MissDomino

2012 CPS Tech Talk

2012-01-28T20:20:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I attended the Chicago Public Schools Tech Talk Conference at Roosevelt High School. This is a technology conference for teachers and technology coordinators. This year, librarians contributed heavily by presenting sessions about Animoto, iPads, VoiceThread and KINECT in the library. It was great to see my librarian colleagues and meet technology coordinators and teachers from across the district. Moreover, what I learned at Tech Talk greatly contributed to my own professional development.

The LMC's New Addition: Apple TV

I presented a session called, "The Art of Blogging." My session started off a little shaky. I accidentally left my notes at home and discovered the batteries in my presentation clicker had died. What a start to a day right? Thank goodness for the Roosevelt High School Tech Coordinator, Victor Herrera who saved the day and found the AAA batteries I needed. You saved me Victor!

During my session I discussed how I use my blog as a space for educational thinking/dialogue and extension of my personal learning network. This was the first time my presentation was actually about my blog. Normally, my presentations are about Street Lit, iPads or African-American literature. It was really fun sharing my blog and some of my experiences with my session attendees. My hope is that I inspired some of the attendees to start blogging themselves. As I said during my session, we are educators and we have good stories to share about our students, schools and ourselves.

The Prize!

At the end of the conference day, I won one of the prizes in the raffle: Apple TV! Throughout the day today, I've been doing some research online about this system. I also visited fellow CPS teacher Jennie Magiera's blog, to learn how I can effectively implement this resource in my library media center. I suggest that you not only take a look at her recommendations but subscribe to her blog. She is doing some innovative things at her school.

Kudos to John Connolly and his team for executing Tech Talk this year. The conference was great and I hope to attend and present again next year. That's all for now!

2012 ALA Book Awards...I'm Just Sayin'

2012-01-22T20:02:00.000-06:00

Well, it's that time of year again...book award season. The American Library Association will be announcing it's 2012 Youth Media Awards tomorrow and many are on the edge of their seats. So far, one of my favorite books has won an award. Vanessa I. Morris' "The Reader's Advisory Guide to Street Literature," has won RUSA's 2012 Zora Neal Hurston Award. This award is given to librarians who demonstrate leadership in promoting African-American literature. Below I inserted a really nice video that features Morris at her best, explaining what Street Lit. is and why it's a genre that should not be overlooked. My hope this year is that more books by African-American writers are honored, in particular Street Lit books.

Last year, YALSA's Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers featured a healthy number of teen friendly Street Literature books. This was definitely a welcomed surprise. I'm wondering if there will be the same number of winners this year? Will there be more? Will authors like NiNi Simone, Nikki Carter and Earl Sewell who write teen friendly Street Lit books be honored outside of the 'reluctant reader' category? I would like some of these authors to be considered for the major book awards like the Printz, Alex or Coretta Scott King Award. I understand it's politics but, I'm just sayin'...hmm.

Thank goodness for The Street Lit Book Award Medal that honors Street Lit books. I hope some of my favorite authors and stories will be recognized. I'll be listening to the announcements tomorrow via streaming video, will you?

Oh, My Funny Student

2012-01-15T12:35:00.001-06:00

*Please note: To protect the privacy of my student in this article, she will be called Bianca.

My Student *Bianca

Last year, my student *Bianca read Ni-Ni Simone's "Shortie Like Mine" in one day. I believe her excitement about reading the book was peaked after hearing a book talk on some of the new books in the library. After reading the book, she came back to the library to check out "If I Were Your Girl". Unfortunately the three copies including the fourth, my personal copy, were all checked out. I thought about ordering another copy but couldn't because I had spent all of my fall book money. Needless to say, she was frustrated. I placed the book on reserve for her and reassured her that the book would return soon.

Since placing the book on reserve, Bianca stopped by the library every day to see if the book had been returned. Bianca would lean in the library door before school, during the lunch periods and after school and say, "Is it here?', with a smile and a gleam in her eyes. I assured her that when the book was returned, I would bring the book to her classroom. Believe me, I really understood her urgency to read the next book in the series. When you are reading a really good book series, you want to finish one book and continue onto the next one without interruption. The worst that can happen is when the book is checked out, one can feel frustrated because you have to wait to see what happened to the character(s).

What I didnt' realize was how 'determined' Bianca could be. Since the book had not been returned, she decided to take matters into her own hands. The female students at my school place a book they are reading directly in the back of their clear book bags. They do this to show off what they are reading to other students while walking down the hallways during passing periods. When Bianca spotted the book in another students bag she told them to 'hurry up', because 'she' was ready to read the book. When she learned that one of the girls was almost done reading the book one morning, she begged her to return it before school ended. The young lady did and of course, Bianca returned after school to finally pick up her book. Since that time, Bianca has read all five books in the Ni Ni Simone book series and is waiting for the author's spring 2012 release.

This year, Bianca is a Senior and has read just about all of my popular YA Fiction in my library. To keep her interested and reading, I've introduced her to adult Street Lit. books written by Ashley & JaQuavis. Ashley & JaQuavis style of writing is fast paced, suspenseful and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I felt that their books would surely interest Bianca. She checked out "The Cartel - Part I" along with four other titles to keep her reading over the three week Christmas vacation. When school resumed Bianca was back in the library again. She expressed how much she enjoyed the book and we exchanged opinions about some of the characters.

The Cartel Series by Ashley & JaQuavis

When Bianca learned that "The Cartel - Part II" was still checked out, I assured her that it would return soon. She asked me who had the book and my reply was, "We are not going to go down that path again, you can't harass people to finish the book early for your convenience." I assured her that I would reserve the book for her and suggested that she check out another book while she waited. I also mentioned that the book would return a day or so because one of the teachers, who is a avid Street Lit. reader, had checked it out. With that, Bianca left the library and I thought all was well. Well it wasn't, during our conversation I made a big mistake. While assuring Bianca that the book would return soon, I accidentally said the name of the teacher who had the book, Mrs. Bates.

The next day, Mrs. Bates returned the book. When I thanked her for bringing the book back early because a student had requested the book, she knew about the student. She said Bianca came to her classroom three times looking for the book. I also learned that she accidentally went to another teacher's class in error looking the book as well. Upon the third time coming to the classroom and interrupting class, Mrs. Bates finally asked Bianca, "Who are you?" (I just wish you could have heard how Mrs. Bates asked that question, you would be laughing too!) She was just as surprised as I was in Bianca's boldness and determination to check out, The Cartel - Part II". Needless to say, I checked the book out to Bianca and delivered it to her while she was attending her British Literature class. In true Bianca style, she read the book under a 24 hour period. While she is waiting for "The Cartel - Part III", to return, she is reading a book by another popular Street Lit. author.

I share this story with all of you to say this is why I'm committed to providing good cautionary stories for African-American pre-teens and teens. Street Lit books in particular are stories that my students have deep affinity to. These stories take place in neighborhoods that are similar to their own, describe a experience that they can relate to and makes them think about the choices that affect their lives.

My Library Media Center

While many of my librarian colleagues shy away from circulating these books, I don't. I am very fortunate to have a supportive administrative team at my school that is supportive of my efforts to get students reading. I am also able to circulate these adult Street Lit titles in accordance to the library collection development policy. The emotional and social needs of my students is quite unique from other library programs throughout the district, city and state. This is why I continue to identify books that 'speak' to my students. I often wonder who was the person(s) that said African-American children don't read? They need to visit my library and other libraries across the country where Street Lit. circulation statistics are higher than other genres. Maybe, just maybe they will rethink that statement.

The Perfect Pair: Hip Hop and Street Literature

2012-01-06T04:20:00.000-06:00

Over the Christmas break, I was able to catch up with some friends. As always, the conversation eventually leads to discussions about new books and music. After one particular one call, I thought heavily about how hip hop music and Street Literature compliment each other. I am a product of the 80's generation which was the 'golden age' of rap music. The baselines of early hip hop music are classic and remain embedded in one's memory. These masterpieces are nothing like today's music that often times lacks a turn table and message. A DJ Kool Herc/Grandmaster Flash/Jam-Master Jay tape, old school boom box and a recreation center was all teens needed during that time to have fun.

My Favorite Hip Hop Painting

This attitude toward hip hop has spilled over into my job as a school librarian. I am not your traditional librarian that plays classical music behind the circulation counter and shushes the students. Some days I'm playing ole school rap (yes the kids sing along to it), some modern hip hop, dancehall reggae, house, steppers and gospel music. The kids never know what to expect once they enter my library. Sometimes the discussions about who made the song first are quite hysterical to the casual onlooker. It's all good because they are thinking out of the box and practicing the classic art of debate.

Hip Hop and Street Lit is such a natural pairing because it makes the overall work 'real'. Some authors have cleverly inserted hip hop music into their tales of the street. NiNi Simone is a popular young adult Street Lit. author that does this very well. At the beginning of each chapter of her books, she includes the lyrics of the song and artist. For example, in her book 'Upgrade You' Simone starts off the chapter with the lyrical quote, "You used to love me...." - Faith Evans. These simple lyrics describe the pain Seven will experience when she discovers her boyfriend Josiah has another girlfriend, Tori. The songs set the tone for each chapter and gives the reader a preview of what will happen.

Jay-Z and Beyonce's "Bonnie and Clyde '03"

Now I took you down the hip hop memory lane because I recently re-read "Ride Wit' Me" by Deja King. The story is about Mercedes and Dalvin, Chicago teens and children of drug kingpens. (I also loved this story because it took place in the Chi) Their fathers give these kids everything materialistic they could ever want. Never did the two rivals believe their kids would fall in love with each other...but it did happen. As much as Mercedes father tried to break up the relationship, both teens were determined to stay together. Jealously, teen bullying and peer pressure are common themes present in the story as seen in other popular young adult literature. This book is also very popular in my library; so much that I have to physically go to the students class to remind the student to return the book. Does this sound familiar to you fellow librarians? I've also heard that some librarians circulate this book instead of Sista Souljah's, "The Coldest Winter Ever" because of the positive starred review from School Library Journal.

DJ Tribute to Jam-Master Jay

King has written a moving modern day Romeo and Juliet story centered in the hood. I appreciate the reserved coolness of Dalvin and his bravely. When Mercedes father told him not to see his daughter anymore he said, "No disrespect Mr. Clinton, but you can't forbid me to do anything." I just wanted to stand up and cheer for this young man. Most teen boys would not have had the courage to stand up for themselves in the manner that Dalvin did. "Ride Wit Me," is a fast read and kids today can still relate to this story that was first told in 2006. I remembered when I first read this story, I immediately thought of Jay-Z and Beyonce's, "Bonnie and Clyde '03." As described in the story, Dalvin needed a 'ride or die' chick just like Jay-Z.

Hip hop music and Street Literature are tales of the streets. These are stories that are fast paced, funny and sometimes violent. They give us advice, describe a stress that most couldn't endure and empower us to change. A world without both would be unthinkable.

Walter Dean Myers

2012-01-03T11:56:00.000-06:00

National Ambassador for Young People's
Literature, Walter Dean Myers

As I started my pot of coffee this morning, I ran across a email that just brought joy to my heart. Author Walter Dean Myers has been named the new National Ambassador for Young People's Literature. Myers who happens to be one of the most prolific young adult authors of our time is a five time winner of the Coretta Scott King Award and has received two Newberry Honors nods. The National ambassador for Young People's Literature is named by the Librarian of Congress for a two-year term based on recommendations from a selection committee representing many segments of the book community. Myers has selected the platform, "Reading is Not Optional" during his term.

2011 Coretta Scott King Awards Breakfast

Myers is deserving of this honor. He's my 'go to' author in my library. When that bewildered student that normally avoids the library, reading books and me is sent to the library to select a book for SSR time. I encourage them to try a Myers book, heck it's the largest collection of books by one author. Once they read one, they always come back. Myers books include a catalog of fiction, poetry, non-fiction and some picture books for children. His core audience are mainly teen/young adult and include stories that describe the forgotten teen that lives in inner city America. I describe him as a brave man. One that will not shy away from the tough subjects that teens are experiencing today. I am especially happy that he is an author that has penned some Street Lit books is finally recognized on a national level. My favorites, "Monster" "Lockdown" and of recent "Dope Sick" are Street Lit. novels (some of you didn't realize that you were reading Street Lit, right?).

2011 Coretta Scott King Awards Breakfast

As a librarian, what also draws me to Myers is his view of educating young people. I met Myers at a book signing during one of the ALA Conventions of year's past. After learning that I was from Chicago, he quizzed me heavily about what I knew about the Pullman Porters . He found it interesting that my great-uncle served on the Chicago/New Orleans line. I distinctly felt that he was working on another book that would tell a great story and cleverly educate young people about American history at the same time. This is why he's such a great storyteller.

His views of the African-American community are also quite thought provoking as well. In a recent New York Times interview, Myers said that more has to be done to emphasize the importance of reading affecting one's life. This is why his platform of "Reading is Not an Option" is so important for today's children. He also said, "You take a black man who doesn't have a job, but you say to him, 'Look, you can make a difference in your children's life, just by reading to him for 30 minutes a day." Words well spoken and very true. This is a honor for Myers that is well deserved. Finally, I must commend the committee for the nomination. This nomination recognizes that the library patrons are culturally diverse and represent different life experiences.

The National Ambassador for Young People's Literature inauguration ceremony will be held on January 10, 2012 at the Library of Congress.

References
Children's Book Envoy Defines His Mission by Julie Bosman, January 2012
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/03/books/walter-dean-myers-ambassador-for-young-peoples-literature.html?_r=2&scp=2&sq=Myers&st=cse

Author Spotlight: Wahida Clark

2011-12-24T11:27:00.007-06:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

If you are fan of adult Street Lit., then you are familiar with Wahida Clark’s books. Penned the “Queen of Thug Love Fiction,” Clark’s style of writing has set the standard for Street Literature. Some of her best selling novels include: Payback is a Mutha, The Golden Hustla and Justify My Thug. Now she has ventured into another arena: young adult literature. The new book series is called, “The Wahida Clark Presents Young Adult Series (YA)” targets readers from ages 14-18. Teens will now have a series of their own that will feature realistic characters and problems that they can relate to. The overall goal of this series is to carry the message that every deed has a consequence.

Author, Wahida Clark

I’m excited about this series because like Tamika Newhouse, Ni Ni Simone and Earl Sewell, Clark is committed to presenting a responsible solid story that teens can learn from. Below is a brief interview between myself and the very busy Wahida Clark.

--------------------------------------------

Miss Domino: First let me tell you from a school librarian’s perspective, my 12th grade girls are in love with your books that you have written from your adult catalog. Why did you create Wahida Clark Presents Young Adult?

Wahida Clark: One of my inspirations for writing was that I saw how I could inspire our youth to read. This applies to my Young Adult Line as well.

Miss Domino: Wahida tell me about some of your new Young Adult authors, how you discovered them and a brief synopsis of their stories?

Wahida Clark: - Rashawn Hughes, the author of Under Pressure, at the age of twenty-two, was convicted and sentenced to twenty years in prison for a shooting in a street altercation where a man lost his life. While in prison Mr. Hughes has dedicated himself to being responsible, to showing that life once set on its course can change. He began honing his writing skills in 2000 after taking a brutally honest look at his life and situation. He wanted to create a way to keep the memory of his victim alive and do something that would make his family proud of him. So he decided to pen Under Pressure.

