09.14.05

Happy New Year...

Hello Family & Friends...

I hope that the new year is treating you as well as it has been treating me thus far. My friend Gary Johnson of Black Men in America honored me with the first interview of the year, and you should check it out.

More good news.  The Simon Says "Quadrilogy©" is on an happening, with the third edition, "Every Shut Eye," out and available. The fourth edition, "Relative Secrets," is nearing completion. I'm hoping to have it out before the summer.

Also,  Zane honored my by having me contribute a story to her compilation on domestic abuse, "Breaking the Cycle." My story, "The Break of Dawn," is one that I'm very proud of. I hope that you'll check it out and support this very worthwhile literary effort. The stories promise to keep you mesmerized and informed, and will be available in March 2005. You can pre-order on Amazon.com.

My 2005 calendar is filling up. I've been invited to a number of exciting events, but I always have time  to meet with my book clubs. Any club interested in discussing my books, please email me. I always enjoy great discussion and fellowship. I'm also looking forward to more speaking engagements at high schools and colleges, so if any of you would like for me to come out to your school, please let me know. I've found that it is truly one of the best things about writing. Students, faculty and teachers are so supportive and encouraging. And these students always ask some very interesting questions.

I had mentioned this previously, but it is something that I'm extremely proud of. "Simon Says" has been given the extreme honor of being named as one of Virginia Union University's required readings for the 2004 Freshmen Class. I had a wonderful time visiting their campus last fall, and holding discussions with the students, parents and faculty. I owe Dr. Delores Scott, Dean of Student Affairs, a world of thanks for her spearheading this effort. So, any of you who may be current students of or alumni of a Historically Black College or University, please make the recommendation to your Dean of Students. I've initiated a direct mail campaign to them, but word of mouth is always a great help!

I'm looking forward to participating in the AmiGals Literary Retreat, hosted by Dr. Gwen Parker and the Passage Institute again this year. In addition, I've been asked to be a part of the AKAs on Tour, where we plan on visiting various cities across the country, starting this fall. Stay tuned for more information.

Well, I've gone on long enough for now. I hope that we'll be in touch again soon, and ...