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“The Schott
Foundation's report on the educational attainment of African American males
paints a grim picture for our boys. Our efforts to work with mothers raising
sons are designed to improve the academic and social success of boys through the
resiliency and coping strategies of single mothers and grandmothers”
states Mr. Miller.
Exciting, compassionate and highly motivated to improve the quality of life for children in the United States and abroad are just a few adjectives used to describe David C. Miller. As a co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer for the Urban Leadership Institute, LLC., Miller is a nationally recognized speaker and program developer working with youth of color. A sought after lecturer and advocate for youth and young adults, David has over 14 years of hands-on practical experience working with youth. He has worked with thousands of youth in detention centers, aftercare programs and in disadvantaged schools and communities throughout the United States and abroad.
His most recent work includes publishing and co-authoring Raising Him Alone and Mama Used to Say Ordinary Women with Extraordinary Wisdom with Matthew P. Stevens. Both books serve as a resource for inspiration and information for the millions of single mothers who struggle daily with the challenges of raising boys to become healthy, productive, and responsible men. The Raising Him Alone book is paired with the Raising Him Alone Campaign an initiative dedicated to researching, designing, and implementing a campaign to support the social well being of single mothers raising boys. RHA seeks to increase access to resources in the areas of Health & Well Being (Mental Health), Educational Support & Advocacy, as well as Financial Literacy.
David is considered one of the leading professionals in the country addressing the issue of adolescent violence. He has worked extensively with the Centers for Disease Control and the Johns Hopkins University. He received his Bachelors Degree in Political Science from the University of Baltimore and a Masters Degree in Education from Goucher College.
The Raising Him Alone Campaign (www.raisinghimalone.com)
is designed to provide support and advocacy for single mothers raising boys and
focuses on creating a safe space for single mothers to discuss parenting
strategies, personal development, managing finances on a single income and a
variety of other topics determined by single mothers.
BPM: Where are you from? How did you start your writing journey?
David Miller (Baltimore, MD) & Matt Stevens (Newark, NJ) we started writing
books focused on uplifting families as a result of the alarming issues impacting
boys of color. Whether its high school completion, rates of incarceration and
homicides, African American and Latino males are negatively impacted.
We both have extensive backgrounds working with boys around alternatives to
violence and making healthy decision. Much of our work has focused on increasing
the captivity of schools, communities and other organizations to increase the
life chances of boys of color.
BPM: Why was this book so important to create?
The epidemic rates of school failure and levels of incarceration have
handicapped a few generations of young boys and men. Prison based capitalism,
racism, poor educational opportunities, apathetic adults and the seduction of
crime have left entire communities full of women raising children by themselves.
Fatherlessness
has become one of the most critical social issues that impacts communities. Many
of the boys we work with are angry because of the lack of a meaningful
relationship with their father. We believe that father absence is a leading
cause of many of the pathologies which impact boys of color. Our focus is to
improve the resiliency skills of mothers/grandmothers who are raising boys,
establishing methods to reconnect fathers and connect the sons to useful life
and survival skills information.
“It is highly unlikely that we will be able to challenge many of the obstacles
that face young Black males without a serious reexamination of parental
responsibility.” -- Quote from David Miller
BPM: How will your book and the campaign impact parent-child relationships?
Raising Him Alone (RHA) is dedicated to researching, designing, and implementing
a campaign to support the social well being of single mothers raising boys.
Through a series of intense community forums, workshops and support group
initiatives, RHA seeks to increase access to resources in the areas of Health
& Well Being (Mental Health), Educational Support & Advocacy, as well as
Financial Literacy.
Our book provides mothers/grandmothers with concrete information and resources
to improve the bond between mothers/grandmothers and sons. Each chapter provides
information designed to support positive parenting strategies. For example
teaching mothers/grandmothers ways to communicate more effectively with their
son. The book and overall Raising Him Alone Campaign are designed to best
practices for raising a male child. Many of our boys are growing up in
communities where going to prison has become more acceptable than going to
college.
Through our
“Learning Community” parents are able to get on-going resources and
information about topics like navigating the special education system, talking
to your son about sex and other critical topics. This information is
disseminated via Facebook (Single Mothers Raising Boys), bi-weekly eblast,
motivational voice mail messages and community based workshops.
BPM: Ultimately, what do you want readers to gain from your book?
Practical ways for mothers/grandmothers to impact the lives of their sons
through strengthening all aspects of the parent child relationship.
Mothers/grandmothers play a pivotal role in the socialization of boys. It is
important that mothers/grandmothers understand more about male development and
ways to engage their sons around positive life style choices.
It is our hope that mothers/grandmothers will understand the seriousness of
involving dad and other men in raising a healthy boy to become a man. Boys need
to have access to sober & responsible men!
Additional the book is vital resources for supporting families as they struggle
to cope with financial challenges, issues with mental health, educational
options and navigating the community.
BPM: What is the most surprising thing you have learned from the community?
Mothers/grandmothers across the spectrum are struggling to raise their sons. The
data around single parents raising children is alarming. Regardless of race
& class many single women struggle to raise boys. Additionally, many married
women are reading the book and contacting us through our Raising Him Alone web
site (www.raisinghimalone.com).
These mothers are also struggling to raise their sons. Many admit that their
husbands are so consumed with work that parenting takes a back seat.
BPM: What would you say has been your most significant achievement with this
book?
Being able to connect with mothers/grandmothers world wide. We are getting a lot
of support from mothers in the United Kingdom, throughout the Caribbean and
Africa. Regardless of geography parenting a male child can be difficult.
Additionally, being able to help mothers/grandmothers cope with their own issues
which have prevented dad from being involved! We have been able to support a
great deal of healing among families.
BPM: What advice would you give an older mother in supporting their teen?
Spend more time understanding the trends that impact your son (music, TV shows,
technology etc.). The more you understand your son’s reality the easy it is to
be able to discuss sensitive topics like sex & drugs. Get to know your
son’s friends inside and outside of school. Many times boys have multiple sets
of friends. Stay involved in all aspects of your son’s life!
BPM: Name three things that it takes to make a successful parent.
--Realizing that as a parent you will make mistakes.
--Willingness to be open and honest with your son.
--Bold enough to monitor all aspects of your son’s life (even if they get mad at
you).
BPM: What can we expect from you in the future?
Greater on-line support and counsel for mothers/grandmothers. Expanding ways for
mothers/grandmothers to get connected to the campaign. Our Facebook Group
(Single Mothers Raising Boys) has allowed us to have some amazing dialogues with
parents. Additionally, we are working on a children’s book focused on a dad coming home
from prison. The Campaign will be releasing Changingfatherhood.org
a mega web designed to redefine the image of Black fathers. The web site will be the largest repository of
resources and information for fathers in the U.S.
BPM: Thank you Mr. Miller for taking the time to join us today!
Intimate
Conversation with
Pamela Samuels Young
Lawyer
and author Pamela Samuels Young continues to receive accolades for her
page turning legal thrillers that present the legal detail and mouthwatering
suspense of John Grisham, combined with the understanding of urban love,
explosive language and humor of Terry McMillan. Young's latest offering, the
gripping and suspenseful legal thriller, "Buying Time" has been
honored by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) as the
winner of its 2010 Fiction Award. The BCALA Literary Awards recognize excellence
in adult fiction and nonfiction by African-Americans.
The Awards Committee described "Buying Time" as a "captivating,
suspenseful thriller." Young will receive the award at the American Library
Association's Conference in Washington, D.C. in June. "Buying Time" is
Pamela Samuels Young's fourth novel and is available everywhere books are sold.
BPM: Pamela tell us about your passion for writing. Why do you write? What
drives you? What impact do you want your book to make on the readers?
I definitely have a passion for writing. Nothing else could explain my
willingness to sit in front of my computer for ten hours a day or my eagerness
to rise at four in the morning to write before going to work. I enjoy creating
characters and putting them in precarious situations. I want readers to get
wrapped up in the mysteries I create, to love, hate and root for my characters,
and to close each book and feel as if they got their money’s worth.
Two
Tears in a Bucket
by Traci Bee
Betrayed
by her cold, callous mother and abused by her alcoholic stepfather,
eighteen-year-old Simone Woodard is kicked out of the house like a bag of trash
and left to survive on her own. While struggling to create a life for herself,
her beauty and innocence captivate Kevin Kennard, a handsome, hazel-eyed felon
with an addiction to all things illegal. For the first time in Kevin's life,
real love has him rethinking his criminal path. But the action on the street
refuses to take a backseat and pull Kevin into his worse nightmare.
Simone's world crumbles but an unlikely ally refuses to allow her to wallow in
self-pity. Slowly, she becomes the whole, powerful woman she was destined to be.
But is her newfound strength enough to get her through life's brutal
unpredictability?
Two Tears in a Bucket is a soulful novel that reminds us how powerful and
lasting the bonds of love can be, even among the harsh realities of urban life.
Excerpt from TWO
TEARS IN A BUCKET
Kevin’s nightmares tracked him down yet again. The screams and cries were
louder than usual as he ran through the dark forest. The trees had come to life,
dripping with blood. Kevin ran, ducking and dodging the branches as they reached
out to grab him. Something was chasing him, and today it was faster than ever.
Kevin ran toward the light. The closer he got, the thicker the woods became.
“Run, Kevin,” he heard a male’s voice encourage. A hand appeared through
the light, reaching out to him. Whatever was chasing him was on his heels.
Without a second thought, Kevin reached for the hand and was yanked into an area
so bright that it nearly blinded him. He threw up his arms, covering his eyes.
Slowly, the light began to soften. Kevin lowered his arms and gasped as he came
face-to-face with Mr. Johnson.
“No, Kevin.” Mr. Johnson smiled, reading the panic on his face.
“Am I dead?” Kevin asked anyway.
Mr. Johnson raised an eyebrow. “Kevin, you know goodness well that if you died
today, you and I wouldn’t be in the same place.”
Yesterday's
Lies by Terri D.
What Secrets do you keep from the
one you share everything with?
Secrets.
Lies. Half-Truths. A poignant tale of a circle of close knit friends
whose lives are more intertwined than they realize. That is until the blurred
lines of Love, Lust and Friendship begins to reveal the half-truths and lies
that exist. Will the secrets they all hold from the past ruin their friendship
and lives forever?
Message to the Readers
from Terri D.
I am a single mother of three. I once read that children bring our subconscious
issues into life. They show us the parts of us that we need to heal. My children
have always been my inspiration to push myself to get to the next level. I see
little pieces of me in each of them but they have all grown up to have their own
distinct personalities.
I have kept journals as far back as I can remember. I always liked to write and
express myself in writing. I have often been told I express myself in writing
better than I do verbally. I dabbled in poetry from time to time, but have
always gravitated more towards music. I am a singer and have also used that as
an outlet for my creative energy. I come from a very musical family. All of our
activities usually involve music in some form or fashion. I still sing in
church, as often as possible, however, my writing intensified ten years ago
while going through my divorce. It was a way for me to express myself without
exposing what was really going on inside of me.
Intimate
Conversation Michael McGrew
Michael McGrew can be described in one word, “visionary.” Naturally born
with a gift in storytelling, writing a gripping novel is a walk in the park for
this Los Angeles native. When asked about his role models and inspiration
growing up, he simply explained that “Life itself and what it offers every day
is a lesson and every lesson, if learned is the best advice the universe can
give you.” He is a very diverse individual with a mind that invites the
reality in which we choose to either accept or ignore. We just choose to ignore
the imperfections in our own perfect world.
BPM: Tell us about your journey becoming a successfully published author. Do
you have anyone in your life that was heavily influential in your deciding to
become an author?
