THE BEA STORY 2007: The Literary Stars!The History! The Photos! The Rise of a Literary Nation!
Heather " The Literary Heat "Covington's Reflections
of the African American Pavilion@ BookExpo 2007
Editor-in-Chief of DisilgoldSOUL Magazine
www.Disilgold.com
PART 1: CANDID REFLECTIONS OF THE 2007 AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION @ BOOKEXPO AMERICA (BEA) -JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER
Did the 2007 African American Pavilion @ BookExpo America(BEA) historically catapult the rise and rebirth of the Neo-Black Literary Renaissance of the Millennium's First Decadium along with the greatest literary industry professionals of this era?
The African-American literary community and some of the most renowned and rising literary industry professionals celebrated at the African American Pavilion @ BookExpo 2007 in New York's Jacob Javits Center; spearheaded by Tony Rose (ACGI), Niani Colom (Genesis Press), Adrienne Ingrum (Adrienne Ingrum, LLC). If you are a literary artist, it is important that you read THE BEA STORY 2007!
What you are about to witness is a written documentary of major events and several more pre-award show events that took place before the African American Pavilion Awards Reception @ BookExpo America which was held on (June 1st) and African American Pavilion Awards held on (June 2nd), plus a bonus preview of my reflections of just some of my favorite YOUnity Guild Award Winning authors who joined me at DisilgoldSOUL Booth #223. This is where I committed major literary infractions as a Top 5 Literary & Media Mogul, and reported on everyone who was brave enough to stop by. Rumors have circulated that I am the literary paparazzi, and it's all true!
It will take you approximately 24 minutes to read all 5 parts of "THE BEA STORY 2007" , so sit back, and treat yourself to some lemonade or ice tea, because I'm bringing "The Literary HEAT," without apology. This one is a scorcher for booklovers that is power packed with name dropping, literary celebrity filled moments and GOOD gossip! Get Ready! If you are an aspiring author, don't be surprised if you are an exhibitor at the BookExpo 2008 in L.A. It's the event that makes it happen!
Now on with the show...
The turn out of celebrated guests was an amazing success and historical journey I will treasure forever as well as many visitors who witnessed the largest publishing industry event of the year that brought out over 25,000 industry professionals like Jeff Burns, Associate Editor of Ebony magazine; Harriette Cole (Bestselling Author of VOWS & Creative Director of Ebony magazine), Pat Schroeder (President/CEO of the Association of American Publishers), Haki Madhubuti (Publisher of Third World Press, and bestselling book, the "Covenant with Black American," Dante Lee (CEO of Diversity City Media who was issued the Business of the Year Award by Black Enterprise), Terrie Williams (CEO of the Terrie Williams Agency) and author of the heavily anticipated upcoming book, Black Pain, Carol Mackey (Editor on Chief of Double Day Entertainment's Black Expressions Book Club with over 400,000 members), and Kevin Wayne Johnson (Outstanding author of the Give God to Glory book series) which recently gained international rights and many more guests as you will read about in THE BEA STORY 2007.
As a kindergarten teacher, I was not going to attend the BEA until June 2nd on a Saturday, for I did not want to miss 2 days with my students who are getting ready to graduate and will be singing a new song I wrote and produced for the third year in a row, but this time entitled, "When I Think of Summer." However, upon finding out that the African American Pavilion Advisory Board had selected me as a Toni Trent Parker of the Year Award Recipient on behalf of a lady who spent her life dedicating her work to children, I could not resist accepting this award to take back to my students and further inspire them to become young authors.
All of my students know the authors in Literary Divas: The Top 100+ Most Admired African American Women in Literature. The Literary Divas collectively earned a NAACP Nomination among literary heavyweights like Tavis Smiley, Barack Obama, Chris Gardener and Hill Harper. Visit my site at www. LiteraryDiva.com for more Literary Divas I have been blessed to meet.
Relentless Aaron (Bestselling author and visionary), whom also shared a Toni Trent Parker of the Year Award shared the same convictions for supporting youth literacy, and I couldn't be prouder, for he humbly revealed my part as a witness to his rise to success as a best selling author on the streets of New York that I was never going to reveal, so hats of to the humble literary mogul and giant who has surpassed my goals as an author, but we are one with our dedication to the youth which is equivocal, and enough said!
As the Editor-in-Chief of DisilgoldSOUL Magazine over at ww.Disilgold.com, I decided to debut as a first time exhibitor with a publishing company re-launching December 2007, along with several of my YOUnity Guild Award winning authors at Booth #223 like Dorothy Goins ( overwhelming voted as YGA Author of the Year), Harrine Freeman, Dena Silver, Kenda Bell, Jewelene Banks, Yvonne Bridges, Tichaona Chunyelu, Nissa S. Showell, Diane Dorce, Saadia Ali Asheman, Joe James, Rel Dowdell, Francis Ray, Keston Karter, Dream Relations YGA Award winning authors, Venesha, Misha and Michele A. Fletcher. These artists are excelling in multi-genres from Financial, Drama Fiction and Urban Fiction to Screenplays, Poetry, Calendar & Gifts and Mystery and Young Adult novels.
I got tons of calls and e-mails for exhibiting requests, but my heart went out to new award winning authors whom I had the opportunity to recently read and review their books, and from that moment my mission, purpose and goals for attending the BEA were set in literary stone! I e-mailed all of my literary peers, top publishers, bookstores, media and booklovers to let the world know.... BookExpo America here comes Disilgold, of course abridged for "Diamonds, Silver & Gold." Make no mistake about it, all of the people you read about here are shining like Gold!
When I was asked to emcee of the African American Pavilion Reception & Awards program by the Amber Communications Group, Inc. Family, and the Black Pack Publisher's BEA pre-show event hosted by AALBC.com's Troy Johnson, Mosaic Books.com Ron Kavanaugh and Harlem World Magazine's Daniel Tinsdale on (May 31st), it gave me the esteemed pleasure to report on these events of the BookExpo, interview celebrated guests with videography provided courtesy of ACGI (Amber Books), and take over 500 snapshots to historically document this great event. Unlike some exhibitors who never bothered to visit the African American Pavilion, I graciously toted my camera over to other mainstream and small press publishing houses to share that African-American literary hospitality.
