Back to the Basics with Omar Tyree
UBM: You have a long impressive resume writing novels. In 2010 in an
interview with The Urban Book Source you stated you were retired. Can you elaborate why you retired?
OT: I smile right now as read this, but I never said I retired as a
“writer” I only spoke about my retiring from writing “urban fiction.” At the time,
I was very much interested in writing international thrillers and other
content, which I was able to with the children’s book “12 Brown Boys,” the epic
business novel “Pecking Order” the nonfiction book for entrepreneurism with
“The Equation” and the erotic short story book with “Dirty Old Men.” So I
was still writing, just not writing urban fiction anymore. So folks took that
“retired” word and ran with it without really looking at what I was saying.
I was also trying to go into film and television at the time.
UBM: Why the comeback?
OT: Well, now that you realize that I was never retired in the first place,
the so-called “return” is all about alerting the public marketplace that
I’m back active with new and interesting material again. But I’ve been in the
lab over the last 2 years trying to see what new directions to take.
UBM: Can you tell us about your latest project Corrupted?
OT: CORRUPTED is a fictional/factual account of all that’s going on in the
current book publishing industry, particularly with black authors and black
books through the eyes of one popular and successful editor, “Vincent
Biddle.” The book has a dozen main characters in it, and every move that they all
make is all real. I wrote the book to make a timely assessment on the
struggles that the current crop of African-American authors are going through to
continue their writing and publishing careers, where it basically comes down
to doing ANY and EVEYTHING that you need to to stay active.
UBM: What do you want readers to take away from the book?
OT: As the summary says, the readers will get to see the full dark side of
the publishing industry, where it ain’t all nice. Believe that! It’s a real
stressful struggle to remain successful in any audience-driven arena. When
you’re hot, you’re hot, but when you’re not . . . things can surely fall
apart on you. Now they get to see that.
UBM: Who is your favorite character in the novel?
OT: Good question. But as an author who is still writing this “serial”
ebook, week by week, to post one chapter at a time every Friday, I can’t take
any sides with the characters. I have to love ALL of them to give them each
justice. So that’s what it is. I like all of their perspectives, and each
perspective is very important to understand the full industry.
UBM: A lot of your books are about issues. What is the issue in Corrupted?
OT: You hit the nail rigt on the head with that. I LOVE to write about
different subjects for each and every book, and CORRUPTED is about the real deal
of human industry. Decisions amd sacrifices are always made in industry
that people often don’t understand. And in a hard American economy like this
one, every industry is going through tough times, including professional
football, basketball, music, film, television, you name it. So now you get to
really read about the publishing industry and how the economy effects those who
are in it. Ain’t not just books and writing. It’s about business. And don’t
you ever forget it!
UBM: Corrupted is being sold by subscription or by chapters, how did you
come up with such a unique pricing structure?
OT: Easy. I was not finished writing the book when I came up with the idea
for the summer. But with the ebook idea, I figured, why not publish a
chapter at a time then and sell it for $1. And if I write 25 chapters, it would
be like the price of a regular hard back. In the meantime, a new reading
audience would stay with me for 3-4 months of reading about the same characters
in the same book from the same author, like watching their favorite
television programs. Then my manager came up with the web site idea for folks who
maybe don’t have ebook technology, or may not want to keep downloading
chapters each week. And there you have it, a new publishing model to build and
maintain a dedicated audience.
UBM: What is your opinion on ebooks? Will they be the end of the paperback
or a new period in publishing?
OT: I’m using the ebook technology to my advantage right now, where I can
sell a chapter as soon as I finish it instead of having to wait for a full
book to be complete. But ebooks can only phase out traditional books when
everyone has the new technology to read them. So that may take a while to
happen. In the meantime, I still love the packaging of traditional books myself.
To write and publish a new book and then hold it in your hands is still
special feeling to me, but we’ll have to wait and see how special that process is
to everyone eles. So we will see in the next 5 years.
UBM: How has the industry changed since your last novel?
OT: More self-published authors. Less attention to mainstream author with
names. Less excitement for new book releases. Less money each book. Less
sells each new book. Less book stores to sell from. Less tour and marketing
money. Less confidence from editors and publishing houses. Less genres to read
black books, outside of urban street lit, black erotica and your tradictional
relationship dramas. And we still can’t get the black film deals that white
books can get. So there’s a lot less than more for black books. And for
white books, there are more film deals, more ebook sales, more paranormal
writers, but less money accross the board for them all as well. I mean, the whole
industry is a part of the overall American economy of less.
UBM: Does race play any issue in the industry?
OT: Oh, you already know it. And I talk about all of the race factors from
the first page to the last page of CORRUPTED! It’s all up in there!
UBM: What authors have influenced your writing or business?
OT: Richard Wright, Chester Himes, Iceberg Slim, Walter Mosley and Toni
Morrison have had the biggest impact on my writing styles. And Terry McMillan,
Michael Baisden and Zane have the biggest impact on my business models.
UBM: How can readers learn more about Corrupted and your other titles?
OT: Simply view my web site @ www.OmarTyree.com, Twitter, Facebook,
Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble or Google CORRUPTED by Omar Tyree and wham! You have it!
That’s the speed of the information age in year 2011.
Omar Tyree, a New York Times best-selling author, a 2001 NAACP Image Award
recipient for Outstanding Literature in Fiction, a 2006 Phillis Wheatley
Literary Award winner for Body of Work in Urban Fiction, and a 2010 HBCU
Legends Award recipient, has been cited by the City Council of Philadelphia for
his work in Urban Literacy, and has published 19 books with 2 million copies
sold worldwide that has generated more than $30 million. With a degree in
Print Journalism from Howard University in 1991, Tyree has been recognized as
one of the most renown contemporary writers in the African-American
community. In the Spring of 2008, he founded the Urban Literacy Project (ULP) to help
fight the lingering issue of illiteracy within the urban American
community. He is also an informed and passionate speaker on various community-related
and intellectual topics. Now entering the world of international business
and seminars, urban children’s books, stageplays, feature films and
songwriting, Tyree is a tireless creator and visionary of few limitations. For more
information on his work and titles, please view his web site @
www.OmarTyree.com
The DC Book Diva – Live and Direct
Living in a city with few bookstores that cater to individuals reading interest is a problem in many communities. The issue is an even bigger problem for publishers and authors. The problem existed in the Washington DC area where the DC Book Diva calls home. Only she didn’t complain, she sat out to solve the problem.
We sat down with the DC Bookdiva to talk about publishing books and placing the product directly in readers hands.
UM: Can you describe DC Bookdiva Publications?
DCB: DC Bookdiva Publications is the home of some of today’s hottest urban lit authors; we focus on publishing unique stories in the genre and pushing our authors to create stories that have never been told before.
UM: Let’s talk about your roots in the book industry in general and urban books specifically. When did you first get started and what influenced you?
DCB: I first started in the industry in 2005 as a book promoter. At the time I had a partner and we quickly grew the business from a grassroots initiative to a book lounge. I always had a love for arts, so I quickly wanted to learn more about the literary arts industry. I did so by providing a service to many authors in marketing and promotions in the DMV area, online, and through book signings and other events. At that time I learned all I could about the publishing industry and went on to produce one of the first online radio shows dedicated to African American authors- Urban Literary Review. Four years later, I published my first author under my company.
UM: At what point did you decide to start the mobile book store?