My journey is coincidental considering I couldn't stand to read at all as a
youth, but I've always been a good story teller. As far as any influences that
helped me make a decision I'd have to give credit to time. I didn't grow up with
a role model or professionals to look up to and time allowed me to learn who I
was, therefore giving me the ability to acknowledge my strengths.
Intimate
Conversation with
Cheryl Lacey Donovan
Cheryl Lacey Donovan is a nationally recognized evangelist and public
speaker. As founder of Worth More than Rubies Ministries, Cheryl has become one
of the nations leading conference presenters. A noted author and internet radio
personality, she has influenced the lives of thousands of women in the U.S. and
abroad. Cheryl’s calling to inspire, motivate, & educate others is evident
as her passion to help women discover their authentic purpose and destiny comes
through in her books, CD's and devotionals.
Women What the Hell are
You Thinking Now? Transform Your Thinking to Transform Your Lifeby
Cheryl Lacey Donovan
Join Author and Evangelist Cheryl Donovan as she discusses her new book Women,
What the Hell are You Thinking Now? This series of discussions is designed
to help individuals identify the strongholds in their lives and tear them while
seeking to live the abundant life God intended.
BPM: Cheryl share with us a quote from one of the most powerful chapters.
"You can't get to the next level if you're stuck on the ground floor."
Intimate Conversation with Nikki Coe
Nikki
Coe began writing as a hobby. Employed by the USPS for nearly twenty years
in several different capacities and locations, Nikki Coe is an expert on the
postal experience. An avid reader, Nikki is familiar with the types of literary
works that appeal most to women and she writes to that appeal. Nikki has created
characters that people talk about; characters that endear and emotionally
involve the reader. Her characters experience common problems that are solved in
unorthodox ways. Visit her website at: www.nikkicoe.com
BPM: Introduce us to Rain, Snow, Sleet or Hail.
What’s really going on at the Post Office? The main characters in Postal Blues
meet at a safety briefing and form an unlikely friendship that working together
night after night reinforces. Bailey Jenkins, Lisa Johnson, Tonya Elson and
Jackson Andies, take the reader on an amusing trip thru the United States Postal
Service as they deal with irritating co-workers, inept management and postal
violence. In their private lives, newly found love, single parenting, an
adoption gone wrong and broken hearts keeps the reader turning the pages.
Happiness
by Opal Craine
It’s when you know how to enjoy the small moments in everyday; it’s
appreciating the randomness of it all in every way.
It’s the jolly you feel from a good hard laugh, the refreshing feeling of a
good hot bath,
It’s good conversation over dinner for two, it’s someone you love saying I
love you too.
It’s being enlightened by a beautiful mind, expressions of gratitude towards
an act that’s kind.
It’s the cataract victims’ brand new sight-enjoying the beauty of a full
moon’s light.
It’s cancer hiding its face in remission, a good man taking your daughter’s
hand with permission.
It’s working hard to lose the excess weight, finally getting compliments and
being asked out on dates.
It’s conception for the woman who’d been unable to conceive or a goal that
was reached that seemed impossible to achieve.
It’s the experience of staring death straight in the face, renewing your
strength and finding you place.
It’s a timely sermon from your favorite preacher, the sense of accomplishment
of a mentor or teacher.
It’s the excitement of catching your first fish, thankfulness for a love one
cooking your favorite dish.
It’s finding an old friend and feeling home again, it’s swallowing your
pride and making amends.
It’s Dad with girls when he finally gets a son, it’s appreciation for family
and special loved ones.
It’s the joy of a parent on graduation day, after struggles, and trials-they
turned out okay.
Happiness is accepting that situations will come your way-believe in someone
greater who can make the storms obey.
Poem written by Opal Craine, Ladies of the Round Table Bookclub
Copyright 2010. All Rights Reserved.
Why I Write
by Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa
I was born into a world of stories full of color and warmth and tragedy and magic and humor. I was born into a world of music and intuitive knowing and overpowering scents. But when I went to school, I was told that reason and logic were the only acceptable ways of knowing. Emotions clouded reality. Definitions had to be exact, measurable, black and white, no in-betweens. Keep it simple, I was told.
But I was not simple. I was a black, Puerto Rican female in a world that insisted that I be one or the other and valued none of those parts of me. After years of trying to fit my round self into a square world, I gave up. Those rules made no sense to me. And so I began to write my world, my way.
I write first and foremost because the stories I grew up reading in school bore no resemblance to world of my family and my community. Those stories did not tell about the way the sun fell on my grandmother’s hands as she handed me my fresh bread and butter breakfast every morning or the smell on my abuelo’s skin when he came home from the cane fields. Nowhere did I see my family’s many shades of brown complexions or the sound of my mother’s voice when she called me mamita. I write because those images of my life will not allow me to be silent. I write because somewhere down the road, I’d like a little black Puerto Rican girl just like me to find herself in the world of American letters. And that little girl? She’s already waiting.
Dahlma was born in Puerto Rico and raised in New York City. She is a product of the Puerto Rican communities on the island and in the South Bronx. She attended the NYC public school system and got her academic degrees from SUNY-Buffalo and Queens College. As a child she was sent to live with her grandparents in Puerto Rico where she was introduced to the culture of rural Puerto Rico, including the storytelling that came naturally to the women, especially the older women, in her family. Much of her work is based on her experiences during this time. Dahlma taught creative writing, language and literature in the New York City School system before becoming a young adult librarian. She has also taught creative writing to teenagers, adults and senior citizens throughout NYC while honing her own skills as a fiction writer and memoirist. Since her retirement, she has dedicated herself to her writing. Dahlma lives in the Bronx with her husband, Jonathan Lessuck. She can be contacted through her web page at
www.llanosfigueroa.com
"[A] compelling debut…Beautifully told by Llanos-Figueroa, this is an unforgettable saga of the magical beliefs binding one family for
generations." --Booklist
This commanding exploration of women's history will resonate with readers of strong African American feminist narratives like those of Toni Morrison and Ntozake Shange. With its unflinching description of slavery, it should also appeal to readers of slave narratives like Charles Johnson's Middle Passage and Manu Herbstein's Ama: A Story of the Atlantic Slave
Trade." --Library Journal (starred review)
"Rejoice! Here is a novel you've never read before: the story of a long line of extraordinary Afro-Puerto Rican women silenced by history. In Daughters of the Stone, Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa rescues them from oblivion and richly, compellingly, magically, introduces them to literature--and to the world. Bienvenidas!"
--Cristina García, author of A Handbook to Luck
"This is a remarkable first novel, both magical and deeply real, that vividly renders the power of storytelling to a diasporic people. The story of each woman in her own time and place is like a luminous fiber, meticulously spun from hay into gold, which woven together creates an unforgettable history, grounded in a black stone that symbolizes the legends and rituals of the Old Ones, but spiraling into a wider world that connects stone to memory and earth to continents. I am happy to add such a clairvoyant new voice to the Latina literary heritage. Llanos-Figueroa's 'Fela', with her embroidery skills, her dreaming, and her dance of loss and survival, is kindred spirit to my own 'Concepción'. I could not resist the magnetic pull of these
stories." --Alicia Gaspar de Alba, author of Calligraphy of the Witch
BPM: Dahlma, introduce us to your main characters in Daughters of the Stone.
Daughters of the Stone follows the lives of five generations of Afro-Puerto Rican women focusing on the legacy passed from one generation to the next.
Fela is an African woman, captured and sold into slavery in Puerto Rico.
Mati, her daughter is a healer who needs to establish a place of safety for herself and her people.
Concha has to choose between her mother's tradition and the wider European society.
Elena is the first educated in her line. She chooses a different path.
Carisa grows up in NYC and has to reconcile her life with the traditions of the past.
BPM: Who are your favorites in Daughters of the Stone?
Each one has strengths that I admire and weaknesses I can learn from. I couldn't pick a favorite any more than a mother could pick a favorite child.
BPM: What makes you powerful as a person and as a writer?
I think one thing that makes me very strong is recognizing that I didn't get where I am by my will alone. I stand on the shoulders of other very strong and creative women. When I stop honoring what they lived and died to give me, that's when I lose my way.
BPM: Who are your mentors?
The female members of my family to whom I dedicated the book are my first and strongest mentors. Artistically, I owe a great deal to Toni Morrison and Isabel Allende. Their work gave me permission to tell my story my way and helped me find my own voice. They also gave me the courage to speak about the unspeakable.
BPM: How would you complete this sentence, My writing offers the following legacy to future readers...?
Everyone from every culture has important stories to tell--whether in the privacy of their homes or on the page. I encourage everyone to find an elder and listen. Write down the stories, collect them, pass them down to the next generation. These are the only sign posts that we can leave for those who come after us. We all need the lessons of the past so we can build a better future. It is only in forgetting that we grow weaker.
BPM: What specific situation or revelation prompted you to write Daughters of the
Stone?
There were many reasons for my book coming about. I'll pick just one. As a child I was sent to live with my grandmother in Puerto Rico. At home in the Bronx I had the television to keep me company in the evenings. But in Puerto Rico, I remember sitting in a corner of my grandmother's porch and listening to the women on the porch telling stories. They sat in their rockers and talked about everything that went on in the town. They told jokes, corrected each other's memories and told and retold family tales. Years, decades later when those women were all gone, I remembered those stories and felt so connected. It occurred to me that those women's voices were never heard in the literature that I read or the media stories that reflected only the stereotypical images of Puerto Rican life. I felt that it was time for those voices to be heard.
BPM: How will reading your book shape the reader's lives?
Hopefully, my book will motivate them to look at their own family stories and examine how their lives have been influenced by what came before.
BPM: Ultimately, what do you want your readers to gain from your book?
I'd like them to understand the importance of storytelling in our lives. I'd like them to see the past as a foundation for the future and a conduit of strength and dignity.
BPM: What do you think makes your book different from other on the same subject?
My book covers a journey of 150 years that most people have never thought about. This novel examines the journey of the Puerto Rican family from slavery, through colonialism, to immigration to acculturation to self identity. Many people say that they never knew we had slavery in Puerto Rico. Others are surprised by the hardships suffered by immigrants. Others see the similarities in the characters and situations with their own journeys. Still others focus on the personal voyage of the characters. I'm happy that readers can take any one of these or many other routes to reading and enjoying the book. When that happens, I know I did my job well.
Buy now from Dahlma Llanos-Figueroa's
website
My name is Roxanne and I work for a company that maintains a website on Nursing schools called
Nursingschools.net.
We recently published an article called "10 Greatest Novels for Nurses" that I thought would fit perfectly with readers who love medical themed stories and for nurses who want to relax with a good book. I would like to share the 10 books below.
One great way to escape the pressures and stresses of nursing school or work is to read a great novel. These literary works, featuring nurses and health care facilities, will provide you with a much-needed dose of fun and fantasy while reminding you why you chose the profession in the first place. So if you want to reignite your passion for nursing or just spend a wonderful evening kicking back, check out one of these amazing
novels and follow our blog here: (http://www.nursingschools.net/blog).
1. The English Patient by Michael Ondaatje.
This prize-winning novel was made into a prize-winning movie, but that doesn't mean the literary version still isn't worth checking out. In it, readers will find a story about four entangled lives during the last weeks of WWII. At the center of the drama is the mysterious English patient being cared for by nurse Hana, a man whose memories slowly reveal a tale of love, betrayal and redemption.
2. A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway.
If you've never read this literary classic, it's never too late to start. Set in WWII, the story follows a young soldier named Henry, based loosely on Hemingway's own wartime experiences. When he becomes injured he finds himself falling for the elusive nurse Catherine, a complicated and tragic figure. If you're looking for happy endings, this might not be a good choice, but if you want a moving portrayal of men and women coming to terms with life, both the good and the bad, then pick up this read.
3. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon.
This book is an incredibly popular read among nurses. Why? The main character, Claire Randall, is a nurse herself serving in the British Army during WWI. But this is no traditional novel, as it blends elements of fantasy, romance, historical fiction and legend to tell Claire's tale. In it, the happily married Claire finds herself suddenly transported back in time where she meets and falls in love with another man. Torn between her two loves and two centuries, Claire's story is one of passion, pain and intrigue that's sure to keep you reading page after page.
4. The Thin White Line by Craig DiLouie.
While the panic associated with avian and swine flu turned out to be overblown, the reality is that a pandemic illness could hit and wipe out entire communities at any time. This novel takes a look at what could and quite possibly would happen if such an epidemic were to hit Canada. It is a fascinating takes on both the personal and political ramifications of such a disaster and is a great read for any nurse with an interest in infectious disease.
5. The Healer's War by Elizabeth Ann Scarborough.
Drawing on her own experiences, Scarborough creates the fictional Kathleen McCulley in this novel, a nurse on a tour of duty at China Beach in Vietnam. Dealing with not only healing the battle wounds of soldiers but her own ambivalence towards the enemy, the racism of her charges and her own personal battles. While the novel is set on the field of battle, nurses in any profession will recognize the courage it takes to keep it together in such a stressful situation.
6. The Glory Cloak: A Novel of Louisa May Alcott and Clara Barton by Patricia O'Brien.
If you were inspired to become a nurse by historical greats like Clara Barton, you'll love this fictional take on her life and work that unites her with the author of the classic novel Little Women. The story follows Alcott and her fictional cousin Susan as they help join the war effort by becoming nurses, encountering the battlefield legend Barton in the process. Blending love, history, friendship and betrayal, the novel is at once engrossing and enlightening about life and work during the turn of the century.
7. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey.
Think you've got a real piece of work for a coworker? He or she is likely nothing compared to the tyrannical Nurse Ratched in this classic novel. Kesey's portrayal of a fictional insane asylum garnered him international acclaim and numerous awards, and the book is still worth a read today. The story centers on Patrick McMurphy, a mental patient who antagonizes his nurse and upsets the daily routine of the other patients, but not without just cause. It is a frank look at the state of institutional care and a must-read for anyone working in psychiatric nursing.
8. My Name Is Mary Sutter by Robin Oliveira.
Set in the Civil War, a young midwife leaves home in this novel to seek out the medical experience she wants in order to help her become a doctor. Readers will find that she gets what she wished for, with vivid descriptions of medical treatments common at the time that would seem like torture or mutilation today, showing just how far we've come with medical advancements.
9. Cherry Ames Nursing by Helen Wells.
This collection of novels was geared towards young girls when it came out in the 40's through the 60's and meant to inspire them to a career in nursing. The young girl the stories center on is at first a student nurse but later becomes a full-fledged professional, all while she solves mysteries, stands up for herself and is a fully independent woman. The novels are surprisingly feminist for their early publication date, and while they contain some nursing stereotypes are still fun, inspiring and entertaining reads for anyone working in the field.
10. No Other Medicine by Gail Ghingna Hallas, RN PhD.
Titled after the quote, "the miserable have no other medicine but hope," this book takes a harsh look at the corruption, ineptitude and downright cruelty that can take place in the medical profession. The author is a nurse herself, which helped her create a nice variety of fictional characters that are richly developed and true to life. While the story was written in the early 70's, many nurses will sadly recognize that many of the issues she addresses are still prevalent in hospitals across the nation. A riveting, compelling (though depressing) novel, it's a great read for anyone with a passion for health care and patient rights.
About the Guest Contributor
Roxanne McAnn, is a freelance Writer and Blogger. Roxanne regularly contribute to the
http://www.nursingschools.net/blog,
which discusses about topics on Medical Education, Nursing Students life, College life, Career, Research, and Medical Technology.
Roxanne would love to connect with the readers who have enjoyed these books or would like more info. Please feel free to send her your questions, comments or suggestion to:
rmcann83@gmail.com.
EMPOWERING SINGLE MOTHERS
RAISING MALE CHILDREN
Step Up Your Game as a Parent: Boys and School by David Miller
In most major metropolitan cities African American males drop out of school at a rate of 50%. These alarming numbers can be turned around! Do you want son to succeed in school? If the answer is yes, then it is time for you to "Step Up Your Game as a Parent!"
Here are just a few other tips to
Step Up Your Game
as a Parent:
» Make reading an essential part of your home life. Read aloud to your son and/or set aside quiet time each day in which your family can sit together and read silently. TURN the TV OFF.
» Use your daily time with your son wisely. When you are in the car or walking to the school bus, talk to your son (s) about what they are learning in school,
or prompt a conversation about a topic that they find interesting and intriguing.
» Know what interests your son. Be involved in all aspects of your son's school career.
» Encourage your son to register for educational extra-curricular programs. Parental encouragement makes a huge difference in whether children go to [educational] out-of-school-time programs.
» Monitor your son's technology. Always be prepared to check his Facebook, MySpace, and Cell phone. Youth have become more interested in social networking than doing homework.
» Stay connected with his teachers. Get the email address and contact phone numbers for your son's teachers. Boys who have a parent involved in their school life tend to do better academically and socially.
» Develop a village of people who can visit your son's school. Many times due to work schedules, parents can't attend important school meetings. Identify others who can advocate for your son. This should include Dad. Often, dad never get announcements about events and meetings at school.
Failure is not an OPTION! This should become the mantra in your house. Our boys need a great deal of encouragement when it comes to school.
Book Suggestion for Parents: Raising Him Alone
Things Black Women Can do to Raise Black Boys to be Men
By David Miller and Matthew P. Stevens
"Raising Him Alone” by David Miller and Matthew P. Stevens is a must read book for single mothers!" -- recommended by Ella Curry, president of EDC Creations Media Group
Raising Him Alone (RHA) is dedicated to researching, designing, and implementing a campaign to support the social well being of single mothers raising boys. Through a series of intense community forums, workshops and support group initiatives, RHA seeks to increase access to resources in the areas of Health & Well Being (Mental Health), Educational Support & Advocacy, as well as Financial
Literacy. For more information on Raising Him Alone, the campaign schedule of events and resources visit,
www.raisinghimalone.com. For more information on David Miller, visit
www.urbanleadershipinstitute.com
Women In Introspection As Seen
In Black American Writing by guest writer
Hiltrud Eve
In past literature portraits of women were reflected only as
a man’s view of what women should be. What women had actually felt and
experienced had not been heard of in literature. Traditionally in most fiction,
men were the central characters and women just played a background figure. When
male writers depict female characters, they often write from a fiercely male
perspective. Women were seen primarily in relation to male protagonist who
occupied the works. Generally African American male writers were in the
depictions of the above stated observation.
Women of African origin in the United States were keenly aware of the impact of
race, class gender and oppression upon their lives. Since slavery they had
struggled individually and in groups to eradicate the multiple injustices which
their communities face. The history of black women in United States began with
the forced migration of millions of African women from the interiors of the west
coast of Africa. They were transported as human cargo across the Atlantic Ocean
to plantations in the West Indies. The enslaved Africans were then sold to
European colonies.
Black women faced misery and suffering in redefining themselves. The
enslaved black women were not given proper medical care, because blacks were
assumed to be less fragile; who gave birth easily and therefore needed less care
than white women. The women were made to work as lumberjacks and turpentine
producers in the forests of Georgia and Carolina. They hauled logs by leather
straps attached to their shoulders. They plowed using mules or oxen and
sometimes worked with heaviest implements available.
Black men under slavery were equally powerless, so the women could not depend
upon them for protection, but at time even they poured out their frustration on
the black women. Therefore the black women had to protect themselves against the
white men. Some were bold enough to rebel and fight against their masters; some
even murdered them while they managed to escape. By the end of nineteenth
century numerous clubs and organizations came to support women suffrage and gave
priority to social and political issues that affected the black community as
well as black women specifically. The
National Association of Colored Women formed in 1896 brought together more
than one hundred black women’s club.
Many movements like the Civil
Rights Movement (1955-1965), started by Martin Luther King came up to rebel
against racism presented by the Black Panthers. Student
Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and others came face to face with
black liberation. The Black feminist movement grew out of and in response to the
Black
Liberation Movement and Women’s Movement in an effort to meet the needs of
black women who felt they were being racially oppressed in women’s movement
and sexually oppressed in the black liberation movement.
Segregation breeds hostility and fear, superiority and inferiority. In
the 1930s and 1940s, African-Americans is the southern states of the USA were
treated with contempt by the majority of white people. There was segregation.
Black people were not allowed to have good school, good jobs, good housing or
medical treatment. They were kept poor and ignorant. They had to treat white
people with respect and show great humility. They were employed by whites, but
were paid very little.
Black children feared whites, and in fact, as in the case of the author, did not
think of them as being human. At that time in America, women had a lower place
in society that man, both for whites and Blacks. During the times of
slavery, the order of importance in American Society was clearly mapped out.
First the white males, next white women, then black males, and finally black
women. So being a black woman was thought to be as low in society as one
could be. They were servants to whites and servants to men. However,
things were different in the north. Blacks had a much easier time than those in
the south. Black women in general would suffer the same harsh and
unbearable treatment from black men, as they would white, physical abuse,
emotional abuse, and sexual assault were all a part of the everyday lives of
African American women during the age of slavery.
Literature and the Black Womanist/Feminist Movement
Many writers defined the Black
Feminist Movement, but the most notable is Alice
Walker, defining black feminist movement as “Womanism”. Alice
Walker, one of the leading voices amongst black American women writers, has
produced an acclaimed body of work including: poetry, novels, short stories,
essays, and political themed criticisms. Her writings portrays the struggle of
black people throughout history. She is praised for her insightful and riveting
portraits of black culture, in particular the experiences of women in a often
times sexist and racist society.
Alice Walker in her acclaimed womanist prose In Search Of
Our Mother’s Garden defines “Womanist” as “a black
feminist or feminist of color. ” Three main writers heralded the
rise of a new black women’s creative activism. Michelle Wallace’s
controversial Black Macho and the Myth of the Superwoman (1978).
Ntozake Shanges’s explosive play For Colored Girls Who Have Considered
Suicide When the Rainbow is Enuf (1975) and Alice Walker’s powerful and
provocative novel The Color Purple (1982).
Black feminist groups had to overcome three mammoth challenges that no other
feminist group had to face. The first and most important
challenge was to “convince other black women that feminism was their power to
claim. Feminism was not just for other races of women.” 2) They
also had to demand that women of other races “join this fight, this movement,
with them and embrace diversity” and 3) “face the equally
misogynist and gender bias attitude of Black Nationalists.” Alice Walker
and other womanists pointed out that black women experienced a different and
more intense kind of oppression from that of white women.
“ Black Women” says Alice Walker “are of America’s greatest
heroes… Not enough credit has been given to the black women who have been
oppressed beyond recognition.” A good majority of Walker’s novels,
short stories, essays, and poems focus on issues of civil rights, emphasizing
especially the plight of black women, who suffer the dual oppression of racism
and sexism.
Black feminists contend that the liberation of black women entails freedom for
all people, of all races, classes and religions since it would bring
about the end of racism, sexism, and class oppression. The black feminist
writers through their works aimed at demolishing the negative portrayal of black
people by white writers and society. They presented their people as complete,
whole and independent and not as the downtrodden people who were suppressed for
hundreds of years. Though black feminist writers wrote of a particular race, yet
they had a universal appeal because the oppression of women exists in all
communities, male-female relationships, emotions, feelings were same for all
human beings.
