At Crown Holders Transmedia our family is filled with book loving podcasters, bloggers, book reviewers, vloggers, indie bookstores, book clubs and librarians. We are one huge bookish community. We represent books from all genres and authors from all races and cultures. Diversity is our middle name! We would love to add even more diversity to our community by including BookTubers, Bookstagrammers and Instagrammers of color. 

If you are a book lover and would like to be interviewed for this directory and for Black Pearls Magazine, email Ella D. Curry at:  edc_dg@yahoo.com for the questionnaire. 

Click on any of the categories below to explore this directory. You can also list your book club, reading group, blog, Youtube channel, Instagramnetwork or website in the directory below. There is no charge to be listed here. Your email address will never be sold, rented or shared unless YOU list it on your profile below. 

Your written interview will be posted to Black Pearls magazine online and in our printed Black Excellence Legacy Magazine.

Feel free to email Ella D. Curry at any time to arrange interviews with the authors featured on this website. Email Ella at:  edc_dg@yahoo.com

We are seeking blog tour hosts! If you would like to join the Seducing the Pen Online Book Tours, go here to see the authors and to sign up:  http://smore.com/9yzf


SIGN UP BELOW AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS!

BAN Radio Literary Program
Long Business Description

The Black Authors Network Radio Talk Show aims to support the African American community and to show people, through the radio show, that African American writers are more than just a niche. We bring wonderful stories to the minds and imaginations of everyone! We have stories to tell, using our voice and our experiences, that cross all races and cultures. Join us on Monday and Wednesday Nights, 8-10 pm EST.

Black Authors Network Radio Talk Show is a fee based Internet radio program that showcases small business owners, artists, authors, poets and other publishing professionals. We interview the guests for 30-90 minutes and we use RSS feed syndication to send this interview to thousands of readers twice a week.

If you are interested in becoming a guest on Black Authors Network Radio Talk Show for a product launch party or book club discussion, please visit our website to read more about us and to reserve your slot on the show. Be sure to read the FAQ section for a better look at BAN, in order to see who our fans are and how we reach them! We do not have any complimentary interviews on BAN Radio show. All shows are paid promotions.

BECOME A GUEST ON THE SHOW!

Go here to sign up today: http://crownholderstransmedia.com/radioshows

Address

20787

Sankofa Literary Society
Long Business Description

The Sankofa Literary Society founded in 2007 consists of authors, librarians, 80 established bloggers, 42 nurses, 15 independent bookstores,  45 reviewing book clubs and  has over 2,700 members online and offline in total, with 877 of those members coming from book clubs or established reading groups.

Quarterly the SLS publishes the popular TOP 100 BEST BOOKS lists. Each summer the SLS hosts the annual Chocolate Socials which brings readers and authors to Atlanta, GA and New Orleans, LA for the private literary events.  Sponsored by EDC Creations Media Group  and the Black Authors Network (BAN) .

The SLS members and BAN Radio guest speakers are dedicated to providing information to black business owners and authors so that they may gain access to the global consumer and to helping promote the growth of black owned publishing related businesses and  more diverse literature.

Come join our lively discussions each week as we tackle a number of topics relevant our community. Each week, the Black Authors Network Show interviews special guest authors, community leaders, educators, and experts from various fields in publishing, who want to make a difference in the lives of Americans.

Our mission is to improve literacy in our community and to help improve relationships, all relationships in the African American community globally! If you're not a part of the movement, don't let another day go by without joining us.

 Visit our website today: https://edc-creations.com/sankofa-literary-society.html

 

Address

20783

Crown Holder Treasure Boxes
Long Business Description

Brought to you by EDC Creations Media Group

Crown Holder Treasure Boxes are book-of-the-month subscription boxes geared toward sharing independently published books as well as commercially published titles with readers who lack access to bookstores or other means of purchasing new books. We are here to introduce readers to authors they might not be aware of and to provide the reader with various genres of published titles.

We partnered with small press publishers, book wholesalers and major publishing imprints to bring our readers incredible books before they hit the shelves, out-of-print core books and books to fill your collection with the classics. We also offer digital selections too!

For those ordering the KID ZONE box, we aim to send your child books written by authors you may not know about yet, but should!  Our selection of children books is phenomenal.  Not just any children's books, but those that depict the diversity in children literature. We cater to our African American kids and the writers that represent them as well.

Sign up here today:  http://www.chtreasurebox.com

 

U.S. G.I.R.L.S. Jacksonville, Florida
Long Business Description

U.S.G.I.R.L.S. Interview conducted by Founding Members: Karen Lewis, Jennie Blue, Valerie Jefferson and Ardee Harris. Unique, Sophisticated, Girlfriends Inspirational Reading and Literary Society, located in Jacksonville, Florida formed in October 2004.

It all began with an email from founding member, Karen Lewis, in September 2004 entitled: “Calling All Bookworms.” With the new phenomena of book clubs forming throughout the city, Karen visited several, with intentions of joining, but was not impressed with any of them. She called upon her friend, Jennie who was in another book club and her sister-in-law Ardee “Dee” to consider forming a book club. Jennie then called her friend, Valerie who was also in a book club at the time.

Karen hosted our first meeting in October of 2004. During this meeting, the four of us formed by-laws for our book club and gave suggestions for a name. We were nameless and simply referred to ourselves as “the book club” until 2007, when Karen came up with our clever name and acronym “U.S. G.I.R.L.S.” During the formation meeting we also agreed that we would not elect officers, and preferred to have the "Founding Members" designated as the governing body.  We currently have nine active members.

