2008 February | LiteraryDish.com

WHO SAYS DREAMS CAN’T COME TRUE- 10 AMAZING THINGS THIS WEEK!

Posted by prqueen in BREAKING NEWS on 02 20th, 2008 | 98 Comments

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COUNTDOWN TO BOOKEXPO AMERICA

http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=kxhb5fcab.0.0.qloexrn6.0&p=http://viewmorepics.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.editAlbumPhoto&albumID=1304221&imageID=14520518&id=preview

THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION HEADS TO LOS ANGELES FOR THEIR 5TH RECORD-BREAKING YEAR AT BOOKEXPO AMERICA.

EXHIBITOR BOOTHS/SPACE AVAILABLE.

Los Angeles Convention Center – Save The Date (May 30- June 1, 2008)

GREETINGS!

THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION HEADS TO LOS ANGELES FOR THEIR 5TH RECORD-BREAKING YEAR AT BOOKEXPO AMERICA

February, 2008, National – BookExpo America, one of the largest book trade exhibits in the world, provides independent African American book publishers, self publishers, authors, Black Interest Imprints at major publishing houses, distributors, literary agents, publicists, librarians and bookstore owners exposure to more than eighty thousand book buyers and booksellers from across the globe. Organizers of the African American Pavilion at BookExpo America are finalizing plans for the event, to take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, CA May 30 – June 1, 2008.

Now in its Fifth Year, the African American Pavilion at BEA is the marketplace for thousands of African American publishing industry professionals. Influential exhibitors and book buyers form a community of unprecedented strength. “The African American Pavilion is a growing presence at BEA,” says exhibitor C. Sunny Martin , CEO and Founder, Who’s Who Publishing and the 2007 African American Pavilion at BEA ”Independent African American Publisher of Note”. “There will be great opportunities to learn, share, educate, sell and network and it’s making black book history a vital, visible part of the 107-year history of BookExpo America/American Booksellers Association.”

“The response by the exhibitors and the book publishing industry to the 2007 African American Pavilion at BookExpo America was tremendous and powerful”, stated Pavilion co-founder Tony Rose. “The Pavilion hosted some of the giants in the African American Publishing Industry such as: Haki Madhubuti, Third World Press; Kassahun Checole, Africa World Press/Red Sea Press; Wade and Cheryl Hudson, Just Us Books; Wil Colom, Genesis Press; Zane, Strebor Books International/Simon and Schuster; Terrie Williams, The Stay Strong Foundation/Terrie Williams Agency; Carol Mackey, Black Expressions Book Club; Vickie Stringer, Triple Crown Publications; Harriette Cole, Harriette Cole Productions – Ebony Magazine; Max Rodriguez, The Harlem Book Fair / QBR The Black Book Review; and Ken Smikle, Black Issues Book Review”.

The 5,000 square feet of exhibit space will showcase African American books, authors, products and publishers. In addition to the business opportunities the pavilion provides, festivities include: music, food and refreshments at all the events as The African American Pavilion celebrates it’s FIFTH YEAR ANNIVERSARY.

The African American Pavilion and BookExpo America will present on opening day, A Fifth Year star studded gala celebration, Friday, May 30th at 9:00am, beginning with a ribbon cutting, celebrity speakers, and unveiling the art of Synthia SAINT JAMES throughout the pavilion.

Sheridan Books, Inc. and Amber Communications Group, Inc. will sponsor The African American Pavilion Welcoming Reception, Friday, May 30, 3-5pm, In the African American Pavilion Main Staging Area, featuring authors, poets, and speakers and booksignings including: Keynote Speaker, Terrie Williams, National Best-Selling Author, Founder and Youth Advocate, The Stay Strong Foundation and President, The Terrie Williams Agency, author of BLACK PAIN: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting; Max Rodriguez, Founder, The Harlem Book Fair and Publisher QBR The Black Book Review; Melody Guy, Senior Editor, Ballantine Books; Dr. Jewell Parker Rhodes, Founding Artistic Director, the Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing at Arizona State University (ASU), and National Best-Selling Author, Douglass’ Woman; Synthia SAINT JAMES, World renowned Artist and Author; Donna Hill, National Best-Selling Author, Wicked Ways, Rhythms, An Ordinary Woman, author of On the Line; Curt Matthews, CEO, Independent Publishers Group (IPG); Pam Perry, Chief Visionary, Ministry Marketing Solutions, Inc., The nation’s foremost experts in the African American Christian Public Relations market, and President of Chocolate Pages.; Dr. Philip S. Hart, National Best-Selling Author, Up In the Air: The Story of Bessie Coleman and author of African Americans and The Future of New Orleans: Rebirth, Renewal & Rebuilding an American Dilemma; Kevin Wayne Johnson, Publisher, Writing for the Lord Ministries, author of the Give God the Glory! series of books; Steve Rosato, Director of Industry Development, BookExpo America.

and

SPECIAL APPEARANCE

“DENISE NICHOLAS”

Ms. Denise Nicholas is An Award Winning Actress and Writer. Ms. Nicholas has appeared in numerous films and television shows including, Room 222 (for which she earned Two Golden Globe Nominations) and In the Heat of the Night. She has received Two Emmy Awards for the PBS special, Voices of Our People: In Celebration of African American Poetry as well as Four NAACP Image Awards for her embodiment of work. Ms. Nicholas is also the National Best-Selling Author of Freshwater Road. More speakers and performers TBA.

The African American Pavilion Exhibitors Forum (Meet the Exhibitors) will be held Saturday, May 31, 1-3pm in the African American Pavilion Main Staging Area and throughout the pavilion. Music, Food, refreshments, and performers, including poetry and author readings will be held.