- Charmaine White is an 18 year old student at Spellman. She simply reached out to me with her manuscript and we liked it. She simply enjoys writing.

- Gloria-Dotson Lewis currently pursuing her degree in Social Work. She is a married mother of three and is dedicated to creating a non-profit organization geared specifically toward African-American teen girls. Her goal is to create an environment that will empower, encourage and educate young women with the skills they need to make responsible choices that will lead to a healthy, successful future.

We have other new Young Adult writers that will be debuting soon.

Miss Domino: Writing for the Teen audience is tough. A writer must be very observant of content and messages conveyed in the story. I've read all three books and they are page turners that teens will enjoy. On average, how long did it take to develop and produce the books for publication?

Wahida Clark: It takes us 5-6 months per title.

Miss Domino: What has been the response from teens, parents and librarians about the books?

Wahida Clark: Great responses! Looking forward to touching more lives.

Miss Domino: What are some of the challenges have you experienced from a publisher’s position while developing these books?

Wahida Clark: There haven’t been a lot of Young Adult book lines in the black community. My challenge is to increase the availability.

Miss Domino: Do you believe it was easier to produce a book for a teen audience than an adult audience?

Wahida Clark: They are about the same.

Miss Domino: Your writers did a really good job in relating to the teens today. Their references to speech/language, music, interests and most importantly problems that teens experience were well researched. Why do you think it is important for today’s writers to relate to their audience?

Wahida Clark: You won’t sell books if you can’t relate to your audience. Simple as that!

Miss Domino: With three books in your teen catalog, what can we expect from Wahida Clark Presents in 2012 for teens and adults?

Wahida Clark: A lot more!

Miss Domino: What Street Lit titles are sitting on your bookshelf right now?

Wahida Clark: The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah, Standing at the Scratch Line by Guy Johnson, some Donald Goines, Tracy Brown, Nikki Turner, the list goes on . . . I am a book junkie with all genres on my shelves.

Miss Domino: What is in the near future for you? i.e. – speaking at conferences, book fairs, webinars etc.

Wahida Clark: All of the above and then some! I must admit, I have grown my company at a pace faster than I can keep up with.

School and Public Librarians: Wahida Clark Presents - Young Adult Series books are now available through Children's Plus in library binding!

Review: Cookie: A Forth Worth Story by Tamika Newhouse

2011-12-22T12:22:00.004-06:00

Oh how I love Christmas Break! Over the last couple of days, I tuned out the stress, read and conducted author interviews. This post begins the first of the book reviews so enjoy!

LaToya 'Cookie' James and Lyric James are like oil and water. Cookie is the quiet and reserved sister and Lyric is the boisterous older sister that is the "It Girl" within their social circle. Raised by a tough bible-gripping, churchgoing single mother, the girls experience the fast life and learn some harsh life lessons along the way. Readers quickly learn that Cookie is the responsible one of the two sisters. She takes on adult responsibilities by running the household caring for their bed-ridden mother. Lyric on the other hand cares more about 'self', parties hard and runs the street with various boys from their neighborhood. When Cookie decides to 'come out of her shell', her life changes dramatically.

"Cookie: A Forth Worth Story" is a cautionary tale that will keep the reader turning the page. The sisters often find themselves in risqué situations that they can barely get themselves out of. A rape of a best friend, and the death of another friend forces Cookie to realize that life is not as easy as she thought it would be. The story honestly describes what happens when a young girl grows up too fast and the painful consequences that are experienced.

Author, Tamika Newhouse

Based on a true story, author Tamika Newhouse vividly tells a gripping story that many of today's teens can relate to. Newhouse is the author of "The Ultimate No No" and the CEO of Delphine Publications. Like other adult Street Lit authors that now write for a teen audience, Newhouse has written a responsible solid story. She takes the reader to the edge and yanks them back without describing events of the story in a graphic manner. Teens will enjoy reading "Cookie: A Forth Worth Story," because it's highly relatable and a fast read. Moreover, the story will generate discussion among teens and really force them to think about their choices in life.

Newhouse leaves the reader wanting more at the end of the story. I was so relieved to learn that the sequel "Cookie Too: Lyric's Song," will be released in early 2012. I plan to include this book in my high school library collection in 2012 for my die-hard and picky teen Street Lit readers. In addition, I highly recommend that other librarians purchase the book for their library collections as well. The book will surely be a hit with teens and will generate discussions for days to come.

43rd Annual NAACP Image Awards

2011-12-11T22:37:00.044-06:00

Founded in 1909, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, (NAACP) is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. From the ballot box to the classroom, the thousands of dedicated workers, organizers, leaders and members who make up the NAACP, continue to fight for social justice for all Americans.

The 43 Annual NAACP Image Awards ceremony will be held on March 4, 2012. The Image Awards celebrate and honor outstanding people of color in film, television, music and literature. I'm so pleased to announce that two of my colleagues/friends are being considered for this year's nomination. I am asking all of my friends and colleagues to support the social media campaign for both of these authors. Please keep in mind, the campaign raises the awareness of the nominee’s submission and heightens the chance for a final nomination. The final nominations will be announced January 2012.

Vanessa I. Morris book, “The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Street Literature,” published by ALA Editions, has been submitted for nomination for Outstanding Literary Work - Instructional. Morris is the Assistant Teaching Professor at The iSCHOOL at Drexel’s University’s College of Information Science and Technology in Philadelphia. She is the country’s foremost Street Literature Scholar and writes frequently on her blog, Street Literature. Her work is referenced and used heavily by school, public, special and academic librarians. The book has helped me and my peers gain a better understanding of the genre and has served as a helpful resource when making purchases for my teen patrons. Essentially, Morris has created a reference masterpiece for those who wish to learn more about Street Literature. The interesting historical facts of the genre, effectiveness and current use of Street Literature is heavily discussed.

National Bestselling Author and Award-Winning author, Earl Sewell, has written nineteen novels and has had his work featured in several anthologies and magazines. Sewell’s, “Keysha’s Drama” series published by Kimani Tru is very popular with pre-teen and teen readers. “Maya’s Choice” has been submitted for nomination for Outstanding Literary Work - Teen/Young Adult Category. You can read more about Sewell on his website at www.earlsewell.com. The students that attend my high school are crazy about Sewell's teen book series. My library currently has multiple copies of his books and they are always in circulation. I've also had the pleasure of having him speak to my students during one of his book tours where he was received well by the teens. I call Sewell one of those 'observant' authors that is keenly aware of the emotional and social challenges today's teens face. He is a young adult author that has the gift of cleverly weaving a good story that teens will enjoy without preaching.

Please support both of these authors in their quest for a nomination. Both authors are committed to producing books that help us all understand teens just a little better. Just click on the following link for the Facebook NAACP Image Awards page, (http://www.facebook.com/naacpimageaward) then click on the ‘Like’ button and post your support on their wall, it’s just that easy. That’s all for now!

Vanessa I. Morris

Earl Sewell

An Early Christmas Present...

2011-12-08T16:27:00.000-06:00

LMC Christmas Tree

The Christmas break for a Library Media Specialist is just a wonderful time where we can relax or as the kids say, 'chillax' without no one calling our name. Yes, rest and relaxation is definitely on the agenda. I'm looking forward to Christmas for several reasons:
- Sleep and more sleep
- Read and read even more books
- Attend One-to-One Apple classes on Michigan Avenue...whoo-hoo!
- Catch up with family and friends who are ticked off that I haven't called
- Finally, adopt another cat so that Domino will have some company during the day

Christmas Display

Today I received some really good news. After generating some statistical data on my library circulation, I learned that my students are really checking out allot of books. Those of you reading this and are librarians understand how easy it is for a librarian to loose track. We just circulate and shelve and circulate and shelve as fast as we can to meet the needs of our patrons. Between the months of August - December, my students have almost surpassed the total number of books checked out last year. In other words, in June my students would have checked out more than double the number of books check out last year. This news was definitely a early Christmas present!

From the suggestion of a good friend, I would like to share a video slideshow of my library called, "The Library Inside of a School", click the link enjoy!

Author Spotlight: Vanessa Irvin Morris - Part II

2011-11-25T15:57:00.003-06:00

As promised, here's Part II of my interview of author Vanessa Irvin Morris. Enjoy!

Earlier this year you created, “The Street Lit Book Award Medal Booklist.” Why did you create this award and why is this honor so different from book awards?

Author, Vanessa Irvin Morris

Well, I was noticing how literary awards come out during the first quarter of the year (for the most part – especially in library world) and that there was no recognition for literary excellence in Street Lit. Street lit is a prolifically published and read genre, yet there was no measure for acknowledging the best of the literature for various reading levels (best teen, best adult, etc.). I felt this was an unnecessary void. I also felt that the Street Lit Book Award Medal would be a good way to advocate for the literari-ness of Street Lit and to also act as a collection development tool for librarians seeking to adequately add titles to their collections.

The SLBAM Committee considers books that are popularly read and requested in libraries across the U.S. We have committee members from every region of the country. This way we get a good coverage of what patrons are requesting and reading. We take those lists of titles and read or re-read the books. We discuss the books. We then do a series of rounds to advocate for the Medal ranking.

Many people reading this interview would be surprised to hear that you are currently working on your Ph.D. How were you able to write a book and work on your Ph.D. at the same time?

Morris at her 2011 Book Signing

Well they are both related. The book is about helping librarians (and teachers) understand Street Lit; my dissertation research is about learning how librarians read Street Lit and how their reading responses inform their professional practice.

What Street Lit. titles are on your bookshelf now?

Lorton Legends by Eyone Williams

Eviction Notice by K ’wan

The Robbin’ Hoods by Ericka Williams

I’m also looking to dig into TTW3 by Takeera Allen. If you go to my blog, at www.streetliterature.com, I have a Shelfari widget of all my current reads.

What's in the near future for you? i.e. - speaking at conferences, webinars, etc.

The Reader's Advisory Guide to Street Literature, ALA Editions

There is going to be a public book launch event for The Readers Advisory Guide to Street Literature on Wednesday, November 30, 2011, at the Vivant Vivant Art Collection Gallery, located at Gallery Row, 60 North 2^nd Street (2^nd and Arch Streets) in Philadelphia, 6pm-9pm Eastern Time. It is going to be a wine and cheese event; free admission (and parking!). J We are going to offer an open forum for people to discuss the book and the genre. There are additional media plans in the works, to promote the book, but they are still tentative at this time. You can read more about this event by checking the events page on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/events/116218215156764/. You can click ‘LIKE” and “SHARE” to spread the word!

You can email me at VANIRVINMORRIS@GMAIL.COM to RSVP, friend me on Facebook (Vanessa Irvin Morris) or follow me on Twitter (@vanirvinmorris) for latest announcements.. See you there!

Morris is the Assistant Teaching Professor at The iSCHOOL at Drexel’s University’s College of Information Science and Technology in Philadelphia. She is the country’s foremost Street Literature Scholar and writes frequently on her blog, Street Literature. Morris is the creator of “The Street Lit Book Award Medal Booklist.”

Her book “The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Street Literature,” published by ALA Editions has recently been submitted for nomination consideration for the NAACP Image Award – Outstanding Literacy Work.

Author Spotlight: Vanessa Irvin Morris

2011-11-22T13:17:00.016-06:00

Today I am featuring my fellow Warrior Librarian, colleague and friend, Vanessa Irvin Morris on MissDomino. Morris is the Assistant Teaching Professor at The iSCHOOL at Drexel’s University’s College of Information Science and Technology in Philadelphia. She is the country’s foremost Street Literature Scholar and writes frequently on her blog, Street Literature. Her research of the genre is thorough and extensive.
Morris is also the author of “The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Street Literature,” published by ALA Editions. She is also the creator of “The Street Lit Book Award Medal Booklist.” and explores what Street Lit does to and for us, and what we do to and for it. This interview will be presented in two parts for your reading enjoyment.

When did you fall in love with Street Lit and why is it one of your most favorite genres to read?

As a kid, I was exposed to Street Lit during the DonaldGoines/Iceberg Slim period. In 1999, I was reintroduced to the genre by new teens coming in to the library asking for titles and teaching me about this new wave in the genre. Street Lit is one of my favorite genres because of its honesty and unapologetic storytelling. Street lit tells stories from a space of courageous truth, and I like that, and I respect that. Also, I was born and raised in the inner-city, so as a reader, I can relate to the stories, as well.

Morris at her book release party, Nov. 2011

I read your book, "The Reader's Advisory Guide to Street Literature" and really enjoyed it. I know that you have written articles, blogged and spoke at conferences on the subject. What prompted you to finally write a book about Street Lit?

I felt there was a real need for a text that fully unpacks the genre for educators. I was seeing how teachers and librarians were resisting the genre while its readers, teens and adults, were embracing it. I wrote the book to provide a bridge of understanding between readers of this genre and the educators who serve them.

Readers often think that Street Literature began with Claude Brown’s "Manchild in a Promised Land" (1965). In your book you discuss the roots of Street Literature which may be a surprise to many. Can you explain this further?

In the book I talk about how previous generations also had literature that told the gritty realities of street life. I talk about how this brand of street literature that we ostracize today actually has canonical counterparts in Western literary tradition. I date street literature in novel format back to the 18^th century.

Vanessa, what frustrates you most about the critics, librarians or those who don't understand Street Lit.?

What frustrates me most is that people actually think they have the right to determine what qualifies as literature and what does not, for whole populations of readers. As a public librarian, such an elitist stance astounds me. Of course we all have our preferences in what we deem appropriate or interesting to read. However, I don’t agree with the idea that just because I am a librarian or a teacher or an author or whatever, that I can say this literature is bad or this literature is better or this literature is good for others. If that were the case, I would personally dictate that the entire horror genre be banned, because that genre is not my particular preference to read or engage. But you see how silly that sounds, right? I guess I am most frustrated at the silliness of some of the anti-street lit rhetoric that is out there.

Stay tuned for Part II, coming Friday, November 25, 2011

Back On My Square

2011-11-07T15:11:00.001-06:00

Books Turned Back In After The Fall Intersession Break

It's been 6 months since I've posted to MissDomino. You can just say, I've been busy, BUSY! During this time, I've had some wonderful experiences that were thought provoking and life changing. These 'epiphanies' will be shared with you within the next couple of weeks. Since April, so much as happened in the world of Libraries/Books/Technology:

1. G. Neri wins the 2011 Coretta Scott King Honor Award for his release, "Yummy: The Last Days of a Southside Shorty"

2. Wahida Clark's debut of her new teen series, "Wahida Clark Presents Young Adult"

3. Michael Cart's release of, "Young Adult Literature: From Romance to Realism"

4. Earl Sewell does it again with his sixth release in the Keysha series called, "Mya's Choice"

5. Chicago Public Library Librarians and Supporters fight against library cuts

6. A new petition to the Obama Administration ensuring all school libraries are properly staffed, open and available for children every day.

7. finally....will iPads outnumber desktop computers in schools by 2016???

I think you would all agree, much has happened. The one thing that hasn't changed is how busy I am at Wendell Phillips Academy High School and my commitment to servicing my teen patrons. As I always say, "Power to the people, and Power to the Books."

2011 Street Lit Book Award Medal Winners (2010 publications)

2011-04-26T14:07:00.000-05:00

The Street Lit Book Award Medal Committee comprises of a group of volunteer librarians and library workers from across the U.S. who work with Street Lit and its readers in public and school libraries. The Committee collected, discussed, and nominated titles based on library patron popularity, book club interest, and overall reception of the story as a valuable addition to the Street Literature genre. Three rounds of nominations resulted in the winners for 2010 publications.