Legendary
Feminist Writers: Toni Morrison, Maya Angleou, Jamaica Kincaid and
Rita Dove were also noted feminist writers who talked about the sufferings of
black American women in their writings. Other important
Black feminist authors include: Kimberle Crenshaw, Sapphire, Jewelle
Gomez, Ann Allen Shockley, Bell Hooks, June Jordan, Patricia Hill Collins,
Audre Lorde, Becky Birtha, Donna Allegra, and Cheryl Clarke.
The legendary Toni Morrison's writing created a sound impact of the
representation of Black women in literature. Toni Morrison’s novels
revolved round the theme of isolation and identity, tales of the disposed and
disillusioned black voice. Toni Morrison’s novels revealed a black
woman’s life centered around a love for children, for parents, and bereft
always of an autonomous self. Toni Morrison’s novels stressed the need
for self-discovery and self- identity leading to self- actualization.
Zora
Neal Hurston was serious cataloger of African American folk stories,
dialect and religious practices. Hurston wrote four novels and more than 50
published short stories, plays, and essays. She is a legend in the
literary world. Several of Hurston's literary contemporaries criticized
Hurston's use of dialect as a representation of African American lore. The
credit of Hurston’s rise to current literary greatness goes to Alice Walker.
An article, "In Search of Zora Neale Hurston", written by Alice Walker
for the March 1975 issue of Ms. Magazine renewed interest in Hurston's work.
In her works, Walker found African American people were
presented as complete and complex individual undiminished by the negative
stereotypes of the characterizations depicted by the society. Hurston was
rejected by society for picturing African American people as whole and complete
in themselves instead of downtrodden, oppressed people. Many contemporary
writers today strive to bring the same solid sense of unity, peace, purpose and
freedom to Black people world wide. Who are your favorite modern day feminist
writers?
Author: Hiltrud Eve, COMPLETED M.A., Mphil. and have six years writing
experience.
Tribute for A Blessing, Caring & Sharing and Faith, Hope &
Love
Peace
and Blessings to all: I have two poems of inspiration to share. Remember at those times when things are not going well, hold on to God's Peace to know He answers prayers and no matter what He is always there.
I read some where that the Lord does not always promise every day will be sunny.
Sometimes days will be clouds and much rain. But He does promise you that He will get you through those cloudy and rainy days that do come. He is always there.
Below is my poem God's Peace. May this poem bless you today and whenever you feel your days are cloudy and full of rain Hold on this poem. And don't forget to pray. And please share this poem with others.
God Bless you,
Doris Washington
God's Peace by Doris Washington
When the world seems too much to bear,
Too much to grasp,
I seek your peace within.
I find your strength to sustain me at all times.
And I pray more than ever before.
For it's your peace that flows like the water
Along any brook or stream.
It's your peace that makes the new fallen snow
So beautiful on a brisk winter's morning.
It's your peace when the birds sing so lovely
On a warm summer's day.
It's your peace when the leaves fall so gently
In October.
It's your peace so beautiful.
When the world seems too much to bear,
Too much to grasp-
I look up to know you're always there.
I thank you for this day.
This day as I begin a new found journey.
Full of the promise and the faith I have found with you.
I thank you for each blessing you bestow upon me.
I sing with abounding joy of your love.
And as I awake each day,
I ask for your anointing.
Giving me the reassurance
That with your grace,
Your mercy,
I can always begin again.
About the Author/Poet
Doris Washington is a spiritual writer, author, poet, and disability advocate who resides in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania with her husband and son John. Doris takes the inspiration from her poetry from an unfortunate incident that involved her 18-year-old son with autism, and two police officers in December 1993. This incident impacted Doris' life greatly. She was empowered to advocate for a statewide program for police officers to be aware of and recognize persons with special needs. And it was through this period of Doris' life her writing began.
Her son is her inspiration to write. She has written over 450 poems about her closeness with God, spirituality, autism awareness, inspirations, positive thinking, social issues in our world, and greetings. She is an entrepreneur of DORIS' POEMS. She does poetry readings at nursing homes, and residential home facilities, churches, and the community. Her poems continue to inspire many. Her desire hopes that her poetry will be an inspiration for the world.
Visit her website today, go.
15 Must Read Books for Parents
of African American Male Children
1. Cool Pose: The Dilemma of Black manhood in America
By Majors & Mancini
2. Beating the Odds: Raising Academically Successful African American Males
By Freeman Hrabowski
3. The Pact: Three Young Men Make a Promise and Fulfill a Dream
By Davis, Jenkins and Hunt
4. Think Big: Understanding Your Potential for Excellence
By Dr. Benjamin Carson
5. Countering the Conspiracy to Destroy Black Boys , Vol I & II
By Jawanza Kunjufu
6. Tough Notes: A Healing Call For Black Men
By Haki Madhubti
7. Kill Them Before They Grow: The Misdiagnosis
of African American Boys in America's Classrooms
By Michael Porter
8. Visions for Black Men
By Na'im Akbar
9. Makes Me Wanna Holla
By Nathan McCall
10. Lessons I Learned from My Father...
By David Miller
11. The Warrior Method
By Dr. Raymond Winbush
12. 10 Steps Out of Puberty
By LaMarr Darnell Shields
13. Turn the Pages and You Don’t Stop: Sharing Successful
Chapters in Our Lives with Youth
Edited by Patrick Oliver
14. Who’s Gonna Take The Weight
By Kevin Powell
15. Raising Him Alone
by David Miller and Matthew P. Stevens
The opening passages of True Confessions contains a powerful suicide scene in which the main character, Kennedy Logan, makes a conscious decision to end her miserable life, in her opinion, with a fatal drug overdose. Questions that immediately invade the reader’s mind are. . . Why? What tragic circumstances or events could lead someone to desire to take their own life? Were there any signs leading up to this decision?
During the course of writing True Confessions, I realized I had grown and matured over the years in my analysis of people, their lives, decisions and relationships.
I used to firmly declare that committing suicide is a coward’s way out. It is too easy to take some pills, use a gun, slash your wrists. . . but it is so much braver to work through your problems or seek professional assistance so that you can lead a full, happy and productive life.
I always firmly stated there wasn’t anything or anyone on God’s green earth who could make me take my own life.
No matter how bad my circumstances may appear, I would never, ever, go out that way.
I still believe that in many ways, but I also believe that people have different breaking points and various thresholds of strength. What I can overcome may be too much to bare for someone else.
We have all heard the saying: God doesn’t give us more than we can handle. Well, maybe God doesn’t. . . but sometimes, for many, life does. Living can become too much, too overwhelming, too painful and the only way to stop the pain is by no longer existing.
During my research for True Confessions, I learned quite a few interesting facts as they pertain to suicide. I’ll share a few.
1. Worldwide there are more deaths due to suicide than to accidents, homicides and war combined.
2. Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the U.S.
3. Approximately 30,000 people in the United States die by suicide every year.
4. A person dies by suicide about every 18 minutes in the U.S. An attempt is estimated to be made once every minute.
5. Every day, approximately 80 Americans take their own life, and 1,500 more attempt to do so.
6. In the U.S., the suicide rate among women is 4.1 per 1,000 while for men it is 17.6 per 100,000.
If you or someone you know feels like you can’t go on, please call one of the suicide hotlines and let someone know your pain. You are not alone.
About the Author
Electa Rome Parks currently resides outside Atlanta, Georgia. After successfully self-publishing her debut novel, The Ties That Bind, New American Library, a division of Penguin Group, bought the rights. Electa signed a three-book deal with New American Library. All three books were immediately chosen as Black Expressions Book Club main selections and embraced as Books of the Month by book clubs across the country. Dubbed a "book club favorite," avid readers have embraced Electa's true to life characters that tackle prevalent and heavy hitting issues.
High Level of Low Self- Esteem
by Electa Rome Parks
“Many women have a high level of low self-esteem” – Michael Baisden
I still recall the first time I heard those words spoken by the then, up and coming nationally syndicated radio host, Michael Baisden, on Atlanta’s #1 urban radio station, V-103.
I clearly recall cringing and being totally outraged. I thought, “How dare he?” attempt to call out my African-American sistahs with such a catchy, yet degrading slogan. “He didn’t know us and if he did, how dare he air our dirty laundry.” I would hear his slogan passionately proclaimed time and time again as he made guest appearances on the show as his popularity grew.
If truth be told, I cringed because I knew women exactly like that. They were my friends, female family members, co-workers, etc.
Over and over again, I witnessed it played out with the same end results. If you keep doing the same thing, you keep getting the same results. My sistah-friends going above and beyond to please a man, any man, a piece of a man, just to feel love and validated. . . yet they were not receiving these things in return.
Each sad relationship story ended the same. After enduring some form of abuse at the hands of a lover, after she placed him on a pedestal, pleased him sexually, lavished him with gifts and money, accommodated his every need, took him back after he cheated, forgave him after he gave her an STD, believed in him once again as he had a baby outside the marriage---yes, it all ended the same. The lover moved on, found someone “better”, someone who respected herself or maybe repeated the pattern with another victim who was willing to give more and receive less.
When the inevitable question was asked between gut-racking sobs, “What did I do wrong?” The answer was always the same. I wanted to scream it from the midst of a mountaintop. “You have to love yourself first before you can expect anyone else to.”
Michael Baisden’s slogan touched a nerve because I had seen these women up close and personal and it wasn’t cute. My sistahs deserved so much more. Much like Kennedy Logan in
True Confessions. Kennedy represents a myriad of women who have a heightened level of low self esteem due to many underlying factors.
In True
Confessions, simply stated, Kennedy loves the wrong man, Drake. She loves him more than she loves herself and he knows that, even thrives on that. I predict her story will make for lively candor at book club meetings as it speaks to many women who have been in or are still in her situation. Women need to take a step back and really look at themselves and ask the question. . . do I value my worth and all I bring to the table?
They are several factors that are clear indicators of low self-esteem. Do any of these speak to you? If so, what are you going to do about it?
Characteristics of Genuinely Low Self Esteem
1. Depression and/or bouts of sadness
2. Anxiety and emotional turmoil
3. Lack of social skills and self confidence
4. Less social conformity
5. Eating disorders
6. Inability to accept compliments
7. An inability to see yourself 'squarely' - to be fair to yourself
8. Accentuating the negative
9. Exaggerated concern over what you imagine other people think
10. Self neglect
11. Treating yourself badly but NOT other people
12. Worrying whether you have treated others badly
13. Reluctance to take on challenges
14. Reluctance to put yourself first or anywhere
15. Reluctance to trust your own opinion
16. Expecting little out of life for yourself
17. Social withdrawal
About the Author
Electa Rome Parks
currently resides outside Atlanta, Georgia. After successfully self-publishing her debut novel, The Ties That Bind, New American Library, a division of Penguin Group, bought the rights. Electa signed a three-book deal with New American Library. All three books were immediately chosen as Black Expressions Book Club main selections and embraced as Books of the Month by book clubs across the country. Dubbed a "book club favorite," avid readers have embraced Electa's true to life characters that tackle prevalent and heavy hitting issues.
Since then Electa has become a bestselling author of several other mainstream (Loose Ends and Almost Doesn't Count) and erotic (These Are My Confessions, Ladies' Night Out, Diary of a Stalker and True Confessions) novels with Penguin Group, HarperCollins and Kensington. The self-proclaimed, Queen of Real, Electa has been a frequent guest on radio shows, has been nominated for many industry awards and has been interviewed by newspapers, AOL's Black Voices, Vibe Vixen, Upscale Magazine, Today's Black Woman, Rolling Out and Booking Matters, to name just a few. With a BA degree in marketing and a minor in sociology, she is following her true passion and working on her next novel and first screenplay.
