranormal Romance

 Your top three authors. Why?
Gloria Naylor (can't phantom the amount of knowledge in her mind. wonderful fiction!), Victoria Christopher Murray (a relationship genius), Zane (not merely for the steamy writing, but because of her entrepreneurship)

 Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Ahhhh, there are so many! Let see . . . 1) Zane (for the inspiration) 2) Victoria Christopher Murray (for writing/relationship insight), 3) Tananarive Due (love to know how she plots her stories--particularly the paranormal research), and I have to add one more . . . 4) Steve Harvey (for the laughter)

Contact SistahFriend Book Club:  http://www.sistahfriend.com

 


Melody Parker President of  Essential Women's Book Club

Essential Women's Book Club was started on April 12, 2008 and the name of the club started out as Melody's Book Club. I am a avid book reader!  I read so much that I am the "go to person" for a good book at home or work, and was ask on many occasions about starting a book club. At that time I felt that the people I knew who read like me would not want to seriously join a book club. When I would read a book I would call my sister Charlene and tell her about the book, she would be like don't tell me no more send me the book , so I would mail the book to her and we both would sit on the phone and discuss the book, there were times when she would even say I should start a book club. 

Charlene would tell me about our best girlfriend Kim's book club that she was in and say that they were slowly getting in to reading the new and up coming books, and the good books with that perfect twist that kept you reading into the wee hours of the night. One day I sat down and started making applications for the book club, rules, and an affordable fee for everyone. I typed up every thing and one rule that we have is to be creative when hosting a meeting such as using, themes, cartoons, holidays and etc.

I love Winnie the Pooh , that was what my first theme was going to be. I knew that I had to make everything attractive to get the people to want to join and it worked. Cups, plates. napkins, and treat bags. I even got Winnie the Pooh invitations that said, "Please come to Melody book club party, bring a smile, good attitude and have fun RSVP me to let me know if you will attend." Until this day our book club is still going strong and our one year anniversary is coming up this April 12, 2009. We have seven members and we will be celebrate on  April 26, 2009- my treat to my members no expense spare.

The vision for Essential Women's book club is to be stronger, socialize more and get out to promote reading to all people. Essential Women is planning a book drive, where we have people come to a picnic and bring a book new or use to donate to people of all ages who can not afford to buy a book or make it to the library.

Reading is learning. I am amaze at all the things that I have learn from reading books of all kind. Reading helps you to speak well, spell, it teaches you how to deal with all kinds of situations, and gives you advice. Books also let you know that you are not alone in dealing with situations, similar to those of the person who wrote the book. A person might have  went through the same thing or someone they knew went through it and wanted to write about it .To me reading is therapy.

Living my best life is to cast out the negative and embrace the positive.

My favorite book when I was a child was " Good Night Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown.

The one book everyone should have besides the bible is a dictionary for all the small words you forget to spell.

The book that change my life was Whore by Tanika Lynch

The book that I brought for just the cover was Hoe-zetta( I always and still do want to learn how to ride a motorcycle)

The book that I most want to read slower and savor would have to Addicted by Zane

The best sequel of books to me were  " Bloody Money 1, 2, and 3"


My top three authors would be:
Ashley Antoinette
Ja Quavis Coleman
Nikki Turner

I pick those three authors because they never leave you hanging at the end of a book but keeps you wanting more. They always I mean always have that twist that keeps my attention from beginning to end.  I would like to do a phone conference with the three authors above and add Allison Hobbs to list.
 

 


 TaNisha Webb President of KC Girlfriends Book Club


TaNisha Webb is the president of the KC Girlfriends Book Club and host of the KC Girlfriends Book Club Radio Show. TaNisha Webb has moderated the Maximizing Your Book Club Experience at the National Book Club Conference in 2008 and will also do so in 2009. TaNisha Webb also serves as a literary resource for new and aspiring authors as well as a mentor to beginning book clubs.

Share with us the history of the organization.
The KC Girlfriends Book Club was established in 2002 by a group of 'girlfriends' that began meeting together in a local tea shop to discuss books. The book club membership was reduced to 2 in 2003, due to other obligations that the girlfriends had.   In 2004, the book club was revitalized and we changed the name from Girlfriends Book Club to the KC Girlfriends Book Club, a name given to us by local author Michelle Buckley. TaNisha Webb joined the book club the summer of 2003, after she relocated to the area and in 2004 helped to restructure the book club. Over the years the KC Girlfriends Book Club has given back to the community literary-wise and we've also launched our own radio show to help support new and underexposed authors. Our book club read 90% new authors each year. We are the most recognized book club in our area.

What is the vision for your organization?
Our vision is to help support new and underexposed authors and to also give back literary-wise to our community. We help support authors by sponsoring book signings for well known and new authors in the KC area and we also donate books to different causes within the city.

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading is such an important part of my life. I can't tell you how many times I was able to escape my worries by slipping into someone else's life.

On your nightstand now:
The Next Best Thing by Deidre Berry, That Devil's No Friend of Mine by J.D. Mason and several other books...we'd be here all day if I named them all!

Books all readers should own besides the bible:
Some of my favorite books by new authors that EVERYONE should own are: Slow Burn by Ebony Farashuu, The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips, Game by E. Lemont Goode, Blackbirds Vol. 1 by Andre' Coleman, The Great Pretender by Millenia Black, Blood on the Leaves by Jeff Stetson, Color Me Butterfly by L.Y. Marlow, Pound Cake for Sweet Pea and Changing My Shoes by T.T.  Bridgeman, Unexpected Interruptions by Trice Hickman, Sweet Georgia Brown by Cheryl Robinson, The MPire series by T.L. James and all Lutishia Lovely books.