Visit Vanessa I. Morris, Street Literature Blogspot to view the list of winners and participating librarians that worked on this committee.

Time to Get Down and READ!

2011-04-25T13:22:00.000-05:00

Freeport, Bahamas

The last couple of weeks have just flown by! While I was on vacation, I had to the opportunity to read and order several books online. There's nothing like laying on a beach reading in peace and quiet without anyone calling your name! Here a couple of books I'm really excited about that I wanted to share with you.

Just Read - Teen

Upgrade U by NiNi Simone

Upgrade U by NiNi Simone - Simone does it again in this latest installment featuring Seven and Josiah. The teens, now in college, experience freedom and learn some life lessons along the way. The characters Courtney and Big Country kept me laughing throughout the story.

Just Read - Adult
Heartbreak of a Hustler's Wife by Nikki Turner - another installment in the popular series featuring Des and Yarni with the introduction of Desember, the long lost daughter of Des. Nikki Turner wrote this book after experiencing a severe car accident.

On My Nightstand - Teen Reads

Losing Romeo by A.J. Byrd

Losing Romeo, by A.J. Byrd - the sequel to Chasing Romeo - the drama continues with girlfriends Kierra, Anjenai and Tyler as they learn about dating and love.

Famous by Simone Bryant - the sequel to Fabulous - the Pacesetters are back again creating havoc at Pace Academy.

Midnight and the Meaning of Love

Mystify by Artist Arthur - the sequel to Manifest. Paranormal fans will enjoy this selection.

On My Nightstand - Adult Reads
Midnight and the Meaning of Love by Sister Souljah - Midnight goes to Japan to rescue his bride Akemi.

Black Friday by Ashley and JaQuavis - currently reading this fast paced story about everything that could go wrong when prying eyes are watching.

StreetLiterature Blog Interview

2011-02-28T12:40:00.010-06:00

Vanessa I. Morris, University Professor and the country’s leading Street Lit. scholar recently interviewed me on her Street Literature blog. During these interviews I discuss my love of Street Lit., how it affects tweens/teens, how the industry views the genre and the future of the genre. It was truly an honor and pleasure to appear on her blog. This interview was broken down in three parts and the links are listed below:

Part I - http://t.co/LwGPe9h

Part II - http://t.co/xc3WLxT

Part III - http://t.co/750rb7k

On Another Note...
During the month of February, there has been a lot of discussion about Street Lit. on a popular listserv that I subscribe to. Just in time for Black History month….hmm. After reading several of these posts, I concluded that a good number of the librarians and teachers have really invested the time and effort to explore and learn how this genre can be used with tweens/teens. On the other hand, I have also concluded that there are still a number of librarians and teachers that are still confused about the entire Street Lit. genre and which books should be classified as Street Lit. Moreover, some of their opinions of their students of color really concerns me. My heart goes out to the students of some of these school librarians. These librarians lack professional development and understanding in this area of their collection and quite frankly should enroll in some diversity training.

Suggestion: Some of these librarians should purchase Vanessa I. Morris “The Reader’s Advisory Guide to Street Literature.” The book is scheduled for a November release and will be an excellent reference for professors, librarians and lovers of the genre. You can also learn more about the genre by subscribing to her RSS feed and follow her posts. The articles are thought provoking and insightful.

I said it, I proclaim it, and I will defend what I believe.

Until next time, K.C.

Breaking News...New Releases

2011-02-27T12:41:00.000-06:00

On April 12^th, “Midnight and the Meaning of Love” by Sister Souljah will be released. This is the much anticipated sequel to “Midnight.”

Coe Booth, the author of “Tyrell” and “Kendra” will be releasing “Bronxwood” on September 1^st. Readers will finally learn what happens to the character Tyrell.

Monica McKayhan, author of the Kimani Tru series ‘Indigo Summer’, will be releasing a new book series called “Premiere High.” The novel ‘Ambitious’ is the first release slated for a September release.

If you are a fan of the Keysha’s Drama series, you’ll love this next release by author Earl Sewell. Kimani Tru will release “Maya’s Choice” in November.

Finally, I wish the publishing houses would recognize that the fans of Dream Jordan (Hot Girls) and Dana Davidson (Played) are waiting for another book release.

Until next time, smootches!

Meet Author Samara King

2011-02-17T20:35:00.000-06:00

Samara King began her literary journey at the age of twelve years old while sneaking to the back of the library and indulging in romance novels; soon after, she wrote her own! She has penned three novels and eleven novellas all within the multicultural erotic romance genre, as well as two poetry collections. Her first collection, The Ebony Kryptonite was published in November 2010 and will be followed by The Naked The Bare. She has been published by Cobblestone Press, Changeling Press, Loose Id, and Total-e-Bound.

Currently she is working on her next SK MINI project under her self-publishing company, Samara King Books or SKB. She recently become a columnist for The Urban Source Magazine. Her column, Real Talk with Samara King will launch in January 2011.

Samara lives in Chicago with her teenage son, where she encounters new adventures every day that service her in the creation of each of her stories!

Club Owner Belinda Gilles has come a long way since the little lost girl from Leimert Park who’d married millionaire Brandon Forde she once was. Now a wealthy widow and independent businesswoman, Belle has finally left her past behind her and severed ties that had left her with nothing but a broken heart. During a chance encounter with a masked stranger during the annual Grown & Sexy masquerade ball, Belle gives in to a soul-stirring passion that reawakes a lust, she’d long thought gone. Now a year, later that unquenchable lust has only intensified as Belle hopes to come face to face with her mystery lover. She could have never suspected for her past and present to collide in one heart pounding moment and losing her soul in the next.

Readers can reach her at: ms_samara_king@yahoo.com or visit her site at: http://samaraking.com

Synopsis: Wounded soul, Jordan Harris knows all about fate and the game of chance. His whole life had been turned around and altered the moment he entered an alley and witnessed the death of his best friend. The stain of the past was neither one he could never erase nor the memory of Belle, the woman he’d always loved. When chance brought them back into each other’s lives, will Jordan walk away or reach for the first glimpse of redemption?

Interview with Samara King
Why did you become a writer? I love creating characters, learning new things and people watching and my plots/characters are birthed from these elements.
When did you know you wanted to publish a book? I knew when I started writing seriously for publication and had the hunger within to see my book in another person’s hands.
Why did you pick the genre that you write? I’ve been reading romance novels since I was in 8^th grade and I love the genre, I’m a romantic J
If you could write in any other genre what would it be? I write multi-genres: paranormal, suspense, contemporary, etc.
What is your writing process? It depends on the project. However, I definitely start with character first, picture browsing, reading, etc. and progress to character profiles.
How long did it take you to write your current book? It took about 6 weeks.
What mistakes have you made with this book that you will be sure to correct next time? I think I will not overcomplicate details, lol. In shorter fiction, you try not to leave anything out and I try very hard to do that.
When do you feel most comfortable in your writing zone? When the characters are so vivid that I can close my eyes and see them.
Who is your favorite author? Brenda Jackson Favorite book? I love all her work.
What books are you currently reading? I have not had the time to crack open a book for the last two months but working on rectifying that soon J

What advice do you have for those who are looking to publish their first book? Stay true to your voice, keep honing your craft and never stop learning.

Meet Phyllis Jackson... "The Elitess"

2011-01-13T14:34:00.000-06:00

Phyllis Jackson is a graduate of Savannah State University (Savannah, GA) with a BBA in Marketing and a MBA in Public Administration. Phyllis, also known as “The Elitess,” has had a passion for word imagery since 1994. It was that same year in which she wrote her first, award winning poem. Since then, Phyllis has been writing poetry that mainly focuses on the intimacy of the heart, mind, body and spirit.

The Elitess’ poems are also based on the life experiences of both men and women. Ms. Jackson’s writings are powerfully vivid on the subjects of self discovery, love, heart ache and growth. In 2007, Ms. Jackson debut book, “Soul Searching Confessions” was published. Her debut book focuses on the nostalgia of our firsts (loves, heartaches, fantasies, self discovery & realization, etc). The Elitess’ hope is that her art reaches the

hearts and souls of all who read as well as support her passion. Poems like “Realization,” “Transition,” and “22 to 1,” portray an artistic ideal behind the experiences of many of our lives. In 2010, the second book, Reflection Of A Journey was published.

This artist has ,also, had the honor of serving as a State Executives for the NAACP Youth & College Division for 5 years, a National Executive Board Member for Non-Greek ,Collegiate, Sisterhood Organization ( Sisters Striving For Excellence Inc.), a Co-Founder for a Pre-Alumni Association & a Collegiate Modeling Troupe. The Elitess has shown to be a true renaissance woman, with a love for people, art & the great gift of life.

Interview with Elitess

How long have you been writing?
I have been writing since 1994. My introduction to the artistry of poetry was given at the age of 10.

What prompted you to write Reflections of A Journey?
I felt compelled to share my life’s story with others. I believe that other people are going through the same things & should know that they are not alone. I, also, needed to display my roots & growth process in my writing, after publishing my debut book “Soul Searching Confessions”.• Your alias is “The Elitess” , why was this name chosen to exemplify who you are as a writer ? Well, people often confuse my name “Elitess” with the term ‘ Elitist”. My name simply means, above average. I do not see myself as being better than anyone, but I do believe that I set myself to a higher standard of life. I make it my business to live, exemplify & deliver greatness in everything that I do. For these reasons, I have been christened as “The Elitess”, but maintain a great deal of humility towards my people.

What are some of your other projects?
I have had the opportunity to be featured as an Ultra Model Role Model, which has allowed me to reach out to a new market within communities around the world. I am, also, writing monthly poems for One Entertainment Magazine. While embracing all of these great opportunities, I am working to complete my Master’s degree program & working on my third book. “As I Am: Poetic Memoires of the Soul” should be complete by the spring of 2011.

What are some of the experiences you have gone through as a young black writer?
As a young African American Writer, I have experienced the challenges of self publishing ( self, promotion,editing,managing,etc) I have ,also, experienced the reluctance of acceptance by people who have not initially open to change.

What words or suggestions would you provide to inspiring writers?
I would suggest that inspiring writers learn the business behind publishing, management, etc. I would also suggest that people should go for what they desire & hope for. Never let anyone stunt your growth or kill your dreams. Only you have the power to stop your progress.

What are your literary endeavors?
As an author, it is my goal to become a household name. I want to share my experiences & allow them to serve as inspiration to those who are going through similar situations.

Find her at:
http://www.facebook.com/mspljackson
http://www.twitter.com/elitess
http://artsofelitess.com/
http://www.urbanprofessionals.com/

Book Excerpt:
Every Woman’s Dream Man

I can, only, describe you as every woman’s dream man.
You seem to hold every woman’s peaked interest in your hand.
With the tone of your voice & with the sensuality in your
Speech, you, effortlessly, knock even the most jaded
Woman off her feet & makes the strongest of women weak.
You are every woman’s dream man.
The wisdom you provide & the respect you, silently, demand
Arouses the imaginations of an woman that comes through
You’re passing. At first meetings, all females hope
That you’re enticing face & strong embrace w/ them
Will be everlasting because…..
You are every woman’s dream man,
Every lady’s midnight fantasy, epitome of perfection
Every female’s answered prayer & every girl’s
List of wants & needs brought to life. Anyone
Woman would be blessed to be titled as your wife;
That is every woman’s dream & in spite of your
Humility, I know that you know that all that you request

Is at your beck & call…

After all you are every woman’s dream man.

New Release!

2011-01-05T21:55:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year! I haven't posted lately because of the busy holidays and a really bad lingering cold. I'm slowly getting back into the saddle and have much to share with all of you. Recently after making a purchase on Amazon.com, I was happy to see the release of a book written by one of my favorite young adult novelist

Nikki Carter's books are not only loved by me but also loved by my freshman and sophmore students. Her books are hip, funny and describe the 'drama' that today's teens experience. Some of the titles from the So For Real Series include, "Step to This", "It's All Good" and "Step to This." Her new series, Fab Life is centered around the hip-hop music scene. The books should definitely capture the attention of readers that can relate to the music described in the stories. Check out the summary of the book and judge for yourself.

Sunday Tolliver is gifted, smart, and ready to take the music industry by storm now that she's signed a record deal. All she has to do is survive touring with her diva cousin, Dreya, and she'll finally get a shot at her own R&B dreams. But the tour's mega-bad-boy star, Truth, refuses to believe that Sunday isn't feeling him--and a jealous Dreya is doing everything to make Sunday pay. When filming for a behind-the-tour reality show starts, Sunday's live-and-on-camera humiliation is threatening to derail her chances--and help Dreya cover up stealing her songs. Now Sunday has one last chance to prove herself. And with the spotlight heating up, all bets are off--and this battle is on. . .

Author Ni-Ni Simone

2010-11-21T10:30:00.002-06:00

My students and I are just crazy about author Ni-Ni Simone's books. (Yes, I read the same books that my students love to read too!) We can't wait for the February release of her new book, "Upgrade U," to hit the bookstores. One of my students read Simone's first book, 'Shortie Like Mine' in one day after I did a book talk on some of the new books in the Library Media Center. When she returned to the LMC to check out the next book in the series, "If I Were Your Girl," all five copies were checked out. After explaining to my student that I would place the book on reserve for her, the student decided to take matters into her own hands.

She found another student in the building that was finished with the book, but just had not returned it to the LMC. Finding another student in the school that had the book was a pretty easy task. The students in my high school have clear book bags and often times place the book that they are reading directly in the back of their bags to 'show off' what they are reading. She begged the student to return the book to LMC. The student complied and did so during the 5th period, and she returned during the 6th period to check out the book. The expression of joy on her face was priceless and all I could do was chuckle. It warms my heart that my students have found a book series that truly captures their voice, concerns and issues.

Author, Ni-Ni Simone
(Tu Shonda Whitaker)

Author Ni-Ni Simone's real name is TuShonda Whitaker and is a successful adult Street Lit. writer. Whitaker has also captured the attention of teen girls through her online magazine called Ni-Ni's Girlz. The site is hip, fun, and addresses the many issues that teens experience today. The articles on the site are submitted by teens and cover beauty tips, dating advice, school issues and book reviews. I especially liked the YA lounge and the 'Ni-Ni Girl of the Month.' If you are looking for another teen series and website to include in your library collection/homepage, encourage teen girls check out author Ni-Ni Simone at NiNiSimone.com. Students that like to read online magazines should log onto the site to read the articles or even submit an article or poem for publication. The author encourages teens to email their submissions at ninigirlz@ninigirlz.com.

Why I Am A Librarian

2010-11-12T01:15:00.001-06:00

On November 10, 2010, I gave this presentation for the graduate students enrolled in the Library Information Media Studies program at Chicago State University. It was really fun and I thought I would share this with all of you. Until next time, K.C.

Why I Am A Librarian

View more presentations from K.C. Boyd.

Meet Author J.B. Burrage!

2010-11-09T20:52:00.000-06:00

Author JB Burrage is definitely a power to be reckoned with. An extremely talented writer, JB Burrage has written Caught Up, an adult street thriller that is comparable to the juicy story that you might hear going on in the neighborhood; and the sci-fi thriller Secrets Revealed, a story that adds a lot of realism to science fiction. But he is not done showing the world his talent. Author JB is also working on The Forbidden Lounge, the sequel to Caught Up, and a novel that will be better and juicier than Caught Up itself and is due to be released in 2011. He is also working on other projects that he chooses to keep secret, for now.