7 Essential Steps to Writing Your First Novel
By Trevor Johnson
Many people dream of writing their own book. But it remains a dream - maybe a few kind-of started pages gathering virtual dust on a computer somewhere and eventually consigned to the digital dustbin when an upgrade arrives.
So what can you do to make your dream of writing a novel come true? Here are some tips to help you.
1. Make an outline
You need a road map to follow if you are to stand any chance at all of writing your masterpiece. Start with the chapter headings and then a brief outline of what will happen in each chapter.
2. Flesh out your outline
Once you've got the direction of your novel worked out, it's time to put a bit more detail together. Notice that I didn't say start writing "for real" yet. Just add some meat to the chapter heading bones. Aim for around a dozen things that will happen in each chapter.
3. Define your main characters
What do they look like? How old are they? Are they male, female, animal or alien? Write a summary of each character - this will likely end up scattered across your book as each part of their character becomes relevant. But as the author, you need to know these details from day one.
4. Define your main locations
It doesn't matter whether these exist in the real world or not. But these should be defined in the same way you've defined the major players. This crib sheet will help keep your mind on track when you're actually writing your new novel.
5. Start writing
By now, your head should already have a very good idea of the novel you're about to write. Set aside time each and every day to work on your novel. This can be short, ten to fifteen minute, bursts or it can be an hour or more with your hands almost tied to the keyboard. The important part is to do this every day, to help convince your unconscious mind that you're serious. Don't interrupt yourself with editing at this stage. That uses a different part of your brain and will kill your creativity.
6. Edit and polish your work
If possible, read your book out loud. This will raise the places where you literally stumble over your words and will bring out the parts of your book that don't quite make sense. It's actually quite a fun process once you get used to it!
7. Publish
Nowadays you don't need a publisher unless you want one. You can publish your own work on sites like Amazon and indulge in your own publicity with a few press releases. The sky's the limit - go for it!
Ebooks - An Emerging Christian Book Market
by Jacyee Aniagolu-Johnson
In recent years, the ebook publishing market, which has literally exploded in the secular world, is also rapidly becoming an emerging Christian book market. While recent trend of ebook sales may have seen intermittent decline at specific quarters within the past years, ebook sales have also during other quarters reported dramatic increases (1) and experts are still optimistic that ebooks are the future direction; that is in the long run. Some analysts have suggested that any decline of ebook sales seen this year may be attributed to the flooding of the ebook secular market with many low quality materials; this is pretty obvious and one does not need to be an expert to observe this. Others have suggested that much of the information that many ebooks offer are easily obtainable at no cost on the Internet (2); that is with a little focused search on the Internet.
Logically, if you simply follow the surging trend of the technology of electronic devices and the expanding daily use of the Internet, coupled with environmental issues with regards to exploitation of trees for paper printing and other paper products, one can only deduce that the need for ebooks would only increase in the future. The way I see it, ebooks are critical not just to the secular world, but also to the Christian world. We need an inexpensive electronic book publishing outlet, such as the ebook outlet, to augment our current teaching and preaching of the good news of the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
So, if you are already a Christian writer, or you are an aspiring Christian writer, whether you have published a book in the past or not, now is a ripe time for you to start thinking about writing, publishing and possibly selling your own authored ebooks. Just in case you are not familiar with this term, an ebook simply means an electronic book. An ebook can be downloaded and read on an electronic device such as a desktop or laptop computer, or an ebook reader device, a device that is specially made for reading ebooks.
With the rapid Internet and technology device advancement, ebooks are already been published and made available in different formats such as: Adobe PDF or ebook Reader format, HTML format, which is a Hyper Text Markup Language, that combines text and extra information about the text (en.Wikipedia.org), the same format that website pages are created and published, and in Microsoft's LIT format, exebook (an executable file format) and other formats. You would need to spend sometime on the Internet reading information on different possible ebook formats that I cannot begin to list here.
Just know that the same possible ebook formats being used by the secular world is also applicable for creating and publishing Christian ebooks. Likewise, Christian ebook promotion and marketing would also mirror the same approaches as the secular ebook market, only that our ebook content, writing approach and target market may differ. However, be aware that there are a lot of low quality ebooks circulating on the Internet, especially product and website promotional ebooks. You as a Christian writer should strive to write, publish, promote and market high quality ebooks, both in content and design.
There are many uses of ebooks to the Christian world. First, ebooks can be used as a powerful tool for teaching and preaching the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If you have a ministry, a church, a Bible Study group or a faith-based organization, ebooks are an excellent, very cost effective way to produce reading material or cheap books for your members to read. Ebooks are excellent for Christian reading book clubs, youth ministry, and other church groups, especially the evangelism group. Ebooks are in fact a very powerful tool for evangelism.
Now, is the time for a Christian writer, or aspiring Christian writer to start gaining
in-depth knowledge about how to write, publish, and promote and market ebooks. You could in fact sell your ebooks either for profit, or use your proceeds to support various church ministries or Christian faith-based organizations.
There is no one stop resource center for learning about ebooks. There are in fact numerous good Internet-based resource centers that can furnish you at no cost very detailed information on how to write, publish, promote and sell ebooks. Also, you should strongly consider setting up your own website, if you don't have one already. A website provides you an Internet base for people to get to know you, your organization or company, the work you do and the products you offer for sale. For example, you may choose to sell your Christian ebooks, or simply make them available for free download at your website. You can also create a Christian content-rich website where you can provide Bible-based information in the form of articles, ebooks or both, as well as other writing works such as Christian ePoetry.
The process of writing, publishing, promoting and marketing ebooks have become a huge area that requires one, especially Christian writers and publishers, to really make time to learn and understand it. Again, there are numerous content-rich websites that provide very good information. So, take advantage of the free, highly informative and educational material that they offer. But be careful not to be quick to purchase ebook-related products, for example, ebook creating software, before you understand what the product really offers.
Ask other individuals who have used the product for their honest product review. Blogs on the Internet are great avenues for sourcing people's opinions about ebook software and their recommendations based on their use of the software. Don't believe everything you read on the Internet. There are many scams on the Internet and you must be careful, as you take the first step into starting to gather and read information on how to write your first Christian ebook.
References:
1. "Publishers Report Increases in eBook Revenue and Units Sold in Q1 '05" by the International Digital Publishing Forum (www.idpf.org/doc_library/statistics/Q12005.htm)
2. "The Paradigm Shift Of Internet Marketing: The Transition From Ebook Marketing To Software Marketing" by Melvin Perry (Internet entrepreneur), copyright 2005
About the Author
Jacyee Aniagolu-Johnson, PhD is the author of an upcoming Christian non-fiction book release, “Rays of Victory: Nailing Racism to the Cross.” For more information about the upcoming book release by Marble Tower Publishing, LLC please visit
http://www.marbletowerpublishing.com
I grant permission to anyone who wishes to reprint and distribute this article on the condition that it is reprinted and distributed in its entirety, including all specified links.
You’ve seen her, know
her, and might even be her! The woman with the “counterfeit purse.”That’s the term for the symbolic bag that some of us may carry.Those who might dress fashionably and drive a nice car but have nothing
of real value. Many women are smart enough to know that they should put their
hard-earned money to work for them.However,
most are too overwhelmed, bored or intimidated by the particulars of stocks,
bonds and mutual funds to be proactive.
In
A PURSE OF YOUR OWN: An Easy Guide to Financial Security (ISBN:
9781416570813; $15.00), Wealth Coach Deborah Owens shares how women can use what
they know about fashion, dieting and romance to take charge of their finances.
This book offers respite to women who are tired of “renting” a wealthy
lifestyle with credit cards and are ready to utilize their unique strengths to
build wealth-a la Oprah and J.K Rowling.In
this straight-forward and easy to understand financial guide, women learn how to
increase their PQ or Purse Quotient and learn the principles to
becoming financially fit in any economy.
The purse is a reflection
of a woman’s economic power and Owens insists that in order to fill up a
purse, women must adopt wealthy habits that put them on the path to fiscal
independence and a financial identity. These are the behaviors that Deborah
observed in financially successful women throughout her more than twenty years
in financial services.She is a
former financial advisor and was a vice president at Fidelity Investments.A PURSE OF YOUR OWN shares examples of women practicing The 7
Wealthy Habits,” which include: 1. A Wealthy Outlook 2. A Wealthy Appetite
3. A Wealthy Vision 4. A Wealthy Mindset 5. A Wealthy Legacy 6. A Wealthy System
and 7. A Wealthy Focus. A PURSE OF YOUR OWN provides a distinctly
feminine financial perspective.
By adopting these habits,
Owens was able to fill her own purse. As an author, radio talk show host and TV
wealth coach she now shares her successful strategies with others.Each chapter of A PURSE OF YOUR OWN focuses on one of these
principles and discusses how to acquire and then apply the wealthy habits.In this easy to follow financial guide, Owens covers the basics and
intersperses stories from real women who have used the 7 Wealthy Habits and
achieved their own success. Owens empowers women to discover their own Purse-onality,
and use their female intuition to take control of their finances and create
financial security in their lives. In addition, A PURSE OF YOUR OWN
includes helpful quizzes and exercises and offers a free online supplement. [Read
More]
It
was quiet in the room. The sun, closing on the day, was sending her
warmth and comfortable colors through the Venetian blinds. Bewitching,
charming and divine, soft in its touch, enchanting like a rainbow...my eyes
danced with the colors as they turned...and I knew that twilight would soon
have his due.
It was peaceful!
I was surprised at the calm; distant was the rough activity of the world
outside, it seemed to be a complete absence of noise, of agitation, even of
stress. Which was surprising to me under the circumstances, but I was enjoying
this ambience. The bedroom door was closed, which was atypical because we were
the only ones in the house, but somehow it did seem more private.
When I heard the toilet flush, my heart quickened, which made me chuckle, why?
I'm not sure, but I do know that was when thoughts of my age came to mind.
Algebraic equations flowed across the blackboard of my mind. Arithmetic
answering my questions about five years from now, even ten... then eighteen.
Ahhh eighteen, all the years before it are just preparation for that year.
Then the board was wiped with a mental eraser and other numbers flowed,
representing the needs of what might be coming out of that bathroom, from the
first day of confirmation, things have to be brought, and I'm not sure if it
ever stops. I know that it gets increasingly more as the years go by....
That's when my hands starting getting sweaty; although the room was cool, I
could feel the circulating air blowing from the vents. Again, my heart
quickened as I looked at the bathroom door. Was that doubt that knocked!
Just an instant! Then I thought of her!
Her, with her warm smile and her quirky ways, her laugh that sounds so
musical... it made me wonder what she was feeling right now. Did she enjoy any
of the peacefulness that I was enjoying just moments ago, somehow I doubted
that she experiencing that, she probably was wondering about how I was
feeling. That would be just like her, to wonder how I was feeling...
With that, doubt...was knocked down for the count!
When the bathroom door opened, it squeaked on its hinges and I made a mental
note to spray some W-D 40 on it, another strange thing to think about at a
time like this. She didn't come through like I thought she would, instead she
called out my name, she had to call me twice while I found my voice to answer.
My life could possibly change within the next few moments...
"Yes Honey..." I said.
She said something about coming into the bathroom.
Well, I fumbled with my feet and made my way to the bathroom. It was bright
when I stepped inside there; I looked back briefly, to the quietude. The
impression of my thoughts still sitting in the pattern I left on the bed.