DCB: The mobile book store was born out of a need to service people in areas that lack book stores that feature works by African Americans. We expose readers to African American Authors up close and personal in their establishments or at book signings. I wanted to create something unique where authors could meet these readers in their communities; the mobile book store was created in 2008 after the failure of the partnership that was created in 2005.
UM: What are three or four successful traits of the most successful authors that visit your mobile bookstore?
DCB: The most successful traits of authors who visit my locations are those who engage the readers. Authors who stand and not sit at our mobile bookstore and greet each and every person with a smile and a friendly gesture. Authors who are well equipped with promotional giveaways and handouts at our events almost always leave a lasting impression with people who may not buy on the spot but return later to support the authors. Authors who visit more than once and schedule book signings at our multiple locations tend to have better success in spreading the word about themselves.
UM: Your advice for first time authors.
DCB: My advice for first time authors is to do your research before entering into the industry. Learn as much as you can so that you are well informed about industry standards. Read as much as you can and find someone to mentor you. If you can’t find someone to assist you, join groups and social networks where you can get some assistance. Don’t expect to find all of your answers this way but also do your research. It’s a good idea to attend seminars and workshops and find a way to assist someone who may do the same thing that you are interested in. Be patient. Don’t run into this business thinking that you will be successful overnight. Pace yourself and plan your work.
UM: You publish one of the most popular authors Kwame Teague, author of the Dutch series. How did you come to publish the Dynasty series?
DCB: Some years back, Kwame and I were introduced to one another by a publicist who was interested in having him appear on my online radio show. I agreed to interview him for an ongoing series that we were doing on incarcerated authors. At this time I expressed that I was getting ready to publish my first author and he asked me to send him a copy once it was released. I shared my visions for my company with him and we continued offline conversations about the literary industry and what we both where hoping to achieve. Several months after the release of my first publication he proposed to me that we work together on his next works. I was honored and accepted. We are now putting the finishing touches on Dynasty 3 and another book entitled Que.
UM: What upcoming or current title(s) are you most excited about and why? What is the biggest challenge with selling books?
DCB: I am too excited about my entire team and the projects that we all have. Most of the authors have been with me on this long journey, some as early as 2009. At the moment, I am most excited about Lorton Legends, Eyone Williams and A Beautiful Satan by RJ Champ. Both of these authors have worked very hard developing stories that are so unique. I am eager to see how readers respond to them. In my opinion, there are challenges, every day I wake; I push the company and the authors to think out the box and find new ways to reach the readers.
UM: In addition to publishing books, you are known for events. Can you talk about the importance of events and a successful author’s book?
DCB: In my opinion, book events are the new norm. They should go hand and hand with your marketing and promotional plan. An event is every day that you represent your company and books. Book events can be formal and informal but either way they have to leave a lasting impression and spark an interest for readers to buy. Finding unique ways to do this has always been of interest to me.
UM: When are your next book events? How can readers learn more about you?
DCB; The next company event that we have planned is the release event for Lorton Legends by Eyone Williams in September. We hold author book signings events weekly at our mobile bookstore locations. For more information about our events, you can sign up for our newsletter at www.dcbookdiva.com
Behind Those Books with Kaven Brown and Mills Miller Part 1
The first time I viewed the Urban Book Source website felt like opening the wrapper of a new hip hop album. The site had a fresh look and feel, the writing was good and they covered urban authors better than any outlet I came across.
They still do.
I caught up with Kaven Brown and Mills Miller, two of the individuals behind the website to discuss the progress of urban literature, visual representation and their upcoming documentary “Behind Those Books”. This is part one of the two part feature.
UM: What company is the documentary being produced/directed under?
The documentary is produced by The Urban Book Source in association with myself (Kaven Brown) and Mills Miller.
UM: Tell us a little about your documentary and the mission of Behind Those Books?
KB: Behind Those Books is an overview of urban literature, it chronicles the evolution of the gritty street tale, more commonly known as “street lit,” told through in-depth interviews with pioneer authors, publishers, editors, literary agents, industry insiders, activists, hip-hop artists, philosophers, professors and more.
In short, the mission is to expose and bring legitimacy to the genre as a whole.
UM: What was your experience like when putting this project together?
Tons of ups and downs, I actually and honestly wanted to give up sometimes because I couldn’t get and wasn’t allowed access to certain things that other “filmmakers” were allowed to film. I won’t get into that now, but it was very disappointing at times.
But I was allowed into the mental state of minds these authors were in that cause them to write and I feel honored to have been let in that close.
From the trailer is seems there’s a lot of opinionated views from the authors, what’s your take on the direction of the urban literature world?
My main concern is the direction and message we are translating through the book covers. I don’t think we need what’s being displayed on the book covers to get readers to support our stories. The covers have changed dramatically over the years.
UM: Are you an author yourself or strictly a documentarian? (Kaven answer this and tell what your first book was about.)
KB: I like to call myself a “producer.” I’m just an author who has a passion for creating and material that gets people to think, either through a book, film or photograph.
I self-published my novel “Two Face” in 2005, which was co-written by my partner Corry Campos. Two Face is about an attorney who rigged a criminal trial so that her client—who is in the mafia— would be found guilty. The mafia learns of her wrongdoing and places a bounty on her head. The attorney flees the country and befriends a heartless killer known as “Two Face,” and from there the story of Cache Matador is told.
UM: What film festival circuits will this documentary be featured in?
At the moment of writing this, we have yet to enter the film into any festivals, due to us still putting final touches on the final edit of the film. But we have all intentions of submitting the film into any and all festivals under the sun.
UM: What you would like the viewer to take away from this documentary after watching it?
KB: If you opposed the genre, I just want you to rethink and evaluate yourself is all. Understand that these authors have made a way for themselves when no one else would give them a chance. Some have come from prison and have made very good use of their time behind them bars.
Also, if all your doing is complaining, whining and pointing out all the negativity that you claim can come from “street lit,” then I ask you to offer them help or “hire” them. If your not giving any of these authors a job, then realize that most “street lit” was created in prison and society is not giving them a job or anything. So now that they created a way for them to support themselves and families legally, you still have a problem with that?
UM: What’s next for you? What are some new projects that you’re working on that we can look out for?
KB: First is to complete the companion piece to the documentary, Behind Those Books, which is a non-fiction book of the same title. I’ll be taking The Urban Book Source (www.theubs.com) to higher levels, while producing other documentaries, music videos, films and photography.
UM: What inspired this project?
KB: When I was first starting out as an author I use to do tons of research for sources online and off for my work and I found that it wasn’t many outlets. There were little to none and the ones that were available didn’t seem to have much “creditability.” In my opinion they didn’t represent the level of professionalism that I thought we should be striving for. So I decided to start The Urban Book Source, which I thought would fill that void.
The ideas from The Urban Book Source inspired Behind Those Books. Not to mention I already wanted to write scripts and make movies. So with me wanting to make films and create a legitimate space for “urban” publishing I combined the two and “Behind Those Books” was conceived.
In the trailer New York Times Bestselling author Teri Woods makes a comment, “Black people, black life, inner city life are the last to be documented.” Do you agree and is that a motivating factor in producing Behind Those Books?
I don’t know if we as “black” people are the last to be documented because I don’t think we should be sitting around waiting for someone to “document” us. I feel if we want to be documented who would be better to do it than ourselves? And yes, that is a very motivating quote. Teri Woods is somewhat of a motivational speaker, she always gets you hyped up.
UM: Why did you want to spend the time and money to put this documentary together?