Jacob “JB” Burrage was born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Meridian, Mississippi. After leaving Mississippi, JB Burrage served in the US Army from 1999 until 2010. During his time in the Army, he has been to Hawaii, Egypt, Israel, New York State, Maryland, and Texas; as well many other states. While in the Army, he discovered himself and his true talents, and decided to pursue that by founding J. Burrage Publications.

Normally a science fiction writer, Caught Up was written in an attempt to express himself through other genres. With the release of Caught Up, JB Burrage is now focused on the publication of Secrets Revealed by the beginning of 2011 and the development of The Forbidden Lounge. He also has a blog series, The Chronicles, at The JBP Chronicles blog at www.jbpublications.com/blog.

Author J.B. Burrage

Interview with the Author/Publisher:

1. What is the mission of your publishing company?

My overall mission/goal for J. Burrage Publications, LLC (JBP) is to publish, distribute, and promote quality books, as well as establish a foothold in the publishing world as a company to be respected and reckoned with. This is especially the case for novels that could really make an impact but haven't been given the chance by other publishing houses. Once JBP is ready to publish other writers, the selection for novels will be very difficult due to the fact that we do not want to just put any type of work out there. Our two mottos basically say it all, “Read into my Dimension, 3-B”, and “Taking over the industry, one book at a time”.

2. What year was J. Burrage Publications founded?

In the spring of 2007.

3. What is the website address for J. Burrage Publications?

www.jbpublications.com, currently has hundreds of unique visitors that view the site on a monthly basis.

4. What inspired you to start a publishing company for self-publishers/new authors?

I am the type of person who likes to have control over his own work, goals, etc. I started JBP after my first attempt with going with a publisher. When I realized I rushed into the project (a sci-fi novel called The Journal of John Baker, (which is what Secrets Revealed is based off of) and wrote Caught Up, I decided it would be best if I handled my own projects. I have made attempts to reach out to a few publishers and agents, which I can't even remember who they are now, but were rejected or didn't get replies back. This further helped me decide that I should just publish my own work. Plus I felt like a mainstream publisher would not understand my work and take away most of its effects. So, instead of dealing with that, I just simply did my research on the industry and started JBP.

5. What other publications are on the horizon for J. Burrage Publications?

Secrets Revealed is in the pre-publishing phase with an anticipated release date of on or about January 2, 2011. The Forbidden Lounge is currently being written.

6. Are there any other services offered by J. Burrage Publications?

Currently, there is J. Burrage Creative Services, which will be a network of writers and graphic designers. JBCS will provide affordable editing and designing services to self-publishers, businesses, and individuals just requiring certain projects. Website is for JBCS is www.jbcreativeservices.com. Also, JBP is launching its own online bookstore, called The Book Store. The Book Store will carry JBP titles and will be another outreach to our reader base in addition to Amazon, whom we work closely with. Also, JBP will start publishing other authors within a year to a year and a half.

7. What’s the future of J. Burrage Publications?

I have a very ambitious goal for JBP within the next 5 years. I want JBP to eventually become a full media entertainment business, publishing books, magazines, stage play productions, and even screenplay productions.

Jacob L. Burrage (JB) can be reached by:

Email: jb39301@jbpublications.com

Telephone: (800) 940-5604

Social Networks:

Facebook: Jacob L. Burrage and Caught Up Book Club

Twitter: JBBurrage

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jb39301 and http://www.myspace.com/jbpubs

Website: www.jbpublications.com

Email: info@jbpublications.com

Blog: www.jbpublications.com/blog

Reference: African-Americans on the Move Book Club, http://www.aambookclub.com/.

Islma 2010 Tweens, Teens and Street Literature

2010-11-01T06:11:00.004-05:00

Please enjoy this recent presentation I gave at the Illinois School Library Media Association Conference.

Description: Street Literature is a popular and growing genre that appeals to middle and high school students. During the presentation, attendees learned why this growing genre appeals to library patrons and how the stories impact their lives. Classic and current Street Literature books and alternate titles were presented and discussed.

Islma 2010 tweens, teens and street literature

Islma 2010 Tweens, Teens and Street Literature

View more presentations from K.C. Boyd.

Bluford Series: Breaking Point

2010-10-27T22:34:00.002-05:00

Author Paul Langan has done it again, Townsend Press will be releasing another book in the popular Bluford Series later this fall. Teaming with author Karyn Langorne, the duo has penned, "Breaking Point."

Check out the brief synopsis of the story below:

Mom’s jaw tightened as the sound of the TV grew louder. Dad had turned it up.

“Be right back,” Mom huffed. Vicky knew her mother was trying to sound calm, but the way she marched out and shut the door said otherwise. Vicky braced herself.

Not again, Vicky thought. Not another fight.

Vicky Fallon can’t take it. Her father has lost his job. Her parents are constantly fighting, and her troubled little brother is out of control. Once an honor student, Vicky is quickly falling behind in her classes at Bluford High. Now her teachers, friends, and new boyfriend, Martin Luna, want answers. Pressured from all sides, Vicky knows something is about to snap.

Author, Paul Langan

But the explosion that hits her home is worse than anything she could imagine...

The Bluford Series novels from Townsend Press appeal to tweens and teens regardless of ethnicity. The novels are approximately 200 pages, and encourage even the most reluctant reader to read from cover to cover. The stories contain real life themes, situations and are presented in a non-preaching manner. The series is very popular in schools and are used in middle school and high school classrooms/libraries across the United States.
I can't wait to introduce this book to my avid readers this fall.

Damaged by Kia DuPree

2010-10-24T17:27:00.000-05:00

Damaged by Kia DuPree is an unapologetic view of Washington D.C. street life that many teens fall victim to. The story is told through the eyes of Camille Logan, a young girl who is abandoned by her mother and placed in the foster care system. On the outside the Brinkley’s, her foster parents, provide a normal and loving home. Behind closed doors, Mr. Brinkley mentally and sexually abuses Camille leaving her to suffer in silence.

The fifteen year old's prayers are answered when she meets Chu, a local teenage drug dealer. Camille feels that she has finally found true love and security. When Chu is murdered in a drug deal gone wrong, her world falls apart. Desperate to survive on the streets and stay out of the foster care system, Camille reluctantly connects with Nut, the sadistic pimp. Nut physically abuses Camille and inflicts fear to keep her scared and loyal. Camille becomes numb and learns to rely on her street smarts to survive. Finally one day, she makes a tough decision: become a victim of the streets or work toward making a better life for herself.

Damaged is a not an easy read. Like PUSH by Sapphire, Damaged tackles the subjects of molestation, desperation and the spirit of survival. It’s graphic and gives the reader a look into the lives of characters that one may not normally cross paths with. Though this book has an adult classification, it can be circulated to 11^th-12^th grade students in high school libraries for the following reasons:

Some of the teens serviced in schools across this country quietly experience the same abuse and struggle of the protagonist Camille.
The book can be used by school Librarians, Counselors and Social Workers to spark discussion and better service at-risk students that are in crisis. The author provides a readers group guide for discussion at the end of the story.
The themes presented in Damaged are universal and affect teens in urban city dwellings and rural America. Please note: although sexual victimizations may be unspoken and unreported, it does not mean that they are not occurring in rural America. (1)

Author, Kia DuPree

DuPree's gift as a writer is displayed through her effective use of dialogue. Her ability to describe the raw emotions of the characters as they try to survive grimy street life is described vividly. I felt the most heartbreaking part of the story was when Camille sees her mother for the first time in several years. The exchange between mother and child is painful. Though unspoken through dialogue, DuPree effectively describes to the reader how street life can capture and destroy lives.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to serve on an Urban Fiction panel discussion with DuPree. I found her to be insightful and committed to the Street Lit. genre by providing stories that accurately reflect the lives of young people in neighborhoods we have forgotten. (2) Though the story ended abruptly, I hope DuPree will write a sequel to Damaged. It would be very interesting to see how Camille continues to work toward making a better life for herself and help prevent other girls from falling victim to life in the street.

References:

(1) Lewis, Sharon, Unspoken Crimes: Sexual assault in rural America. National Sexual Violence Resource Center A Project of the Pennsylvania Coalition against Rape. 2003. http://www.nsvrc.org/_cms/fileUpload/rural.pdf

(2) PHAT Fiction Panel Audio. Public Library Association, July, 2010.

http://phatfiction.blogspot.com/2010/07/phat-fiction-panel-audio.html

Under Pressure by Rashaun Hughes

2010-10-23T07:00:00.005-05:00

Wahida Clark Presents plans to launch its first Young Adult line for teens on January 7, 2011. The opening novel entitled “Under Pressure” by Rashawn Hughes is the first of many to come. Under Pressure will be released in stores January 7, 2011.

The Wahida Clark Presents Young Adult Line (YA) targets tweens/teens ranging from ages 14-18. The stories are realistic and reflect stories that kids can relate to. Clark’s intent is to capture the hearts and minds of youth globally.

Here's a synopsis of "Under Pressure" by Rashaun Hughes:

Quentin “QB” Banks had always been a fighter, even though it always seemed as if he was holding on to life by mere thread. After serving time in prison, QB returned to his Queens, New York neighborhood and began working as the Director of U-Turn, an at-risk community center for teenagers. Nicknamed, “OG – Original Gangster”, QB is respected by all, especially by two of the center’s teenagers, Torry and Chase.

When someone tries to gun down QB, Chase and Torry, their lives change forever. QB fights to suppress his feelings for revenge, while Torry is faced with a new challenge he doesn’t think he can endure. Chase on the other hand, carries a secret that could destroy all of them. Will QB retaliate against his enemies? Will Torry overcome his internal demons? Will Chase come clean, tell the truth and prevent others from getting hurt? Only time will tell when you're Under Pressure!

Author Wahida Clark

Wahida Clark Presents Publishing, established in 2007, has made its mark in the publishing industry. With fiction novels such as: Trust No Man 1 & 2, Karma 1 & 2, Thirsty, Cheetah, The Game of Deception and The Ultimate Sacrifice it is evident that quality has surfaced. WCP has published the likes of many authors such as Cash, Mike Sanders, Missy Jackson, Tash Hawthorne, and Victor L. Martin and Anthony Fields.

In amidst of Clark’s many ventures, yet another, Yah Yah publications, has made its way through. This line featuring motivational, spiritual, and science-fiction volumes, adds a non-fictional twist to WCP. The first book entitled, Uncle Yah Yah: 21st Century of Wisdom is currently in stores.

Integrity is prevalent in Wahida Clark and Wahida Clark Presents Publishing and will be ever more with the launch of the Young Adult line. Ultimately, innovation births victory. I have had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of "Under Pressure." This selection will serve as a needed addition to a high school Street Literature collection.

Myself and I by Earl Sewell

2010-10-21T06:21:00.000-05:00

Kimani Tru’s "Myself and I" by Earl Sewell is the fifth book in the popular Keysha's Drama Series. I enjoy reading Sewell's books because they describe the ‘drama’ that tweens/teens today experience in a humorous, non-preaching manner. You may recall, I reviewed the first book in the series, ‘Keysha’s Drama’ on a previous post last year.

The protagonist Keysha has boy trouble. After surviving a humiliating experience at her prom, she realizes her fake boyfriend Antonio is no good and breaks up with him. Her ex-Wesley also re-appears in her life and tries to pursue her with no luck. Swearing off of boys, Keysha decides to work on herself and earn her lifeguard certification during the summer. When she and her friend Maya decide to get lifeguard jobs at the local park district swimming pool, things begin to heat up.

Her new neighbor Jerry has the three ‘C’s” cute, cocky and has a cool car. He's an excellent diver, attracts the attention of all of the girls and heats up the summer at the local pool. Keysha finds herself attracted to this new heartthrob on the block. Playing hard to get, Keysha enjoys the attention and slowly begins to put down her guard. Things come to a head when Jerry throws a rowdy party at his parent’s home and attracts the police. Keysha's, who's worked hard at controlling her temper and staying out of trouble finds herself deep in drama again. To her dismay, she is charged with criminal mischief and once again disappoints her parents. Later she learns two of her rivals, Lori and Priscilla, are behind all of the lies and accusations. Eventually it is Priscilla that confesses and Keysha’s name is finally cleared of all charges.

I can always count on Sewell to deliver a story that kids can relate to. His books spark lively discussions with tweens/teens about drugs, alcohol, sex and peer pressure in a non-graphic manner.

Author Earl Sewell

I especially like how Sewell describes the loving exchanges between Keysha and Grandma Katie. These exchanges represent how many young people are loved and guided by elders in their family. It’s Grandma Katie that educates Keysha about the rich swimming history of African-Americans that dates back to pre-slavery days. Students will also receive a brief history lesson about Tice Davids, a slave whose daring act helped create the name, "Underground Railroad." (1) This is history moment can be used as a classroom lesson for students along with the handy readers guide questions Sewell provides at the end of the book.

Kimani TRU was launched in 2007 to fill the void in African-American fiction for young adults. The stories focus on the triumphs, issues and concerns of tweens/teens with candor, wit and realism. The stories, sometimes edgy and address serious subjects, entertain and satisfy even the most reluctant reader. (2) Sewell’s books tackle issues that kids deal with in a sensitive, informative and humorous manner. I just hope Keysha never grows up because the stories are so engaging and well written.

If you live in Illinois or neighboring states, you have the opportunity to meet Earl Sewell at the Illinois School Library Media Association Conference in St. Charles. He will be presenting one session for Librarians and he has just been added to the Author's Showcase. Check out the book trailer below for the book and see for yourself. “Myself and I,” is a book that should be read tweens/teens this fall.

References

(1) http://www.ishof.org/black_history/trailblazers.htm

(2) http://www.eharlequin.com/store.html?cid=590

A Quick Blog Post: Promoting My Library Media Center

2010-10-18T22:31:00.000-05:00

This is the second week I am providing my students with Library Media Center Orientation. It's quite tedious because all of the students are receiving the orientation through their English classes. Scheduling has been a real trip, but I'm halfway done. So far, the kids have been really receptive to the video and anxious to check out books. A couple of girls checked out books by Ni-Ni Simone, Earl Sewell and Nikki Carter and have come back asking for more. A group of freshman boys eagerly checked out books about war and history, the excitement was priceless.

Do you know how much this makes me smile! Check out my Animoto Video promoting the books, activities and services for the students at Phillips Academy.

Smootches for now!

The Golden Hustla by Wahida Clark

2010-10-17T07:36:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I’m so busy reading Young Adult books for my students, I don’t have time to read adult Street Literature. About a month ago, I was able to get a galley (advance book release) of ‘The Golden Hustla’ written by ‘The Queen of Thug Love Fiction,’ Wahida Clark. When I first heard that she was releasing a book that was not a direct connection to the Thug Series, I thought how can she do this to me! I've been waiting for the sequel to her 2009 release, ‘Thug Lovin.’ I just need to know who is the father of Tasha’s baby and after all of the drama, would Tasha and Trae would reconcile. Despite Clark keeping me on pins and needles, I read The Golden Hustla over a period of two days-two sittings....I just couldn't put the book down.