I looked into her eyes but didn't see any answer....
Gee, thanks baby... but I didn't say that!
I looked down on the sink counter and viewed the pen shaped medical
apparatus...
There was a plus sign.
"Honey," she started. "You're a New Born Dad!"
Joy! That's what I felt, and when I reached for her hand, I felt her joy too!
"I'm a New Born Dad!"
Written by Alfred Steven Harris, Author of 'Don't Push Me' and 'On-line
Love'
All rights reserved. Copyright April 2010; Email author: aplussolo@yahoo.com
Who's Your
Daddy? by
Debra Burgess
"Who's
your daddy?" In another era this would have been considered an
actual question. In today's language it's considered a colloquial phrase. For
those of us who don't study the dictionary, just think conversational or even
slang. Back to the topic though, "who's your daddy?"
The significance involved with this specific line of questioning should be
interesting to our generation. Is it any wonder it has taken on a life of it's
own in our culture and terminology? How many people do all of us know who have
no father in the picture of daily life? What do we even know to be a father
figure?
I have heard countless tales of disappointments for our "fathers."
When I dig into the matter it often leads into more tales of disappointments
from previous generations. My heart breaks for those who live in the place of
their disappointment, never moving on, always reliving a painful experience.
It's really time to know who our Daddy is so we can stop faltering by
putting all our hopes in the frailty of human beings. People make mistakes.
Once we recognize that truth we are free to move on to deeper understanding.
Our heavenly Father is the only perfect Daddy. I now have to ask
again, "who's your Daddy?"
I love to encourage the heart of people to be who they are meant to be in
Christ. My hope is anything offered of myself would be pleasing first to my
Heavenly Father and secondly to bring a blessing to others. www.debrabee.org
>> Original Article Reprint Source
Author Sharon R. Wells Draws
on Her Past
to Create a Resource Guide for Sexual Abuse Victims
Last
year was a landmark year for Sharon R. Wells. One year ago she created a
business called Angel Wings Publications, LLC, and a website designed to
empower and educate victims who suffer a wide range of repercussions resulting
from sexual abuse.
Today she celebrates the one-year anniversary of her organization at the same
time that she anticipates the publication of her first book, "Without
Permission." "Without Permission" is a candidly-written story
of the many problems Wells has suffered, all of them the result of the sexual
abuse she experienced as a child.
Book
and Website Helps Victims, Friends and Families Struggling
with the Effects of Sexual Abuse
The mission of her website and her book is both simple and critically
important - to build the awareness that can help prevent sexual abuse in the
future.
"I decided to open up and tell my story in the hopes that it may help
spare others the pain of sexual abuse," Wells stated. "I have had
the opportunity to speak at a few panel discussions. I look forward to other
such speaking engagements in the future. My most important goal is to
encourage victims to break their silence and begin to heal. I also hope to
educate and inform people so that they may recognize the various signs of
potential abuse and hopefully prevent other children from becoming victims
too."
She has published her introduction along with the first chapter of
"Without Permission" on her website as a free resource to people
needing help. For people who wish to know her entire story, the book will soon
be available at www.angelwingspublications.com
for $15.
"It is my fondest hope that 'Without Permission' will inform people about
the effects of sexual abuse and encourages sexual abuse survivors to
heal," said Wells. "I also believe my website can be a wonderful
resource for victims and the people who love them. If my book and website can
make a difference in just one person's life, then it will all be worth
it."
Sharon R. Wells, is a writer, entrepreneur, survivor and advocate of
sexual abuse prevention and awareness. It has been her determination,
unwavering faith and perseverance that has helped her to overcome many
challenging obstacles in her life. She has written heartfelt, spiritual and
inspirational essays during her healing journey. This has inspired her to
create Angel Wings Publications, LLC, to help victims find strength, hope and
courage to begin their healing process.
Sharon presently works as an executive liaison for a
prestigious fortune five hundred company located in New York City. Over the
past few years, she has achieved a certification in Human Resource Management
and is also a certified rape crisis advocate.
Book Excerpt: Without Permission A Spiritual Journey of Healing http://www.angelwingspublications.com/?page=news&id=977
"Without Permission" is my personal story of how I have
survived child sexual abuse and my journey towards healing, forgiveness and
finding inner-peace.
As I look back at the turbulence in my life which stemmed from sexual abuse,
it lead me down a path of self-destructive behavior. It included drug abuse,
relationship and trust issues with family and friends. Not to mention, the
long list of typical effects that this particular type of abuse tends to
spawn.
In addition, are stories of courageous survivors who share their stories on
how they have overcome their trauma and began to heal. The stories of victims
may differ in various ways, but the root of the problem is still the same. I
share these thoughts with those who seek comfort and closure. This problem can
torment the victim from childhood throughout their adult lives. This is a
sensitive issue, and for those who have been affected, this may open a door
where you find courage to seek help and support. This is an issue that must be
addressed, and up until now, has had a lack of exposure. It is time to unveil
the secrets without shame or fear, and trust that God will help you find inner
peace.
Annual Resolutions for African American Women
by author Hazel Mills
When people talk about making resolutions for the new year, it usually involves quitting or losing something or someone. For example, millions of people will resolve to quit smoking and twice as many more will promise to lose weight. Beginning
the new year, we will be saturated with television and print ad campaigns for gym memberships, weight loss program and equipment deals as well as products to help with nicotine addiction.
Although these changes in lifestyle are great and for some, can mean the difference between life or death, there are so many other things that we, as African American women, can do to make our lives more healthy, positive and meaningful
throughout 2011.
1. Resolve to spend more time with God. This should be non-negotiable and always first on everyone's to-do list for the new year. He has created so many beautiful and magnificent things, including you. Resolve to attend church or bible study more often than you do now. Make time in your busy day just to say a quiet "thank you".
2. Resolve to ditch the drama. I can't say enough about this one. The stress of living a drama-filled life can affect your mental and physical health. Find ways to get rid of your own and to avoid getting pulled into the madness of others around you. This is much more challenging to accomplish around the holidays.
3. Resolve to take control of your health. On the morning of January 1
and the rest of the year, ask yourself the following vital questions: What is my HIV status? What are my cholesterol numbers? When was my last pap smear and/or mammogram? When did I last see a dentist? If you can't answer these questions definitively, on January 2nd, call your doctor(s) and make an appointment.
4. Resolve not to starve your savings account. 2009 was a year of economic hell and we have all cut back on rewarding ourselves with luxuries like new cars and vacations. Some may have dipped into the piggy bank just to make ends meet. In 2010, try to make a point to put a little something away from each paycheck. It doesn't have to be much. Pennies add up to dollars.
5. Resolve to be more generous. I am not talking about money here. Your time is more valuable than your dollars. Volunteer to read to hospitalized children, to serve food at a local women's shelter or build a home with Habitat For Humanity. The warm fuzzy feeling you'll get from knowing you helped someone else will be worth more than rubies.
6. Resolve to learn something new. The new year is a great time to create new adventures by learning to do something new. Check out your local community college for course selections. Many classes are available in the evening. You can learn all sorts of interesting things like how to play golf, speak a new language, play a mean game of chess, tune-up your car's engine or countless other hobbies. When we stop learning, we stop growing.
7. Resolve to re-unite with an old friend or relative this year. Invite your room-mate from your college days out for dinner and some catching up or call and chat with a cousin whom you haven't seen since the last family reunion years ago. Sharing a laugh always lifts the spirits. But when planning a reunion, remember to heed number 2 on this list.
8. Resolve to be more informed about social and political issues. We all could use a nudge in this department. Celebrity gossip rules the talk show circuit and magazines covers but how well do you know the political climate of your own city? Let's resolve to spend time expanding our minds this year about what is going on in our world and with those we have elected to represent our interests in government.
9.Resolve to take yourself on vacation. Getting away on a shopping excursion with the girls is therapeutic and relaxing on a tropical beach with your significant other is wonderful. But why not take the concept of "me time" to a whole new level by treating yourself to a weekend at the spa? Treat yourself to a one night stay at a beautiful hotel across town. No phones, no text messages, no emails. You can't take care of others if you don't first take care of yourself.
10. Resolve to speak the truth in love. Hard but necessary. People don't always want to hear or accept the truth. Lies make life so much harder than it has to be. If you tell the truth with sugar rather than with salt, it is usually a littler easier for the other person to swallow. They may not agree with you but you don't need a fan club. Respect, from others and for yourself is the goal.
This list is a great place to begin to think about your life and the direction in which you want to go in 2010. Empower yourself to be a better person than you were in 2009. There is always room for improvement and you don't have to wait until the new year to make a change. Today is a good day.
Website: www.hazelmillsstories.com
Copyright 2010 written by author Hazel Mills
Detox
Your Finances by
Deborah Owens
Just
as liquids are important to flush toxins from your system as you diet, a similar
approach can trim the bulge in your budget. Americans have been bingeing on debt
and according to the Federal Reserve Board have racked up more than 2.26 billion
dollars in consumer debt.
Like
dieters who get on the treadmill daily and the pounds don’t come off it can be
difficult to gain control of your finances. The culprit---- fees and monthly
interest charges that have the same affect on your budget that nutritionist say
artificial sweeteners and refined sugar have on weight loss. Here are a few
ideas that you can use to implement a financial cleansing.
Financial
Fast
Like a fast when you’re dieting it is important to approach ridding yourself
from debt gradually otherwise you feel deprived and then start to binge or in
this case overspend. Start by making a list of all your debt and identifying the
largest balances with the highest interest rates first. Pay off your small
balances first and eliminate a bill or tackle the balance with the highest
interest rate in order to short circuit the compound interest on your balances.
The key is to gradually reduce your debt burden and experience a feeling of
financial peace.
Drink
your liquids
When I talk about putting liquidity in your budget I’m not talking about
grabbing a can of Slim Fast, I mean having readily available cash. One of
the main causes of credit card debt is not having an emergency fund. Building
liquidity may require you to cut your expenses. If you haven’t been saving
money, I hope to convince you to reverse that trend.
Make
a commitment to pay yourself ten percent of your take home pay each week and
have it automatically transferred from your paycheck or checking account. into a
savings or a money market account.The trade off is settling for the paltry current interest rates of 1.50%
or less. For listings of top-yielding savings, money market accounts and CDs,
check www.bankrate.com and www.imoney.net
When an emergency happens you can reach for cash instead of credit.
Spend
Organically
Going green in your finances means using cold hard cash. A study on
spending behavior found that people who use credit cards for everyday purchases
spend fifteen percent more than if they were using cash.
Give yourself an allowance every pay period and make a commitment to use cash
only. When you open your wallet and there is no cash it means you have
reached your spending limit. The sweetest sound a financially responsible person
hears is the sound of their wallet or purse snapping shut.
Deborah Owens is the Wealth Coach on My Generation TV on PBS and
is the author of a Purse of Your Own; The Easy Guide to Financial Security
published by Simon and Schuster. Visit www.deborahowens.com
to read an excerpt.
Advice from the Top: What Minority Women
Say About Their Career Success
by author Valencia Campbell
Join me in welcoming author Valencia Campbell to the family. Valencia is a consultant on educational topics and women’s issues. Her completed projects include those for the Baltimore Public School System, National Science Foundation, National Congress of Black Women and the National Council of Negro Women. She has taught sociology courses at Howard University and Bowie State University.
Her many awards include: Governor’s Citation for Work on the Improvement of the Status of Women, Woman of the Year for Southern Prince George’s Business and Professional Women, WHUR Hometown Hero Award, 9to5 National Association of Working Women Awards and a Presidential Appointment to the United Service Organization World Board of Governors from 2006-2008. Valencia holds a Ph.D. and M.A. degree in Sociology from Howard University and B.A. in Sociology from Virginia State University.