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
Slow Burn by Ebony Farashuu and Pound Cake for Sweet Pea by T.T. Bridgeman.

Favorite genre, series or sequels:
Contemporary, Sci-fi and Christian Fiction. I love any book written by Kimberla Lawson Roby, Eric Jerome Dickey, E. Lynn Harris, Victoria Christopher Murray, J.D. Mason, Patricia Haley and RM Johnson.

 Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Kimberla Lawson Roby, Eric Jerome Dickey and E. Lynn Harris just because I've read virtually everything that they've written. 

 

 


Circle of Essence Book Club President- Lauren Yoni Benson

An introduction to reading by her mother at an early age has afforded Yoni Benson a relationship with reading that has spanned over forty years. She is the founder of Circle of Essence Book Club.  Through the book club she has gained a tremendous amount of knowledge regarding the literary world including, writing and publishing vs. self-publishing.  The book club has celebrated five years of reading, discussion, fellowship, and author signings.  Ms. Benson participated in the first African American Book Club Summit at Sea. 

She is also the co-founder of The Good Book Teens, a book club for local teen girls.  The teen book club serves as a tool to enjoy literature of diverse genre and to give to the community through youth.  Yoni is also active in Galveston Reads, an effort to get the community of Galveston Island to read.   Yoni was born on Galveston Island.  She attended public schools in Galveston and LaMarque.  She attended Texas Southern University of Houston Texas where she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in Urban Sociology.   Rodney, Resha and Tre’ are her heavenly blessings.

Share with us the history of the organization.
Circle of Essence Book Club was founded on the Island of Galveston, Texas, June, 1999 by Yoni Benson and Tonia Williams.  It was the spring of 1999 when my friend Jean Lindsey offered me a copy of an Essence Magazine stating “read this because you are an Essence kind of woman”.  I often stopped by her desk and shared conversations with her.  I asked her to explain her comment, better yet, define an Essence woman.  She was unable to offer me an explanation or a definition. I thanked her for the magazine and returned to my office.  I have been a subscriber and a fan of Essence for many years.  I have always enjoyed browsing through the pages of Essence as well as reading articles on health, relationships, the best sellers list, etc. I thumbed through the pages of the magazine from cover to cover, glancing at article titles and taking notice to the trendy hair styles and clothing.  After I reached the back cover I told myself to turn the magazine to the front cover and THIS TIME to read an article!

An article about starting a book club grabbed my attention.  I was so inspired by the article that I contacted a local bookstore and reserved a copy of The Go On Girl!: Book Club Guide for Reading Groups (the suggested guide in the article).  It was a Friday afternoon.  I contacted a coworker, Tonia Williams, and informed her that I was calling to ask her a question and to “just say yes”.  Before I could ask the question she replied “no”.  I assured her that was not the correct answer and suggested she listen to the question.  I told her about the article that I read and I asked her to help me start a book club.  She and I had shared books and discussions in the past.  I also needed a dependable member, someone who would attend regularly scheduled meetings.  I faxed a copy of the article to her with an invitation to frequent the book store with me.  Her response was “Cool”. 

I spent the entire evening reading You Go Girl.  I was on a mission!  My next call was to recruit my next member, my Mother, Gertie Mavis.  I needed another dependable member, an avid reader, someone who could not tell me no.  My mother is the person who introduced me to reading for information, for knowledge, and for pleasure.  She declined my invitation to join the book club suggesting she was “too old” to participate in a book club with young women.  After much convincing she agreed to join.

Now that I had given birth to this new part of my life, it needed a name – something meaningful, something befitting, a name to carry of heritage to know when it came from.  BAM!  Circle of Essence Book Club.  I named the book club after the magazine that inspired its actual occurrence.  Our first meeting was held June, 1999 in my living room.  We began a group of five women.  Today we are a group of twenty diverse individuals consisting of two males, various professions with different social and economic backgrounds.  Some of us are married, single, divorced, widowed.  Some have children and grandchildren, some have no children.  Most importantly, we are a dynamic group of individuals who come together once a month to share a lively discussion of a novel. 

 What is the vision for your organization?  
To continue to be a catalyst for reading literature written for and by African Americans. 

On your nightstand now:  
Taking After MaDear by Tina McElroy Ansa 

Book that changed your life:  
What Looks Like Crazy On An Ordinary Day by Pearl Cleage 

Favorite genre, series or sequels:  
Bernice McFadden’s Sugar and This Bitter Earth; Tina McElroy Ansa’s Baby of the Family, Taking After MaDear, The Hand I Fan With. 

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.  
Tina McElroy Ansa, Pearl Cleage, and J California Cooper.

 

 


SBS Book Club President- Mashawn

Share with us the history of the organization.
The reason we started our club is simple. We wanted a comfortable setting to have some good food and drinks. We try to read a mixture of books. Our club started April 2006. My name is Mashawn, the president. I am 32 yrs old and a assistant manager at Wal-mart. I love reading and writing. I just self-published my first book "A piece of Me: Mashawn in the Making".

What is the vision for your organization?
Our vision is to promote literacy within the community and support all authors. We are also heavily into Children Miracle Network.


Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
To me reading teaches you so many things, no matter if it's fiction, non-fiction, self help, or whatever your vice is. You get to step into the shoes of the characters and people. At the same time it gives me inspiration for my writing. It also  takes me to another place.