The protagonist, Nina Coles flees New Jersey and leaves her children, bloodshed, and pain behind to begin a new life in Atlanta. When she runs into her ex-boyfriend, Cream a*k*a – Akil, things begin to go downhill. Akil convinces Nina to leave her dead end telemarketing job selling magazines, and move to the lucrative WMM (We Make Millionaires) Agency. In the beginning, life is good – a new job, 5 figure salary a week and a means to support her children back home. After some time, Nina learns that she has gotten herself in a position where she is being controlled.

Author, Wahida Clark

Her boss Rinaldo is shady and his main goal is to have his Platinum Team to persuade the rich and elderly to spend thousands of dollars on American Gold Eagle Coins and get rich sweepstakes. Things also begin to become more complicated as Nina and Akil’s attraction to each other becomes so tense that they pick up where they had left off years ago. Akil also blackmails and physically abuses Nina into giving him inside information about WMM. Now realizing that she’s in over her head, Nina is faced with walking away from WMM and starting over again or stay.

The story kicks into high gear when Nina becomes suspicious of Rinaldo when the nephew of a wealthy client is mysteriously killed. To make matters worse, the FBI indicts WMM for mail/wire fraud and money laundering. Using her hustling instincts and skills, Nina goes into survival mode to save herself and reunite with her kids.

‘The Golden Hustla’ is a page turner with believable characters and plot twists. I especially enjoyed how Clark cleverly brought Kyron and Tasha (Thug Lovin) into the story for a brief cameo. She educates the reader about the inside world of high end telephone sales, the thirst for American Gold Eagle Coins and corporate greed. Whenever I read a good book, I always envision how this book would play out on the big screen and who would be casted as the characters in the story. If you aren’t familiar with some of these actors/actresses, I suggest you Google their images….believe me, the brothers on the list are definitely eye candy!:

Nina - Zoe Saldina

Rick - Ryan Gentles

Alkil - Ezra "Budha" Masters

Rinaldo - Ryan Phillipe

Reese – Keston Karter
Nina's Mama - Jenifer Lewis

Tasha - Naturi Naughton

Kyron - Lance Gross

Check out Wahida Clark’s publishing house trailer below! “The Golden Hustla” is a book that is not to be missed by adult Street Literature fans this fall.

Gettin' Down in the Sunshine

2010-09-25T03:13:00.002-05:00

Wherever you go,

no matter what the weather,

always bring your own sunshine.

Anthony J. D'Angelo, The College Blue Book

I'm back!!! For those of you that have wondered what the heck I've been up to, I've been engrossed with setting up my new home. I'm now serving as a Library Media Specialist at a high school. It's exiting work but challenging. Here's a short list of tasks presented to me over the last couple of months.

- weeding the existing collection

- packing up the wanted books

- waiting for the construction crew to rebuild the library and computer lab

- working with furniture and book vendors

- negotiating book donations

- providing in-service for the staff on library services and databases

- unpacking and shelving the books

- arranging upcoming speaker series/guests

During this time, the Library Media Center has been closed. I'm so thankful that I'm able to do this without a sense of urgency...something every librarian wishes for right? Am I a solo Library Media Specialist? Yes, I am and as the kids say, 'I'm going to do the *amm thing' and connect teens with books. Everyday I have a group of teens that inquire about circulation of books and use of the online resources. Every evening I'm exhausted from work, but it's worth it. I just can't wait to open this much needed 'peaceful' haven for teens and expose them to a little sunshine.

Bye for now, K.C.

The Cavalcade of Authors Librarian and Teacher Reception

2010-09-02T23:23:00.000-05:00

Sea Lion Books welcomes all CPS librarians to an event which showcases Shadow Walker, the first young adult new novel in a three book series by New York Times Bestselling author, L. A. Banks. Set in a post-apocalyptic world following the Armageddon, in Shadow Walker, the teenage children of the world’s Guardians of the Light (Neterus) must learn to hone their extra-sensory talents to one day join in the battle with their parents.

This event will be held at Borders Book Store in Hyde Park (1539 East 53rd Street) Chicago, IL on Friday, October 8, 2010 from 6pm to 8pm. Refreshments, free gift bag compliments of Sea Lion Books with a complimentary galley (advance reading copy) of Shadow Walker. All attendees must register at: http://thecavalcadeofauthors.com/librarian_and_teachers.html

AUTHOR, NALEIGHNA KAI

Borders Books & Music will have copies of all L. A. Banks books for sale and authors Naleighna Kai, J. L. Woodson, Sesvalah, Anita Royston, Theresa Gonsalves, Gloria Franklin, Lorraine Elzia, Tamika New House, Susan D. Peters and Greta Pope will sign their books. This event is sponsored by Macro Marketing and Promotions Group, best selling authors, NALEIGHNA KAI, J.L. Woodson and Sesvalah.

Visit www.sealionbooks.com to learn more about Sea Lion Books

Visit www.neteruacademy.com to learn more about the Neteru Academy Novels Series by L. A. Banks.

The Cavalcade of Authors Homepage: http://thecavalcadeofauthors.com/home.html

2010 BCALA Conference

2010-08-30T21:35:00.009-05:00

Birmingham, Alabama

With the opening of the 2010-2011 school year just around the corner in Chicago, I've neglected several posts! Now it's time to catch up.

Earlier this month I attended the Black Caucus of the American Library Association conference in Birmingham, Alabama. This was the first time I have attended a BCALA conference and I walked away with some valuable resources and experiences. I would also like to give special thanks to the current BCALA President Jos Holman for listening and responding to my questions about BCALA. BCALA is very fortunate to have a contentious and caring leader in Holman and I can foresee BCALA moving forward during his tenure to continue to support African-American librarians.

Kevin Knotts, me and Kim Wayans

The keynote speaker Dr. Terrence J. Roberts, a member of the "Little Rock Nine," addressed attendees about the importance of community, social responsibility and tolerance. Presentations by author Ray Charles Robinson, Jr. (son of the late Ray Charles), actors Kim Wayans and husband Kevin Knotts and Chef Brian Terry were thought provoking, insightful and inspiring. I enjoyed seeing librarian Marcus Lumpkin represent Chicago by presenting the YOUmedia teen learning space at the Chicago Public Library’s Harold Washington Library Center. Binnie Tate Wilkin was a joy to meet and I just loved her presentation on African-American Images in Newberry books. Dorothy Guthrie's powerpoint promoting the use of the Coretta Scott King Award winning books was just plain brilliant and finally, my favorite quotes from Roland Martin’s address at the closing breakfast were:

Roland Martin and I....
Yes he took the picture with my Blackberry!

"My battery on my Blackberry can die, but I haven't had a book die out on me yet"

"Reading is not an option, it’s a requirement"

“I don't travel anywhere in the world without a book"

I also participated on a panel discussion called, “Defending the Right to Read: Reality Literature for Teens and Tweens.” The following is from the wikispace, http://defendingtherighttoread.wikispaces.com/:

Donated books for the
raffle from Scholastic Books

Street Literature, otherwise known as Urban Fiction, is a literary genre that provides readers with reality based stories about the streets that are authentic, unapologetic and truthful. While these books are popular with adult readers, the genre has now attracted a new audience of teen and tween readers. Questions discussed during the session included: should librarians purchase these books and promote them? Are these books really literature? Should teens and tweens have free access to them? Though there were members of the audience that did not express the same view toward the promotion and use of books within the genre, it was a great experience for me to educate and share my love of the books that positively impact the lives of my students.

Defending the Right to Read Librarian Raffle

During the discussion, the panelists explored the impact and appeal of Street Literature on teens/tweens, why librarians should include these books in their collections and how school and public librarians have promoted the books in their library programs. The wikispace was created as a means to communicate, collaborate, and share ideas and information with librarians, teachers and supporters of the genre. I encourage you to log onto the site and join the discussion.

The Defending the Right to Read panel was organized and moderated by Keshia Garnett, Manager of the Indian Trails Library Division - Wheeling, Illinois and the participants of this panel discussion also included Tamela Chambers, Library Media Specialist - Bradwell School of Excellence, K.C. Boyd, Library Media Specialist - Wendell Phillips High School.

Bye for now! K.C.

References

Defending the Right to Read Wikispace - http://defendingtherighttoread.wikispaces.com/

Dr. Terrence J. Roberts Homepage - http://littlerock9.com/TerrenceRoberts.aspx

Ray Charles Robinson, Jr. Homepage - http://www.raycharlesjr.com/

Amy Hodgepodge Homepage - http://www.amyhodgepodge.com/

Interview: Roland Martin – http://tinyurl.com/2d6dok8

Coretta Scott King Book Awards - TeachingBooks.net

Booktrailer: "Myself and I" by author Earl Sewell

2010-08-30T18:25:00.001-05:00

United Negro College Fund Annual Walk for Education - Chicago

2010-08-12T22:26:00.001-05:00

Saturday, September 18, 2010

For 66 years, The United Negro College Fund has provided financial and technical assistance to historically black colleges and universities. Without UNCF’s support, many of the students at these colleges would not have access to higher education or the benefits that it provides. As a proud second generation graduate of Southern University and A&M College, my parents and I greatly benefited from the support of UNCF.

Ask your friends, family and co-workers to sponsor your walk or to make a donation to the Top Ladies of Distinction – Lincoln Park Chicago Chapter (TLOD/LPCC) team. Your participation/support in the Walk for Education supports more than 60,000 students a year, builds a more diverse workforce, and strengthens our community.

The 27th Annual Walk for Education will take place on September 18, 2010 in Burnham Park, Lake Shore at 31st Street. This year's Walk for Education promises to be our most successful as we strive to reach our goal of raising $300,000! (Children under the age of 14 must be supervised by an adult.) For more information about this event, please visit the UNCF Walk for Education homepage at: UNCF Walk for Education Homepage and donate today!

Top Ladies of Distinction
Lincoln Park Chicago Chapter Team
(TLOD/LPCC)

27th Annual UNCF Walk for Education

Saturday, September 18, 2010 Event Agenda:

7:00 am - Onsite registration opens

8:00 am - Pre-event festivities begin promptly with sponsor presentations, guest speakers, aerobic exercises, and the kick-off immediately following.

9:00 am - Race begins

Race starts and finishes at Burnham Park, Lake Shore Drive at 31st Street. Walkers and runners will travel north along lakefront towards Roosevelt and back to Burnham Park. Bikers and Skaters will travel

south along the lakefront to Marquette Drive and back to Burnham Park.

On the Road Again...

2010-08-04T15:43:00.031-05:00

On Friday, August 6, 2010, I will be a participant on a panel discussion at the Black Caucus of the American Library Association Conference in Birmingham, Alabama. The “Defending the Right to Read: Reality Fiction for Teens and Tweens,” discussion will focus on the impact of Street Literature, its appeal to readers and how it especially affects young people. I will be joining fellow librarians Keisha Garnett, Manager of the Indian Trails Public Library Division and Tamela Chambers, Bradwell School of Excellence in this lively discussion that is sure to spark a lively and healthy dialogue about the genre. We hope to see you there.

I’m especially excited about attending this conference because I’m a first time attendee. The opportunity to meet, network and learn from other African-American librarians is an experience I am definitely looking forward to. Some of the speakers for the BCALA conference include:

Roland Martin

Dr. Terrence Roberts, a member of the "Little Rock Nine"

A Special presentation by author /son of the late Ray Charles, Ray Charles Robinson, Jr

CNN Commentator, Roland S. Martin

Authors Kim Wayans, Kevin Knotts and Bryan Terry

A Special movie screenings of “More than a Bus” and “Hollywood Librarian”

My next post will include pictures and events from the conference, stay tuned!

Defending the Right to Read:
Reality Literature for Teens and Tweens

Friday, August 6, 2010 - 8:00 am - 9:45 am

Sheraton Conference Center, Meeting Room D

Revisiting Street Literature Classics – Part I

2010-07-26T23:12:00.000-05:00

I picked up a copy of Teri Woods first book, True to the Game – Collector’s Edition, a couple of weeks ago the local bookstore. After I made my purchase, I drove home reminiscing about the first time I read this classic book.

I first read True to the Game in the late 90’s when I worked as a production assistant at a local origination television station. While editing segments for a weekly show, I would steal away and read a couple of pages...I just couldn’t put the book down. The love story of Quadir and Gena intrigued me so much that I read the book within a day. Now years later, I enjoyed Woods book just like I had read it the first time. Yes... I did read it again in one day!

Here’s a brief synopsis of the story that started it all.

It was 1988, the golden age of rap music where guys sported Run-DMC Kangols with gold medallion necklaces and the girls rocked Salt-n-Pepa asymmetrical hairstyles and large bamboo earrings. 1988 also marked the year of the Seoul Korea Summer Olympics, daddy Bush’s presidential win and President Ronald Reagan's signature on the 'War on Drugs'' bill that cracked down on the death penalty for murderous drug traffickers.

True to the Game is a Street Literature novel for adults that also appeals to teen readers. Gena the protagonist, is a young teenage girl from the turbulent West Philadelphia projects. Her world is turned upside down when she meets Quadir, a millionaire drug dealer, and falls in love. When she meets Quadir, he is at the top of the drug game but desperately wants out to escape to a life of normalcy.

Gena faces the challenges of holding onto Quadir, her comfortable jet-set lifestyle and of course, the money. Both of them find themselves caught up in the viscious cycle of street life and learn the hard way that success in the game is no easy win. Gena and Quadir also learn that once you're in, there's no way out, 'cause everyone stays in forever.’ This message is conveyed eloquently by Woods to the reader through a poem called, ‘Game Anthem’ at the beginning of the story:

As you struggle to hustle, taking gain after loss, don't get discouraged.

Just remember whose boss. Handle your business,

and always watch your back.

Don't sleep on the stick-up boys waiting to attack.

As you creep through the streets, the crack fiends holler.

They've done any and everything just to give you those dollars.

I hope it will last. I hope you make something of it.

Time will tell if something good can come from it.

But as you count the highs, count the lows too, and whatever you do,

forever remain true.

What choice do you have? It's in you by nature.

Your only fault is... Being a player.

Teri Woods, “True to the Game”

True to the Game takes the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride. You feel the pain and rage Gena experiences when she is beaten by her jealous ex-boyfriend Jamal. You also feel the emptiness when she loses her childhood best friend Sahirah to a drive-by shooting.

After reading True to the Game for the second time, I focused more on the strength and wisdom of Quadir and the motherly love of Gena’s grandmother, Gah Git. The poems Gena wrote for Quadir expressed a deep love that a young woman would have for her first true love. The drug dealing rivalries, a kidnapping, and loss of love lead to the unforgettable conclusion to the story. Not to give the story away to those of you that have not read the book, Gena emerges from these events as an older and sadder but also wiser woman.

True to the Game is one of the original self-published Street Literature novels that marked the strong return of this genre since the Iceberg Slim and Donald Goines days. Woods, a native of Philadelphia, submitted her story to various publishing houses for print. Unfortunately over a period of six years, more than 20 different publishers rejected her. When these major publishing houses refused to embrace True to the Game she wasn’t discouraged. Instead of giving up, Teri Woods printed, bound, self-published and sold her first book True to the Game on the streets.

As she mentions in her letter to her readers in the collector’s edition of True to the Game, the original handmade version of the book had a white cover with a gold gun on the cover. She sold copies of this book in front of the Mart 125 in Harlem, New York in the cold, rain and heat. Readers purchased the book for twenty dollars and loved it, even though it fell apart once it was opened because it was afterall handmade. With the success of the handmade books, Woods started her own publishing and production company, Meow Meow Productions. Years later, she successfully launched her first novel, True to the Game, making it available for bookstores across the country.