Troy Johnson and Tony Rose also assisted with taking numerous candid photos that while won't win a fashion show contest for anyone featured including myself, are historical because who would ever dare to imagine a place and event as grand as the BookExpo affording African American authors an opportunity to showcase their literary works with such grandeur and celebration for all? I hold back a tear because if it drops, there will be a flood on this ocean of success.
It was a pleasure to step back and take account of my personal behind the scene reflections of the BEA, that while minuscule to those who may not have ever read a book by an African-American author are relevant for those who do love the literature that resonates from the heart, mind and souls of people who count in this world. Instead of couples quarreling, one may be reading an AA book. Instead of teens going outside and looking for trouble, one may be nestled indoors while getting cozy with a good book. Instead of one giving up on their dreams, one may read an AA book and write their first novel that becomes their meal ticket out of the hood.
Perhaps, THE BEA STORY 2007 will encourage more readers to delve into African-American literature for its historical place in time. Everyone should savor TIME. For time is our friend and all we've got as we share in the grinding hustle and bustle of everyday living. Reading a book slows down life and makes life more sweeter. Reading a book allows each and every one of us to filter into the minds of AUTHORS we treasure with permission.
I must have walked 50 miles each day of the BEA in stilettos, but I cheated by putting on these tacky flat shoes sold in the Bronx and changing into jeans which I believe only a few best selling authors like Shannon Holmes (Dirty Game) and Tee C. Royal (Rawsistaz Bookclub President) caught, and maybe my mother (NAACP Teacher of the Year ), so I was safe from the paparazzi. It feels good to do what I do and remain unscathed like a sacred angel everyone protects.
I also, passed out for just a moment in the arms of bestselling Strebor author, Rique Johnson who visited Disilgold SOUL booth 223 and received fan fare from guests. Thank goodness he was there to catch me from falling. I guess I was overwhelmed with joy and had missed eating enough energy-fueled breakfast foods Authors are guilty of writing and working to maximum capacity, but forgetting to eat at events.
The YOUnity Guild Authors and Phil from AmberBooks.com fed me expensive wrap sandwiches, lemonade and chips. I was pampered and fanned like a literary movie star and I just loved the attention so, I was humbled and grateful for having such beautiful folks around me like the African American Pavilion family, and my dear friends like Carol Hoenig (BookExpo Foreword Magazine's Author of the Year of "Without Grace") and Greg Godek (Author of Romantic Questions: 264 Outrageous, Sweet and Profound Questions) who was introduced to me by Tim Brown; Small Press Center Writer's Roundtable Conference™ founder Hopefully, noone caught these little wardrobe malfunctions and deviations on the hottest, sweltering and must humid week in New York's history!
Surprising revelations...
I thought that many people had only remembered me as the 2005 and 2006 Publicity Director of Harlem Book Fair, NY, but was surprised to find out how many fans of the Literary Living television show on the Black Family Channel (now available on Comcast Digital Satellite) recognized me as the host of the show.
It was humbling to sign autographs on postcards and author's books. It was great interviewing publisher's like Cheryl & Wade Hudson(Just Us Books), Strebor Books International Executive Publisher (Zane) and authors William Frederick Cooper, Che, and Rodney Lofton (Author of heavily anticipated book, "The Day I Stopped Being Pretty".
I also, interviewed DisilgoldSOUL YOUnity Guild Award winning authors Diane Dorce, Harrine Freeman, Kenda Bell, Dorothy Goins, Dena Silver, Dream Relations Publicity President Dawn Murray, Black Classic Press Publisher Paul W. Coates, Africa World Press Founder Kassahun Checole and many more guests made possible by Tony Rose Executive Producer of the Literary Living Television Show. All I can say to readers of THE BEA STORY 2007, to carefully watch the people mentioned here. They are collectively worth a billion in literary sales!
The Urban Book Source camera crew was very gracious to interview high profile guests as they appeared onto the BookExpo's "Literary Red Carpet" with recommendation by the DisilgoldSOUL fam, and as newcomers to literary promotion doing an exemplary job discovering the who's who in publishing. Just some of the "Literary Red Carpet" Guests who were interviewed were Miasha (Author of Mommy's Angel), Carol Mackey (Founder of Black Expressions Book Club), and a rare appearance by Zane (co-producer with Sylvia Rhone of new movie, Addicted), one of the top grossing books of all time from Zane's Strebor Books line. The Urban Book Source Documentary is on the way!
So I am convinced this year that like the men, the ladies are ruling the literary market this spring
...
The ladies of self-publishing who made an impressive debut over at the DisilgoldSOUL Booth#223 were YOUnity Guild Award winning authors, Saadia Ali Asheman (Luscious Lies),Kenda Bell(For Every Love, There is Always a Reason), Nisaa S. Showell (Eternal Souls Clashin'), Tichaona Chinyelu (In the Whirlwind), Harrine Freeman (How to Get Out of Debt), Yvonne Bridges (Everyone Gets Tired), Jewelene Banks (Spider Web), Diane Dorce (Devil in the Mist), Dorothy Goins ( A Woman Scorn'd), Dena Silver (Turning to Prayer) and The Dream Relations PR family of top authors like Miasha (Secret Society, Diary of a Mistress, and Mommy's Angel; Simon & Schuster), Venesha (Mistress Me;Polka Dotz & Stripez Publishing), Michelle A. Fletcher (Charge it to the Game).