 Living your best life includes:

Spending quality time with family and friends. Living my best would be doing my best at whatever I do.

On your nightstand now:  Steve Harvey:  Act like a Lady, Think like a Man

Favorite book when you were a child:  Sweet Valley Twins/High and R.L. Stine

Book all readers should own besides the bible:  "God's gift to women" by Michael Basiden


Books  you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
"Chasing Destiny" by Eric Jerome Dickey and "Married Men" by Carl Weber, "Mocha Chocolate" by Shani Greene-Dowdell

Favorite genre, series or sequels:
 I'm itching for Shani Greene-Dowdell sequel to "Keepin' It Tight" titled "Secrets of a Kept Woman". EJD series..."Sleeping with Strangers", "Waking With Enemies", and "Dying for Revenge" aka "Gideon Series".

Your top three authors. Why?
Eric Jerome Dickey: He's a great story teller, knows how to combine characters from a number of different books. He doesn't mind trying different things. Carl Weber: He knows how to draw the readers in and he makes it real to life. He makes you feel you know someone like that. Donna Hill: she tells romance like no other. She keeps it juicy and different each time.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
EJD; Carl Weber; Kerry E. Wagner, Hazel Mills; Donna Hill....ok that's more than 3. I could go on and on... LOL

 


Angelia Vernon Menchan, Author, Reviewer and Publisher

Hello Black Pearl family, I am Angelia Vernon Menchan, Author, Reviewer, Publisher, I review books for Amazon Vine Review team at www.amazon.com and APOOO BookClub at www.apooobooks.com 

Living your best life includes:
Giving God praise for a blessed life, enjoying my life with family and friends and mentoring young women.

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is.
Reading is the key to knowledge and knowledge changes lives. Reading can inform, entertain and transport. Like music it is a great connector.

Favorite book when you were a child:  
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Bettye Smith

Book that changed your life:  
The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Hailey. I first read it when I was thirteen and I purchase it for all the thirteen year olds in my life.

Favorite genre, series or sequels: 
Contemporary African American Fiction

Your top three authors. Why?
James Baldwin, he wrote full female characters
Colin Channer because his writing has a certain rhythm and poetry
Pearl Cleage, she writes about life as it is.

Websites:
http://acvermen.blogspot.com 
http://www.angeliavmenchan.com  
http://mammproductions.com

 


Tiffany Rainey President of Distinct Ladies Book Club

Share with us the history of the organization.
The Distinct Ladies have been together for almost 3 years. We started with just 4 members and we quickly grew to be 18 strong. Our book club consisted of men and women from different backgrounds with the passion for reading. We now currently have 6 women who have a strong bond with each other.

Being President of The Distinct Ladies Book Club is a wonderful experience. I am originally from Memphis and the mother of 2 wonderful girls. I am one of the Founders of the club and have been President every since. The passion that I have for my sisters are very deep. I would do anything for them or for our club. We have a strong sisterly bond that goes beyond reading. As President of the club I try to bring new and exciting authors to meet our ladies. I try to keep their interest peeked to come them coming back for more. I wouldn't trade DLBC for nothing in the world.

 What is the vision for your organization?
 My vision is to see our club become more than just a club, but a sisterhood. I would love for our club to do more community work and support literacy more.

 Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
 Reading is fundamental in everyday life. Without reading, you wouldn't understand what's going on around. It enhances your knowledge and it helps educate you more.

 Living your best life includes:  
It includes my two wonderful daughters and my family.

 On your nightstand now:  
The Green Eyed Butterfly by Kiffany Dugger

 Favorite book when you were a child:  
Green Eggs and Ham

 Book all readers should own besides the bible:
That hard to say because I have so many favorites, but if I had to choose I would choose "What Happens When God Moves" by Sharen Rooks.

 Book you've bought for the cover:  
Midnight by Sister Souljah

 Book you most want to read AGAIN  slower, to savor: 
I think I would read The Green Eyed Butterfly again. This book was intense.

Favorite genre, series or sequels:  
True To The Game is my favorite series.

 Your top three authors. Why?
Brian Smith because he's a very talented and brilliant writer. Brian books have me on the edge from beginning to end. Jihad because he brings out characters who makes you think, dang is the really going on. Jihad books tends to relate to everyday life. Recha G. Peay is a very gifted writer. She pours her heart and soul into what's she writing. I love all these authors for various reasons, but all their books are good from beginning to the end.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year: 
Reshonda Tate Billingsley, Miasha, & Vicki Stringer

Tiffany Rainey, Distinct Ladies Book Club
www.distinctladies.com
www.dlbookclub.webs.com
http://distinctladies.blogspot.com


 


Dayna Turner President Nubian 

In November 2000 the Nubian Queens Book Club Meeting had its first Book Club Meeting. I had moved to Riverside in 1995 and wanted someone to discuss the books I would read. I prayed and ask God to send me the right women to get the book club started. Each member  chose a book for us to read. We meet monthly and feature a good news segment, a journal segment and a Sistah Circle where we can discuss issues that are relevant to the ladies. We have done The Riverside Black History Parade, Moreno Valley Black History Parade and the Revlon Breast Cancer Walk/run. We have donated toys and food to the homeless and less fortunate families at Christmas time.

Ella: Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Dayna Turner. I moved to California when I was 6 months old so I consider myself a native. My greatest entertainment as a child was to read a good book. Whenever I want to take a mental vacation I grab a book.