The African American Pavilion Reception and Awards Program, Saturday, May 31, 3-5pm, sponsored by Sheridan Books, Inc., Oxford University Press and Amber Communications Group, Inc. will celebrate the achievements of these African American publishing professionals: The “Haki Madhubuti” Independent African American Publisher of the Year; Self Publisher of the Year; Christian Book Publisher of the Year; Bookstore of the Year; and Distributor of the Year. Three industry professionals will be honored with the third annual Glenn Thompson Lifetime Achievement Award, Toni Trent Parker Author of the Year Award, The James Haskins Pioneer Award.

Keynote Speaker for the African American Pavilion Reception and Awards Program will be George C. Fraser, National Best-Selling Author, Founder of FraserNet and the PowerNetworking Conference, author of CLICK: Ten Truths for Building Extraordinary Relationships; ZANE, Publisher, Strebor Books International, LLC/Simon & Schuster, National Best-Selling Author of several New York Times Best-Selling titles including: Addicted, The Sex Chronicles: Shattering the Myth, The Heat Seekers, Nervous, The Sisters of APF, Shame On It All, The Sex Chronicles 2 and Skyscrapers; Mary B. Morrison, New York Times and Essence National Best-Selling Author of Sweeter Than Honey, He’s Just a Friend, Some Bodies Gotta Be On Top, Never Again Once More, She Ain’t the One, When Somebody Loves You, and author as Honey B., of Sexcapades; Judith Curr, Executive Vice President, Publisher and Founder of Atria Books a division of Simon and Schuster, Ms. Curr to date has published over 105 New York Times Best-Sellers, incuding THE SECRET by Rhonda Byrne, the number one overall bestselling book in the United States; Dawn Davis, Vice President, Editorial Director, Armisted Press/Harper Collins and Pulitzer Prize Winning Editor, The Known World; Darrell Miller, Miller and Pliakas, LLP, client list includes Angela Bassett, Courtney Vance, Outkast and Ludacris; Wade Hudson, President/CEO, Just Us Books, The nations largest African American Children’s Book Publisher; Tonya Evans-Walls, Publisher, Legal Write Publications, author, Literary Law Guide For Authors; Dr. Kenneth Edelin, Publisher, Pond View Press, author of Broken Justice: A True Story of Race, Sex and Revenge In A Boston Courtroom. More speakers and performers TBA.

This year The 2008 African American Pavilion at BookExpo America Glenn Thompson “Lifetime Achievement ” Award is being presented to the great Lerone Bennett Jr., Author of Before The Mayflower: A History of Black America and former Executive Editor now Executive Editor Emeritus of Ebony Magazine“.

Continuing a nearly 20-year tradition, Clara Villarosa Director of the African American Program for Bookselling Professionals will set the pace with her pre-opening day Thursday luncheon / reception and a full day of workshops and panel discussions for all book industry professionals.

BookExpo America, one of the largest book trade exhibits in the world provides independent African American book publishers, self publishers, authors, African American imprints at major publishing houses, distributors, literary agents, publicists, librarians, and bookstore owners with exposure to more than 80,000 book buyers and booksellers from across the world. With over 20,000 BEA attendees crossing up and down the African American Pavilion aisles, the buying and selling is tremendous, and the African American Pavilion provides our exhibitors the lowest discounted booth prices at the BookExpo America.

Many licensing, distribution, and sales success stories have emerged from the roster of African American Pavilion exhibitors since 2004.

The list of exhibitors expands each year and is growing rapidly for 2008. The 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 exhibitors included: African American Books On Tour; Africa World Press/Red Sea Press; African American Literature Book Club (AALBC.com); Afrikan World Book Distributors; Alight! New York Grit Books; Amber Communications Group Inc.; Amiaya Entertainment; AmmPublishing; Annie Busby; Aphesis Publishing; Arc Type Press; Around the Way Books; Aya Press; Aspicomm Media; Avo Publishing; Austin Publishing/Kaden Publishing; Baker Publishing; Barry Nix; The Beckham Publications Group Inc.; Blacast Entertainment/ Urbanbooksonline.com; Black Americans In Publishing; BlackBoard Entertainment Media Group; Black Issues Book Review; BlackListed, LLC.; Black Print Publishing; Brand Nu Words; Brooklyn Christian Center; BroSis Publishing; Brown Erotic Publishing; C&B Books Distribution; Christian Nations Center; Connie Leon; Color Bridge, LLC; Cultured Expressions; Delores Quinerly Press; Destiny Publishing; Disilgold Soul Publishing; Every Generation Media, LTD; First Black Autos-The Story of Charles C.R. Patterson; FYOS; Genesis Press; GhettoHeat Press; Green Olive Tree Publishing; Harobed House: Hilton Publishing; Imperious Publishing; In and Out the Dugout; In the Note of C; Jewels Publishing; Just Like Me Books; Just Us Books, Inc.; Kaden Publishing; Kandour Publishing; Kidding Around Entertainment; K Harris Publishing, Inc.; Kija Entertainment; Kingdom Kids Clubs; Kinship Press; Kymber Jae Publishing; Lefall and Company; Le’Femme Fatale Productions; Literally Speaking Press; Mad Parent Publishing; Maria Falconer; Mahogany Star Publishing; Mind Candy; MomoWilly, Inc.; Mirror-Gibbs Publishing; Mosaicbooks.com; Nay-jay Publishing; Nega Fulo Books; Nile Publishing; Nunes Productions; Papyrus Publishing; Parker Publishing; People Skills International; Power Play Media; Prodigal Son Ministries; Publishing Associates; Q-Boro Books; QBR The Black Book Review/Harlem Book Fair; Quick Qwest publications; Relentless Content, LLC; Renaissance media Sales & Distribution; River Maverick Publishing; Ruby Burke; S.E.L.F. Publishing; Sheryl Walker Press; Silver Maple Publications; Strebor Books International; The Healing Tree; The Pilgram Press; Third World Press; Triple Crown Publications; Urban Ministries; Urban Touch Entertainment; White Men Can’t Hump; Wisdom Books, Inc.; Who’s Who Publishing; W. James Richardson; Walk Worthy Press; and Writing for the Lord Ministries.