These top ladies in literature attracted over 260 librarians from around the country, signed all of their books, and due to their extreme professionalism, great award winning works, presentation, confidence and overall preparation for the event as marketing savvy entrepreneurs were celebrated with the most renowned and celebrated figures in the literary industry who were very impressed with DisilgoldSOUL signing guests like Ron Kavanaugh (Mosaic Books.com founder), Max Rodriguez (Harlem Book Fair Founder, Publisher of QBR: Black Book Review)), Tony Rose (CEO of Amber Books), Yvonne Rose(Associate Publisher and Editor of Amber Books), Ken Smikley (Publisher of Black Issues Book Review), Terry Nathan (Publishers Marketing Association), Pat Schroeder (Former Congressman Woman and best selling hit author of (24 Years of Housework and this Place is Still a Mess), Carol Hoenig (Book Expo's Foreword Magazine's Book of the Year Award Recipient) who has moderated panels at Small Press Center featuring Good Day producers and DisilgoldSOUL side by side with a packed media attended seminar and is also, a top nationwide journalist.
Guests who attracted even more guests just by stopping by their DisilgoldSOUL family were the one and only Haki Madhubuti (Third World Press publisher of The Covenant with Black America edited by Tavis Smiley) and Walter Mosley (Author of "This is the Year You Write Your Novel") and already at the top of best selling charts.
Haki Madhubuti shared one of his most famous poems entitled, "Fear" at the next day's African American Pavilion Awards made possible by Tony Rose (Publisher / CEO of Amber Communications Group, Inc.), Adrienne Ingrum (Adrienne Ingrum, LLC), Niani Colom(Associate Publisher of Genesis Press and whom received a standing ovation. I know the work that goes into planning an event of this magnitude as the lady who spearheaded the Literary Pavilion at Circle of Sisters w/ Tony & Yvonne Rose's guidance. To have Haki share one of his greatest poems is historic.
Tony Rose, a PR guru himself who produced the New Kids on the Block years ago to superstardom before they grew up and went their separate ways, undoubtedly reached many celebrities while promoting the BookExpo. Just one of my favorites I had to stop to greet and an inspiration to me since childhood was Bern Nadette Stanis, outstanding actress on the long time running "Good Times".
Bern Nadette Stanis showed the DisilgoldSOUL fam much love and was received by an entourage of guest photographers who could not wait to support her latest relationship advice book from The Worthingham Group entitled, "Situations 101". The teenage heartthrob of men across America, and role model to young girls of yesteryear, who is still as beautiful today with millions of fans, brought along her independently promoted title. Bern Nadette's book is more than a relationship book, it's advice from the lady America watched on air for years and may be able to help many couples today. Look for Bern Nadette on tour. The relationship guress is born.
There were several dozen more celebrated visitors who walked down the "The Literary Red Carpet." Some African-American authors who had busy signing schedules with their big house publishers in other locations of the Book Expo were visited by many exhibitors of the AA Pavilion like rap pioneer and legend, LL Cool J who signed copies of his mega-platinum selling book, "The Platinum Workout." We received word that he sent acknowledgment and a big hello to his DisilgoldSOUL fam. The no nonsense entertainment mogul is a professional role model for the literary community because he is showing artists how to really their work to its best potential.
PART 2: THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PROGRAM FOR BOOK INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS AT BOOKEXPO AMERICA (BEA) -JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER
The African-American publishing industry came out in record numbers on May 31st, 2007 to attend several events during the official set up day for exhibitors at BookExpo America held at John Jacob Javitz Center in Manhattan, New York.
The cumulative events centered around the African American Pavilion spearheaded by Tony Rose, Adrienne Ingrum and Niani Colom included an "African-American Program for Book Industry Professionals" Luncheon held the day before the BookExpo, and proceeded by ongoing workshops, and a massively attended evening reception held by the "black blue-eyed soul," Clara Villarosa, who issued the welcoming address. Villarosa is also, the founder of Hueman Bookstore with a Harlem, NY store succeeded with ownership by bestselling authors Rita Ewing and Marva Allen.
The entire program sponsored by Atria Books was not only astonishing for the wealth of information provided, but spearheaded by some of the biggest names along with guest speakers who commanded the attention of the audience, shared heartfelt stories on their journey to success and valuable tips for writers and book lovers.
A morning workshop entitled "Writing Outside Your Comfort Zone," included author presentations by national best-selling authors Zane (Dear G-Spot), Nathan McCall(Them), Tananarive Due and Steven Barnes and Blair Underwood, (authors of mystery series, "Casanegra"). Blair Underwood and I exchanged a split second glance, but unfortunately I did not introduce myself because I was star struck like a fool. Much props to Blair Underwood who stole the Literary Diva's heart. I watched him slip away beyond the doors of the BookExpo. Going, going... gone.
Daytime soap opera actress, the beautiful Victoria Rowell, shared the makings of her latest, "The Women Who Raised Me" (William Morrow Publishers) prior to an early afternoon workshop entitled, "A Conversation with Charles Rangel Member of Congress and Chairman of the House and Means Committee, who discussed his latest mega-top seller, "And I Haven't Had a Bad Day Since" (Thomas Dunne Books/ St. Martin's Press). This program was moderated by Marcus Mabry (Chief Correspondents at Newsweek Magazine and author of "Twice as Good: Condoleeza Rice And Her Path to Power."
I thank Publisher's weekly for snapping a photo of me and Charles Rangel as he entered the event without asking for any credentials which I always forget to carry at every event. There is symbolism to this gesture I will explain soon. Hon. Charles Rangel remembered me at the Links, Inc. event taping the entire fashion show fund raiser for women's health. I hope someone sends me that rare photo. I am still awaiting a rare photo with me and Dr. Maya Angelou.
A late afternoon workshop entitled, "Who's Buying Books," consisted of a panel of buyers of African American books from Borders/ Walden's, Sean Bentley; Buyer of African American studies and fiction; Books-A-Million Margaret Terwey; Sr. Buyer, Black Expressions Bookclub, Carol Mackey; Editor-in-chief/ Senior Buyer.