KB: I felt like this subject was very important and should be included into the history of blacks and literature. The money wasn’t a real concern, we already had the necessary equipment to produced a decent film. With technology advancing it has allowed for filmmaking to be less expensive now. I think its all about drive and determination and not giving up. And once we started the project, I didn’t want to stop until to was complete. So here we are 3-years later.
Cornel West says in order for a person to be “dumbed down,” we would have to assume that they were “up” first. What did you take from the statement as it relates to him speaking about urban fiction?
I immediately felt some sort of relief to be honest. Because everyone who opposed “street lit” always said that it “dumbs you down.” So when Dr. West said what he said, it was obvious that in order for a person to be “dumbed down” you would have to assume the person started “up” first, otherwise its nothing to dumb down, they’ll already down. And I don’t think that reading can ultimately “dumb” anyone down. If it does, then that author should found another profession.
UM: Before this project, had you read any urban fiction books? If yes, who?
KB: Yes. I’ve read all 13 of Donald Goines books, most of Robert Beck aka Iceberg Slim. I’ve read Teri Woods, Shannon Holmes, K’wan, Kwame Teague and Vickie Stringer to name a few.
UM: What was one of the most shocking comments you heard in the 3 years of filming?
KB: There were many, but the one that sticks out the most is when Treasure E. Blue, said that his mother was a “whore.” Here is the exact quote: “I am a abandoned child. My mother was a whore. And the things I saw through these eyes, no child should have to witness or experience. So am I wrong for writing about my life that I saw?”
UM: What do you want to improve about the genre?
KB: Again, the book cover imagery and I hate to say this, but a lot of these authors and publishers need to learn “digital online business etiquette 101” before they send another email or publish some of their Facebook and Twitter content. I’ve seen some commentary via Facebook that would make you want to never work with some of these authors and publishers.
As creative individuals in fine arts, what creative influence do you believe urban fiction has made on lifestyle and culture of those who read those books?
Basically that it’s okay to read! It’s okay to be a nerd or geek! It’s okay to be smart! Shannon Holmes and K’wan are far from being labeled as dorks, but they are “writers.” I think that’s a great thing. Some of these authors don’t look like “authors,” but then again, what does an author look like? Now, you have rappers mentioning these authors and their book titles in there music.
UM: What do you think the genre of urban fiction brings to the publishing industry?
KB: I think of urban fiction as the “rebel,” who went against the grain to get their story published and read by the masses. It brings a gritty “non-traditionally” edge to the publishing world. Who would have ever thought that buy selling your book out the trunk of your car or on subways could get your book noticed?
The trailer features a clip with Professor Michael Eric Dyson posing this question, “How does urban literature play a role in facilitating greater learning?” Please answer that as you see it?
I’d say that Dyson’s comment translates into: reading urban fiction can be used as a starter for those who may have never read a book before. It can be used as a way to entice or attract literature to those who may think “reading” is boring. Then go on and read other work. Sadly, some of our youth are not engaged with reading.
UM: Mills, you and Kaven also direct music videos. Who are some of the artist that you have worked with under Mills Miller Media?
MM: Fabolous, Jadakiss, Lloyd Banks, Fred The Godson, Vado, Bun B, The Dream and Chrissette Michelle just to name a few. All which can be view on: www.millsmiller.com
UM: It’s no secret that there are more than a few authors who write urban fiction books who have also served time in prison. Whether, local, state, or federal. From drugs to identity theft and credit card fraud. Can you tell us how the prison factor plays a part in urban fiction? Wahida Clark is another urban fiction author who has made the NY Times Bestsellers list with her title “Pay with Ya Life”. Does prison add to the creditability of urban fiction authors story/book?
KB: What’s crazy is that sometimes it takes for a person to land in prison before they realize what they should be doing with their life and realize they have a talent. These people arrive in prison as criminals and exit as authors and publishers, who can get mad at that?
As far as prison lending “creditability” to urban fiction? I’m not sure. There are several authors who have never done prison time and have written great work. But I guess as far as subject matter, I can see how prison could add some creditability, as crazy as that may sound. For example, look at Michele Fletcher, she went to prison for credit card fraud, came out and wrote a book about it. Who wouldn’t take her word for what she wrote about?
UM: Out of all the places you traveled for this documentary, Cleveland Public Library surprised you the most. Tell us what you saw and learned that impressed you.
KB: The Cleveland Public Library had one of the most vast and organized sections of urban literature I’ve ever seen. It looked like something out of Barnes and Nobles or Borders the way it was structured, and it had so many different titles, not just “brand” name books.
UM: How much more will be covered in the trade paperback book of the same name?
The book will contain much more history, contrasting and comparing, lots of case studies and stories.
UM: How many people did you interview for this project?
KB: I don’t have the exact number off hand, but we interview over 80 people and have over 100 hours of footage.
UM: Approximately how much money do you estimate you used to finance Behind Those Books, the documentary?
KB: I would say between $15,000 – $18,000 including all post production.
UM: How can audiences learn more about the film and your upcoming projects?
KAVEN L. BROWN
www.kavenbrown.com
Behind Those Books: A Documentary
Writer / Producer
www.behindthosebooksmovie.com
Follow me on Twitter:
www.twitter.com/kavenbrown
www.twitter.com/millsmiller
Visit me on Facebook:
www.facebook.com/kavenbrown
Incarceration of Black Males and Urban Fiction by Niccole Simmons
Incarceration of a Black Youth and Urban Fiction
by Niccole Simmons
Here are some startling statistics. Black men have an incarceration rate of 4,618 in 10,000. In the United States, an estimated 1,559,200 children have parent in prison. Unfortunately, 92% of those incarcerated are fathers. In Cook County (Chicago-land area) 99% of youths tried as adults are African-American or Latino and the arrest rate of African-American juveniles increases 145% each year.
Unfortunately, eighty-four males on Death Row right now are juveniles.
Currently, illicit drug use within the African-American community for juveniles twelve and older is 10.1%. Because of the extraordinary rate of incarceration, one in every twenty black men over the age of eighteen in the United States will be incarcerated. This is opposed to one in eighty white men. FBI data compiled from more than eighty-five hundred agencies show that African-Americans were the subject of 29% of the population in prisons, even though they make up only 12% of the United States population.
African Americans made up 44% of the female inmate’s ages sixteen to sixty-four; however, African American females only total 3% of the population. So, it should be of no surprise that 70% of all traffic stops in the United States are on African-Americans or Hispanics. Of those incarcerated a staggering 60% are illiterate. Can the popularity of urban fiction begin to bring that number down?
Urban fiction usually tells a story that includes crime, drugs, sex, greed, money and murder. A lot of people feel as though urban fiction perpetuates a negative stereo-type within the African- American community. This is the opinion of many prominent members of the same African-American communities that have embraced this type of genre. Most likely you will never hear of an urban street lit author winning a Noble or Pulitzer Prize.
What about the way women are portrayed in urban fiction? King of urban fiction, author K’wan Foye put it best when he stated “Women in urban fiction are the same as in the real world; you have good ones and bad ones.
Now, I think a lot of urban literature is shameful and vulgar. I think that the use of the word Nigga is abused and I think that the senseless killing is horrible; however, I also think that urban fiction saves lives. Not only does it save lives but it creates positivity where there was none. It creates hope where before there was only despair. A positive outlook where there was once only negativity. Also, it creates an honest income for those whose entire way of life may have been illegal street hustling.
Take for example Relentless Aaron. Relentless wrote many of his novels while serving time in a federal prison. He has been a free man for a few years now and in that time he has managed to obtain a multi-book deal with St. Martin’s Press and another with famous hip-hop star 50 cent. Vickie Stringer who has been dubbed one of the most famous street lit authors ever began her writing while in custody of the Department of Corrections as well.