The 2008 AAP/BEA Associate Committee is: Tony Rose, Publisher/CEO, Amber Communications Group, Inc. - AAP/BEA Executive Director and Co-Founder; Yvonne Rose, Associate Publisher, Amber Communications Group, Inc.- AAP/BEA Director; Heather Covington, CEO, Disilgold.com – AAP/BEA National Director, On-Line Publicity, Marketing and Promotions; Lynette McMillon, President, The Tushe Group - AAP/BEA National Director, Publicity, Marketing and Sponsorships; Cheryl Crosby, President, CDC Consultants - AAP/BEA Associate Director of Sponsorships (National); Pam Perry, CEO, Ministry Marketing Solutions and Chocolate Pages - AAP/BEA National Director, Christian/Gospel Exhibitor Relations; Carol Rogers and Brenda Piper, CEO & COO, C&B Books Distribution – AAP/BEA National Directors, Exhibitor Relations; Philip Herbert, Marketing Assistant, Amber Communications Group, Inc. – AAP/BEA Exhibitor Relations; Maxine Thompson, President, The Dr. Maxine Show and Butterfly Press - AAP/BEA Exhibitor Relations; Troy Johnson, Founder/Webmaster, AALBC.COM - AAP/BEA Exhibitor Relations; and Lynette Velasco, President, Black Americans In Publishing - AAP/BEA Exhibitor Relations.

About the African American Pavilion @ BookExpo AMERICA

The African American Pavilion was founded in 2004 by Tony Rose, Publisher/CEO, Amber Communications Group, Inc.; Adrienne Ingrum, President, Adrienne Ingrum, LLC and Niani Colom, Associate Publisher, Genesis Press.

FOR EXHIBITING INFORMATION:

For exhibiting information please contact: Mike Carlucci at 203-840-5625 - email: mcarlucci@reedexpo.com - Tony Rose at 520-568-6692 - email: amberbk@aol.com

Any questions thoughts or suggestions, please email us at amberbk@aol.com

MEDIA CONTACT:

Lynette McMillon, Director, The Tushe Group and National Director of Publicity, The African American Pavilion at BEA – 773-732-2560 – email: tushegroup@aol.com

Sincerely,

Tony Rose, Publisher/CEO

Amber Communications Group, Inc.

Executive Director and Co-Founder, The African American Pavilion at BookExpo America

www.amberbooks.com

Adrienne Ingrum, President

Adrienne Ingrum, L.L.C

Co-Founder, The African American Pavilion at BookExpo America

aingrum@aol.com

Yvonne Rose, Associate Publisher

Amber Communications Group, Inc.

Director, The African American Pavilion at BookExpo America

www.amberbooks.com

Promotions brought to you by Heather Covington disilgold@aol.com • CLICK HERE FOR UPDATES FROM DISILGOLDSOUL PROMOTIONS: http://www.disilgold.com

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www.Disilgold.com Event Review: Essence Literary Awards

Posted by prqueen in EVENT DISH on 02 16th, 2008 | 202 Comments

Author: Heather Covington

Disilgold@aol.com

www.Heather-Covington.com

www.myspace.com/HeatherCovington

The 1st Essence Magazine Awards “celebrated outstanding established and emerging African-American authors of 2007 on February 7, 2008 at the LeParker Meridien in New York City among the who’s who in publishing and multi-industries. (Listing of guests spotted to be listed soon.)

Hosted by Hoda Koth and Dr. Ian Smith, with special presentations such as by children books presenter Victoria Rowell and Cara Robinson of Avon and Yolanda Kirby of State Farm, just some of the night’s big winners, were T. D. Jakes presented by Michelle Ebanks and Terry McMillan, receiving “The Lifetime Achievement Award” for fine works such as Disappearing Acts, The Interruption of Everything, Waiting to Exhale and How Stella Got Her Groove Back. As an undergrad, she won Essence Magazine’s first college essay contest for her work, Black Men and Women: Are We Closer Together of Further Apart.

Other winners among award categories like Best Poetry, Current Affairs Literature, Children Books, Memoir, Non-Fiction, Inspiration, Fiction and Storyteller of the Year Award Recipient were An Unbroken Agony by Randall Robinson, Dausfuskie Island by Heanne Moutoussamy Ashe, Marvelous Wind by Troy Cle, Supreme Discomfort by Michael Fletcher, How Strong Women Pray by Bonnie St. John, and L.A. Banks.

The Essence Literary Awards was produced by Essence Magazine’s Senior Book Editor, Patrik Henry Bass, who charged the ceremony with Essence Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Angela Burt Murray. This year’s launch theme was “Save Our Libraries” which resulted in sponsorship for the world renown Countee Cullen Branch dedicated to perserving Afican-American literature. More sponsors like State Farm® 50 Million Pound Challenge lead by Dr. Ian Smith, Breezes, and Nuvo solidified another literary award show making history on the onset of the millennium in celebration of the African-American literary community. Visit www.Essence.com.
Event Rating: *****5 Stars!

Photos on DisilgoldSOUL Magazine at www.Disilgold.com by Heather Covington. Copyright 2008.Disilgold@aol.com.

Kanye West’s MAMA song is a winner at Grammy’s, plus bonus style props to Beyonce’, Tina Turner, Fergie, John Legend and more!