The panel was eloquently moderated by Clara Villarosa who took questions from the audience that gave more insight and answers on how to get the attention of buyers. International best-selling author, Zane, asked a question on behalf of small press publishers that was very helpful. This kind of information stays behind the doors of the BookExpo in common courtesy to presenters who are on tour and hopefully, more attendees will come out next year for the benefits of attending African American Pavilion panels at BookExpo in L.A. and stay educated and up-to-date with important information by visiting events with these top guest speakers. One question that was answered was how to get one's books in Black Expressions Book club.
An evening reception provided a full course dinner including zesty salads and pasta dishes with plenty of beverages and fruits that added to a personable atmosphere fit for major networking among noted guests like...
Lynette Khalfani (Zero Debt for College Grads: From Student Loans to Financial Freedom), Randall Pinkett (Campus CEO: The Student Entrepreneur's Guide to Launching a Multi-Million Dollar Business), Miasha (Mommy's Angel), Pat G'orge Walker (Crusin' On Desperation), Donna Hill (Guilty Pleasures" and "After Dark) and Francis Ray (In Another Man's Bed).
Also signing books was Daamiah Poole (Ex-Girl to the Next Girl), Amy DuBois Barnett (Get Yours: The Girlfriend's Guide to Having Everything You Ever Dreamed of and More) who has a platinum bestselling winner on her hands , Earl Sewell (Keysha's Drama), Shannon Holmes (Dirty Game), TuShonda Whitaker (Ex-Factor), Erika Kendrick (Confessions of a Rookie Cheerleader) and Nikki Turner (Forever a Hustler's Wife).
More top author signing guests arrived like Walter Mosley (Blonde Faith), Teri Woods (True to the Game), Felicia Pearson (Grace After Midnight), Bonnie St. John (How Strong Women Pray), Karen Valentin, Felicia Pride and Debbie Rigaud (Hallway Diaries), Monica McKayhan (Indigo Summer), Cassandra Carter (Fast Life), Brenda Jackson (Risky Pleasures, Rochelle Alers (Stranger In My Arms), Taressa (The Hot Spot), Jason Harley (A Hot Mess), Taffy Anderson (Treasures in the Darkness), Dandridge Collins (Trauma Zone) and Victoria Christopher Murray (The Ex-Files).
People searched anxiously to meet and greet other signing authors like Ytasha Womack and Kenji Jasper(Beats Rhymes & Life), Geneva Holiday (Heat), Lori Bryant- Woolridge (Weapons of Mass Seduction), Traci Howard (Gold Diggers), Ferentz LaFargue (Songs in the Key of My Life), Lutishia Lovely (Sex in the Sanctuary), David Dante Troutt (The Importance of Being Dangerous), Erica Simone Turnipseed ("A Love Noire", "Hunger"), Darren Coleman (Before I Let Go, Ladies Listen Up), Michelle Valentine( A Girl's Gotta Eat), J.D Mason (This Fire Down in My Soul), K'wan (Hood Rat), Tracy Brown (White Lines), and Erick Gray(It's Like Candy).
Publisher's imprints representing the author guests of the event sponsored by Ingram Book Company's "Inner City Business Venture"were One World (Ballantine, Hatchette Book Group, USA, Kimani Press/ Harlequin, Literally Speaking Publishing House, Moody Publishers, Harlem Moon, Earl Cox & Associates, Kensington/ Dafina, Amistad/Harper Collins and St. Martin's Press.
A late evening "Black Pack Publishers" party, sponsored by Troy Johnson (CEO of AALBC.COM), Ron Kavanagh (CEO of MosaicBooks.com), Daniel Tinsdale (CEO of HarlemWorldMagazine.com), was held at Tribal Spears Gallery Café' on Frederick Douglass Blvd. Many literary industry professionals attended from over 300 reservations and included the who's who in the publishing industry.
Tee C. Royal (Rawsistaz Book Club President) and Candace K. (Website Designer and Editor for Q-Boro Books) along with Donna Hill and Bernice McFadden were present at the event. The Literary Divas stood out. When I got home, I actually re-read Literary Divas™: The Top 100+ Most Admired African American Women in Literature (Amber Books.com) for the sentimental value of it all. There are just a few of the Literary Divas I have not met yet, and I am just wondering if I will ever be afforded the opportunity in my lifetime. Of course, I won't think about this, but rather make it happen as soon as I complete the BEA STORY 2007!
Troy Johnson (AALBC.com), Ron Kavanaugh (MosaicBooks.com) and James Lisbon ( Publisher of AMAG) would host a panel discussion on "How to Promote & Market Your Books Online" in the BEA's Meeting Room equipped with 1500 square feet of seats, a theater and classrooms the next morning and therefore, the Black Pack Publishers Party II would last until 11:30pm.
It was great emceeing this event even though I explained to Mr. Tinsdale that I certainly would not have made it back to emcee the event had I gone back to the Bronx to change clothes. Author Kevin Wayne Johnson of the (Give God the Glory Series) was so gracious to escort me to the event straight from the "African-American Program for Book Industry Professionals" Luncheon. I missed my limo uptown that was awaiting at 2pm so I could jet back to Harlem to document this amazing event. I am glad I decided to stay downtown. I heard the traffic from the Bronx into the city was grid locked.
Miasha, author of Mommy's Angel was so gracious to stop by the event at Tribal Spears to help me co-host if I ran out of steam. She was one of the featured authors of the "African-American Program for Book Industry Professionals" at the BookExpo and is on this month's Black Expression BookClub Catalog Cover. She has co-hosted Harlem Book Fair Author's on Stage event the year with Disilgold and guests like Lynette Khalfani (Zero Debt), Sonia Sanchez (National Poetry Laureate) and Dorothy Goins (A Woman Scorn'd). All of these amazing authors have won top awards, so of course it is gratifying when the DisilgoldSOUL family comes out to celebrate.
Dj's count too..
I personally enjoyed the music selections of DJ Flow and DJ Jeff who played all of the hits, but Tribal Spears was so shoulder-to-shoulder and packed with food and refreshments, folks had a good 'ole time just networking.