Most recently, the success story of author Terry l. Wroten who was signed by author K’wans publishing house, Black Dawn Inc. is the talk of the urban literary world.
“Being sentenced to ten years in the California State Prison at the age of fourteen was the best thing that could have ever happened to me.”
Imagine my surprise upon hearing this coming from twenty-five year old debut author, Terry L. Wroten. At the age of ten, Wroten who was a resident of South Central, Los Angeles joined the infamous 4trey gangster crips street gang. At the age of thirteen, Wroten was shot six times by rival gang members. At the age of fourteen, Wroten was taken into custody and charged with three murders, robbery and assault. Inevitably he was exonerated of the three murder charges but was sentenced to the California Department of Corrections for a period of ten years for the other charges. At age twenty-five, Wroten is the most anticipated street literature author coming from the West Coast.
At the time of his incarceration, Mr. Wroten was illiterate. He would have to have cell mates read him letters from his mother and also write his letters to her. He was unable to even address an envelope. He spent the first two years of his incarceration in a juvenile detention center where he began to learn how to read and write. A few months short of turning sixteen, Wroten was transferred to Tehachapi State prison. Here, the older inmates would help Wroten with his reading and writing. Sometimes the guards would even give him a hand. An older cellmate taught him how to use a dictionary at which time he learned how to look up words he couldn’t understand and inevitably expanded his vocabulary. Wroten reports that his comprehension skills seemed to almost immediately become enhanced upon learning how to utilize the dictionary. After being stabbed while engaged in prison riot at the age of eighteen, where inmates and correctional officers were injured.
Wroten was placed in the Segregated Housing Unit (SHU) for term five years for battery on a peace officer. It was at this time he read the book entitled “Gangsta” by K’wan and thought that he could write a similar tale.
This is when he started to write.
In 2007 at the age of 22, Wroten was released to a half way house in order to become un-institutionalized and learn how to find his way back into society. He had a counselor which he reported to daily. After several meetings the counselor told Wroten that if he could not find gainful employment soon, he would be revoked and sent back to the penitentiary. When the counselor questioned Wroten about what he was able to do or what kind of skills he had, his reply was, “I don’t know how to do shit but read and write.”
Wroten’s counselor then asked to review some of his writing. Upon completing eight years of his ten year bid, he had approximately seven manuscripts completed. While being placed back in custody on a parole violation, Mr. Wroten had the opportunity to finish his scripts for a total of twelve completed novels upon his release. His counselor was extremely impressed by the content of Wrotens stories and felt as if his writing was comparable to other urban street lit authors.
Wrotens counselor decided to try and help him find a publisher. After being incarcerated at the time of the internet boom, Wroten was completely unfamiliar with how to use a computer or the internet. The first thing the counselor taught Wroten was about the social networking site, MySpace. It was there that they reached out to the inspiration behind Wroten’s writing, author K’wan. K’wan recognized the talented young man’s writing skills and for two years the two corresponded while preparing for the release of “Natural Born Killaz”.
Now that Wroten has signed a book deal under K’wan’s publishing house Black Dawn Inc. he is hoping to open some doors for others on the West Coast.
As of now, the East Coast has a strong-hold on the urban fiction-street lit. genre. Wroten also aspires to show kids in urban communities that may be going down the path that he once did, that illegal hustling, selling drugs and gangbanging isn’t the only way. He currently does free motivational speaking at high schools and community centers in the Los Angeles area. Also, Wroten has penned an anthology; out now, with authors K’wan, Jrod Nider, JM Benjamin and Randy Ski-Thompson titled “The Massacre”. His debut novel by Black Dawn Inc. entitled “Natural Born Killaz” is also available.
Mr. Wroten is also hoping to break into the film industry. He is currently in the process of writing screen plays and continuing to work on manuscripts. He also wants naysayers of urban fiction to know that had it not been for the gritty street tales urban fiction portrays, that he most likely would have remained illiterate and a lifelong menace to society. Wroten went on to point out that most characters in urban street lit do tend to redeem themselves at the end of the novel. “This is something we can relate to, not Judy Blume, Stephen King or JK Rowlings. This is what life is. I’m just bringing it to the frontline,” he stated humbly.
As the author of this article, I do have to say that Mr. Wroten humility was a pleasant surprise. Having a little bit of background information before speaking to Mr. Wroten, I assumed I would be talking to a rough and gruff thug; however, Mr. Wroten was kind, soft and well spoken whose passion and desire to write, not for fame and fortune but to find a way out and to inspire others was made evident throughout the entire interview. His gratitude and thankfulness to author K’wan for giving him an opportunity to fulfill his goals is inexpressible. His desire to be a role model and help others is also like nothing I have ever seen before. If this is what urban fiction does to people, how can anyone be against it?
If you would like to contact Terry L Wroten, you can reach out to him at authortlw@yahoo.com or Facebook.
Reign the Cartel
T Styles is a boss. Fly, progressive and enough swag to lend to the haters. Now a bookstore owner, we had the chance to sit with T Styles to discuss her bookstore, the publishing business and e-books.
UM: Describe The Cartel Publications and what it brings to the publishing industry:
T Styles: The Cartel Publications is a street literature publishing house. Meaning we publish novels heavy in urban themes depicting street life. We bring consistency to the publishing industry and we offer a solid brand for our distributors and customers. Our customers are starting to realize that when they see the CP logo, it’s all good and your customers will be pleased. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!
UM: Most publishers build their house on at least one book or author. To date, what book has laid the most bricks for the The Cartel Publications?
T Styles: Without a doubt it has been the Shyt List series. For seconds I’d have to say my titles…Black and Ugly as Ever, A Hustler’s Son 2 and the like.
UM: You’ve remained focused on your house and have expanded your brand into a bookstore. In an economic climate where bookstores are closing, what has been your biggest challenge operating the store?
T Styles: I haven’t had any major challenges. I scouted the area in which the book store is located a long time ago. In fact, I grew up in the area and knew that a black book store would do great in a location where most of the customers commute by bus/train. If I had to pick a challenge, it would be hiring and maintaining qualified staff members. Although we seem to be doing pretty well now.
UM: As a bookstore owner, what misconception (s) have you learned about the publishing industry that you did not know as a publisher / author?
T Styles: Hmmm, misconception…you know what, I’m one of the few publishers who is not interested in how other people do things, and because of it, I’ve been protected from ‘How other publishers/authors’ do things. So I didn’t have any misconceptions or expectations outside of keeping my focus on the brand. I knew I’d have to grind to get the brand out there that if I did, the Cartel would be okay. I think too often business folk worry too much about what others are doing in the industry and base their business decisions on what worked or didn’t work for that person. Ignorance was my greatest asset because I didn’t know that most publishers didn’t put out two books at the same time, or this that and a third. Feel me?
UM: As a bookstore owner, what are some words of advice for authors and book signings.
T Styles: Well, I’d say please…please…please don’t cut corners when it comes to quality book covers. It’s imperative. And although your mother’s cousin’s uncle may have done good copy paste work in the past, when it comes to your book cover, take no chance. People say don’t judge a book by it’s cover but they always do! They pick up the book and put it right back down if the title isn’t hot and the cover isn’t hotter. I’d also say don’t expect a line to form around the corner when you sign your books. Successful books signings are 80 percent grind & pull (of customers) and 20 percent promotion from the book store.