What is the vision for your organization?
My vision for the book club is to be an organization for ladies new to town wanting a place to read, discuss and relax in Sisterhood. To help with literacy programs and have a children's and Young Adult book club.

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading to me is as important as breathing. They always said "if you want to keep something from a black person put it in a book". I want to eliminate that stereotype.

Living your best life includes: 
Spirituality, Love, healthy eating, exercise and being surrounded by positive people.

On your nightstand now:  
Upper Room by Mary Monroe

Favorite book when you were a child:  
Little Women

Book all readers should own besides the bible:  
Acts of Faith by Iylana Vanzant

Book that changed your life:  
The four agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:  
Their Eyes were watching God by Zora Neal Hurston

Favorite genre, series or sequels:  
Short Stories by J. California Cooper

Your top three authors. Why?
J. California Cooper because every story has a lesson
Toni Morrison because she is complex and makes you think
Zane because she breaks down the sexual barriers that women of color have.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
J. California Cooper, Toni Morrison and Pearl Cleage


Nikkea Smithers President of Readers With Attitude Book Club

Nikkea Smithers is a dynamic writer and spoken word artist originally from Connecticut currently residing in Richmond , VA. She is also the president of the award winning Readers With Attitude Bookclub which has been recognized as a force to be reckoned with in the literary industry. 

Her vision with RWA has been achieved with being able to introduce the world to both self published and traditionally published authors. She has released several novels and poetry compilations. Her writing style is unique as she uses her ability to play on words throughout each project. Her novels flair with the explicit details of life told through her characters eyes. Her novel Sweet Dreams shot up the Essence Magazine’s Bestsellers list within five months of its release proving that her stories are provocative, fresh and truthful making her reader’s lifelong fans. Her readers have fallen in love with her ‘tell it like it is’ approach to writing and she has been crowned ‘Author of the Year’ for 2008 by Xander Magazine. Nikkea’s books address issues that need to be discussed but are not overly saturated making her stand out in the literary industry.

Share with us the history of the organization.
Readers With Attitude (RWA) Bookclub was founded in September of 2008 with a three-fold goal. Support the authors by making the sales count by buying books from an Essence Magazine and NY Times reporting book store. Support the book store by buying all of their books from Precious Memories Bookstore (a local African American owned bookstore). And finally, introduce their readers to a diverse plethora of books that we discuss with the authors who created them. By doing this many of our members have found favorite authors from some that they would not have known about otherwise. Since its inception the club has grown to a makeup of eighteen members, pioneered video reviewing as well as become award winners! And we are just getting started.

What is the vision for your organization?
As an author I recognize the importance of book clubs. In that I approach the book club with having knowledge from the best of both worlds. I look at what’s important for an author such as sales that count (reporting to Essence and NY Times). I also look from the perspective of the reader such as being able to meet the author and get their thoughts on why they wrote the book. I feel that RWA provides something for everyone involved and we support our community book store in the process! Hopefully we can reignite a movement in buying books from places that benefit the most and supporting authors traditionally and self published.

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Many of our members prefer to read books over watching television. While most of the silver screen has been lost in the wind of not-so-reality T.V. the substance often becomes lost. With books, that is not a concern. The author can take their time to paint a picture that we can enjoy. We can take a vacation through the pages and escape the mundane of everyday life. Reading is important because it is a stress reliever with a healthy addiction!

Living your best life includes:  
Being happy, living free & loving yourself.

On your nightstand now:  
Pleasure by Eric Jerome Dickey & Hiding in Hip Hop by Terrance Dean

Favorite book when you were a child:
Cabbage Patch Kids (don't recall the author) & anything Shel Silverstien in elementary. Heaven by V.C. Andrews in junior high. Invisible Life, And This To Shall Pass & If This World Were Mine by E. Lynn Harris in high school.

Books all readers should own besides the bible:
Sleeping in the Bed You Made, Your Blues Aint Like Mine, Kaffir Boy, and the entire Donald Goines collection.

Book that changed your life:
Invisible Life opened my eyes. When I read this book it made me take a more critical look at everything. I loved the diversity between the pages, the struggle to love who you are, the journey to get there. This is the book that made me want to read more to find that same passion in pages and even inspired me to write my own.

Book you've bought for the cover:
Cooking Bacon Naked. It was just a simple black and white cover, a man an a woman entangled in each other. I thought it was interesting because it looked like a photo, but it said exactly what it needed to say.

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:  
Looker by Stanley Bennett Clay

Favorite genre, series or sequels:
I don't have a genre preference but find myself reading African American fiction most. I can relate to the characters and almost feel like I know them. I love it when an author can put me in the room. My favorite series would have to be the intertwined characters of Raymond & Basil by E. Lynn Harris.

Your top three authors. Why?
Nikki Giovanni, when I'm feeling like poetry I can always find comfort in her words. Donald Goines, his words were written clear enough to transcend decades and still have the same effect as when they were written. Moses Miller, he has the ability to write intelligent urban fiction like it's an episode of CSI.

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
Moses Miller, Stanley Bennett Clay, and Deberry & Grant.

Website links:
www.rwabookclub.com
www.nikkeasmithers.com
www.myspace.com/rwabookclub

 


Sharney Thomas President of  Xpress Yo'self Book Club

Share with us the history of the organization.
Hello, my name is Sharney Thomas and I am the book club president of Xpress Yo'self Book Club. The book club was started in 2000 with four members by myself. The club meets every fourth Sunday at 4 o'clock. We fellowship together with a different food theme each month and have a discussion of the novel. We also attend book signings and take an annual trip to the Harlem Book Fair in New York. In addition, we host an annual book signing for upcoming and local established authors. As of today, we have grown to fifteen members and continue to grow.