William Frederick Cooper, Strebor author of hit bestseller "There's Always a Reason" showed off his dancing skills and was crowded by fans of his work who just adore the dubbed "Mr. Romance's" personality. People may not know it was William Frederick Cooper who helped me host the 1st YOUnity Guild Awards that brought out the literary stars like Bruce George (Def Jam Poetry Co-Founder), Lawrence Wayne (Memphis Writer's Conference & Southern Film Festival Founder), Marc Medley ( The Marc Medley Radio Show), over 12 local newspapers and the one and only nationally syndicated radio host Michael Baisden who responsibly gave a show the next day after the BookExpo on Breaking into Publishing, with appearances by Literary Agent Mogul Mannie Baron on 98.7Kiss FM.
William's books are creating a big buzz around the nation. He's received so many fabulous reviews for his book like from the Delta Reviewers that his book is bound to be adapted for a movie soon. Zane explained that her book Addicted will be the first Strebor Book in the process for being adapted to a movie with Sylvia Rhone and more movies will arrive.
I asked Troy Johnson if we could shout out some of the author's books, and he obliged which was great! Many authors stepped up to the mic like Don L. (Over My Dead Body) who finally smiled for the evening. Cornelius Wright (Publicity Coordinator of the Harlem Book Fair) announced his major projects.
The highlight of the event was when Ron Kavanaugh saluted Marie Brown, a pioneer in publishing who received a round of standing ovation and was lauded with fine gifts from the dapper Black Pack Publishers founders Ron Kavanaugh (Mosaic Books.com), Daniel Tinsdale( Harlem World Magazine), and Troy Johnson (AALBC.com). It was a very sentimental and beautiful moment. Guests enjoyed the short award presentations and were soon back to partying and networking. I escaped into the night around 9:30pm to prepare for the next day's events, but had a great time.
PART 3: THE DISILGOLDSOUL MAGAZINE LEGEND TOUR TAKES OFF AT THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION @ BOOKEXPO AMERICA (BEA) -JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER ON JUNE 1st
Just a little history for the young folks reading THE BEA STORY 2007....
BookExpo America is the largest book industry event of its kind. For those who know how to maximize their visit to the BEA, it is a place where on the spot book, foreign rights licensing and distribution deals, media connections, networking, book signings, and massive title showcases prevail for over 20,000 literary industry people and booklovers annually. Attending or showcasing titles at the event let's book buyers know you are a serious author or publisher.
I was just simply impressed by the Book Expo's New Title Showcase of authors. It was so beautifully presented this year, and just like a little bookstore that you could walk through and browse titles before meeting and greeting publishers and authors.
While many authors try their luck with mainstream marketing, just as many do their own independent sales of books and are strictly committed to networking with great folks at the African-American Pavilion @ BookExpo which is a professional place for the kings and queens of the African American literary community to connect and celebrate their latest literature.
Almost every library cross country is represented by buyers with a budget and looking forward to meeting authors all in an effort to stock quality books in their establishments. Authors sign copies for people like librarians who make decisions. With hundreds of thousands of libraries nationwide, library acquisition of titles is a dream come true for authors in knowing one book may be borrowed umpteenth times creating more exposure for author's work and in many cases a demand for author's future works in bookstores.
Bookstore owners also, come out in record numbers to select books to grace their store shelves that have the entire package from a good book cover, title, quality content and marketing author personality behind the pen to book blurbs to reviews and synopsis on the book covers that spell S-u-c-c-e-s-s.
We spotted Urban Bookstore, Hueman Bookstore, and Shrine of Black Madonna representatives just to name a few. Authors have to be ready to make eye contact and draw over visitors or they'll get passed by and left in the dust despite all efforts to prepare for this big event. It's truly survival of the fittest.
DisilgoldSOUL actually gave the first walkthrough just to see who was as ready as ever. Here are the African American Pavilion booths that were well represented, had very personable personnel, a beautiful display of titles, great handouts and promotional materials, but most of all, outstanding authors who stood out:AALBC.com (Booth # 255); African World Press, Inc. (Booth # 226); Afrikan World Book Distributors (Booth #256); Amber Communications Group Inc. (Booth # 258); Amiaya Entertainment (Booth # 258B); AmmPublishing (Booth # 258A) Annie Busby (Booth# 211); Around The Way Books (Booth # 214); Aya Press (Booth # 258A); Aspicomm Media (Booth # 258A); Avo Publishing (Booth # 258B); Baker Publishing Group 244; Blacast Entertainment /AfricanAmericanDollarStore.com (Booth # 204); Black Issues Book Review (Booth # 227); Blacklisted LLC (Booth # 221); Brand Nu Words (Booth # 240); BroSis Publishing (Booth # 219); C&B Books Distribution (Booth # 258A&B); Christian Nations Center (Booth # 258B); Connie Leon (Booth # 237); Cultured Expressions (Booth # 222A); Destiny Publishing (Booth # 258A); Disilgold Soul (Booth # 223); Every Generation Media, LTD. (Booth # 238A) First Black Autos-The Story of Charles C.R." Patterson" (Booth # 217)...
GhettoHeat (Booth # 224); Green Olive Tree Publishing (Booth # 213); Harobed House (Booth # 258B); Imperious Publishing (Booth # 236); In and Out The Dugout (Booth # 210) In the Note of C (Booth # 222); Jewels Publishing (Booth # 258A); Just Us Books, Inc. (Booth # 253); Kandour Publishing (Booth # 258B); Kija Entertainment (Booth # 258A); Kymber Jae Publishing (Booth # 258B); Kingdom Kids Clubs (Booth #220); La'femme Fatale Productions (Booth # 258B; Mad Parent Corporation (Booth # 228); Mahogany Star Publishing (Booth # 258A); Mind Candy (Booth # 258A); MomoWilly, Inc. (Booth # 258A)...