Intimate Conversation with author Valencia hosted by Ella Curry of EDC Creations
Cathy Hughes, founder of Radio One, one of the nation's largest radio broadcasting companies, was rejected 32 times for a business loan. Joy Bramble, publisher of the Baltimore Times, started her newspaper business in her kitchen. And Gwendolyn Calvert Baker, former president of the United States Committee for UNICEF, didn't obtain her bachelor's degree until she was in her 30s.
Author Valencia Campbell shares these and other stories in her book, "Advice From the Top: What Minority Women Say About Their Career
Success" (
ISBN-10: 0313358583 | ISBN-13: 978-0313358586 ). Campbell, a Maryland-based consultant on educational topics and women's issues, traces the careers of 14 successful minority businesswomen to find out what challenges they faced and how they worked their way up the ladder. We spoke with Campbell to see what others can learn from the women's experiences.
»Ella: Introduce us to the primary message in your book, Advice from the
Top.
One of the key messages in my book relates to how the minority women define success. A common theme was the idea of setting your own goals and achieving them. Nearly all of the women did not equate money with success despite the fact that they all had achieved considerable financial wealth.
»Ella: What led you to create Advice from the Top now?
I wrote this book to help minority women realize their career dreams. Often we minority women are confronted with race and gender barriers that impact our career aspirations. By learning from the career experiences of other women, we can move ahead at a faster pace. I include specific tips that will help women overcome some of the barriers as well.
»Ella: What impact will Advice from the Top have on the community?
I think my book will inspire women to set their career goals high. Chapter Three for example, shares the amazing stories of millionaire business owners like Cathy Hughes and Eunice Dudley. Also, former Prince George's School Superintendent Iris Metts is included. News anchor Andrea Roane and medical doctor, Beatrice Muglia, among others are included too. Readers will see how the women's family, mentors, professional networks, and personal drive propelled them to success. These women's stories will leave a lasting legacy for those who want to improve the status of women in our society.
Advice from the Top offers tips and advice to minority women and others wondering what it takes to succeed in careers in both the for-profit and non-profit worlds. To gain the insights, Valencia Campbell reviewed research on career success. Then she interviewed fourteen extraordinary minority women, all of whom shared stories about the path to the top of their fields. But this book goes beyond the usual superficial profile of women achievers. Rather, it shares their views on what constitutes success, the factors they consider important to their success, the obstacles they encountered and overcame, and what women can do today to get ahead.
Advice from the Top will inspire minority women who want to advance their careers. The compelling stories described in this book will, further, help them avoid common pitfalls on the road to success. Better, it provides action steps designed to help readers vault the same hurdles with aplomb. Advice from the Top will also help organizations, educational institutions, and business organizations develop and support career and mentoring programs that promote the success of minority women.
»Ella: Is there a defining message that you want readers to grasp and share?
It's so important to me for my readers to start sharing their own stories of success whether it is in a news article, magazine article or their very own book. It is important that minority women across a wide range of occupational fields share their stories.
»Ella: Before we end the interview, define SUCCESS. What part does GRATITUDE play in achieving success, in your opinion?
Like the women I interviewed, I believe that success is achieving goals that you set for yourself. You should not let others define success for you. When we receive support from our families, mentors, professional and or social networks, we can show our gratitude by helping someone else realize their career dreams.
Cedric
Muhammad, a unique political, business and macroeconomist, has influenced the
worlds of culture, electoral politics and finance. His analysis and advice are
sought by World Leaders, Members of Congress, entertainers, activists,
journalists, and businesspersons. As President of CM Cap, he has advised a
range of individuals and institutions from first-time entrepreneurs to
international governmental bodies. He has been published or appeared in
respected financial media such as The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg
Financial News.
In
the Spring of 2004 Cedric successfully consulted the campaign of Cynthia
McKinney, helping her to return to Congress, representing the Fourth
Congressional District Of Georgia. Cedric served as chief strategist to the
campaign.
Also in the Summer of 2004, Mr. Muhammad was hired by Source Enterprises CEO,
Mr. David Mays, to serve as a strategic consultant to the CEO and The Source
Magazine, the most widely circulated Hip-Hop magazine in the world.
Video
Book Introduction: Cedric Muhammad gives an Overview of each of his three volumes in his
brand new Book Series entitled "The Entrepreneurial Secret to Starting a
Business: Without a Bank Loan, Collateral or Revenue." Volume 1 - 'The
Political Economy'; Volume 2 - 'The Business Principles'; & Volume 3 - 'The
Personal Struggle'. Purchase the series
here.
The
under 40 year old’s unique background in the entertainment industry,
congressional campaigns, and media provide him with valuable skill sets and a
network which he deploys in a variety of causes and ventures. An example is
Cedric’s brokering of a meeting between Congressman Bennie Thompson and
Hip-Hop artist David Banner to discuss local and national economic empowerment,
education and community development in July of 2005.
Cedric
served as General Manger of the multi-platinum music act, Wu-Tang Clan,
negotiating its tour with Rage Against the Machine in 1997, and endorsement deal
with Pepsi Co. That same year, he established an inner city consulting firm
advising McDonald’s Corporation and the Department of Housing and Urban
Development, among others.
In
2000, he debuted BlackElectorate.com,
a news-analysis daily covering issues and events that impact the global Black
electorate. The site is viewed in over 50 countries. Cedric
also runs Black Electorate Economics University (BEEU) - an online school
dedicated to making separate branches of economic thought applicable to everyday
life. BEEU’s student body is comprised of professionals, college
students, investors, and working class laborers, in America and in over 10
countries. Course topics include, personal finance, entrepreneurship, business
strategy and international monetary policy.
In
2007, Cedric founded the unique multi-media broadcast network, The Black Coffee
Channel (http://www.blackcoffeechannel.com/)which
hosts "The Cedric Muhammad And Black Coffee Program" and covers
culture, politics, and business developments on the ground, in the Black-English
speaking world. Cedric’s
weekly column on music industry marketing trends and business models, “The
Hip-Hoppprenur™” can be read each week at AllHipHop.com. For more
information on Cedric and his work visit his website at: http://www.cedricmuhammad.com
Featured Bookclub 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: 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.
Marriage 101 : Building a Life Together by Faith
by Jewell R. Powell
7
STEPS TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM
What is financial freedom? More than just a dollar amount on your paycheck,
financial freedom is a state of mind. It’s the comfort of knowing you’re
debt-free. Getting started with eliminating debt is easier than you think. If
you follow these seven simple steps, you’ll be on your way.
1.
Change the way you look at money – renew your mind!
We tend to think of money as the enemy, a scapegoat for all of our financial
woes. Learn to look at money as a means to living comfortably, not the cause of
your struggles. Ultimately, we are the ones who decide where our money goes.
It’s not like dollar bills sprout legs and go buy a new TV, right? Money
discussions can be uncomfortable for many married couples, but talking is an
important first step. A good book on this is “Secrets of the Millionaire
Mind” by T. Harv Eker or “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki.
2. Get out of debt – owe no man anything!
Living with debt is more than a financial drain and mounting interest. It’s
also constant worrying over whether you can pay your bills. Here’s the most
effective (and simple) way to tackle your debt: Start by paying off the credit
card with highest interest rate. Set some specific goals here. How much extra
can you pay each month? Always make more than the minimum payment. Once that
card has been paid off, start working on the bill with the next highest
interest. Throughout this process, you should be paying the minimum on all of
the credit card bills you have. Check out this free e-course on getting out of
debt (http://www.youneedabudget.com/index.php#order).
3. Don’t create any more debt – be a wise steward!
Now that you credit card balance is down to zero, you want to keep it that way.
To remain debt-free, all you have to do is spend less than you take in. Easier
said than done? Maybe. This is another opportunity to have a good heart-to-heart
talk with your spouse about both of your spending habits. Some people recommend
cutting up all your credit cards. However, keeping one credit card as a safety
net in case of emergency is perfectly fine. Keep only one card, take it out of
your wallet, and put it some place less accessible – such as your family’s
fire safe. The time it takes to get out the card will serve as a “cooling
off” period.
4. Create a budget – count the cost!
Budget can be an unpleasant word – like ‘diet’. But don’t think of it as
depriving yourselves – think of it as investing in yourselves. Which sounds
better: one dinner at your favorite steak house or going to be every night
knowing you’re debt-free? Think of your budget as an opportunity to cast a
vision together as a couple. What’s important to both of you? Your spending
should reflect your values, what you hold most dear in your heart. Here’s a
simple software program you can use for creating and keeping your budget
together(http://www.youneedabudget.com/index.php#order).
5. See where it goes – make a list and check it twice!
For an entire month, track everything you both spend money on – down to the
last penny. Evaluate whether you are prone to making impulse purchases. Also,
look at whether advance planning will help. For instance, plan your meals at
least a week in advance. Multiple trips to the grocery store mean multiple
opportunities for impulse purchases.
6. Start saving – plan for the future!
Build yourselves a nice cushion of cash. After you’ve lowered your debt and
begun living on a budget, you should money to put into a savings account each
month. When an emergency arises, you’ll have cash to cover the expenses – no
need to borrow money or use a credit card.
Seek wise counsel about different kinds of accounts you can use to save money
tax-free. For example, you can contribute to a 401(k) and steadily build a nice
nest egg – and the difference in your net paycheck is so small you might not
even notice it.
You’re
not limited to stocks, bonds, and savings accounts, either. There are a lot of
pretty creative ways to save money that you might not have considered before.
Check out www.liveoutloud.comfor some great ideas.
7. Get insurance – get yourself into good hands!
If you don’t both have enough health insurance, one accident or illness could
devastate you financially. Even if you have insurance through work, evaluate
whether it’s enough to prevent a financial crisis. Consider getting
supplemental insurance if you believe you’re underinsured. Also, don’t
overlook disability insurance. Should you find yourself unable to work, debt is
guaranteed to mount. You might think extra insurance is too expensive – but
you’re wrong! For most young adults, life insurance and disability insurance
cost less than a dollar a day. You’ll never know unless you ask – so call
around and start learning about your options.
Small
changes add up quickly. Don’t let bad money habits wreck your marriage.
You’ve got to both be committed to this goal if you’re going to make it
happen.
Financial freedom is closer than you think. Don’t wait a minute longer to
achieve your dream – start on these seven steps today!
A little shy girl who grew into a woman with dreams and a voice to be heard
And no one told me this world was going to be so cold
I am but a spec on the earth from up above, looking down
I am but one,
I am but a person,
I am but another writer, another author, another expression of my serenity
I also recognize I want to get noticed...but no one knows my name
I can hear a mild sound, a distance bump-bump in the night,
It is my heart and it is yearning and sometimes stirring with mixed emotions, not knowing which turns are right
Walking on a line so thin, trying desperately to figure out my pathway
I already tried to be someone else, but I now know I can only be me, and yes… I have a name
Calm, delicate, watching the world pass right in front of me,
I see love and hate – a world filled with so much drama and different attitudes
And I just feel full of energy and take on the world by writing in magnitude
Writing is my comfort, it is my Life – I sometimes find myself hidden behind the words on the page
Words for people to read, enjoy, cry and laugh,
I’ve made my decision, and you will find out it’s affections upon you - generations upon generations
I’m ready to say what’s on my mind, so I need your attention, because this may take you on many elevations
I’ve been chained, banged, whipped and multiplied
And you don’t know my name
I’ve raised many children – some, not my own, and they have carried my values and fed from me
I have slaved the fields and held down an entire generation
And I am everyone’s mother, it seems
I’ve been called the minority because of my gender and my race
I have to fight with words and stand by my man and defend my family
If you only knew what these eyes have witnessed…Go ask you grandmother
The world is changing and things are happening, and if you don’t pay attention…well… you may have already missed it
A new generation, a new time…afro-puffs and hand cuffs, trying to fight for freedom. Black Power!