UM: What is your view on urban books in the ebook format and publishers giving the ebook away for free?
T Styles: Publisher are giving books away for free? Nonsense! There has to be some reason for that madness I’m sure. Me? I LOVE ebooks but you have to pay for ours. We currently have our books available on Amazon.com’s Kindle and since Kindle’s AP is available for the iPad, you may download our books there too. In terms of e-books, the industry is changing. Publishing is changing and those who aren’t willing to embrace change will get run over. There’s no other way to say it. We have to get with the program or get left out of it. People want access and immediate gratification and ebooks provide it for the consumer.
UM: The amount of books in your catalog is impressive as T Styles. What made you write using the pseudonym Reign?
T Styles: I love writing under Reign because she’s relentless. And Reign means to prevail. Sounds just like me!
UM: What book did you enjoy writing the most?
T Styles: Black and Ugly. Why? I enjoyed the story because of the topic for one (about a young lady who hates her dark skin) and I like creating characters based on solid friendships because I never had that. When I was growing up, I moved around so much I didn’t get a chance to form long lasting bonds. And although the friends in Black and Ugly fight a lot, they love one another.
UM: Do you desire to sign with a major publisher or would you like to remain independent?
T Styles: As of now, no. I’d like to remain independent because I’m not feeling the idea of working for someone else. And the longer I am successful, the more I don’t want to. This may change depending on the offer, but for now, I want to see how far I can take the label.
UM: What are some upcoming dates for The Cartel Publications book releases, author signings or book tours?
T Styles: We have The Unusual Suspects, Miss Wayne and the Queens of DC, Hell Razor Honeys 2, Reversed and the list goes on and on!
UM: Where can readers reach you online?
T Styles: On my site at www.thecartelpublications.com, on Twitter at www.twitter.com/authortstyles and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authortstyles
Street Legends Vol. 2 – Seth Ferranti
Seth Ferranti
Seth Ferranti is the acclaimed author of a number of books, perhaps most notably “Prison Stories”, which he self-published through his company Gorilla Convict Publications. Ferranti currently serving a 25-year prison sentence for dealing drugs. He has currently served 17 years. As he was sentenced under the guidelines of an LSD kingpin, Ferranti’s case was widely publicized and covered in high profile sources like Rolling Stone magazine and The Washington Post.
Not only did he form his company while in prison, he has helped to publish other incarcerated writers. Ferranti is an accomplished journalist and has written pieces for a wide variety of magazines including FHM, Vice and Don Diva. More information about Gorilla Convict Publications and Seth Ferranti’s work can be found at http://www.gorillaconvict.com
Urbania: Can you tell me a little bit about your publishing house Gorilla Convict? How did you find the other writers that you are currently publishing?
Seth: Gorilla Convict Publications is the voice of the convict. It is founded and formed by prisoners and for prisoners. We are trying to bring readers the voices that might not otherwise be heard. We are trying to shed light on the stories that have been manipulated by the mainstream media and government. We give the prisoners side. We give voice to the legends of the street. They have been glorified and name dropped in hip hop, now with Gorilla Convict Publications you can read their real stories, in their words and the words of their homies, co-defendants and relatives.
We try to promote any other prisoners who are writing and putting out books from the penitentiary. We know it’s a struggle because we did it ourselves. So anyone with like minds we hook up with and help them to do their thing. Like my man Lamont “Fridge” Needum whose book STRAIGHT SAVAGE is like that and my dudes from the MIA Plex and Mike Harper who wrote BooBaby and STREET RAISED respectively. Their books are like that. At Gorilla Convict we promote and network to find the talented writers that exist within this system. There are a lot of dudes in here with a lot of stories to tell.
Urbania: Do you ever think of writing a straight up biography about your own life?
Seth: I’d like to write a biography one day or a movie script about my story. I’m not a gangster or anything like that. I’m just a kid from the suburbs who got caught up in this bullshit war on drugs and now I am paying the price with this 25-year federal sentence of which I’ve served almost 17 years of so far. So eventually, yes, I will write a straight up biography of my life and case and the circumstances that led me to be incarcerated. As of now, magazines like Rolling Stone and Don Diva have touched it upon, but I look forward to writing the complete and unabridged story one day. But for now I have a lot more stories to write and to share with the world in my Street Legends series.
Urbania: I know you didn’t start writing books until you were in prison, did you ever have any indicators earlier in life that you wanted to write?
Seth: I always played in bands when I was young. I still sing and play guitar. I know its kind of weird being that I write about gangsters and urban stuff, but really I am way into punk and metal, music wise. Though I do love a lot of the early hip hop stuff like Run DMC, Beastie Boys, NWA, DAS EFX, UTFO and stuff like that. I have always written songs and poetry and lyrics and the like, and it just evolved into what it is now. So I guess I did have indicators early in life that I wanted to write. It’s about more than that though, it’s about being able to create and to have a vision and follow through on it. That’s what I think I have always been about even when I was out on the street selling LSD and marijuana at all the east coast colleges. That was my vision back then, Gorilla Convict is my vision now. When I finally hit the streets my vision will take on a new form.
Urbania: What are currently your main motivations as a writer?
Seth: My main motivation as a writer now is to get stuff done. I want to put out a book a year for the rest of my bid, 6 years. So that when I get out I will have a resume, my books, my works that will speak as to what I am capable of. I want to be heard. I want these stories to be heard. I think it’s great that hip hop and urban fiction has opened up these doors. Especially for me and other people in prison. It gives us something to aim for and it gives us hope of a future life when we get out.
I want to use my time wisely and crank out as much quality material as I can. I’m happy that people are interested in my work, but for real I would do this regardless. This is my passion. Like I said, I’m a visionary and I won’t compromise my vision for anybody or anything. My wife and I started this from prison. When I get out I want to take it as far as it can go. That is my motivation.
Urbania: Street Legends 2 comes out next month. Can you talk a bit about how this new book compares with the first Street Legends?
Seth: Street Legends Vol 2 drops in DEC 09 and it carries on where Street Legends Vol 1 left off. In Vol 1 I wrote about the death before dishonor sic- Supreme, Wayne Perry, Anthony Jones, Aaron Jones from the JBM, Boy George and Pistol Pete. Six of the most recognizable gangsters of the hip hop era. These dudes were the black and Latino John Gotti’s and Pablo Escobar’s.
Now in Vol 2, I am profiling the original gangsters. Dudes you might have heard about but never really knew about. Frank Matthews, Peanut King, Michael Fray, The Boobie Boys, Short North Posse and New World. A lot of the street legends we hear about from the rappers are from New York, so I widened my scope on this one and tried to write about legends from different areas including Baltimore, DC, Miami, Columbus, Ohio and New Jersey. I wanted to talk about the older legends you might not have known that much about and some of the newer, not so hyped up ones. So basically Vol 2 is the same format. We are just talking about different legends.
Urbania: Do you think you have inspired other people in prison to become writers? Can you give some examples?
Seth: I think I have inspired other people in prison to be writers. Me and my man Joe Black started off together, he wrote Street Team and Squeeze. I’ve also been around Robert Booker who wrote PUSH and Eyone Williams who wrote Fast Lane and Hell Razor Honeys I and II. My man Fridge who wrote STRAIGHT SAVAGE and Plex who wrote BOOBABY and Mike Harper who wrote STREET RAISED.