Mosaicbooks.com (Booth # 241); Nay-Jay Publishing (Booth # 258B); Nega Fulo Books (Booth # 243); Papyrus Publishing (Booth # 258B); Parker Publishing (Booth # 245); People Skills Int. (Booth# 248); Power Play Media (Booth # 242); Prodigal Son Ministries (Booth # 258A); Quarterly Black Review/Harlem Book Fair (Booth # 205)...
Quick Quest Publications (Booth # 258B); Renaissance Media Sales & Distribution (Booth # 216) River Maverick Publishing (Booth # 239); S.E.L.F. Publishing (Booth # 212) Sheryl Walker Press (Booth # 258A); Strebor Books International/Simon & Schuster, Inc. (Booth # 254); The Healing Tree (Booth # 235); The Pilgrim Press (Booth # 232); Third World Press, Inc. (Booth # 246); Triple Crown Publications (Booth # 242A)...
and finally, Urban Touch Entertainment (Booth # 258A); Vision Works (Booth # 208); V'S Voice Communications (Booth # 258A); Walter Fredericks Enterprises, Inc. (Booth # 258B); White Men Can't Hump (Booth # 218); Wisdom Books Inc Booth # 251); Who's Who Publishing (Booth # 257); Writing for the Lord Ministries (Booth # 238).Whew! Did the African American Pavilion double this year. "No, says co-founder Tony Rose, it tripled."
A hot and steamy week, but the African American literary community shined with grace...
African-American authors looked prominent, beautiful and so fresh-faced. In less than an hour we had to return to our DisilgoldSOUL Booth at #223 because the best autographed books on the market were literally placed in our hands without fail like Return to Glory by Joel A. Freeman, PH.D. and Don B. Griffin, and his latest, "If Nobody Loves You, Create the Demand which earned a premiere screening at the African Pavilion. Other books I received were The Indispensable Visionary: Turning Your Dreams into Realities by Emma S. Etuk, Ph.D., I Want What White Woman Got: A Black Man by Veronica Blakely, Potamac by R. Marion Troy, Milestones: How Mice Become Men by Gary Ian Braxton, Q.T. Pie Children's books by The San Paul Group, I Feel Okay by Deborah Slappey Pitts, and the most controversial book of the year, The Confessions of Rick James: Memoirs of a Superfreak by Rick James to name a few.
Even pre-promotion is so critical. For example, authors like Shannon Holmes ("King of Urban Fiction,") and William Frederick Cooper (Dubbed as "Mr. Romance" of Fiction), and Relentless Aaron (Father of Urban Fiction), Omar Tyree (Godfather of Urban Fiction) gave massive events before their debut at the BookExpo or prior BookExpos.
While Omar Tyree was not present this year due to his upcoming national release of his film, "The Lure of Young Women," (A relationship comedy-drama), his company represented him with a poster which still carried weight at this huge event which success for any exhibitor is built on gravitating the eye to your booth. His presence was still felt as Max Rodriguez announced he would be headlining the Harlem Book Fair in 2007 with a screening of his premiere DVD movie.
So what does it take to stand out when you're new to the publishing game?
Anything too intimidating and overwhelming or too serene and understated doesn't work for visitors of the BEA as well as how you sit in your chair or stand-up, smile or look serious, dress in business attire or wear your true personality, what you say and don't say, how you glance at a visitor and for how long as opposed to a short sincere look that invites someone over. Everything counts. You can be a shameless promoter, but if you are too pushy or too loquacious about your book, you kill what is called "SPLIT SECOND" decision time in a visitors mind which simply asks, "Will I support you now, support you later or not at all?" As media who has written articles for many newspapers, magazines and publications, I must say...the exhibitors in the African American Pavilion were outstanding.
Business male savvy authors like Kevin Wayne Johnson (Give God the Glory Series), Nathaniel Portis (Married to a Married Man), and J.W. Lewis (Aspiring Author and Contributor to Zane's anthologies) know how to network, make appointments with licensing and foreign rights specialists, gain distribution with Borders, Ingram and make business deals with printing companies. It takes careful combing through the www. BookExpoAmerica.com site, meeting people who may not seem to be important but are the movers and shakers to make a difference in one's literary career. Only the most focused will have the discipline to seek all of these avenues as these authors who are the next rising literary stars.
Other top authors gaining more and more fans daily are Marc Lacy (Rock & Fire), Erick S. Gray (Booty Call), Mark Anthony(Dogism), and Shannon Holmes (Dirty Game) who know how to build their contacts, make their rounds to visit other booths, always prepared with top media kits, flyers, signed books and personable. These are the authors you will see dominate the seminar circuit nationwide. They are reaching an untapped audience of readers who know what they want, and these men have what it takes to reach the masses.
The African American Pavilion gives exhibitors an opportunity to acquire booths in a centralized aisle so more booklovers can find AA titles and authors among a huge event with over 2000 exhibitors. This year, the African American Pavilion acquired over triple the number of exhibitors from the prior year with over 80 publishing presses.
Many authors signed books with exhibiting publishers inviting a successful comradery of everlasting friendships as each author supported one another. The Strebor Books family had a very strong presence with fellow authors Rodney Lofton( The Day I stopped Being Pretty), William Frederick Cooper(There's Always a Reason), J.L. Woodson (Superwoman's Child; Recent NAACP Image Award Finalist), and Naleighna Kai( Every Woman Needs a Wife) and Rique Johnson (Whispers from the Heart).
Amber Books authors flew in nationwide creating immediate fan fare like Dante Lee (African American Scholarship Guide for Students & Parents), Therez Fleetwood (The Afrocentric Bride), and Philip S. Hart (African Americans and the Future of New Orleans: Rebirth, Renewal and Rebuilding: An American Dilemma). They were greeted heavily by media.
Kashamba Williams (Precioustymes Entertainment), Jessica Tilles (Xpress Yourself Publishing), Crystal Lacy Winslow (Melodrama Publishing), Vickie Stringer (Triple Crown Publications) represented rising independent press publishers with new titles in demand and simply at the top of their domain.