Tell us a little bit about you Sharney.
I am the mother of two biological children, Rachele, 20 and Rashaun, 13. I have one stepson, Derrell, 20. I have a wonderful husband, Nathaniel and great family support all the way around. I work at a public school in Newport News, VA as an Instructional Assistant. I work with struggling readers and have recently started a book club with third through fifth grade children called the Pretty Page Turners.

Give us a deeper understanding of how important reading is to you.
Reading is very important to me because I can really escape within the book. Reading offers me relaxation and a getaway from the everyday stress that is experienced through out one's life.

Books that are on your nightstand now.
The books that are on my nightstand now are Life is Short but Wide by J. California Cooper, That Devil's No Friend of Mine by JD Mason, Crisis Mode by Michelle Larks and All I Need by Jacquie Bamberg Moore.

Book that all readers should own besides the bible: 
The Darkest Child by Delores Phillips


Book that I bought for the cover: 
Naked Love by Darnella Ford because that man has gorgeous LIPS! so KISSABLE!

Top three authors:
My top three authors are JD Mason, J. California Cooper, and Gloria Mallette, because they are great storytellers and always have the reader coming back for more!!! They never disappoint you.


 


Keyonda Campbell - President of Kreative Readers

Share the History of the Kreative Readers.
I was searching for a book club to join at end of 2007, I found one, which name I won't mention and it seemed so cliquish and distant to the new members so I just kept looking. One of my friends joked about me starting my own group and I was on my journey since then. I began asking my online friends on Myspace would they be interested and also my friends off line. After starting a online YAHOO group we started our meetings. Our first in person meeting was March, 23rd 2008 at my house and the book of the month was The Coldest Winter ever. Which is a classic! Since then we have grown and have over six active in person members and four via online. We have meet several authors and even the Governor of IL.

The vision of the Kreative Readers:
When the group was first founded I promised myself not to be one of those groups where if you weren't a member you felt like you were looking at a secret society. I wanted the members and the group in general to be friendly and welcoming. Reading is more than just looking at a book, its absorbing some ones craftsmanship and traveling to a new place and or venue. Looking at the world through some one else's eyes and I feel that a book club should explore different, places and try different things that doesn't always line up with the literary world. Our slogan is "Where we put a Kreative Twist on reading" and I eventually want to add to that....Life.

Living your best life includes:
Enjoying all that the world of art has to offer with the emphasis of music, food and books!! And also a rewarding relationship with God.

On my bedroom book stand right now is: 
The List by Sherri Lewis and also We take this Man by Candice Dow and Daaimah S. Poole.

Favorite book when I was a child: 
The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Name three authors you would like to do a phone chat with this year.
I would love to do a phone chat with Author Angelle Michelle, and Bernice L. McFadden 

Book you most want to read AGAIN much slower, to savor:
I really enjoy V.C. Andrews earlier work so I would like to re-read Flowers in the attic and savor her creative abilities.

 


Meet  Q.U.E.E.N.S. Book Club  
Quality Unique Elegance Exquisite & Naturally Sophisticated



QUEENS Book Club of Atlanta is a group of positive, intellectual and elite women who possess a true passion in reading thought-provoking novels and enjoying the bond of ‘Sisterhood’ amongst each other. Our discussion is always interesting as we meet monthly inside local Atlanta Libraries, member’s homes and other public venues to converse about our stimulating reading selections.

Carla Walker, President and Founder
Q.U.E.E.N.S. Book Club of Atlanta

Q.U.E.E.N.S.' Vision of the book club: To offer a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere, outside of the home and workplace, to, explore many adventurous and spontaneous interests as a whole. Enjoy the bond of sisterhood and fellowship.

Queens's Mission: Utilize this book club for self, as a stress reliever and a motivational tool.

Queens's Objective: To make this a positive book club that will prosper beyond our imaginations. It is our promise to be a committed and dependable member, to partake in the fundraisers and community volunteer events, in addition, to read and attend monthly meetings and be prepared for open discussions.

 


Intimate Conversation with Divas Read 2 Book Club

Divas Read 2 Book Club consists of African American women who get together to Read, Relax and Rejoice. We are a seasonal book club that meets from October thru March.

Our mission is to become a highly visible book club that promotes literacy, and build solid relationships by networking with book clubs and other literary organizations.  Readers that stop by to visit our site are kept up to date with our reading list, group activities, book reviews and Author spotlights. Open House for new members in the Dallas/Fort Worth area is held in September. Those outside of the DFW area, can join our Yahoo Groups which features monthly contests, motivational messages and literary news.

Literary Hallmarks:
Their Eyes Were Watching God
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings
Waiting To Exhale
Invisible Life
Laura Ingalls Collection: Little House On the Prairie, Little House In The Big Woods, etc.

Read more about us here. 


Intimate Conversation with Reading Circle/w Marc Medley

Intimate Conversation with  Marc A. Medley and Ella Curry president of EDC Creations Media Group

Ella: Welcome Marc! Give us the radio show details.
MARC A. MEDLEY, HOST  WP88.7 FM
THE READING CIRCLE w/ MARC MEDLEY

Ella: Please finish this sentence: I am Powerful because...
I am Powerful because I trust God; give thanks in all things; and remain grateful through the good and the bad.