Posted by prqueen in CELEBRITY DISH on 02 11th, 2008 | 189 Comments

While the lyrics, “You can be my Black Kate Moss sends a bad image to young black girls who already have a poor perception of self-image and weight issues in Kanye’s song, “Stronger, “ the song gets over with “What doesn’t kill me, only makes me stronger,” but it was his song “Mama,” that took over the entire show. Reminiscent of Tupac’s heartfelt rap lyrics for his song, Dear Mama, Kanye has just catapulted what may be a future with a singing career and a voice that resounds with the flair of Wyclef. Then again, any artist’s vocals sound good when you are singing about Mama! Even Ne-yo was spotlighted giving props with a sinical smile on his face. The Grammy’s are notorious for focusing on feuds between artists by spotlighting opponents after a rival performer. There is absolutely no gossip good or bad that can stop me from appreciating both Kanye and Ne-yo’s music. Both are exceptional artists and would fair better doing some duets together. The best dressed artist of the night was John Legend who wore a deeper and richer black tux that just looked more expensive then even Ringo’s gear spiked with sparkles. Fergie’s toga dress style dress was simple and classy. Carrie Underwood walked away with the best styled hair. I think she is wearing a Jazzing rinse that works well on light hair as well as dark hair. Rihanna’s Fred Flinstone bell rocker dress just made her look like a bell…. oh well, but great hair. That’s how you do it. Natural hair is back. Work it ladies. Be you because when money gets tight, there goes the hair anyway. I am sure one by one all of the celeb ladies will begin stripping off the wigs this year. Now as for Tina, she was the fliest diva of the night showing the ladies how its done. Her metallica silver off the shoulder jumper was classy. Can folks tell me what was Beyonce’ wearing? The hair worked though and who knows, with a few more years, she may be our next Tina, but of course there is only one Tina and we have to give it up for Beyonce’. There’s only one Beyonce’ too. I can totally understand why Beyonce wouldn’t pass up on performing with Tina regardless of the Writer’s Guild strike. I wonder of reviewers stop reviewing shows, will the economy suffer as well. It’s not like these shows thank reviewers for highlighting and reminding folks to tune in thus raking in more advertising dollars? Hum, have to give this one more thought! www.Disilgold.com.

WWW.DISILGOLD.COM WORLWIDE EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH KENDA BELL, AUTHOR OF IN LOVE THERE’S ALWAYS A REASON!!!!!!THE BOOK EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT!

Posted by prqueen in CELEBRITY Q&A on 02 10th, 2008 | 47 Comments

Author: Kenda Bell
Title: For Every Love There Is A Reason
Web site: www.kendabell.com
Email: kenda@kendabell.com

Disilgold: What can you tell the Disilgold community about yourself that will explain why Disilgold has sought you for a perSOULnalized interview?

Kenda Bell : Well, I cannot speak for Disilgold; I am so appreciative of the opportunity. I hope that my literary voice has resonated with you and your readers. Maybe it is the sassy yet sweet , delicately rare neo-soul flair I have with my words. I suppose that my desire to get out there inspite of my stutter …and grabbing folks ears has intrigued you. Stuttering was a part of me that I use to loathe but have learned to now embrace. My now slight vocal inflections not only make me unforgettable but has enhanced my writing. Who better to craft compelling dialogue than a person who has thought of the best words to say at the most opportune times yet kept them quietly in the pages of journals.While this has been a year of gains ; it has also been one of losses.While my novel made its debut on Valentine’s day , my dad was in his last days. By March 1st , he had decided it was time to return to his heavanly father. I can’t tell you how I battled selfish feelings of wanting him to still be here yet resolving that he had been truly healed and was in a better place devoid of oxygen tanks and pains. Pushing through the lost and going on was hard many a day …and still is but I know he wouldn’t want it any other way. I put a smile on my face and got out there…it is still hard at times but each day gets a little better.

Disilgold: Thank you for sharing Kenda. Your words have comforted myself. I just found out that my father whom I haven’t seen for 14 years is gravely ill with Parkison’s. Been thinking about him for years and this fear of failure if I didn’t ever see him again I wouldn’t be able to pursue my literary goals maximally because when I think of him at signings and events, I get choked up and resist folks asking me about my family. My sister found me somehow whom I also haven’t seen since youth. We’re driving to Atlanta to spend time with my father who hid his illness all of these years. I guess he felt he would stop us from reaching our dreams and so he disappeared without a trace. My sis is a major producer now and we share a lot of my father’s ambitions, so trust, I do understand all about speech impediments making you want to just journal and contain your feelings Kenda. I use to stutter as well, but taught myself how to stop at around age 10. You are an inspiration because if I hadn’t stopped, I see that I would have been fine. You show folks how to face adversity. Your work speaks volumes for you!What is your latest book about?

Kenda Bell : “For Every Love There Is A Reason” is a novel that shows you that not everything is as it first seems; especially in love. Often time’s choices are not easily made because circumstances are often shaded with varied degrees of gray. Best friends Keilah (Kay-lah) & Norelle take you along this path that is filled with ghost of love past that threatened the present, childhood dissappointments that taunt new hopes, and tightly held secrets the threatened to be exposed with each turn of the page.

For starters, by the time barely-married, busy body Norelle figured out that she was beginning to look and act like the woman she blamed for her father’s death, she hoped that her own indiscretions with her son’s father, Tariq, does not cost her the perfect husband when she receives unexpected news. Even though she is walking a tight rope of half truths and lies, Norelle turns some of her energy toward helping her best friend Keilah look at the possibility of a second chance at love after she receive news from an old love that turns her world topsy-turvy.

By the time you finish chapter one, the readers wonders “What did Andre expect from Keilah after he told her? Was he expecting Keilah to explain away his emotional duality, or more specifically, was he expecting answers to questions that were left unasked between them when they made a costly choice two years ago?” While Andre attempts to deal with the pain of his past, and anxiety about his present circumstances on his own, Keilah attaches herself to a man who she knows is not right for her rather than contend with the emotional avalanche that began with the choices her mother made so many years ago. Can Keilah get clear so she can see that special someone waiting just around the corner?

When flashbacks of the past and present collide, both Norelle and Keilah ask themselves what won’t they do for love. Norelle must deal with her own demons while Keilah must get emotionally naked once and for all with Andre to put together the pieces of their past so they can go on … with or without each other.

For Every Love There Is A Reason takes the reader into a multi-layered tale of choices and consequences of thirty-something best friends, Keilah and Norelle, who slip and slide with laughter and tears through their own mistakes, as they try to make sense of love on their own terms.