I enjoyed re-reading True to the Game because it took me back to a time in my life when I first discovered the resurgence of the Street Literature genre. It was also refreshing to see writers like Woods pick up where Slim and Goines had left off thus filling the void. Other authors such as Vikki Stringer, Shannon Holmes, Nikki Turner, Sister Souljah, Kassamba Williams and K’Wan have done that and have influenced a new generation of writers.

During this time when African-American authors struggle to get their books published by major publishing houses, Woods story should serve an example: perseverance through difficult challenges pays off. I believe the next challenge for Street Literature will be 'keeping the genre 100’ by rejecting the pressure by publishers to write for commercial reasons – fast profit.

These are exciting times for the genre and I’m just lucky to have a good seat to see what’s going to take place next.

References:

Website: Teri Woods - http://teriwoodspublishing.com/site.html

Website: Urban Fiction/Street Lit/Hip Hop Fiction Resources for Librarians:
Annotated List of Titles. http://tiny.cc/ii1ij

What's Hot in Street Literature, July 21, 2010

2010-07-23T17:30:00.001-05:00

Earlier this week, I gave a two hour presentation called "What's Hot in Street Literature" for a group of about 20 Chicago Public Schools Librarians. Enjoy the presentation and feel free to shoot me a email at kcboyd1@gmail.com if you have any questions.

Smootches, K.C.

What's Hot in Street Literature, July 21, 2010

View more presentations from K.C. Boyd.

PHAT Fiction at ALA and the PHAT Fiction Wikispace

2010-07-19T02:02:00.002-05:00

Please note:: If you missed the PHAT Fiction panel discussion that was held last month at the American Library Association Annual Conference, you can listen to a audio recording at: LiveScribe. Special thanks to

Vickie Beene for doing this for us. Also, don’t forget to join the
PHAT Fiction Wikispace and participate in the discussion.

Last month, I served as a co-moderator for the PHAT Fiction Panel discussion at the 2010 American Library Association Conference in Washington, D.C. For me, participating on this panel discussion was a dream come true. The panel discussion about the Street Literature genre was organized by Susan McClelland, Reader’s Advisory Librarian for the Evanston Public Library in Evanston, Illinois. PHAT Fiction stands for popular, hip and tempting fiction and is also the title of her PHAT Fiction blog. I have been an avid supporter and advocate of the Street Literature genre for several years and have often times been ‘beat to the pulp’ for doing so (I have the scars to prove it). So you can only guess I was ‘geeked’ about participating.

Participants on the panel consisted of a mixture of school/public librarians, authors and university professors. It was a refreshing to be in the presence of these like-minded professionals that share the same passion as I do about the genre. Through this experience, I had the opportunity to hear the interesting stories about the promotion of these books from Librarians, Christopher Lassen of the Brooklyn Public Library and D.L. Grant, San Antonio Public Library. (I’m using D.L.’s suggestion for interesting book displays very soon) I found authors Coe Booth, Paula Chase-Hyman, Kia DuPree and Tachelle Wilkes to be warm, down to earth sisters that are committed to writing stories that are of value and interest for teens/adults. Finally, I had the opportunity to meet three of my “Library She-Roes,” Simmons College Professor, Amy Pattee, New York Public Library- Young Adult Librarian, Megan Honig and Drexel University Professor, Vanessa I. Morris. The writings of these ladies have provided me with the ‘language’ to defend the Street Literature genre when fellow librarians, classroom teachers, school administrators and parents complained.

MY THOUGHTS ABOUT THIS PANEL DISCUSSION EXPERIENCE

When I was a child, my father used to ask me, “What did I learn in school today?” I usually struggled with answering this question because I didn’t pay attention to the lesson, tuned out my boring teachers and read a book during class. The following is a description of what I learned from this experience and my thoughts about the panel discussion:

Remain Abreast of What Critics and Supporters of Street Literature Are Saying – Besides catching up on some book readings and events at work, I did not provide a post about the conference for one main reason. The June 29, 2010 blog post by Vanessa Morris called, “Urban” Is Not the New “Black”, really made me stop and think about the “Urban Fiction” label. I totally ‘get it’ and I’m not ashamed to call it what it really is: Street Literature, reality based stories about the streets that are authentic, unapologetic and truthful. As a result of this insightful post by Morris, I am no longer using the label ‘Urban Fiction’ to describe this genre. Suggestion: Google Reader is an excellent tool that can be used to find current writings about Street Literature.

Street Literature is a Loud Business: Defenders of the Genre Must Advocate For It –

During the panel discussion, author Paula Chase-Hyman commented that book selling has become a ‘loud business.’ Authors that experience difficulty in landing a book deal will self-publish and sell their books on the street, beauty/barbershops and at street fairs. These authors must get the attention of potential readers and compete with the hustle and bustle of today’s society. So a little volume is needed to sell books.

When I think about the ‘Loud Business,’ of selling Street Literature I immediately think of the determination and drive of author Relentless Aaron. Years ago, Aaron was rejected from the major publishing houses devised another plan. He sold his books on 34th and 7th in Manhattan during the middle of very busy New York rush hours (video). Another successful author Terri Woods sold her classic book, “True to the Game,” out of the backseat of her car in front of the Mart 125 in Harlem, New York. (video) Since then, both authors have landed book deals and the publishing industry marvels at their successes and the sales of their books. Sometimes a little volume can make an indelible impact.

I have been beat up for the last couple of years for defending and including some acceptable Young Adult Street Literature in my middle school library collection. I’ve heard comments from teachers, principals and fellow librarians that ranged from, “Don’t you think this is a little ‘spicy’ for middle school students” to “Street Literature is not real literature because it’s not professionally reviewed or it’s self-published.” The most repeated question/challenge and probably the most disheartening one I’ve received from school librarians has been, “Why would you want to open yourself up to a challenge? Send the child to the public library or bookstore if they want to read the book that badly.”

Its hard working in a school/district where you and a very few colleagues value and support the genre. Lately, I’ve been criticized during presentations that I have given about the inclusion of Street Literature in school library collections…don’t get me started. Despite these obstacles, I continue to move forward because I see the end result: This genre touches and impacts the lives of tweens and teens in positive ways. Here are just a couple of the first hand observations I’ve made over the last couple of years:

1. Students and their parents are reading! The genre is reaching a group of readers that have historically been ignored by publishing companies.

2. The stories are cautionary tales that takes the reader on a journey that forces them to compare the stories to their own lives. The students can directly relate to the characters and empathize with their struggles. For some students, the situations that the characters are experiencing in the story are parallel to their own lives.

3. The stories within the genre serve as a platform for discussion/dialogue for tweens and teens with adults.

4. Some students are avid readers and are looking for a challenge when reading Street Literature.

5. Some students possess the emotional maturity to understand and handle the content in these books.

Promote and Support Other Blogs and Websites That Support the Genre – Check out my K.C.’s Blog Roll on this blog, enough said.

ALA Conference 2011- New Orleans, Louisiana – Since returning from the conference, Susan and I have been contacted by a number of people that wished they could have attended and want to see the discussion continue. Hopefully, Public Library Association will have us back again because these discussions about Street Literature need to continue. There is still a population of librarians that need to be educated about the genre.

Street Literature Is For All Readers and Not Just For Reluctant Readers - In Carl Smith’s book, “Helping Children Understand Literary Genres,” he states the analysis of different types of literature promotes cognitive development because it gives students an opportunity to apply similar skills and strategies, such as identifying themes discussed in one genre—fiction, for example—to other genres like poetry, reports, descriptive pieces, and plays. The more experience students have in reading different genres, the more successful they will be when meeting and understanding people from all walks of life.

References

Aaron, Relentless, Relentless Aaron Has Done It. 2006. ABC Nightly News video courtesy of YouTube. http://youtu.be/FE2A-VPbOoI .

Morris, Vanessa I. 2010, “Urban” Is Not the New “Black.” http://streetliterature.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-07-04T11%3A50%3A00-04%3A00&max-results=4 .

Smith, Carl B. 1994. Helping Children Understand Literary Genres. Bloomington, IN: ERIC Clearinghouse on Reading English and Communication.

Woods, Terry, Terry Woods, True to the Game. 2008. Books Video TV courtesy of YouTube. http://youtu.be/ddafBrKcZ1k

Black Weblog Awards

2010-07-18T12:11:00.001-05:00

It’s that time of year again to nominate your favorite African-American blog ! Nominations are open until July 25, 2010 so head over to BlackWeblogAwards.Com and vote today.

The mission of the Black Weblog Awards is to capture more of the Black blogosphere, increase awareness of one of the fastest growing demographics on the web, and ensure their success in the years to come.

In order to do this, they need help from the online community. The awards committee would like to have a live awards ceremony with trophies, live streaming video, and a private reception in 2011.

This will not only give the Black Weblog Awards a heightened visibility, but also bring much needed attention to the bloggers that demonstrate their depth of knowledge, experience, and cultural awareness. They need your help!

Visit the Kickstarter campaign page at Kickstart-the-2011-Black-Weblog-Awards and donate today. A donation as small as $5 will help them reach their goal.

Creative Library Advocacy Tools

2010-07-17T07:42:00.009-05:00

It's Saturday morning and I'm up early getting ready for the live telecast of the Harlem Book Fair on CSPAN. Actually to tell you the truth, I’m a little ticked off that I'm unable to attend this year. I’ll get over it. I decided to do a little internet surfing and ran across an interesting article from the Huffington Post.

Andy Woodworth aka 'wawoodworth' on Twitter has started something: a new fun library advocacy campaign featuring Isaiah Mustafa, 'The Old Spice Guy.' Yes you know him, that good looking guy with the Barry White voice, six pack abs and the ability to look so cool riding bareback on a horse. We’ve all seen his commercials on television and enjoyed the hilarious interview spot on Oprah about him.

Recently, Mustafa responded to Woodworth's request to say a few words about libraries, and that he does well. In my opinion, this video is one of the creative advocacy tools I've seen in awhile. The video is humorous, hip and simply reminds viewers how important libraries are in our society. Personally speaking, I plan on using this video as an ice breaker for presentation I'm giving next week; I can't wait to see the reactions from the attendees.

As Woodworth points out on his Agnostic Maybe Blog post, the video is a humorous message about why libraries are great contributors to society. Just grin with Woodworth, myself and supporters of the spot when Mustafa says, “I’m handsome. You’re pretty. Let’s eat peanut butter. Stop throwing pigeons. Jump onto that giraffe.” For those that chose to complain, get over it and develop a sense of humor. To be critical about the video takes up too much time in one day.

If you have a Twitter account, please support and re-tweet A petition for The Old Spice Guy to do READ poster - "I'm at a library. Reading a book." ...on a horse. Ahh, The Old Spice Guy on a READ poster, I can just see it now......Hey Andy, I'm grinning as I write this post.

Now everyone, don't forget to watch the Harlem Book Fair today on CSPAN.

Video - The Old Spice Guy Supports Libraries

Celebrating African-American Authors

2010-07-14T23:07:00.001-05:00

The Harlem Book Fair, is a community forum for readers to discover, experience and celebrate its history and culture through books. The fair has become one of the country’s largest community gatherings of African American readers and book lovers. Authors Mikki Grant, Terry McMillian, Bishop Carlton Pearson, L.A. Banks and Tonya Hegamin will serve on panels and give book readings. Tributes will be given to Sonia Sanchez and the late E. Lynn Harris.

The panel discussions will be broadcasted live on C-SPAN’s Book TV on Saturday, June 17th beginning at 10am cst. Check your local cable/satellite provider for the exact channel and view the link to the Program Guide: http://www.qbr.com/Userfiles/Docs/HBF2010_Program_Guide.pdf. Don't miss the 2010 Harlem Book Fair!

2010-07-11T14:29:00.001-05:00

I promise all of you, a book review and my pictures from the recent ALA Conference will be up within the next couple of days. Ever since I returned from the conference, I've been on fast forward. In the mean time, I hope you will be able to help me promote the following announcement below.

LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional network with over 70 million members and growing rapidly. LinkedIn connects users to trusted contacts and helps them exchange knowledge, ideas, and opportunities with a broader network of professionals. Librarians have a large and active presence on this social networking site.

LinkedIn has a new group/new page called Urban Fiction. Lovers, authors, librarians and reviewers of the genre can join this group can meet here to discuss everything related to Urban Fiction/Street Literature. The group/page was created by another lover of the genre, Keishia Garnett, Manager of the Indian Trails Public Library in Illinois.

Log onto: http://www.linkedin.com/ and search for Urban Fiction under the Groups option. Please consider joining the discussions and posting information to the page.

I think we can all say the Urban Fiction/Street Literature genre is getting allot of attention.

More to come soon! K.C.

In My Spare Time

2010-06-17T15:35:00.000-05:00

There are many of things I like to do in my spare time: sleep, sleep and more sleep, just kidding. Seriously, one of the things I really enjoy doing is reading the blogs written by other librarians. When I find myself logging onto these blogs, I eventually add them to my google reader page and read them from my desktop or Blackberry.

One of my favorite blogs is Crazy Quilts . This blog is written by Edi Campbell, a high school librarian in the Indianapolis Public School System. The focus of her blog is to provide information to improve the literacy of teens and preteens of color. Along with reading interesting reviews of books, I enjoy reading the articles about scholarships, library news, interviews and trends in technology. My favorite posts are the 'Sunday Morning Reads' and pictures of her beautiful quilts.

Let me say that I found her blog by accident. About two years ago, I decided to start quilting after attending a interesting University of Chicago seminar about the history of African-American Quilts. I wanted to continue the tradition of my great-grandmother Odessa who made quilts in her modest northern Louisiana home. I found the Crazy Quilts blog and immediately bookmarked it on my computer for future reading. Let me tell you, I was excited! I finally found a blog that discussed books that appeal to people of color. Unfortunately the quilting had to be put on the back burner due to the demands of work but logging onto the site has become a weekly practice and I've passed the site to the librarians I support.

I was shocked when I was recently approached by Edi to be interviewed on her blog. I had one of those, "Little ole me moments!" Check out her post, "Going to ALA" and become a follower of her blog.

Thanks again Edi!

PHAT Fiction at the ALA Conference

2010-06-05T07:45:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all, I will be serving as a moderator for the PHAT Fiction presentation at the American Library Association's annual conference in Washington, D.C. this summer. The session will take place on 6/28/2010 from 10:30AM to 12:00 PM. I'm really excited about this opportunity. It's such a blessing that I will be meeting advocates and writers of this genre that quote during my workshops I conduct. Please see the workshop description listing below:

Phat* Fiction: Engaging Hip-Hop Literature in the Public Library (*phat=popular, hip and tempting fiction)

Why should librarians identify and purchase urban fiction? While book reviews, publishers’ lists, and patron requests drive much library purchasing, mainstream publisher’s omission of hip hop imprints often means patrons are not finding what they want to read on library shelves. This presentation will be both an exploration of the impact of hip hop publishers and authors in public libraries and a comparison of racial, ethnic and regional aspects of urban fiction presentation.