I now have many roles
I have my struggles, but I move on, cause my kind is strong like that
I can be anyone, the opportunity is there for me to grab
Visions, desires, and new challenges…
I am taking on the world with boldness
And yes, you will remember my name, because I am a Black Woman
An undeniable, evident, special, beautiful, God-fearing, phenomenal Black Woman
Bankruptcy
Ain't Broke
Putting the pieces back together through life lessons.
by Theresa D. Royal, CMP
Finally, a straight talk book about bankruptcy through the eyes of a regular person. This is not a rags to riches story. This is a true life account of the emotional ups and downs of filing bankruptcy and putting the pieces back together through lessons learned.
Theresa Royal is an entrepreneur who dispels the myths that everyone who files for bankruptcy has bad credit or is just trying to get out of paying their debts. Bankruptcy "Ain't" Broke will give a true account about the struggles of bankruptcy and dig deep into this taboo subject, especially in the African American and Latino communities. It's a subject that is whispered about in minority communities but is often discussed openly in other ethnic groups. Bankruptcy in most cases helps folks who have no way out of a really bad financial situation.
TD Royal Enterprises, LLC Company Overview:
This straight talk book about bankruptcy and the lessons learned was a God ordered process. Theresa, an entrepreneur specializing in event planning, was forced to file bankruptcy in 2006 due to her putting her trust in one client, and not putting her trust in God. She had good credit all of her life but due to the unethical practices of this client, her finances spun out of control.
In addition, she had never been late on her mortgage payments until her income was abruptly cut off. Even though she tried to work out a forbearance with the mortgage company, they accelerated the foreclosure process and she found herself in a situation where her home was about to be auctioned off within a very short period of time. After many phone calls for help from so-called friends and family, the last option was to file bankruptcy to save her home.
Theresa D. Royal, who holds a degree in Small Business Management from Central Pennsylvania College, dispels the myths that everyone who files for bankruptcy has bad credit or is just trying to get out of paying their debts. Bankruptcy “Ain’t” Broke will give a true account about the struggles of bankruptcy and addresses this taboo subject, especially in the African American and Latino communities. It's a subject that is often whispered about in minority communities but is discussed openly in other ethnic groups. Bankruptcy in most cases can help those who have no way out of a really bad financial situation.
She is also the owner of TD Royal Enterprises, LLC, the holding company for her book publishing, event planning, real estate investing and other business ventures she is pursuing, and is the President and CEO of Entrepreneurs and Professionals Network (EPNET), an organization that encourages individuals, especially minorities, to pursue their passion of owning their own businesses. She plans to educate others about bankruptcy and will release a second book in the near future.
This straight talk book about bankruptcy and the lessons learned was a God ordered process. Theresa, an entrepreneur specializing in event planning, was forced to file bankruptcy in 2006 due to her putting her trust in one client, and not putting her trust in God. She had good credit all of her life but due to the unethical practices of this client, her finances spun out of control.
Share
with us your news, events and articles. If
you would like to submit articles for the Black Pearls Magazine, please check
out our editorial calendar and send in your stories at least 2 weeks prior to
the deadlines. You can post to any topics designated for that month. Edit your
work well and share it! Read the submission
guidelines here.
Your
submissions to EDC Creations signifies that you agree to our terms and policies.
We also accept book excerpts, reader's guides and audio interviews.
Seeking
Book Reviewers EDC
Creations seeks to add avid readers to our community as book reviewers. We would
like readers to share their honest opinions about the books they read. You do
not have to be a professional writer, we want to feel your passion for reading.
Reviewers receive books from EDC Creations’ publishing partners monthly.
You can review our policy for book reviewers by
clicking here. Email Ella Curry for more details at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
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Seeking
Book Club Interviews Ella
Curry and EDC Creations celebrates the rise of book clubs in the publishing
industry. We host monthly tributes and parties for our featured book clubs. You
too can become a Black Pearls Bookclub Star! Request that your book club obtain
a interview and receive a gift bag of books!
Your book club and network of friends are invited to check all the great authors
in the Bookclub Reading Room and to explore
the magazine for your next featured book of the month. Email Ella Curry for more
details or to request the interview questions at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
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and BPM Video Chat We
host bi-weekly Skype and BPM video chat sessions to introduce authors to our readers. Do you want
an author to visit with you and your friends without leaving home? Add us as a
friend at Skype and you can join the fun. If you would like to be invited to our
BPM Meet the Authors Video Segments,
sign up here.
Skype ID: [ edc1creations]
Join
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your Skype friend list. Also, send me your Skype address so that I can add you
too! Email your Skype ID to: edc_dg@yahoo.com
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Seeking
Blog Tour Hosts
and Radio Hosts Each
month EDC Creations hosts a tour of 5 wonderful authors. We travel across the
web sharing our message of Give the Gift of Knowledge. We are now seeking
bloggers, book clubs and book lovers to host the authors on their websites,
blogs or radio shows. If you would like to feature authors on your website or
blog, we provide all the material for you. It's as simple as emailing us your
interest.
We
will hold live readings weekly and would like for readers to share the news on
Twitter, Facebook and Myspace. Gather 5 or more friends and meet us for an
online party! We promote great books via the phone, Skype and the web. Great
benefits available for tour hosts. Email Ella Curry for more details on joining
the tours at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
Please take a moment to view our previous tour
hosts here.
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Business
Interviews Requested Do
you have a great business that serves our community? Tell Black Pearls Magazine
about it! We are seeking community leader interviews. We showcase 5 business
owners per month. Email Ella Curry for more details at: edc_dg@yahoo.com
The
Black Pearls Magazine family wants to take the time 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 decade 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
Lawyer
and author Pamela Samuels Young continues to receive accolades for her
page turning legal thrillers that present the legal detail and mouthwatering
suspense of John Grisham, combined with the understanding of urban love,
explosive language and humor of Terry McMillan. Young's latest offering, the
gripping and suspenseful legal thriller, "Buying Time" has been
honored by the Black Caucus of the American Library Association (BCALA) as the
winner of its 2010 Fiction Award. The BCALA Literary Awards recognize excellence
in adult fiction and nonfiction by African-Americans.
Betrayed
by her cold, callous mother and abused by her alcoholic stepfather,
eighteen-year-old Simone Woodard is kicked out of the house like a bag of trash
and left to survive on her own. While struggling to create a life for herself,
her beauty and innocence captivate Kevin Kennard, a handsome, hazel-eyed felon
with an addiction to all things illegal. For the first time in Kevin's life,
real love has him rethinking his criminal path. But the action on the street
refuses to take a backseat and pull Kevin into his worse nightmare. 
Secrets.
Lies. Half-Truths. A poignant tale of a circle of close knit friends
whose lives are more intertwined than they realize. That is until the blurred
lines of Love, Lust and Friendship begins to reveal the half-truths and lies
that exist. Will the secrets they all hold from the past ruin their friendship
and lives forever?
Michael McGrew can be described in one word, “visionary.” Naturally born
with a gift in storytelling, writing a gripping novel is a walk in the park for
this Los Angeles native. When asked about his role models and inspiration
growing up, he simply explained that “Life itself and what it offers every day
is a lesson and every lesson, if learned is the best advice the universe can
give you.” He is a very diverse individual with a mind that invites the
reality in which we choose to either accept or ignore. We just choose to ignore
the imperfections in our own perfect world. 
Cheryl Lacey Donovan is a nationally recognized evangelist and public
speaker. As founder of Worth More than Rubies Ministries, Cheryl has become one
of the nations leading conference presenters. A noted author and internet radio
personality, she has influenced the lives of thousands of women in the U.S. and
abroad. Cheryl’s calling to inspire, motivate, & educate others is evident
as her passion to help women discover their authentic purpose and destiny comes
through in her books, CD's and devotionals.
Nikki
Coe began writing as a hobby. Employed by the USPS for nearly twenty years
in several different capacities and locations, Nikki Coe is an expert on the
postal experience. An avid reader, Nikki is familiar with the types of literary
works that appeal most to women and she writes to that appeal. Nikki has created
characters that people talk about; characters that endear and emotionally
involve the reader. Her characters experience common problems that are solved in
unorthodox ways. Visit her website at: 
BPM: Dahlma, introduce us to your main characters in Daughters of the Stone.
Book Suggestion for Parents: Raising Him Alone 
Peace
and Blessings to all: I have two poems of inspiration to share. Remember at those times when things are not going well, hold on to God's Peace to know He answers prayers and no matter what He is always there.
I read some where that the Lord does not always promise every day will be sunny. 
About the Author/Poet
The opening passages of 
About the Author
About the Author
In recent years, the ebook publishing market, which has literally exploded in the secular world, is also rapidly becoming an emerging Christian book market. While recent trend of ebook sales may have seen intermittent decline at specific quarters within the past years, ebook sales have also during other quarters reported dramatic increases (1) and experts are still optimistic that ebooks are the future direction; that is in the long run. Some analysts have suggested that any decline of ebook sales seen this year may be attributed to the flooding of the ebook secular market with many low quality materials; this is pretty obvious and one does not need to be an expert to observe this. Others have suggested that much of the information that many ebooks offer are easily obtainable at no cost on the Internet (2); that is with a little focused search on the Internet.
It
was quiet in the room. The sun, closing on the day, was sending her
warmth and comfortable colors through the Venetian blinds. Bewitching,
charming and divine, soft in its touch, enchanting like a rainbow...my eyes
danced with the colors as they turned...and I knew that twilight would soon
have his due.
"Who's
your daddy?" In another era this would have been considered an
actual question. In today's language it's considered a colloquial phrase. For
those of us who don't study the dictionary, just think conversational or even
slang. Back to the topic though, "who's your daddy?"
Last
year was a landmark year for Sharon R. Wells. One year ago she created a
business called Angel Wings Publications, LLC, and a website designed to
empower and educate victims who suffer a wide range of repercussions resulting
from sexual abuse. 
Further
information about Sharon R. Wells, her website and "Without
Permission" is available online at 
When people talk about making resolutions for the new year, it usually involves quitting or losing something or someone. For example, millions of people will resolve to quit smoking and twice as many more will promise to lose weight. Beginning
the new year, we will be saturated with television and print ad campaigns for gym memberships, weight loss program and equipment deals as well as products to help with nicotine addiction. 
Just
as liquids are important to flush toxins from your system as you diet, a similar
approach can trim the bulge in your budget. Americans have been bingeing on debt
and according to the Federal Reserve Board have racked up more than 2.26 billion
dollars in consumer debt. 
Join me in welcoming author Valencia Campbell to the family. Valencia is a consultant on educational topics and women’s issues. Her completed projects include those for the Baltimore Public School System, National Science Foundation, National Congress of Black Women and the National Council of Negro Women. She has taught sociology courses at Howard University and Bowie State University. 
2. Get out of debt – owe no man anything!
Small
changes add up quickly. Don’t let bad money habits wreck your marriage.
You’ve got to both be committed to this goal if you’re going to make it
happen. 
A little shy girl who grew into a woman with dreams and a voice to be heard
Finally, a straight talk book about bankruptcy through the eyes of a regular person. This is not a rags to riches story. This is a true life account of the emotional ups and downs of filing bankruptcy and putting the pieces back together through lessons learned.
Share
with us your news, events and articles.