I’m sure I have inspired them and they have inspired me and vice versa. Wahida Clark has been corresponding with me since she first started writing. Also Kwame Teague, who wrote the DUTCH series for Teri Woods, is someone I correspond with. I know a lot of writers who are still in prison. We have all inspired and tried to help each other. I’ve done whatever I could to get interviews and articles about all the people I have named here in magazines and on Internet sites. I appreciate Urbania doing the same for me. I’m sure there are more writers too. That’s just off the top of my head.
Urbania: On one of your blogs you mention you are interested in filmmaking when you get out. Are you going to get into Directing films? Also are you thinking of making your books into films or would you do something new?
Seth: I am going to get into film making when I get out. I want to write and
direct. I want to be like Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez. Like
I said before, I have a vision. Some of the stories I written about would
make great films.
But I want to do more than gangster films. I want to do action/adventures with a gangster edge, of course. Anything I do has to have that edge to it. But dudes like Supreme and Boy George have tailor-made stories for film. When I am in the right position, I will push to get those films made. I will write them and then I will do all I can to get someone to bankroll them. I have written a couple of scripts and am still perfecting my screenwriting craft.
Street Legends: Vol: 2 can be purchased the Booksellers below.
The Survival Bible by Jihad
Jihad
Jihad is a writer and motivational speaker. Early in his life, Jihad embarked on a life of crime, which landed him in prison for seven years. He was shot on several occasions and in a car accident, which left him paralyzed.
Miraculously, Jihad regained usage of his legs. He also discovered his love of books and for writing while in prison. Jihad’s books include the autobiographical novel entitled “ Street Life” which was written in 1998.
Jihad has since written five other novels. Jihad’s most recent release is a book of non-fiction entitled “The Survival Bible 16 Life Lessons for Young Black Men.” For more information about Jihad’s works, check out www.jihadspeaks.com.
In addition to his writing, Jihad is also an inspirational speaker and a real estate investor. He is the founder and CEO of the non-profit organization The Wake-Up Everybody Foundation. This company is dedicated to “positively and proactively re-awakening the African-American psyche through self-realization and re-education.”
We interviewed Jihad his work and his ideas for helping and encouraging young people. As far as his novels go, Jihad explained that he gets his ideas from major emotional experiences in his own life. He explained, “I could be running at the gym, and I’ll have a thought that develops and won’t go away. That thought usually comes from something I see or hear that I am a very passionate about.”
Jihad’s new book “The Survival Bible 16 Life Lessons for Young Black Men” has some truly insightful ideas. One of the most important points he strives to make is that youngsters need to intentionally seek out books written by people who share the same cultural identity.
Jihad explained during our interview, “In life, all of our formal education comes from either books or scholars that are teaching from the people and the books that they were taught from. These may not be books or schools of thought that have your best interest in mind, being that you are black and only have the identity that others have told you. So, you have to READ books about your yesterday written by people who look like you and have your best interest at heart. You have to do that in order to establish your cultural identity. This is a must in understanding how you got to be where you are. By studying your ancestors, you can see how to avoid their mistakes and understand how they achieved their successes.”
Jihad goes on to explain, “Your identity is your foundation. There is nothing
that can stand through rough weather or turmoil without a foundation. That
is why our people are in the condition that we are, most of us have no
foundation. See, knowing the past is knowing the future…. Everything in
life revolves, the earth, our bodies, our story. There is absolutely nothing
new under the sun, so knowing your past in essence is knowing your future,
because with knowing your yesterday, you can map out your tomorrow. In
essence, this is what they mean by Know thyself.”
Jihad’s work is self-published. Overall, he feels this experience has been very challenging. He explained that as an independent publisher he never had the same distribution outlets as the major publishers. “It’s like a grass roots movement for life being independent, at least until the media or the people really latch on to your work.”
As far as suggestions go for readers looking to become writers and follow a similar path to success, Jihad’s main words of advice are “ READ, AND JUST DO IT. Begin at the beginning of your thoughts and just write
what’s on your mind, and don’t worry if you are an avid reader, the story will come to you as you are writing.” He explains that it is important for new writers to realize that the hardest thing to write is the first page.
Jihad’s inspiration for new writers is as follows, “How many times do you see a movie that you know you could have done better or a book you could have wrote better? Sit down and just do it… everyday if it’s one word, one sentence, write… and most importantly read. Other books are your school. Don’t worry about stealing anyone’s ideas, as I said before there is nothing new under the sun, so how can you steal what never belonged to the author in the first place… It’s all about your twist on one of the few stories that have been done a million times a million ways.”
Of course, in addition to his books is his motivational speaking career. Jihad described a recent experience at one of his live events. “It was beautiful. The young King had never read a book before but his mother made him read The Survival Bible while he was grounded… After reading my book, he told his mother that The Survival Bible was the greatest one gift he’d ever received and he was going to change the world and make her proud. I spoke with the young King and told me that he was selling his PS3 to help his mother buy books from a reading list put in the Survival Bible. He is 13…. That one King’s words are worth more than any amount of money I could be paid to write.”
Next from Jihad is the sequel to “Preacherman Blues.” He not only plans on writing more novels, but also many more self-help books. In fact, the next self-help book on the horizon is “The Survival Bible: 16 Life Lessons for Young Black Women.”
Voice of the Generation – Felicia Pride
Felicia Pride
Felicia Pride is best described as an author, speaker and voice of her generation. She has a Master’s degree in writing and publishing from Emerson College and she currently lives in Baltimore, Maryland.
Pride’s numerous books span a variety of categories including hip-hop, pop-culture, fiction, and young adult literature. Perhaps her most acclaimed work to date is called “The Message: 100 Life Lessons from Hip-Hops Greatest Songs.” This book has been called “Chicken Soup for the Hip-Hop Soul.” This book was even profiled by USA Today.
In addition to her writing, Pride is also an accomplished speaker who has spoken at schools and venues around the country. In 2004, Pride founded Backlist. This is an organization that conducts creating workshops and seminars, and that curates community events. Backlist also consults with artists and writers. More information about Pride’s work can be found at her website http://feliciapride.com/
Urbania: How did you get started writing? Did you always know you were a writer? Tell us a little bit about your background as far as when you realized this was one of your passions.
Felicia Pride: I didn’t always want to be a writer. I got my start while working in corporate America. I wanted an outlet where I could be creative so I found an opportunity to write for free for a small newspaper out of Staten Island, NY. I did this on my downtime. I began writing about music and the first time I saw my byline on a published article, it was a wrap.
Urbania: Your new book is called Patterson Heights. Can you tell us a little bit about your inspiration for the book?
Felicia Pride: The book takes place in Baltimore and is about a family that suffers a tragedy and how they each of them deal with the pain differently. It’s told through the eyes of fifteen-year-old Avery Washington who has to embark on a quest to find out who he is in order to move on. I’ve wanted to write a book based in Baltimore about a regular family who must deal with what life throws at them. Baltimore can get a bad rap sometimes, and I wanted to show another face of the city.
Urbania: Your book “The Message” is a really unique concept and since it has been released it has clearly made a lot of waves. Can you tell us a bit about your experience promoting your book?
Felicia Pride: Overall, the experience promoting THE MESSAGE has been amazing. I’ve met so many interesting people, including a lot of smart young people who have found value in the book. Their engagement with the book has taught me a lot. I’ve had the chance to give keynotes, and facilitate workshops for them and they’ve helped me grow in many ways.
I also was able to bring my family into the mix to help me (both sister and mother are in education) and together we developed an enrichment program based on THE MESSAGE that aligns with national academic standards. So that’s been exciting as well.