Speakers: Coe Booth, Author; Kimberly Boyd, Librarian, Chicago (Ill.) Public Schools; Paula Chase-Hyman, Author; Kia Dupree, Author; D.L. Grant, San Antonio Public Library, Asst. Mgr., G. W. Carver Branch; Megan Honig, New York Public Library, Teen Collection Specialist; Christopher Lassen, Brooklyn Public Library, Children's Librarian; Vanessa Irvin Morris, Author; Amy Pattee, Simmons College GSLIS, Faculty; Susan McClelland, Reader’s Advisor Librarian, Evanston Public Library; Tachelle Wilkes, Author

http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/pla/plaevents/plaatalaannual/index.cfm

2010 Mayor Daley's Book Club Spring Conference

2010-05-16T23:58:00.001-05:00

The Mayor Daley's Book Club Spring Conference was held on Saturday, May 15th.
This annual conference is sponsored by the Chicago Public Schools Department of Libraries and Information Services and is the culminating event of the year for participating book club members in grades 7th -12th.
Middle and high school book club students hear greetings from Mayor Daley, special guests and attend literacy and career oriented workshops lead by nationally known speakers, authors, artists and corporate professionals. The highlight of the day was the High School Battle of the Books Competition where three high schools competed for the citywide championship trophy (Whitney Young High School was the winner). This year, the DiscoPoet - Khari B. served as the Master's of Ceremonies. Authors Allan Stratton, Earl Sewell, Kate Gingold and Monica McKayhan were special guests and provided workshops for the students.

I began reflecting on this event this morning during my morning meditation and came up with a list of reasons why the Mayor Daley's Spring Conference is a success and positively impacts the lives of CPS tweens and teens:

1. The cooperation of the Department of Libraries and DuSable High School Campus staff members and students to make this event successful. It could not have been done with them. The DuSable High School Campus librarian, Sara Sayiah is just an angel sent down from the heavens!

2. The numerous companies that donated books for the students: Kimani Tru, Triumph, and Follett Resources. All of the students left this conference with a bag full of books to kick off their summer reading.

3. Our Special Guests for this event provided great workshops:
   The DiscoPoet - Khari B. - his flexibility in the gym and giving a presentation that about writing poetry and performing.      http://www.disco-poetry.com/index2.htm
   Allan Stratton - for sharing his very personal journey when he wrote 'Chandra's Wars' and autographing hundreds of copies of his book for the students.    http://allanstratton.com/
   Monica McKayhan - for providing a great workshop where students learned how to identify their talents and things that they like to do. Thanks for the book Monica!  http://monicamckayhan.com/
   Kate Gingold - for providing an insightful workshop on historical narrative and reality television. The students enjoyed meeting this local author.    http://www.kategingold.com/

Earl Sewell - for autographing hundreds of books and giving a great workshop for all of the middle school students. The "Keysha's Drama Series" really touched the lives of the students this year. http://earlsewell.com/homepage.html

4. There were over 25 additional workshops provided on a number of subjects.

Writing and getting your book published
Reader's Theatre (Chicago Public Library's Teen Volume)
Financial Literacy
Book Illustration

Bookmaking
Database usage for research for students
Motivational speakers
Family genealogy
Preparing for college financially
Public speaking etiquette
Mexican and African-American storytelling
Performance poetry
Hip-Hop Yoga and Relaxation Techniques

All of the presenters were great and appreciated because they donated their time, talent and gifts for the students. Special thanks to authors Naleighna Kai/J.L. Woodson and Top Ladies of Distinction - Lincoln Park Chicago Chapter for securing external donations for the students that attended their sessions.

5. The Mayor Daley's Book Club facilitators for taking time out of their busy Saturday to chaperone their students at this event.

Carol Rezmer, CPS Librarian and Mayor Daley's Book Club facilitator said it best, "Books become more real when kids meet authors." This is so true. Connecting kids to books, authors and giving them the experience of meeting adults that work in a variety of professions is a valuable experience that the students will never forget.

It's Graduation Time!

2010-05-16T19:35:00.001-05:00

I'm going to divert my usual posts and share a very personal story.

My cousin/God sister Jessica graduated today from St. Mary's Dominican High School in New Orleans, Louisiana. I couldn't attend this event because of my responsibilities with the Mayor Daley's Book Club Spring Conference this weekend...so I'm missing out on the fun with the relatives.

As I reflected on Jessica's life, I thought about how this young lady is so well spoken, an excellent student, and her participation in several theatre troops/clubs in and outside of school. I also thought about seeing her for the first time when she was a baby...these kids grow up so fast!

Jessica and her family are very special to me and I admire them greatly. Her parents, Johnny and Denise are both believe that education is the key to success. Their family decided to stay in New Orleans and re-build their home after the devastation of HurricaneKatrina. Along with re-building their home, they never lost their focus for their children's education. Johnny and Denise continued to send their three daughters to Catholic School within the New Orleans area despite the cost...how many families do you know could have done this?

Along with the girls parents, their oldest sister Sabrina is a role model for them as well. Sabrina has a Bachelors and Master's Degree and works at a local New Orleans University teaching music. These positive influences have resulted in Jessica's admittance to Loyola University of New Orleans! Do you agree, Oprah Winfrey needs to feature them on her show?

Along with maintaining good grades at Dominican, Jessica is active in her church, a computer whiz and a friend to many. The future is bright for our 2010 High School Graduates and let's salute all of these young people across the country.

P.S. My family is eating crawfish as we speak....man I wish I was there!

You Don't Even Know Me: Novel by Sharon G. Flake.mov

2010-05-13T22:34:00.002-05:00

I just have to thank author Naleighna Kai for putting this book in my hands today. When things calm down for me personally, Sharon Flake's "You Don't Even Know Me: Stories and Poems About Boys" will be my next book to read on my reading list. The following is a reprint from Flake's website, http://www.sharongflake.com/:

"They fall in love, plot revenge, seek to be understood. They sit in class, show their colors, date your daughter and dream of making it big. But do you know them, these brazen, brilliant, bold young men walking among us? In my new novel, young men celebrate love, mentor younger boys, wrestle with HIV and comtemplate suicide. They dodge adults, brag about becoming president and wonder if they’ll be alive in the morning. Boys: Do we know ‘em?"

Poems about boys....just priceless.

"Teenage Love Affair" by Ni-Ni Simone

2010-05-09T22:16:00.000-05:00

Not since Anne Schraff’s “Someone to Love Me” has teen dating violence been discussed as candidly as it has in “Teenage Love Affair” by Ni-Ni Simone. The story opens with a letter to the readers from the main character Zsa-Zsa, a Newark, New Jersey teen. She explains to the reader in her own words that 'love is good, easy and free but the most important love is for you'. Words spoken from a teen that has seemingly has everything: a closet full of designer clothing, envy of her classmates, her own vehicle and a fine boyfriend Ameen who has a serious swagger that is pure ‘fiyah.’

Zsa-Zsa and her widowed mother have a strained relationship. We learn that instead of her mother spending time with her and her little sister Hadiah, she instead begins to date again and spend time away from the home. To add to her unhappy home life, Zsa-Zsa’s annoying Cousin Shake and Ms Minnie come to live with her family to help ‘bring order in the house.’

When her childhood sweetheart Malachi moves back into her neighborhood and tries to re-kindle their relationship, things become rocky between Zsa-Zsa and Ameen. Ameen becomes jealous of the way Zsa-Zsa looks and feels about the good looking and charismatic Malachi and takes his insecurities out on her. The abuse first begins verbally, and then escalates to physical abuse. Like most teens, Zsa-Zsa’s doesn’t confide in her friends or family members about the abuse until it becomes painfully obvious. After a violent attack by Ameen that leaves her unconscious, both Zsa-Zsa and her mother are forced to face old demons and make changes that will affect their lives. Author Simone reveals that the mother endured years of abuse by her deceased husband and the abuse was witnessed by Zsa-Zsa, Hadiah and her older brother Derrick. The reader watches Zsa-Zsa as she painfully struggles to break free from Ameen’s abuse and influence and begin a loving relationship with Malachi.

New characters, ‘Asha the Diva’ and the ‘Tiny and Toi’ reality show TV lovin’ Courtney round up Zsa-Zsa’s ride-or-die friends. Family members Toi, Seven, a Cousin Shake and his new bride Ms Minnie and provide comic relief to this otherwise sensitive teenage story. This book would be a good choice for a book club because there is a discussion guide at the end of the story that encourages teens to discuss teen love, dating and relationships. The chapters that describe the sexual relations between Zsa-Zsa and Ameen and the sexual tension between Zsa-Zsa and Malachi are not graphic in description but would be more suited for high school library YA collection.

All of Ni-Ni Simone’s books currently appear on the 2010 Quick Pick List for Reluctant Young Adult Readers. I like Simone’s books because they are hip, tackle issues that affect young teens today and have crossover appeal to adult readers. Her latest book, “Teenage Love Affair” is sure to be a hit with teens and I’m sure many more will follow.

Get a Jump on Your Spring and Summer Reading Lists!

2010-02-15T12:28:00.002-06:00

If you can, check out the next School Library Journal webcast on February 25, 2010, 2pm to 3pm eastern standard time. Brie Edmonds Ashton, Harlequin Marketing Manager will be one of the panelist that will discuss the newest and hottest books for young adult readers. The webcast is free and interested librarians, teachers and parents can register for this event at: School Library Journal Webcast.

I attended the first webcast a couple of months ago and enjoyed the presentation by Kimani Tru's Glenda Howard, Executive Editor. I really enjoy reading the Kimani Tru books because young African-American readers can relate to the real-life situations that are described in each story. The books aren't too preachy or naive but instead are cautionary tales that teens today need.

If you cannot attend this live event, School Library Journal archives their webcasts for 1 calendar year.

Rock for Reading

2010-02-03T20:11:00.000-06:00

Just had to share the good news!

Rock for Reading a non-for-profit agency in Chicago that donates thousands of books to deserving students throughout the Chicagoland area. Over the Christmas Holidays, Rock for Reading partnered with Borders Bookstore and raised money for a book drive that supplied children with books for their school library and personal libraries at home. The organization has also reached a milestone by donating their 500,000th book to a school library. The Bennett Elementary School Library was the recipient of this honor! The link below will guide you to a short youtube.com video presentation that features Bennett Elementary School students, Librarian, Rozetta Toney, Principal Barbara Ellis and Assistant Principal Roberta Fields.

Many thanks to Rock for Reading for providing much needed books for students within the Chicago Public School System! - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOc37pltHWA

Rock for Reading Homepage - http://www.rockforreading.org/

Whitewashing: A Dirty Practice

2010-01-31T12:57:00.009-06:00

I will be the first to admit it: I have Google Alerts setting and rarely have time to read the daily posts. I know its a shame but there's just not enough hours in the day. I can't tell you how many times my Blackberry buzzes everyday from a alert, blog post, facebook comment or twitter 'tweet' and I haven't even mentioned number of text mesages, emails or voicemails. Recently, one of the alerts caught my attention was from http://www.racebending.com/, a website dedicated to the advocacy of fair casting in television and film. One of the recent posts, 'Whitewashing in Young Adult Literature' - http://www.racebending.com/v3/featured/whitewashing-in-young-adult-lit/ really made me think about the practices of the publishing industry.

'Whitewashing' takes place when publishing companies deliberately do not use ethnic models to market a book about a particular ethnic group. This practice sounds very familiar to me. In 1995, my master's thesis entitled, "African-Americans and the Mass Media: The Images that Convey's Messages" I focused on how advertising companies failed to use people of color to market products. Though I didn't not use the term 'Whitewashing' to describe what was taking place then, I believe it is the same practice today. A recent example of 'Whitewashing' took place when Bloombury Press decided to use a model that was not African-American on the cover of 'Liar' by Justine Larbalestier. The main character of the novel is a teenage African-American girl. As you can see below, there are three versions of the cover art for this book.

When the author Justine Larbalestier questioned the publisher about this decision, she was informed of the following:

"Editors have told me that their sales departments say black covers don’t sell. Sales reps have told me that many of their accounts won’t take books with black covers. Booksellers have told me that they can’t give away YAs with black covers. Authors have told me that their books with black covers are frequently not shelved in the same part of the library as other YA—they’re exiled to the Urban Fiction section—and many bookshops simply don’t stock them at all."

I totally disagree with this statement from Bloomsbury Press.

Racism continues to run rampant in the publishing industry. The Bloomsbury Publishing statement implies that teens won't read across genres when actually they do. Moreover, there is a undelying statement that African-American kids don't read when in realitity, this group is specifically looking for books that reflect themselves in appearance, personal experiences and neighborhoods. What also annoys me is the practice of some booksellers (chain and independent) often times 'catagorize' all African-American literature as 'Urban Fiction' and some then strategically locate this section in the front of the store - next to the cashiers (please don't get me started!). Furthermore, I believe that there is a 'laziness' on the part of key people in the YA or adult publishing industry to make the time to differenciate between the the genres and the reluctancy to promote these books.

The 'Whitewashing in Young Adult Literature' post also recognizes that this is not just a African-American issue but multi-cultural as well. The Asian community has long had a history of their books changed to 'reach a broader audience' for years. Read more about the struggle in the Asian publishing industry by reading 'The YA YA YA's' - July 2009 post: http://theyayayas.wordpress.com/2009/07/27/asian-americans-on-ya-fiction-covers/.

Both posts were well written and I hope you will find them thoughtprovoking as I did. Both http://theyayayas.wordpress.com/ and http://www.racebending.com/v3/ are cool blogs and now included in my googlereader account for future reading.

Until next time, K.C.

Bluford Series Author, Paul Langan

2010-01-24T23:38:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to hear guest speaker Paul Langan at the Chicago Teacher Librarian Association meeting in Chicago. His visit was sponsored by Children's Plus Inc. and was a great event for those that had the opportunity to hear this insightful author. Langan is both the editor/author of many of the popular Townsend Press - Bluford Series books. ‘The Bully’, ‘The Gun’, ‘Blood Is Thicker’ and ‘Schooled’ are just a couple of the books he has written and are very popular with pre-teens and teens.

Langan spoke passionately to an audience of about 200 librarians, reading specialists, teachers and left an indelible message for all: Today's youth deserve more novels that reveal a truthful life experience. The following are some highlights from his presentation:

He was raised by a single parent mother, moved frequently from town to town and was bullied as a child.
While in high school, he learned that there was 'power in writing' when he won a $5.00 prize for writing the scariest story.
He was an active participant on his high school’s wrestling team.
The stories that he writes are connected to his personal life and experiences.
He is currently working on the sequel to 'The Gun'.
His wife is the author of, "The Teacher's Guide to the Bluford Series."
The Bluford Series speaks to a group of readers that have historically been ignored by mainstream publishing. Very few books written/published today reflect the world that some teens can relate to.

The goal of Townsend Press is to help build life-long readers by providing affordable books for students to read. I’m so thankful that Langan and his colleagues at Townsend Press are committed to young people during a time when some publishing companies ignore their personal interests and emotional needs. Through the powerful messages in their books, educators across the country connect with young people struggling with life challenges and help them make positive choices in their lives. I’ve personally experienced the impact of the messages that the Bluford Series conveys by observing my former students at Ninos Heroes Academy. They loved these books and would anxiously await the opportunity to read the next book in the series. The students also enjoyed the discussions and art related activities facilitated by the middle school teachers Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Brown.