Disilgold: How long did it take you to complete your book?

Kenda Bell : From start to finish, it took roughly a year and a half to complete ‘For Every Love There Is A Reason. I commend disciplined authors who can create masterpieces in months.

Disilgold: What were the happiest moments you have experienced while writing your latest book?

Kenda Bell : I guess the epiphany that I worked overtime on my dream and not someone else’s… and it came to fruition. Now, don’t get me wrong I am thankful for my job, Lord knows it, but when I realized that I would not shudder to work OT for my employer for temporary gratification (extra money) yet felt I had no energy or time for my own dream of writing a novel…something was very wrong.

Yes, I was compensated monetarily for my hours, but creatively I was expensed out. His/her dreams were being realized while mine had to wait. So I still worked OT but came home and sacrificed a few hours sleep for me. I looked wreck a couple mornings, but I felt good that I closer to my dream… you know what I mean?

Disilgold: Yeah, it sounds like Goapelle’s song. I think everyone has rocked that song on their website. Describe your writing style?

Kenda Bell : A rhythmic dance of words choreographed by the realities of life that connect all of us … tip toeing oh so carefully across gray areas love and life. Think about that neo-soul record that wraps lyrics around your ears so effortlessly that each verse resonates to the familiar places of you…yeah kind of like that.

Disilgold: How did you develop your writing style?

Kenda Bell : I am still developing from my view point. As a freshman fiction world, I think I have presented an authentic voice of my own but I still have much to learn and vast room for improvement. Good can only get better with time, experience and mentoring.

Disilgold: Mentors are hard to find these days. Everyone who makes it only has time to sign copies of their books at events. but there are some who find the time to support authors. Do you have a favorite author of all time or someone who inspired you to achieve your goals as a writer?

Kenda Bell : I am partial to the contemporary literary midwives Toni Morrison & Alice Walker. The depth of their works keeps me in constant pursuit of raising the bar in my writing.

Disilgold: These are Literary Divas everyone loves. I think I have every book these ladies have written Kenda. Where do you see yourself as a writer ten years from now?

Kenda Bell : I hope to have several bestselling books (both fiction & non-fiction) under my belt, some award winning plays & films. I also want to be running a successful non-profit for single parents and children.

Disilgold: Just do it Kenda. Anything is possible when you have achieved the first book. I will be in the first row with new tickets. What marketing tips can you provide to new authors?

Kenda Bell : Learn your market but don’t limit your audience. Focus more on the themes in your book that may connect with people rather than just race, gender, or age. Always be excited about your work and never get caught without bookmarks or postcards…you never know who you’ll meet at the grocery store or gas station.

Disilgold: So true. You said it. What other projects are you working on?

Kenda Bell : Well, I have been working on a non-fiction version of “For Every Love There Is a Reason” but my readers have been demanding a sequel. A lot of people have gotten so invested in my characters’ lives that need to know what’s going on with them like they are friends of theirs ; so I have give the readers what they want. I am also learning how to do a screenplay, “For Every Love There Is A Reason”. When I saw “Why Did I Get Married?”, all I thought about was how great my novel would look on the big screen. Another project , that is ongoing is Kenda. I am always on the hunt for new ways to make myself better.

Disilgold: What are your top ten favorite books right now?

Kenda Bell :
1) The Holy Bible

2) Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison

3) The Street by Ann Petry

4) Temple of My Familiar by Alice Walker

5) Sula by Toni Morrison

6) God Is A Verb by David Cooper

7) The Prophet by Khalil Gibran

Value In The Valley by Iyanla Vanzant

9) Wild Seed by Octavia Butler

10) For Every Love There Is A Reason by Kenda Bell

Disilgold: I’m not mad at you!!!When do you write and for how long?

Kenda Bell : I do most of my core writing at night, usually beginning at 10pm until about 1am unless the mood leaves and I leave it alone. If I am really on a roll, I may go until 3am. I try to write every day, but life with its many changes makes it difficult at time, so frequency fluctuates.

Disilgold: Do you have a favorite location for writing?

Kenda Bell : Well, since I got my laptop just about anywhere. In bed, at the dining room table, on the living room floor… no matter!

Disilgold:Girl, for me it’s even the gym while riding a bicycle. I hear you. What method did you use to write or organize your book?

Kenda Bell : I am not structured writer. I like to take a subject and theorize it based upon limited circumstances. After that, I start to think what questions surround the subject and the type of people who may be involved in the issue. Once I do that I begin to visualize and carve out scenes as they come to me and build the story around scenes. I have tried outlines, and they just don’t work for me. Some authors are gifted like that; maybe as I move along on this journey, outlines will serve me better.

Disilgold: Now that is interesting! What three words best describe your writing style?

Kenda Bell : Unapologetically human, delicately raw, rhythmic realism…okay that was six words but three concepts…so I answered it…right? (smile)

Disilgold: That’s a violation, but I will let that one slide because you represented with DisilgoldSOUL at the Book Expo’s African American Pavilion and gave inspiration to many people who stopped by. I thank you for that Kenda. What other hobbies do you pursue when you aren’t writing?

Kenda Bell : I love vintage stores and consignment shops and any odd stores. I love discovering hidden treasures. I found some of the funkiest gear and wonderful art pieces in the most interesting places. I like to constantly being in a learning mode…so new people…new restaurants…lectures…independent films…all of course budget allowing. I love to people watch, too. You can some of the most extraodinary story ideas just by holding a conversation with an everyday person. You would be surprised how many people actually tell me more things when they find out I am an author.

Disilgold: Are there any hidden jewels or talents that you possess that many of your readers may not know?

Kenda Bell : Well, believe it or not I am a really good actress. While I have stuttered most of my life, I can take on a different voice or character and run with it…in most circumstances my stutter almost undetectable. I initially took theater in high school to help me with public speaking. I am an extrovert by nature but functioned for many years as an introvert due to a stuttering problem…talk about torture. I have gotten past it over the years. I am very much a conversationalist and I believe that is why my dialogues and inner voice sequences in “For Every Love There Is A Reason” has really won people over.