Ella: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
I am from Paterson, New Jersey the oldest industrial city in the United States and the third largest city in the state of New Jersey. I started writing when I was a child, always responding to ads on the back of cereal boxes; Bazooka bubblegum inserts; writing letters to Santa Claus in my local newspaper; letters to the editor; television shows such as Zoom and writing letters to my cousins in Virginia. I took Creative Writing in high school and won several competitions. As I look back I find that I was always reading, writing and public speaking as a child and so it doesn't surprise me that those three areas are my areas of strength now.

Ella: What makes The Reading Circle/w Marc Medley standout?
The Reading Circle w/Marc Medley is a one-of-a-kind radio show on independent radio. It is broadcast live out of William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ and listeners are treated to hearing authors tell about their work including the trials, tribulations and joy of becoming a published author. Listeners have an opportunity to call in and ask the author questions to learn more about the writing process or about the book itself. I believe my very down to earth approach during the interview process is also very inviting to both the guest and the listener.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want listeners to gain from The Reading Circle w/Marc Medley?
The overall purpose of the show is to promote the benefits of being an avid reader. I strive for my listeners to be educated, entertained, inspired, motivated and informed about the literary world.   Read more about us here. 


Intimate Conversation with Real Page Turners Book Review

Meet Monique Bruner (Deltareviewer)
Monique Bruner is an avid reader who reviews books for www.myspace.com/realpageturners. To her credit, Bruner co-wrote a textbook entitled, Strategies That Empower People for Success in College and Life; co-editor of Delta Girls: Stories of Sisterhood; and contributor to Violets.

She spends family time watching movies, putting together jigsaw puzzles, and watching football with her husband and two daughters.  Known for her quick wit and contagious laughter Monique has dedicated endless amount of time and hard work to support the programs of her beloved sorority, DELTA SIGMA THETA Sorority, Inc. and currently serves the community as President of the Oklahoma City Urban League Young Professionals. Monique’s online name is Deltareviewer and must be reading the page turning novel right now…

Ella:  Monique, tell us a few books that you would define as "Literary Hallmarks."
Monique: Here are just a few of the books I would select.

Don’t Ever Tell by Brandon Massey
The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah
Hip Hop Speaks to Children by Nikki Giovanni
Divine Destiny by Gwyneth Bolton

Read more about us here. 


Intimate Conversation with Phenomenal Women of Color Book Club

Phenomenal Women of Color (PWOC) Book Club is a network of professional women who share not only a love for reading but for community service.  When visiting our website one will see that PWOC is dedicated to supporting up-and-coming authors as well as those who are self-published. We have several pages on our site where authors can submit their latest work.  If an author’s submission is not selected for our reading list, we will display their book and biography as a “Spotlight” author, “Featured Authors”, or “Coming Soon”. We give in-depth reviews of all books and the reviews are posted on our website.

Our Literary Hallmarks:
"Three Fifty-Seven AM: Timing is Everything" by Kendra Norman-Bellamy & Hank Stewart
"A Woman’s Worth" by Tracy Price-Thompson
"Little Black Girl Lost 1, 2, & 3" by Keith Lee Johnson
"The Coldest Winter Ever" by Sister Souljah

Ella: What do you define as Quality Literature?
PWOC:  A novel that can draw you in with vivid details and launch you into the characters’ lives is a sign of a great novel. When you read the final page and walk away from a novel, you should feel as if you just returned from a journey into the world presented in the book. While reading you became one of the characters and you live their experiences. You should walk away with insight into something previously unknown. You are more than just entertained by the novel, you enlightened. This to me is the definition of quality literature.  Read more about us here. 



 


Ella Curry of EDC Creations sits down for a Intimate Conversation with lovely Shana Plummer Chapter Secretary of The Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club. Join us in greeting the ladies by saying hello in the comments section. Feel free to ask any questions you may have also.

Ella: Shana, how did your organization develop? How many members are in the group?
Shana: In October 2005, four ladies that enjoyed reading books by African American authors decided to change their causal conversation about the latest book into a formal monthly meeting. They named themselves The Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club. Over time, they opened these discussions to other friends and family and now The Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club has 9 members.

Ella: What is the primary mission of the group?
Shana: The primary mission of the book club is to broaden our literary experience by reading books written by authors of African American descent. Keeping abreast of the latest books and meeting the author that wrote them all while building life long relationships.    Read more about us here. 

 


The Distinct Ladies Book Club

Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations Media Group, has a wonderful Intimate Conversation with Tiffany Rainey President of The Distinct Ladies Book Club a.k.a DL Book Club about the workings of a well formed bookclub. Readers, enjoy a inside look at the DL Book Club.

The Distinct Ladies Book Club is located in Memphis, TN. It was started in October 2006 with just 4 members. Today the Distinct Ladies has 10 members and they just celebrated their Two Year Anniversary. The DL Book Club consists of Women from different professional fields, which share the yearning to develop spiritually, mentally and socially through writings of all genres. DL has bonded with many authors such as Brian Smith, Sheila Lipsey, Alisha Yvonne, Jihad, and etc. Even though they are a sisterhood, the group opens their hearts to brothers as well.

EDC: What to you define Quality Literature?
TR: Quality Literature is something that is well written from beginning to end. Our club likes literature that catches our attention from the moment we lay eyes on the cover of the book.

EDC: How did your organization develop? How many members are in the group?
TR: Our club started with four ladies with the passion for reading and socialization. We quickly grow to a large club with men and women. Everyone came from various economic backgrounds with the same common interests and love for reading. We currently have ten ladies in our club.  Read more about us here. 