Urbania; What types of books do you enjoy reading most personally. Do you have any current recommendations?
Felicia Pride: I read all types of books, but the ones that I enjoy most are imaginative, different, and make me marvel at the power of words and the talent of wordsmiths. But a current recommendation, and I’ve been recommending this book all over the place, is “The Black Book: 35th Anniversary Edition.” Originally presented by Toni Morrison, it’s a book complete with images, archival documents, and news articles that chronicles the African American experience in this country. Everyone should own a copy.
Urbania: Do you have any suggestions for writers looking for inspiration and motivation to get started?
Felicia Pride: Write. Write. Write some more. You’re not a writer unless you write. Push aside those feelings of doubt and fear and write. The more you write, the better you become. And read, read, and read some more. The more you read, the better writer you become.
Urbania: How about suggestions on getting published?
Felicia Pride: Network like your life depends on it. And well, if you’re trying to be a published writer as a career, it kind of does. Most of the opportunities that I’ve been blessed to have come into my life has been the result of the relationships I have built and nurtured.
Urbania: I noticed you and your organization Backlist have done a lot of speaking engagements on a variety of different topics everything from strategies for success to hip hop. What types of audiences and/or topics do you enjoy presenting most?
Felicia Pride: Definitely teens and young adults—high school to college students. We vibe off each other’s energy. I learn from them. They learn from me. I was them and they are me.
Urbania: What is next on the horizon for you?
Felicia Pride: I’m working on a few multimedia projects, one being about my family in Baltimore. It’s an amazing story and I almost feel like I became a writer to tell it.
The Power of Positive Thinking at Peace in the Storm Publishing
The Power of Positive Thinking at Peace in the Storm Publishing
Peace in the Storm Publishing looks for talented writers and storytellers in a wide variety of genres. The subject matter ranges from fiction and mystery to erotica and Christian fiction.
Inspiration is the cornerstone of any new endeavor, and the creation of Peace in the Storm Publishing is no different. The company motto is “Giving your Soul a Rise, One Page at a Time.” Soul is definitely at the heart of Peace in the Storm publishing, and God is often sighted as a source of strength and inspiration on the company’s website. God and spirituality obviously played a huge role in bringing Peace in the Storm Publishing into existence.
Recently, we were able to sit down with founder Elissa Gabrielle. We explored the inspiration behind Peace in the Storm Publishing, as well as what personally motivates Elissa.
Elissa Gabrielle
Just as her father’s song motivated her, Elissa, in turn, wants Peace in the Storm Publishing to motivate others. Elissa states, “With each book, there will be something that will entertain, encourage, and enlighten. I’m extremely proud of that.”
All businesses face challenges, yet Elissa addressed the obstacles she has faced in a unique and determined way. She says that while the “devil has a way of trying to stop your progress, especially when you’re trying to chase your dreams,” she has found that she can still overcome many obstacles. One key strategy she has employed in tackling her obstacles is the power of positive thinking. She says that she has a “glass is half full” philosophy. She uses this positive philosophy in conjunction with constantly asking God for guidance and wisdom.
Elissa feels that Peace in the Storm Published has, to date, faced two distinct challenges. The first challenge was that of selecting authors for her initial launch. It was vitally important to her that they were a diverse group, who would appeal to as wide of an audience as possible. The second major obstacle was the complexities of developing a brand; once this challenge was met, she stated that everything was easier. Elissa said that once the branding for the publishing company was set in stone it has been “smooth sailing.”
Jacqueline D. Moore, author of Serving Justice stated what makes Peace In the Storm Publishing so unique is “The make-up of the group. The styles of writing are as varied as the women themselves.”
Lorraine Elzia, author of Mistress Memoirs, added, “Peace in the Storm prides itself on the quality of the authors, the quality of the stories and the quality of the representation of the company.”
Jessica A. Robinson, author of Holy Seduction states “We are unique because we are truly family and we believe in being trendsetters for excellence. We always try to raise the bar with our professionalism.”
These three quotes do wonders to illuminate the perspective of all those involved in Peace in the Storm Publishing. Clearly, all involved are focused on promoting hard-working authors, and focused on creating quality books that are inspirational and motivating.
Elissa’s advice for new writers attempting to get into the publishing business should be very helpful those just starting out. She feels that research is paramount because knowledge is power. Being informed about the business, being determined to meet your goals, and asking for God’s assistance and guidance are all part of the formula. Again, it was impressive to see Elissa’s consistent optimism shine through.
2009 looks as though it will be a great year for Peace in the Storm Publishing, as there are 10 authors slated for publication, with even more titles planned for 2010. Be sure you take a look at and keep an eye on their website www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com for updates and new titles. With someone as determined and positive as Elissa at the helm, there is little doubt that 2009 and 2010 will be impressive years for Peace in the Storm Publishing.
INTERVIEW UPDATE (10/09)
After the African American Awards, I caught up with Elissa Gabrielle to discuss the success of 2009.
UM: Positive thinking, creating a meaningful brand and great books garnered Peace in the Storm publishing several awards at the African America Literary Award show in 2009.
Did you expect to win and how did it feel?
Elissa: Mr. Wells, honestly, I didn’t expect to win any of the five categories Peace In The Storm Publishing had garnered nominations in. I was very honored and humbled to even be considered. How did it feel? Awesome. And not for the reasons you may think. See, in 2009, I lost my sister suddenly. Her name was Jodi and she was only 44 years old. I had never experienced pain on such a monumental level before in my life and the pain made me lose my way for some time. I still performed the roles of publisher, because I had a job to do, but it was truly a performance.
Shortly thereafter, my dad, well-known jazz musician Joe Thomas fell ill, and we weren’t sure if he would make it. For some time, he wasn’t even able to walk. I couldn’t have predicted the very highs and the very lows that I experienced in 2009. I was extremely grateful and humbled by the fact that my parents were able to witness the awards, to be there with me, and I prayed that somehow it lessened the trauma of my sister’s death. It was a happy day for all of us. And, my dad is now able to walk. So, while the awards are great, the real icing on the cake was that I was able to share such a special moment in my life with those I love the most – family, because as you know this is life is not a dress rehearsal. We are blessed with life, and we must treasure our time here on this earth with family and loved ones. And, I can’t lie, it feels great being a winner. Who doesn’t love that feeling? I am responsible for the literary careers of 11 authors, so bringing home the “gold” gave me a little more confidence and encouragement to do the best job I can for the Peace In The Storm authors.
UM: What has been the toughest challenge in the publishing industry? Was the challenge expected or inspected?
EG: That’s a hard question to answer because I’m not sure if I look at the actual challenges as challenges. I sort of stay in my own little bubble, and do my own thing for me and the authors of Peace In The Storm. In identifying one challenge, I suppose it was receiving information that I needed to move forward. Valuable resources and information are sometimes not readily available to the people seeking it. So, getting information to help Peace In The Storm grow was probably the most difficult thing to do. I guess I expected it. However, life is filled with speed bumps, roadblocks and stop signs. Our normal tendency is to listen to the world as it tells us to slow down or even stop, behind a belief that some things in life are out of our reach and beyond our attainment and control. The world wants to cushion our expectations and to ultimately limit our goals. But thankfully, there is a God. And with faith in Him and His mercies, He gives us pedals upon which to accelerate and a path of green lights upon which to proceed when others tell us we can’t possibly move forward. My Peace In The Storm journey has been an ongoing saga of having faith and believing that even though others can give me molehills of why Peace In The Storm can’t, My God gives me mountains of why Peace In The Storm can. There will undoubtedly be more challenges that lay ahead, but I have to remain focused for me and the authors of Peace In The Storm. I’ll continue to allow God to order my steps and will lean on Him for guidance when the continued challenges arise.