Disilgold: Where can folks buy your latest book?

Kenda Bell : “For Every Love There Is A Reason” is available at Borders, Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com & any retail bookseller. If they don’t have it on the shelf, they can order it. You won’t be disappointed.

Disilgold: Where can folks meet you?

Kenda Bell : Well, I will be in Delaware and Maryland this month. In March I will hit the Quaker Mill Mall in New Jersey on March 2nd. I am really excited to meet with Rhonda Bogan and the Mocha Readers of Dayton, OH & the patron’s of Kana’s Cds & Bookstore & Borders Booksellers @ Polaris Mall in Columbus, OH. I will be doing something with Baltimore Natural Hair Expo in Baltimore this April. I plan to venture south in the summer. I encourage book clubs, book lovers and booksellers to reach out. I am only an email away. I try to keep on the move. Book club meetings are my favorite, they are always so passionate and energized…plus they like to feed you really good food. So reach out to me and I will reach back.

Disilgold: What have been some of your toughest obstacles as a writer?

Kenda Bell : The first thing was thickening my thin skin. Whether it was rejection letters from agents and publishers to prospective readers looking over my book and placing back on the table, I had to get my mindset positive. Secondly, I would say learning time management. I still teeter the tightrope of personal, professional and artistic life. Thirdly, getting pass co-dependency. I had to learn my motivation to promote and continue to write should not be in direct correlation to how many accolades I get from fellow authors or how much praise I get from readers. Of course, I want to be appreciated for my work like anyone else, but I have to accept that I won’t please everyone all the time. All I can do is be my most authentic self and have faith that the people who enjoy my writing will share the good news to others.

Disilgold: This section of our interview requires brief responses since our inception.

Kenda Bell : Monday from Friday, I try to get up by 6am. On the weekends, unless I have book signings or time sensitive errands, I try to sleep as long as I can. I am a night owl; so night time is my prime time.

Disilgold: What is your writing fuel at night?

Kenda Bell : If I have to get up early the next morning; Red Bull and skittles; if not Moscato wine. In either case, I have to have music…music is a must for my writing process.

Disilgold: What early morning rituals have followed for many years?

Kenda Bell : It is a very rare occasion I write in the morning, unless it is between 1-4am… in which case…Red Bull, Skittles and my favorite CDs.

Disilgold: HA,HA…now that is an endorsement. What are your favorite foods to snack on while writing?

Kenda Bell : Skittles & fruit salad.

Disilgold: Lord, let me call Skittles and get you a commercial. I am sure their sales will go up for folks who read this interview. Do you watch television or listen to the radio when you’re writing, and if so, what do you watch or listen too mostly?

Kenda Bell : While I am writing, if I am trying to evoke a certain emotion I may pop in some of my favorite CDs. They range from Seal & Sting to Mary J & Jill Scott to Anthony Hamilton & Dwele … then I may slide in some Donnie Hathaway or Nina Simone along the way. If I am just in the building stage, I tune into my favorite internet radio stations www.soulsounds.com or www.neosoulcafe.com to get a good vibe going. Good music is to my writing process, like air is to wind.

Disilgold: What is your favorite book of all time?

Kenda Bell : It is so many books I love…this is so hard to answer. I can’t go on record saying just one.

Disilgold: What is your favorite magazine of all time?

Kenda Bell : Wow, that’s a hard one too. I used to really like Emerge.

Disilgold: Me too, whatever happened? Do you have an exercise regimen to suggest for busy writers?

Kenda Bell : I wish I could, I need to get one myself.

Disilgold: What is your everyday outfit?

Kenda Bell : I don’t have set style. You may see me in a tailored suit or skinny jeans and boots. Then yet again you may see me in a dashiki dress or a sassy crochet outfit. I basically wear what I like and what feels good at that moment. I do tend to favor earth tones w/variations of reds and oranges. I love chunky bracelets & rings in silver, cooper or bronze. Of course gold is good, too.

Disilgold: What is your pet peeve?

Kenda Bell : I am a pretty liberal person but I really do not like when kindness is perceived as a weakness. Taking advantage of a person is quick way to get a swift kick from the universe.

Disilgold: If you could inspire a child, what would you say?

Kenda Bell : Yes, we can!! Look to the American dream realized in Barack Obama…no limit! No matter what limitation you may think you have or have been told you have, you will because you can.

Disilgold: What is your favorite motto?

Kenda Bell : “Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under foot and turn to attack you.” Matthew 7: 6

Disilgold: What is your favorite time to put your writing pen down and rest?

Kenda Bell : When the words don’t make sense anymore…

Disilgold: Have you traveled anywhere besides your hometown and if so, where?

Kenda Bell : I have mainly traveled north and south. I look forward to get back to traveling for book business and pleasure.

Disilgold: Where is your dream vacation?

Kenda Bell : Any place warm and exotic with beaches, good island food, a cool sweet drink and no stress w/my soul mate…and no haven’t met him yet.

Disilgold: What do you particularly like about the literary world today?

Kenda Bell : I love the fact that African American literature is no longer viewed monolithic by the masses. African American literature is no longer a singular genre but database for diverse genres that share varied interpretations of life. I also am appreciative that an author’s voice is not limited to traditional publishers’ approval. With small presses such as my home Xpress Yourself Publishing and self-publishing companies, voices will be heard.

Disilgold: If you could leave one word of advice to people in general, what would it be?

Kenda Bell : Be patient with yourself and try to be the best you can be and leave the rest up to God.

The “Get PerSOULnal” Interview
Disilgold: What time do you awake normally every morning?