It was a pleasure speaking to Langan after the meeting and I look forward to reading more from him in years to come. Check out the Townsend Press homepage and take advantage of the affordable books they have to offer: Townsend Press - http://www.townsendpress.com/

I'm Back! and Great News for Kimani Tru Publishing

2010-01-20T13:47:00.001-06:00

I've been out of the loop for several weeks now but, I"M BACK! I have many books to share with you and the reviews will be posted over the next couple of weeks.....stay tuned.

Today I received some good news. Kimani Tru Publishing Company has eleven books that appear on the YALSA 2010 Quick Pick List for Reluctant Readers. This is wonderful news for Kimani Tru Editor, Glenda Howard who has worked very hard since 2007 to fill the void in African-American fiction for young adults. I am particularily happy for author Earl Sewell who has two of his books, "Lesson Learned" and "Decision Time" appear on this list for the first time.

I've worked with Sewell indirectly for the last two years by having him serve as a workshop presenter for the Mayor Daley's Book Club Spring Conference. I've always found him to be professional, knowledgable and entertaining for pre-teen and teen audiences. Last Christmas, Sewell visited one of my Mayor Daley's Book Club - Middle School chapters in Chicago. The kids listened to a dramatic reading from the book, asked questions (some of them quite deep!) and had their books signed by Sewell.

My hat also goes off to Kimani Tru's Monica McKayhan, "Deal With It" and Felicia Pride, "Patterson Heights," whose books also appear on the list. Newcomers, Babygirl Daniels and Ni-Ni Simone's books made the list and represent the 'light side' of Urban Fiction.

I think the future is quite bright for Urban Fiction and it looks like there's much more to come. Bye for now!

From left to right:
Miisha Smith, K.C. Boyd, Earl Sewell, Kim Cox-Gray and Melva Bryant-Sammuels

Kimani Tru Publishing Homepage - http://www.eharlequin.com/store.html?cid=590.

A Great Presentation!

2009-12-02T20:56:00.000-06:00

One of my biggest pet peeves is attending literature seminars/conferences where the presenters fail to include multi-cultural material. (I'm going to remain positive, so I will not name some of these presenters that annoy me.) Yesterday I attended a BER – Bureau of Education and Research session called, “The Best Young Adult Books of the Decade and How to Use Them in Your Program.” The session was presented children’s literature expert, Dr. Denni Kay Scates.

Let me just say her presentation was great!   Denni shared creative ideas on how librarians can use books in their library programs effectively! If you have the opportunity to attend one of her sessions, you will definitely be in for a treat. I was also really pleased to see a couple of titles in her presentation that I often recommend to librarians. These books are 'alternate' choices for teens that crave the adult Urban Fiction books.

Her website,  http://www.guidedteaching.com/  has a wealth of resources that librarians, reading specialists and teachers can use. I believe once you evaluate the site, you will either bookmark it or save it to your Delicious account.

Retaliation - What Would You Do If... by Yasmin Shiraz

2009-11-19T13:37:00.000-06:00

*2009 ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Readers

Tashera Odom is a quiet, intelligent, seventeen-year-old that works hard to stay out of the drama that plagues her violent Washington D.C. neighborhood. Known mainly for her pleasant personality, good grades and hair styling abilities, Tashera isn’t the type of teen that one would call ‘troubled.’ Her life changes when she is brutally attacked in an alley by three girls from her high school. The reader learns quickly that this attack is not random but deliberate. One of the attackers is the ex-girlfriend of Tashera’s boyfriend Ahmed and is jealous of the relationship.

While Tashera physically heals from the attack in the hospital, her mother, Shelia and wheelchair bound older brother Khalil both take matters into their own hands. Their main objective is to seek retaliation for the attack. The story quickly intensifies when Shelia is jailed after physically attacking the mother of one of the attackers. Meanwhile, Khalil plots to strike back at Tashera’s attackers by reconnecting with his former Deus-Tres gang members. The reaction of the attack described from the viewpoint of the police, school and community is raw and honest by the author and motivational speaker, Yasmin Shiraz. Since there are some surprises in the story, I won’t give away the events that lead up to the ending of the story.

I have had “Retaliation” on my bookshelf for months and kept putting off reading it due to other projects I’ve been working on. When I finally had the opportunity to read it, I did so in three sittings over a 24-hour period - I just couldn’t put this book down because it was so true to life. The book is based on Shiraz’s experience working with a 15 year old that was attacked by teens in her neighborhood. She vividly describes the violence in a community and how different members of the community react to it. I think the lingering question Shiraz presents readers with is if they think violence is the answer and a justifiable reason for retaliation. Given what is taking place in my city as well as other large urban cities across the nation, I think that this book should appear on district reading lists for pre-teens and teens and shouldn’t be missed.

Article About Urban Fiction Written By Teens

2009-11-12T12:00:00.000-06:00

Teenvoices.com

This is a really interesting article about Urban Fiction and it's appeal to teens. You can really get an insightful perspective about this genre from the teen authors of the article. I especially liked the last portion of the article that focuses on alternate titles that students would enjoy.

http://www.teenvoices.com/issue_current/articles/oct_09_urbanfiction.html

"16 On The Block" by Babygirl Daniels

2009-11-11T20:51:00.000-06:00

Summer Flynt’s life has always been rough. Her father left the family years ago leaving Summer, her mother and sister Trish to fend for themselves. When her mother is killed in a store robbery, Summer and Trish are placed in the Detroit foster care system. When Trish becomes of age, she petitions the court system and gains custody of Summer. The girls are finally reunited.

Summer moves in with Trish and her boyfriend Boss to begin a new life. Since Trish is not financially stable, she relies heavily on her boyfriend Boss for support. Summer attends a new High School and receives designer clothing, jewelry and money from Boss and Trish. Her ‘new look’ places her in the elite crowd at her school and among her peers in her neighborhood. She even receives the attention of Jus, one of the cutest boys in the neighborhood and one of Boss’ lieutenants in his organization. Overall, Summer is happy that her life is finally ‘normal’ but becomes more and more concerned for her sister Trish.

As the story progresses, the reader learns that Boss’s income is solely made from drug dealing. To make matters worse Boss has pulled Trish into the operation, sometimes puts her life at risk. Just when Trish tries to break ties with Boss, she is mysteriously killed. Summer, heartbroken and now without a family, suspects Boss for the murder. The story really picks up when Jus and Summer go on the run to hide from Boss and prove that he killed Trish. After Trish’s killer is revealed, Jus helps Summer put her life back together.

Marketed as “The Coldest Winter Ever” for teens, Babygirl Daniels gives readers a real page turner. “16 On The Block” contains some elements of ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ and ‘The Coldest Winter Ever.’ Since there’s violence, some language and one mildly graphic sexual scene, this book should only be added to high school collections. The story was a little rushed at the end, but overall was a good read and a good alternate title to some of the books marketed to an adult Urban Fiction audience. Teens can learn some life lessons in this edgy debut novel from Babygirl Daniels.

Step to This by Nikki Carter

2009-11-09T10:52:00.002-06:00

“Step to This” is the first book in the So For Real series by Nikki Carter. This book is the ‘softer side’ of Urban Fiction for Middle and High School Students.

Gia is a high spirited, Tweety t-shirt wearing, high-school sophomore. She's not in the in-crowd but popular within her own circle of friends. When her friend Ricky persuades her to try out for the High-Steppers dance team and wins a spot on the squad, her social life changes. She receives a style and hair makeover from one of the most popular girls in the school. Gia also receives adoration from her peers she has never received and enjoys it. Though Gia loves her new image and status at school, she clashes with her religious mother and uncle who is also the pastor of her church.

After attracting the attention of the schools’ star football player, she feels that she has been elevated to the ‘elite’ status in her school. To get out of the house to meet Romeo for their first date, Gia lies to her mother which goes against her mother’s rules. During the date, Romeo tries to persuade Gia to have sex with him. When Gia refuses, Romeo becomes angry and leaves her stranded without a ride home forcing her to call her mother and her Deacon boyfriend to pick her up.

What I really liked about ‘Step to This’ is the energy and humor of the characters. The other thing I liked about this book is the accurate description of what teens will do and say to fit in. Carter has captured the ‘voice’ of teens in ‘Step to This’ and this book is one that should not be missed.

Keysha's Drama by Earl Sewell

2009-11-05T17:13:00.000-06:00

This book is the first in the Keysha Series by Earl Sewell.

Keysha is a Chicago teen who lives with her 'party girl' mother Justine. When she and her mother are evicted from their apartment, Keysha's world is turned upside down. With no money or hope, she is placed in foster care and connected with her real father she has never met.

Despite having her own room, new home and school to attend, Keysha still has drama. She doesn't want to forget where she has come from so she battles with her hard as nails step-mother and spars with her annoyng step-brother Mike. When she connects with the wrong crowd, her actions land her deep in trouble with her family and causes a great deal of embarrassment. This is where Sewell is at his best: describing the inner thoughts of Keysha as she struggles to fit in with her family/classmates and make positive decisions. Many authors attempt to do this, but fail to do so because they cannot capture the character's 'voice'. Not the case with Sewell; this is probably why the Keysha series is so popular with teens.

Though "Keysha's Drama" is directed at teen audiences, adults can learn some valuable lessons from the story as well. This is a good book for pre-teens and teens that will surely spark lively discussions.

Patterson Heights by Felicia Pride

2009-11-04T19:35:00.000-06:00

Avery and his brother Rashid are inseparable. He idolizes his older brother and aspires to be just like him. When Rashid is tragically killed during a basketball court altercation, Avery's world is turned upside down. The family moves out of the Patterson Heights neighborhood into a small cramped apartment on the other side of town.

Avery attends a new school, becomes depressed and stops speaking. His home life isn't easier. His mother begins a crusade to learn who killed her firstborn son and his father becomes distant from the family. When Avery attends group therapy sessions at "Let's Straighten it Out," he finally has a emotional breakthrough and slowly begins to speak and interact with his family and friends.

Along the way, Avery befriends, Pretty Ricky and Natasha who both help him cope during this period. I really don't want to give away the last two chapters of this book because it will really keep you on the edge of your seat. Patterson Heights was a page turner from author Felicia Pride. Not many teen books tackle the sensitive subject of sibling loss, therapy and vividly as Pride does. The scenes where Rashid speaks to Avery are heartfelt and touching. This book can be used as a alternate title for Yasmin Shiraz's 'Retaliation.'

2009-11-04T09:44:00.001-06:00

The Bluford Series - Let me just say, I just love these books!

“The Bully” by Paul Langan is the story about a quiet teen named Darrell Mercer. Darrell is nervous about moving to California with his mother and attending a new high school. Anxiety over transferring to a new school is a common issue with high schoolers, but the reader learns quickly that Darrell is different. While attending his previous high school, Darrell never had to stand up for himself and was ‘protected’ from bullies by his friend. Now a new student at Bluford High, the 15 year old that has a physical build of a 12 year old becomes a victim of bullying. Tyray Hobbs and his gang of followers bully Darrell daily out of his lunch money and destroy his self-esteem.

Life at home isn’t any better. Darrell’s mother is pre-occupied with her new job and his uncle believes the solution to all of Darrell’s problems is for him to just ‘toughen up.’ When Darrell’s English teacher Mr. Mitchell gives him the book, “The Hamlet” to read, things begin to change. Darrell joins the wrestling team and his self-confidence and popularity improves. His classmates give him a new respect for trying and shows interest a classmate, Amberlynn. Despite these social gains, Darrell continues to be tormented by Tyray and he makes a decision: run or fight. In a climatic cafeteria scene, Darrell finally stands up to Tyray, breaks his arm and embarrasses him in front of the entire school.

Despite the predictability of “The Bully” I really liked it. Langan captures the voice of teens and their experiences effectively in the story and I believe this is why books written by him are so popular with pre-teens and teens. Readers can really experience the pain of bullying and cheer Darrell on as he makes accomplishments on the wrestling team. This book could be used with boys beginning in 7th grade as a platform for discussion on the subject of bullying. Kids that read this book will definitely relate to this story and either place themselves in the shoes of Darrell or Tyray.

"The Bully" by Paul Langan is a must read book for reluctant readers and should not be missed by pre-teens.

From PUSH to Precious

2009-11-01T19:47:00.000-06:00

I just can't wait for the theatrical release of "Precious" by director Lee Daniels. I'm often leery of books that make it to the big screen because often times there are some elements of the story that are left out. Despite this, I've read some press about the movie which has been quite favorable. I like many will be in line at the local movie theatre on November 6th to see "Precious."

The movie "Precious" is based on the 1997 novel "PUSH" by Sapphire and focuses on the vicious cycle of incest and abuse. "PUSH" is about a Harlem, NY illiterate teen named Clareece "Precious" Jones who has low self-worth/esteem in herself. Why??? Her homelife is dysfunctional. She has been impregnated by her father twice and her abusive relationship with her mother affects Precious in her daily struggle to just survive. Precious finally experiences a 'breakthrough' when she is sent to an alternative high school and meets her teacher, Ms Rain who helps her raise her reading level to a 7th grade level and helps her discover how beautiful she is.

Author Sapphire wrote this book as a result of her own sexual abuse she suffered and her experience with working with troubled teens. "PUSH" is a book that at sometimes was very hard for me to read because it taps into the emotion of the reader. You cheer when Precious makes strives towards building her self-esteem and you just want to shake her poor excuse of a mother.

PUSH is a book that is intended for adults but will teens read this book? Of course, given the projected commercial promotion of the movie. Recently, I asked the manager of a Borders Book Store on the far south side of the city of Chicago if the sales for 'PUSH' had increased over the last month. She said that they had and they cannot keep the books on the shelves. I'd be really curious to see what percentage of sales are from teens...hmm.

PUSH is the first book written and published by poet, Sapphire. Like many authors that experience rejection from the major book publishing companies, Sapphire self-published "PUSH" until picked up by DoubleDay. Recently, CBS Evening News Anchorwoman, Katie Couric conducted a really nice interview of the author, Sapphire. The interview is approximately :45minutes in lenght but well worth the view.

Enjoy! http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=5426254n

K.C.

2009-11-01T19:34:00.000-06:00

The 2009 Illinois School Library Media Association Conference has ended. I have been a member of this state library organization for about 6 years attending conferences in both Springfield and Arlington Heights, Illinois. Attending sessions during the conference weekend has always been a real treat and a 'mini-vacation' from the job.

I just sit back with admiration and listen to the talented librarians that share their knowledge with workshop attendees. Each year I walk away with valuable information and practices that I know I can use. I always wonder, "How do these busy librarians make the time to prepare a thought provoking presentation?" Well this year I learned first-hand it's through preparation, organization and creativity. This year marked my first year serving as a workshop presenter for this conference. It was fun! My session about Urban Fiction books for middle school students was well received and I had the opportunity to meet more people this year than I had in years past. For that, I'm grateful for the experience.

That being said, after saying to myself for at least two years, "I'm going to start blogging" and the constant suggestions from friends, I found my nerves and some time to finally begin. Essentially, the ‘Miss Domino Blog’ is dedicated to the genre of Urban Fiction in particular those books and alternate titles that appeal to both pre-teens, teens and adults. From time to time, I will share my thoughts on books within this genre as well as other pressing issues that pertain to Library Information Science. I hope that you will enjoy my posts and log in from time to time to read what I have to say.

Smooches,
K.C. Boyd

P.S. The ‘Miss Domino Blog’ is named after my 1 year old Tuxedo female cat named Domino.