UM: Other than the awards and accolades, what has been your reward?
EG: My reward has been helping others. Nothing beats the feeling I get when an author calls me when they have their book in their hand. I try to really be involved with the overall publishing process, so the author and I develop a real bond as the process continues. When that part of the process is complete, I feel joy right along with the author when they’ve achieved their dream. I’m happy for my authors because they are worthy, and they deserve all the goodness that is sure to come. They work hard, and it’s been both and honor and a pleasure to witness them chase, and finally reach their literary goals. So, for me, the biggest reward is to help them make their dreams come true. Ain’t nothing like it.
UM: Now that you have found success and have been recognized as one of the leading publishers, what’s next in 2010?
EG: I think it’s going to take years for me to become a leading publisher, if that ever happens. Only God knows for sure, and only time will tell. I’m still learning and there are many more miles I need to travel. Honestly, I’m happy to be on this journey and I’m looking forward to what the future holds for Peace In The Storm and its authors. For 2010, we have two new authors, so far, that have joined the Peace In The Storm roster; Brian Ganges, and Pamela D. Rice. Returning are the award-winning Jacqueline D. Moore, Lorraine Elzia, Cheryl Lacey Donovan, and the literary-award nominated S.D. Denny, and Ebonee Monique, in addition to Tamara Angela Grant, Jessica A. Robinson, and LaToya S. Watkins. I will also release another novel in 2010. The lineup is really fantastic and I’m very excited about the 2010 releases. These authors have really stepped up their game and they will not let their readers down. Please visit www.peaceinthestormpublishing.com in December to preview the 2010 lineup from these incredibly gifted authors.
UM: Positive thinking can go a long way, but can’t get the job done alone. As a publisher, what was one of your most successful strategies that you implemented this year?
EG: In recognizing that I was a small press and a new publishing company, I needed to ensure that Peace In The Storm came out with a bang, and in order to do that, I was very selective in the process I used to choose the books in which I would publish. I wanted diverse genres and broad appeal. In doing so, the quality of books under the Peace In The Storm umbrella was very high, because I looked for stories that were above the norm. Now don’t mistake me, I don’t mean better, I just mean different. I was not interested in publishing just for the sake of publishing, but I had a real concern about the quality of books that bore the Peace In The Storm name. After choosing high quality manuscripts, I focused and encouraged my authors to direct all of their attention on marketing. The importance of marketing can sometimes be lost on publishing companies and I made sure it was not lost on me, or on the authors under the Peace In The Storm publishing house. There are so many great publishers out there, how would anyone recognize Peace In The Storm and its authors? Realizing that if Peace In The Storm was going to make a name for ourselves, it had to be done through a progressive and aggressive marketing campaign. We all were new to the literary scene, nobody knew our names, and when starting out with brand new authors, it was my goal as the publisher, to make their names as individuals, as well as the company brand, a household name as quickly and professionally as possible. I think that initiative on the part of me, as the publisher, and on the part of my authors, was one of the most successful strategies that helped Peace In The Storm overcome some of the obstacles that other small presses have difficulty overcoming, and that is being noticed. It’s very hard to be noticed. I’m so very grateful that we were acknowledged. But I’m even more happy that our readers are pleased with the work that we’ve put out there.
UM: As an author what was one of your most successful strategies that you implemented?
EG: I’ll tell you a little about my latest novel, A Whisper to a Scream. A Whisper to a Scream is the story of Queen Thomas, a successful defense attorney who is very passionate about defending the African American male. She has seen that the justice system has not been so fair and kind to them, so it is her mission to save as many of these men as she possibly can. A speed bump comes along in the form of Dr. Quincy Hughes which makes her question everything she’s believed in and has fought for, for so long. The interracial element of the book was the most difficult part to write effectively. I had to do a lot of research, because I had no direct knowledge or experience with interracial relationships, so in order to make it authentic, I had to really work hard. I challenged myself on so many levels with A Whisper to a Scream. Queen Thomas is a defense attorney, so I had to research to make sure that the courtroom drama was real. In addition to that, I needed to highlight the domestic violence parts of the book. Poetry is something that is laced throughout the book as well as the recurring theme of “whispers” and “screams” so this was the most technical book I’ve ever written. I enjoyed the challenge of having a book that was so well thought out and well written. That was my goal and I enjoyed reaching that goal. So, in terms of strategy as an author that was implemented, was giving the reader a book that exceeded my expectations as a writer. I wanted to give the people more and I’m hoping that strategy will prove to be successful.
Some Great Advice and Insights From The Man Behind RELENTLESS CONTENT
Some Great Advice and Insights From The Man Behind RELENTLESS CONTENT
In my initial correspondence with Aaron from Relentless Content, I was struck with one of the quotes that he placed at the bottom of his email. The quote was from Oliver Wendell Holmes and it read, “A man’s mind once stretched by a new idea, never regains its original dimensions.” I thought it was a fantastic quote, and it definitely made me want to learn more about Aaron, his insights, what prompted him to create Relentless Content.
Aaron began his writing career while still in prison, and says that he maintained the mindset of an author throughout his ordeal in prison. Once out of prison, he registered his company with the state of New York and began his company by having fifty copies of his own book PUSH printed. He sold PUSH for $15 dollars on the streets. However, now as a result of Aaron’s vision and perseverance we can now find his book on the shelves of Starbucks! I was motivated to learn more about how Aaron was able to get his work on the shelves of such an iconic international chain such as Starbucks.
Aaron’s story with Starbucks is an interesting one. His journey began in Harlem. It was in the Harlem Starbucks location that Aaron was first able to get his books on the shelves. During the four years that his books were on the shelves in the Harlem Starbucks, people from all over world were buying his books, regardless of race.
This success in the Harlem Starbucks afforded Aaron the opportunity to expand into several Starbucks outlets in Atlanta when he relocated. It was in Atlanta that one of Starbucks’ branch managers recognized the quality of Aaron’s writing, and encouraged him to set up a table inside the store for the day. Soon Aaron found himself in dealing directly with the Regional Manager of Starbucks, which opened the door for Aaron to make appearances at even more Starbuck branches. This exposure has allowed Aaron to meet a wide array of individuals including numerous professors of literature and history. He also met professionals in law, real estate and government who admired his work.
So what advice does Aaron have for young or new writers trying to market themselves and their work? He begins with some fantastic advice, stating, “My way is MY WAY. You cannot do it my way. You need to find unique ways, unique markets and emerging markets. I hold exclusive partnerships with some of the biggest, wealthiest business owners thanks to this strategy.”
This rather sage wisdom would likely help any new writer looking for guidance. Aaron’s point is a great one- it is important to carve one’s own niche in order to find his or her audience and reach true success.
Aaron also had some great observations on the difference between writing for a major publishing company and writing for a independent one. He feels that a major publishing company can quickly get a writers work out to the world, but that it is still up to the writers to get out there and promote the work themselves. On the other side of the coin, if you are going the independent publisher route, then you are going to have to tackle it head on, one book at a time. Aaron feels that hunger, discipline and talent must all be present for success to occur.
So what’s next for Aaron? 2009 looks to be a very interesting year as Aaron has scripts, films and reality television shows all in the works. You can follow Aaron on Twitter at www.twitter.com/relentlessaaron His website is www.relentlessaaron.com