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Posted by prqueen in BOOK DISH on 02 3rd, 2008 | 223 Comments

For Immediate Release: AmberBooks.com may be the rarest African American Publishing Book company along with Just Us Books and August Press to submit all titles for review and it’s official, we have reviewed all of ACGI book titles at www.Disilgold.com up to the most current release as featured for the Amber Books Black History Month Collection. Tony Rose has been instrumental in making powerful connections for African American Publishers via the African American Pavilion at Book Expo with news coverage and media taking note of many new up and coming and rising small press and authors, thus setting new trends. It’s imperative that a fine company of excellence continues to be at the forefront to ensure a massive medium for the African American literary community to unify and continue growing. This is why we selected Amber Books this year as a template of success for African American publishers who want longevity and to gain an audience that is going to surpass trends with duration, and cross over to highly motivated audiences ready to support AA literature on demand. With stores closing at a rapid rate and trends changing, Amber continues to publish its one bestseller list apart from mediocrity. A new company in the making, in a rcent interview, Tony Rose says transferring the greatness of his reign in the music industry to books took a tremendous toll, but all worth it. With simply some of the most classic authors on its roster writing quality literature, the company is set to rebirth new innovative online marketing campaigns to reach consumers. When Heather Covington’s marketing ability was discovered by the ACGI family, it was undoubtedly a match made in heaven, An avid reader, Heather Covington knows fine literature when she sees it. In fact, she put her own Disilgold Publishing empire on hold to host Literary Living and expose the brightest talents to this generations viewers of the former Black Family Channel. The African American Literary Community made it mark to over 17 million viewers with a tv show that aired a record 3 times per week. While sales of books peeked, as soon as the show went off the air, there was a massive decline in booksales, showing how important it is for quality authors to be showcased via a medium that reaches a massive audience. So Disilgold.com decided to become that medium and the re-birth of the Neo-Soul Literary Renaissance is back as created, named and published in a glossy mag caleled Disilgold Soul Literary Review on he turn of the century. Disilgold.com will release reviews ongoing of ACGI books throughout the years that have made their mark at Disilgold and still shining.

Find out why these books are a perfect resource for your gift giving needs and why Disilgold Publishing has added AmberBooks products via the new innovative Disilgold Book Mobile Express Catlaog online. We heard readers want variety so we’re giving readers what they want. Enjoy and stay tuned for more products.

BOOK REVIEW: The African American Teenager Guide to Personal Growth… is a perfect gifts from parents to their teenagers on everything they need to know about sex, their changing bodies, applying for college, hygiene, dating and more. It’s a compact and comprehensive guide that even parents with young children should add to one’s library to discover and ensure they have the book ready to give as a gift as soon as their children grow up. The book is beneficial to quote from as well. Motivational speakers of teen seminars will benefit from utilizing this book as a resource, plus girl clubs and organizations. There just isn’t any book on the market like it prepared to answer questions Teens may have and now addressed without fail. “- *****5 STARS

The African American Teenagers

Guide To Personal Growth.

$19.95 / $8.00

101 Real Money Questions.

$14.95 / $7.00

“101 Real Money Questions is a critical book for those who know nothing about MONEY. Sure we all acquire a paycheck each week, but did you know that some people are headed to financial disaster and don’t even know it? Early preparation is key especially for families with youth planning on attending college and joining the workforce. Remember, it takes money to make money. Get your questions answered on everything from the best way to save money such as investments, pension and retirement plans vs. local savings with low interest. You can shape your money portfolio with the help of this well-written guide. Aren’t you just curious how to get started? Get the book that will make a difference!”- *****5 Stars!

Pay Yourself First.

$14.95 / $7.00

“Pay Yourself First is an old adage turned into action in this self-entitled guide by Jesse B. Brown. Just to share my own story, I was never a soul to go to the bank and put money in my savings to have for a rainy day. However, I did believe in having money taken out of my paychecks from my day job as a teacher to increase my retirement portfolio and any hardship savings if that situation ever arised. You simply don’t have to think about money in this way and your investment grows annually. I also, attended a real estate class at the Wealth Expo and a financial guru who sat beside me told me the benefits of acquirying loans when you’re young even if you don’t need them and paying them back in record time to increase your credit ratings. Additionally, when the payments subside within 5 years, have that money you automatically had deducted go into a savings. Now you are on your way to saving 10% of your salary or more by accident rather than on purpose and become prime goods for cards like American Express that you can utlize and pay off monthly to avoid debt and carrying around cash that leads to impulse buying. What I like about Pay Yourself First is that it shows the way anyone whether a novice or seasoned worker on a job or self-employed can begin saving now. You may live until 92, so you’re savings is all you’ll have to live when other funds run out. Don’t be a “poor old broke down fool,” as my 90 year old deceast grandmother once told me, be a smart mature senoir with a fab life. Life begins when you retire! Plan your future now by following the tips in this savvy financial guide. POWERFULLLY motiviating! ” *****5 Stars!

Real Estate & Wealth.

$14.95 / $7.00

“In 2008, there;s no home like your own home or investment to call your own, With this powerful Real Estate & Wealth guide, you can be a homeowner and even learn how to invest in real estate whether the economy is up and down. One of the mistakes many new home owners make is obtaining homes with little down at high percentage on a non-fixed mortgage plan. This creates high payments that ballon and sky-rocket with fluctuating interest rates causing home owners to foreclose and lose their investment. Now you can learn how to acquire a fixed mortgage at low percentage rates in prime realty areas and gain high return upon sale if you decide to relocate. The idea is to begin paying into your principal in 2008 and not just interest. If you are going to sell your home, learn to be your own broker and cut out the middle man. Learn to avoid shady refinacing that give home owners two payments that compete with each other and lead to foreclosure. Learn how to upgrade your home to gain maximum profit upon sale and what buyers look for. Most of all, get motivated to enter the real estate game. I know some folks who never have sold a home, but get high return selling apartments with advance security and commissions. Whatever your goal, you can win in real estate. It’s no longer a profession for scholars. Anyone can own a home no matter what your background. Don’t be a victim living in an apartment complex that suddenly goes condo or increases rent payments with economy. You deserve a peace of mind. Say that you will be a home owner today by reading Real Estate and Wealth.”- *****5 Stars!