 


Essential Women's Book Club

Hello Black Authors Network, allow me to introduce me and my bookclub. I am Melody Parker, the president and founder of  Essential Women's Book Club. Essential Women is made up of seven women. The club started in April of 2008 - present. The book club was my idea because I love to read .

Reading is my passion and in order to be a member, my number one rule and last rule, is you have to be a avid book reader. I read so much and have read so much that is does not make any sense. The people that I know would call me first, before they would buy or read a book. If they needed a book to read I was the person to come to. I chose each member in the club, because each person loves to read and each person has something to bring to the table. We have a secretary, treasurer, researcher and reporter, designer, investigators (2), and myself the president. We do plan to do a lot of things in 2009 such as travel, support, learn, and experience in the name of sisterhood. Read more about us here. 

 


Readers With Attitude (RWA) Bookclub

Hello Ella and the Black Authors Network, allow me to introduce you to the RWA. Readers With Attitude (RWA) Bookclub is passionate about reading and supporting our authors and our book stores. We are founded by an Essence Bestselling, Self Published Author Nikkea Smithers and buy our books through an Essence Reporting Bookstore, Precious Memories.

Because our president understands the importance of a bookclub to the literary community we focus our energy on things that we find exclusively important. We host authors at each meeting to fully understand the unspoken values in each book. We provide reviews for authors who are interested in having honest and timely feedback. Each month we pride ourselves in the ability to share with each other and promote reading in our community.  Read more about us here. 

 


Intimate Conversation with the NIA Literary Group

EDC: Please tell us a little about you and your bookclub. How many members are in your group?
GAA: My name us Gail Adams-Arnold and I am the founder of the NIA Literary Group here in Cincinnati, Ohio. There are 10 of us and we meet monthly to discuss and enjoy. I was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. I married after college and had two daughters, and now 3 wonderful grandchildren. I spent 35 years in the field of education and retired in 2005 as a school principal. I am presently single and I have a home based business with an online Travel Company and I love every minute of it!

EDC: How did your group develop? What is the primary mission of the group?
GAA: In April of 2000, I organized our group by inviting a few close friends and family to my home on a Sunday afternoon. There are 10 members in our group. The primary mission, which is also evident by our groups name, NIA, is to make our collective vocation one of building our families and ultimately our community in order to restore our people to their traditional greatness.

EDC: Tell us a few books that you would define as  "Literary Hallmarks."
GAA: A few Literary Hallmarks that we have discussed and enjoyed are: The Fall of Rome by Martha Southgate, Fifth Born by Zelda Lockhart, Sula by Toni Morrison.

EDC: What do you define as Quality Literature?
GAA: I define Quality Literature as that which there is a plot tht is well developed, characters that are introduced and also well developed. A story that engages the reader and the ending leaves the reader wanting more, i.e, the sequel or another selection by the same author.   Read more about the NIA Literary Group here. 

 

 


Meet the Imani Literary Group of Metro Atlanta

Ella Curry: Hello Angela, thank you for sharing a moment with the Sankofa Literary Society. We want readers to meet our fantastic book clubs and literary groups. The publishing industry could not stand without the support of reader's groups. Share the history of the Imani Literary Group.

Angela Reid: Rashida Sule' Sloan had the brilliant idea to start a reading group when she realized that she and several of her coworkers were reading the same book--Terry McMillan's Waiting to Exhale. She suggested that they meet and discuss their book, the Imani Literary Group was born!

Established in 1992, the Imani Literary Group of Metro Atlanta is a dynamic group of Black women who come together once a month to engage in literary discussions about books by and with the authors we love, we encourage and we promote.  Imani, the seventh principle of Kwanzaa means faith, for Imani has faith in our authors. Meetings are held at members’ homes, African American-owned restaurants, libraries and bookstores. Imani Sisters are serious about our books! One must read at least one of the monthly selections to attend a meeting. We usually read and discuss two books each month. We also occasionally host a meeting with our teenage little sisters to read and discuss a book with them. Presently, Imani has twelve active members with two frequent visitors and a poet-in-residence.    Read more about us here. 

 





The Importance of the Black Book Clubs 
by Dr. Maxine E. Thompson 

Twice this year, I met with Book Clubs, once at the Inglewood Library, where I did a writer’s workshop and the other day at my book club, Seniors on The Move. I was happy for the feedback, the reminiscing and the discussions. It started me to thinking about how important the Black Book Clubs have been in this Literary Renaissance. In fact, I know one writer who is self-published and who makes a good living doing 2-4 book clubs per month. So the Black Book Clubs are definitely important.

It made me want to revisit an article I wrote several years ago that is still apropos.

Sometimes God sends an angel into our lives and we don’t even know it. When God has a plan for our lives, He will make a provision. In 1999, I had been off my job approximately two years when I re-issued my debut novel, The Ebony Tree. Looking back, The Special Thoughts Book Club was the first Los Angeles book club–in fact the first book club–to host me as a writer. Since then I’ve had the pleasure of being hosted at many book clubs, known and some even unknown.

In 1999, when I met with the founder, Janel Stephenson, and she paid me my first check (which was sizable,) for my books, I thought, “Wow! Someone will actually pay you for your dreams.”  Somehow, in chatting, I told Janel of my dilemma. I had just received a letter offering me to return to work as a supervisor, (which was a promotion) at the Los Angeles County Department of Children’s Family and Services, or I could stay on the unknown rocky path of living the writer’s life. I had no idea what the future held, and financially, it didn’t look like I’d be able to make it. After two years, I had run through my savings, my sick leave, and my vacation time. At the time, I had two mortgages, my youngest son in college, and grandchildren, a dog, etc. etc.