Urban Book Source team graciously filmed many literary industry professionals referred by the DisilgoldSOUL Magazine fam to help document the ongoing history of the African American Pavilion at BEA. Nicole Stevenson performed interviews for her popular UnCut Radio Show. Senior Editor of Atria, Malaika Adero shared must attend upcoming events for her new UpSouth Festival events. The Nyack Library representative also promoted upcoming events with African-American authors.
The BookExpo is usually held on the cusp of May into June and an air-conditioned escapism away from the unseasonable warm and humid climate in New York at this time. However, on June 1st, 2006 everyone seemed to glisten with grace, pride and the prominence of true "kings and queens" who resolved to share their eternal greatness with their book industry peers, and which is a remarkable feat of its own.
Of course, everyone took note of the strength and cohesion of the African-American book community, and for the most part, love and unity radiated on this day as people of all nationalities joined the African-American Pavilion and were greeted with warm smiles and welcomes.
PART 4: GETTING READY FOR THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION @ BOOKEXPO AMERICA (BEA) -JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER AWARDS RECEPTION ON JUNE 1st
When I approached the back aisle of the African American Pavilion @ BookExpo Awards Reception Area, I noticed that the lighting was very poor, draperies very dark and dank looking and podium chipped and tacky looking. There were only a few chairs cramped inside a very small space, but standing room for over 300 people.
Okay, my bad we should be grateful as African American exhibitors representing over 80 new publishing booths right? There was a time when African American publishers did not even have a presence in the BookExpo, but as leaders representing books with over 50 million in sales, African American books is not just a commodity or trend, but a revolution wave that has garnered the attention of the entire literary industry.
My heart sank low when I saw the conditions provided for emceing this event, but Washington's Convention Center certainly provided a better setting. After all, an awards program is about the guests and award winners and gives African American publishers an opportunity to come together and share acknowledgment of each others accomplishments, give thanks and well earned praise. For me, it's a glorious moment worth taking back to my students a kindergarten teacher and whose lives will be inspired and motivated. Noone is a machine who can just work on empty without admiration, love, respect and support.
To not appreciate one's blessings in life is self-righteous and to accept praise issued without sincerity is not a reward so I would hope that whomever planned for an event of this magnitude that knowingly had the potential of over 80 exhibitors to attend times over 20,000 guests would be given more space next time as a sign of respect and gratitude for so many African-American authors acquiring exhibitor's space.
Of course, noone is to blame and I am just blowing off steam before I report on one of the most intimate Award's reception's that made history and if had been afforded any more space may have not captured the attention of so many guests and friends from all around the world.
However, I am glad I got your attention and will be back momentarily with the full African American Pavilion Story Syndication style and minus my personal comments and publicity stunts on behalf of the AA literary community and of course, hundreds of photos. THE SHOW WAS GRAND! We won't shout out the furniture contractors of the BOOKEXPO.
Go and get some fruit and a light snack, then come on back here...for the OFFICIAL 2007 AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION AWARDS @ BOOKEXPO AMERICA...
PART 5: THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION @ BOOKEXPO AMERICA (BEA) -JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER PRESENTS THE AWARDS RECEPTION ON JUNE 1st
THE 2007 AFRICAN-AMERICAN PAVILION AT BOOKEXPO AMERICA Welcoming Reception sponsored by Amber Communications Group, Inc. The Freeman Institute Black History Collection, Just Us Books, and City Die Cutting was celebrated on June 1st of the 2 day award show extravaganza among the who's who in publishing at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City.
Welcoming remarks were presented by pavilion co-founders, Tony Rose (Amber Communications Group, Inc.), and Adrienne Ingrum (Adrienne Ingrum, LLC) who were greeted amicably as pioneers within the African-American community leading the way to bring literary stars together to make their mark in history at the renowned BookExpo America.
The benediction was issued by Kevin Wayne Johnson (Founder, Publisher, and Author of "Writing For the Lord Ministries." Opening remarks were made by former congresswoman Pat Schroeder and (President of the Association of American Publishers) who received much praise as a top best-selling author herself who has inspired the African American literary community.
Keynote speaker, Haki R. Madhubuti, (Chairman and Publisher of Third World Press, Award winning Author and Poet, and Publisher of National Bestsellers, The Covenant With Black America: Introduction by Tavis Smiley and YellowBlack: The First Twenty-One Years of a Poets Life... A Memoir, received standing ovation for his address on the state of black publishing whose words were very controversial and shocking, but left an everlasting impression noone at the event, and including media will contest or dare to repeat. You just had to be there to catch Madhubuti's most thought provoking comments.
Kassahun Checole, President and Publisher of African World Press, Inc. along with Wade and Cheryl Hudson (President and Publisher of Just Us Books), two very successful publishers, gave a warm pavilion address. Kassahun's remarks were very inspiring and everlasting and to witness Wade & Cheryl Hudson together, a team who has catapulted as the leading African-American Children's Book publishers in the world, led to standing ovation from guests.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the event were pavilion remarks made by the one and only, Terrie Williams, (President & CEO of the Terrie Williams Agency, Award Winning National Bestselling Author of the Personal Touch: What You Really Need to Succeed in Today's Fast Paced Business World.
Terrie shared excerpts of her upcoming book, Black Pain. Her words yielded great respect and support from the audience of loyal fans of Terrie's work since inception of her reign as one of the leading bestselling authors of this era, and whom refer to the PR MAVEN as their number one mentor.
W. Paul Coates, president of Africa World Press, also gave pavilion remarks, and is noted as a African American Pavilion Lifetime Achievement Award Winner of 2006. Coates is a historical legend in his own right for the care he has taken to preserve rare and treasurable African-American titles.
Guests got a chance to meet and greet another original co-founder of THE 2007 AFRICAN-AMERICAN PAVILION AT BOOKEXPO AMERICA, Wil and Niani Colom, Publisher & Associate Publisher of Genesis Press. C.Sunny Martin (Founder and CEO of Who's Who in Publishing Co, LLC.) who is responsible for preserving some of the greatest names in business with his top directories also, greeted guests.