The African American’s Job Seekers Guide.

Job Seekers Guide.

$14.95 / 7.00

“There are over 50,000 new jobs created annually in each state with low to moderate income. However, to acquire any top job, means rolling up your sleeves and gaining experience in jobs that perhaps, don’t pay much or anything at all. It’s called internship. For example, most media outlets pay nothing. Freelance writers get paid by the word at times, but with so many interns willing to get free articles syndicated, many top writers are being inched out of paying writing jobs. Furthermore, media recognizes that most writers have side gigs that promote their clients so now media has resorted to not only refusing to hire writers, but gain sponsorship of writers who wish to syndicate their articles. It all depends on your writing expertise. So how do you get paying jobs. You simply have to be the best at your craft. IFurthermore, having a resume full of media jobs as in”Work for Hire” that didn’t last can be detrimental to your resume because simply employers want to know what baggage do you hold. Were you credible, reliable and professional to work with? It boils down to reference letters stating that any employer was pleased with your work if you are going to name drop entities you have worked with. I have simply worked with the best entities so my resume is extensive and quite personal as I direct them to parties I am intending to reach like sponsors at www.Disilgold.com. In the meanwhile, now top media entities want to hire me but I don’t come cheap. I can do bad by myself over at www.Disilgold.com, but I have proven that I simply can get any job done. This is why I like the Job Seekers Guide! It shows that you can not only go after top jobs, but demand your worth in the weight of gold. Top businesses simply hire gold, not fool’s gold.”

$14.95 / $7.00 $16.95 / $8.00

The Afro-centric Bride

$14.95 / $7.00

“The Afro-centric Bride is for women and men who simply want to get married the traditional way and know how to get started from A-Z. You are going to need a budget. Gone are the days when your parents pay for weddings. You will have to plan those expenses out yourself or settle for America’s new marriage ceremony which is simply going to the marriage office and getting a marriage license with a few relatives, exchanging vows, and running away on a cheap honeymoon to only face your mate for the rest of your life with the memories of a horrible ceremony. If you are going to get married, do it right or don’t do it at all. You deserve the best and this guide shows you the way to eternal memories well planned and worth it. Just make sure you get a pre-nup because women are the bread-winners these days and when that man gets out of control, you can have peace of mind that you can also kick his ass to curb if you have to. Ladies, if you are unsure if you want to tie the knot which I totally understand, then have a mock wedding with no certificate at all and just live your life. Forget what people think. At least if you pay for all of the trimmings and mock ceremony and he acts up, you can also, kick him to the curb and keep all of your stuff becaue you bought it. Therez Fleetwood is going to kick my ass for this review, but sorry Therez, we unmarried ladies are utilizing it for our fairytale like mock marriages we know will go bad because men are just not the settling down type these day, too cute to fix things around the house and think they look better than you. Why limit this book to women seeking marriage the traditional way. Get married as often as you wish ladies until you find Mr. Right for the big wedding! It’s your world!” *****5 Stars

Great Sex.

$14.95 / $7.00

“Do you know the powerful secrets of couples who stay together and are happy in love no matter what obstacles in their life? Let’s face it, Great Sex is the bond to staying together beyond how couples look physically, how much they make on their day job and even ambitions in life. Two people can be perfectly happy forever when they discover the secrets of GREAT SEX which is more than the act, but care, committment, nurturing, dedication, support, honesty and communication with each other. Let it be your reason for holding your marriage together for life. Make it fun, interesting and lifelong. Don’t be the person left without a soul satisfying mate to have sex with everyday in a monogomous relationship of trust.. Learn to have GREAT SEX, let down your inhibitions and go for it. Do it now until you’re satisified and learn how to! Enjoy your life! Humans are supposed to mate daily or they simply aren’t living and acquirying joy! Don’t be ashamed to enjoy GREAT SEX! Be all the man you are or all the woman you are with class! What a great and honest book.”- *****5 Stars! .

Born Beautiful: The African American

Teenager’s Complete Beauty Guide.

$16.95 / $8.00

“There simply isn’t anyone more qualified to write or speak on the issue of the Fashion Fair creator himself, Alfred Fornay. Every beauty icon has stolen his tips who haven’t paid homage to this beauty and fashion icon of this era. He has premiered his books with Disilgold at large events and simply is the voice of authority on beauty, I can’t tell how many beauty mags I had to return to stores because they were riddled with beauty from editors who don’t symbolize true beauty themselves with the class and clout like a Susan Taylor whose over all persona from the day I met her examplified true inner beauty. Plus she has great skin we all want so I know she knows what she is talking about.

I’ll never mistake a beauty mag for anything less than real representation of what beauty is ever again in my life. Beauty is internal and it’s about loving yourself no matter what shape or size or hairlength, and no matter what status or complexion. Beauty mags tend to start off preaching beauty from society’s ideals and thus creating an image that is unobtainable. Now here comes along a book that shows women from all walks of life how to gain inner beauty so that it is projected outside onto the world. What a beautiful work! Alfred outdid himself for this fine guide to beauty! A treasure! ” *****5 Stars!

The African American Woman’s Guide to

Successful Make-Up & Skincare.

$16.95 / $8.00

“Ever since the cradle of civilization has evolved, women have examplified their beauty with make-up. Even the peacock’s colorful feathers are designed to attract one’s mate. There’s nothing wrong with powering up attraction from your mate with make-up that shows you care about looking great every day. However, great make-up days start with great skin that’s smooth to the touch, soft and in its best shape so why not learn the tricks of the trade so you aren’t fooling anyone and simply on your way to showing your best face in person at events? I highly recommend Alfred Fornay’s The African American Guide to Great Make-Up and Skin Care”- *****5 Stars

Reviews by Heather Covington, Author of Literary Divas