At any rate, Janel encouraged me to pursue my dreams. “You’ll never know if you don’t try.” With that check and Janel’s words of encouragement, I took one day at a time, and that one day has led into almost eleven years since I was last an employee.

Looking back, when I attended the Special Thoughts’ book club meeting, I was impressed by the number of members–almost thirty readers and 50 percent of them men. They were articulate and challenged my thinking. Last year, in celebrating the Special Thoughts Reading group’s tenth anniversary, I congratulated them.

As for the journey, I am happy to report the following:

Since my first book club meeting, I’ve either published or been published in 11 books, (2 novels, 1 short story collection, 3 self-help e-books/manuals, and five anthologies,) one that I published under my company, Black Butterfly Press, Saturday Morning, (and two pending novel deals and one pending nonfiction book deal). I’ve edited, formatted or ghostwritten numerous books for other writers or companies. Many of these books have made bestseller’s lists, some even have made the New York Times’ bestseller’s list.

I am the agent for books for other African American writers and we are now pursuing film or independent deals for some of these deals.  As another business, I’ve hosted Internet radio shows for writers since March 2002 to promote writers’ works. I currently host on Artistfirst.com.

So I’d like to give special thanks to Janel Stephenson for acting as an angel and for her encouragement and continued support of Black writers. I also want to thank the Special Thoughts’ book club members for pulling me through a dark hour. Congratulations on their upcoming eleventh anniversary in November 2008.

Now, once again, we are faced as a nation with that same dilemma that I had in 1999–except the economic climate is worse. Even so, many people have a dream of either being a writer, a magazine owner, a publicist, a book store owner, an agent, actor, artist, or you name it, but the economy looks so bleak. Wall Street crashed the week of 9-15-08 and banks failed. I mean how bad can it get during a recession?

Therefore, how do we make it as Black businesspersons during these trying times? What can we do?

Well, we can work together. We can build resources through one another. We can support one another’s dreams. We can barter. We can help each other. However, what we cannot do is to ever give up hope and faith. Remember, no good work goes unrewarded. In this vein, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many Black book clubs across the country that have supported Black books, thereby promoting literacy! I give a special thanks to Special Thoughts Book Club, Rawsistaz and Apooo.org.  In behalf of Black writers, I applaud and commend you, Black Book Club Leaders and Members. 

About the Author
Dr. Maxine E. Thompson
is a novelist, poet, columnist, short story writer, book reviewer, an editor, ghostwriter, Internet Radio Show Host, and a Literary Agent. She is the author of The Ebony Tree, No Pockets in a Shroud, A Place Called Home (A Short Story Collection), The Hush Hush Secrets of Writing Fiction That Sell, a contributor to bestselling anthologies Secret Lovers, All in The Family, and Never Knew Love Like This Before, (Also a Kindle Bestseller), Proverbs for the People.

Hostage of Lies is her latest fiction novel, was voted a Best Book of 2009 by EDC Creations: http://edcmagazine.blogspot.com/2009/12/best-books-of-2009-our-relationships.html 

 

 


 

The Black Authors Network Literary Program aims to support the African American community and to show people, through the radio show, that African American writers are more than just a niche. That we bring wonderful stories to the minds and imaginations of everyone. We have stories to tell, using our voice and our experiences, that cross all races and cultures. The mission of this show is to give a platform for African American  authors, but to also show the diversity of genre within the diversity of the community. The BAN Talk Show  is a  radio based talk show for authors who should be recognized as having cross-over genres. We are aware that there are authors that are totally targeted to African American  readers, but why not discuss that?  Why not make people aware that some books are written specifically for African American  readers and some are cross-genre books? View our BAN archives and click the blue links to listen.


Readers WIN free books every Mon. and Wed. night by calling 646.200.0402

The Sankofa Literary Society sponsors the Black Authors Network Literary Program, which offers new authors a chance to showcase their books and articles on Internet radio, 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.

EDC Creations sponsors monthly community outreach programs and exclusive author interviews to improve community relationships and expose great books to waiting readers.  Authors, visit our main website for more information on reserving your spot the Black Authors Network Literary Program. 

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We would love to feature your book club on the Black Pearls Magazine!  If you would like to be on BAN Radio with Ella Curry or have your interview featured here, email Ella at:  edc_dg@yahoo.com

 



The Black Pearls Magazine family would like to thank each of you for joining us monthly in celebrating the best in literature and the arts.  Our team of writers, bookclubs and authors are so humbled that you have allowed us entrance into your life. It amazes me each month as I check our subscribers how many of  you deem us worthy of your time and support. 

We appreciate each of you for telling 10 people about the magazine and for driving people to this site. YOU make Black Pearls the magnificent publication that it is, by sharing the Gift of Knowledge!

Please know, as we prepare each issue for you, we look for those stimulating conversations, the most thought provoking articles and most of all, the best books on the shelves. We want each page of this magazine to add value to your lives!  Your comments and feedback are welcomed. Join our blog and share your news, advice and wisdom with the other readers. Tell us what you want to read too!

As we take off in this new year we hope to bring you more provocative topics and life empowering books to shape your lives. We have contests for the readers and more interactive sections added to the magazine. Let us know what you think of the fresh new content by emailing us here.  Thank you!

Ella Curry, President of EDC Creations
Founder & Editor In Chief Black Pearls Magazine

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

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