One of the most endearing receptions to a guest was for Carol Mackey, who issued the Pavilion Editorial Overview. Carol Mackey is the acclaimed Editor-in-Chief of Black Expressions BookClub, noted as the largest book club of its kind. Black Expressions is responsible for getting top African-American books into books and keeping them there with its catalog advertised in leading publications that reach millions of readers.
A nationally recognized writer, Harriette Cole, National Best-selling Author of Jumping the Broom, and VOWS, President of Harriette Cole Productions; and Editorial Creative Director of Ebony Magazine, addressed Pavilion Business with a remarkable and poignant speech on how she elevated her career by volunteering to support others and mastering her craft by perfecting the tools necessary to succeed; one of which is the ability to type 90 words a minute. Her remarks gained warm smiles, head nods and overwhelming praise by guests who were amazed by her personable and supportive words many will treasure for a lifetime. Harriette Cole is more than a writer, she's an eloquent motivational speaker and top respected writer in journalism whose advice is GOLD! Her new book, VOWS has taken off!
Dante Lee, CEO, Diversity Inc., Media Inc., National Bestselling Author of the 2007-2009 African American Scholarship Guide for Students & Parents (Amberbooks.com)also, addressed Pavilion Business, and candidly shared how he turned his business into a media enterprise, and is helping to pave the way for other college students with a dream on becoming an entrepreneurial success story. Dante is known globally and he's just getting started. To see a young CEO accomplishing so much is an inspiration to us all.
More guests who received amicable fanfare were Andrew Jackson (Past president of the Black Caucus of the African American Library Association(BCALA), Patrick Oliver (Founder of Say It Loud Youth), Will Horton (Publisher of Wisdom Books, Author of The 30 Power Principles), Michelle T. Johnson (National Bestselling Author of Black Out! The Black Person's Guide to Redefining a Career Path Outside of Corporate America), and Pittershawn Palmer (Author, Editor and Piet) who provided poetry for the program.
Guest speakers also included, Daniel Grisso, (Creator of the Step Up! System), Juliet A. Gipson (Author /Publisher of Do's and Don'ts For First. Second and Third Wives. The 100 Ways to Step into Co-parenting with Style, Lauren Spicer (Former Vice President of the National Black Public Relations Society; and now CEO of The Journal of Color), and V. Ricardo; (Author of The Prodigal Son).
Press and media was provided by JET/Ebony photography. The African American Pavilion Reception was dedicated in loving memory to pioneer greats such as Bebe Moore Campbell, Octavia Butler, Toni Trent Parker, Glen Thompson, James Haskins and many others... made possible by Adrienne Ingrum (Publishing Consultant & Book Packager)- 800 West 145th Street, 6 West, NY, NY 10039.AA PAVILION JOURNAL SPONSORS...
Sponsors of the AA Pavilion Journal you should take note of very carefully and are movers and shakers themselves, were The Street Life Series by Kevin M. Weeks, Legal Write Publications, Amber Communications Group, Inc., Adrienne Ingrum LLC.,Third World Press, Black Classic Press, Who's Who Publishing, Co., Just Us Books, Inc., St. Martin's Press, Strebor Books, Jewels Publishing, Triple Crown Publications, C& B Book Distribution, Writing For the Lord Ministries, Judson Press, and Disilgold Soul Magazine and The YOUnity Reviewers Guild of America.
More sponsors included...The Book Publicity Coach (Pam Perry), Queen Afua, Charles Throupe, Elon Bomani, Harobed House™™, Kenneth Brown, Kimberly Brooks, Down South Press, River Maverick Publishing, Valentine Editorial Services, Earth Angel Network, Shirley Green, Simply My Thoughts, Culture Seek, Mad Parent Corporation, Cynthia Weeks, Center of Black Literature, Dr. Vivi Monroe Congress, Wings to Fly, Written Magazine, Kelly Starling Lyons (Author of One Million Men and Me), Good Thoughts of Young Folk by Lynette Velasco, Freeman Enterprises (CEO Harrine Freeman; author of How to Get Out of Debt), Blended Families, The Busby Files, Part 1, Quality Press, Realities of Life by Wanda Muir-Oliver, Snitch Craft by Edrea Davis, Turn the Page and You Don't Stop by Patrick Oliver, Black Rain by Vincent Alexandria, Reputations Fade Away from Kojak Enterprise, and national bestselling hit, Spiritual Fragrance of a Woman by Rev. Jerone L. Davison from Echelon Talent, LLC.PART 6: THE AFRICAN AMERICAN PAVILION AWARDS @ BOOKEXPO AMERICA (BEA) -JACOB JAVITS CONVENTION CENTER -JUNE 2nd
On this day at the African American Pavilion Awards, I had to call on international bestselling authors Vickie Stringer (Triple Crown Publications) and Relentless Aaron (Relentless Content, Inc.) to help me issue a few awards. However, I acquired enough energy to snap a picture of the recipient of those awards like C& B Book Distribution's Brenda Piper and Carol Rogers, honored as "Distributors of the Year" and Johnson & Johnson Publishing Company's Jeff Burns' (Associate Publisher of Ebony Magazine).
ABOUT HEATHER COVINGTON:DisilgoldSOUL Publishing Founder, Heather "The Literary HEAT Covington, is the author of Literary Divas: The Top 100+ Most Admired African American Women in Literature (AmberBooks.com);A NAACP IMAGE AWARD NOMINEE FINALIST, and soon to be released sequel, Literary Dons: The Top 100+ most Admired African American Men in Literature (July 2007, Harlem Book Fair-ACGI BOOTH).
She recounts the history of the African American literary community's "GREAT ONES" while on the Disilgold SOUL Magazine Legends Tour over at www.Disilgold.com, and home of the YOUnity Reviewers Guild Awards.
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