We are all professional women of color; our youngest member in her early 40s. We have various undergraduate and graduate degrees, and possess strong, diverse personalities which always make for an interesting meeting. We enjoy debating and agreeing to disagree on various book discussion topics.

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?

Founding Members: As our mission statement says, our main focus is to bring attention to issues of interest to women of color, while encouraging and increasing an appreciation for literature. Over the years we have become more than a book club. We are not only “black women who read” but we are have also extended our involvement through book drives and other community outreach ventures. We feel that those watching in the community see us an active group of black women operating with a spirit of excellence in our endeavor to uplift, inspire, promote and encourage women both young and old, while building lifelong friendships and relationships.   Website: http://usgirls04.wix.com/usgirls

 

Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club
Long Business Description

Intimate Conversation with Shana Plummer Chapter Secretary of The Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club.  Shana, how did your organization develop? How many members are in the group?

In October 2005, four ladies that enjoyed reading books by African American authors decided to change their causal conversation about the latest book into a formal monthly meeting. They named themselves The Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club. Over time, they opened these discussions to other friends and family and now The Sweet Soul Sisters Book Club has 9 members.

The primary mission of the book club is to broaden our literary experience by reading books written by authors of African American descent. Keeping abreast of the latest books and meeting the author that wrote them all while building life long relationships.

Ella: Ultimately, what do you want members to gain from your union?

First, we want our members to gain the desire to expand their literary choices. Since each member has a choice of a monthly selection it allows for a good variety. Second, we want our members to gain a connection. The Sweet Soul Sisters are more than just a book club, we are a family and we treat each other with sisterly love and respect.

Ella: Shana, what do you define as Quality Literature?

Quality Literature is piece of written work that has the ability to withstand time and be passed down through generations. This is a book that you would want to pass on to your children and your grandchildren. Quality Literature also has the ability to evoke emotion. It can provide you with a feeling of joy because of a happy ending or a tear because of sadness or sympathy. It draws you in and holds a place in your heart and memory.

 

Girl Fridayz Book Club – Buffalo, New York
Long Business Description

The Girl Fridayz Book Club was conceived in August, 2005 out of the founder’s love of reading. She brought together a group of “sisters” who also have a love of reading and on September 30, 2005, the Girl Fridayz Book Club was born. We meet the last Friday of each month with different members hosting the meeting. The founder’s name is Karyn Davis and she and the other members of the book club reside in Buffalo, New York. We currently have ten active members.

The main purpose of our book club is to strengthen our passion for reading, share our faith, explore quality works by African-American authors, share ideas and opinions and fellowship with like-minded friends. We have supported authors who have come to our city for book signings/workshops (Virginia DeBerry, Kayla Perrin and Beverly Jenkins), as well as other book clubs who host authors. Also, at least once a year, we contribute to a young adult pursuing his/her dreams. This year we contributed to a young athlete so that she would be able to attend the regionals for track and field.

Last year, we contributed to a young lady’s fundraising efforts for Jabberwock, an evening of elegance and entertainment that showcases the gifts and talents of the young women participating in the program while advancing the goals and objectives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s scholarship program.

BPM:  Do you feel as if African Americans are represented in a good light in the novels you read?

Our book club read mostly African-American Christian fiction. Although some of the characters get themselves into situations that are not very Christian-like, they usually find their way out through prayer and a willingness to do what is right. What we feel puts African Americans in a bad light is when characters consciously conduct themselves in a certain way without thought of consequences and repercussions.

BPM:  Do you think digital books will ever replace a printed book? 

We don’t believe that digital books will ever replace printed books. We love to turn the pages of a book and most of our members will not purchase a e-book priced more than $5.00 The majority of our members will NEVER stop buying printed books and the only way we could be forced to not buy them is if they stopped selling them.

 

Go On Girl! Book Club – National Chapters
Long Business Description

The Go On Girl! Book Club is the largest national reading organization in the U.S. for black women. Our national headquarters are in New York. In 1991, founders Monique Greenwood, Lynda Johnson and Tracy Mitchell-Brown decided to turn their office chat about the latest offerings from Black authors into formal book discussions with their immediate circle of girlfriends in New York City.

At the end of the club's first year, Evalyn Rose Hamilton relocated from New York to her native Washington, D.C., and the second chapter of the Go On Girl! Book Club was born. Since 1992, more than 30 chapters have sprung up across the country in much the same way — started by former members relocating to new cities or by members' relatives and friends living in other or the same cities. In 1995, the club became a legally incorporated non-profit organization, and it currently boasts more than 300 members in cities across the country. We currently have chapters in Alabama, California, DC, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington and Virginia.

The overall agenda, goals and duties of the organization are administered by an executive committee of 10 women: Lynda Johnson (Co-founder/Chair and Media/Author Relations Chair), Vivian Phillips-Husband and Shirley Coker (Co-Chairs); Valeria Porterfield (Recording Secretary); Evalyn Rose Hamilton (Historian); Tracy Grady (Treasurer); Willette Hill (Corresponding Secretary); Elaine Spears (Parliamentarian); Judy Ivory (Membership Chair) and Joyce Williams (Reading List Chair).

 

BPM: Do you host special events during the year?

YES! GOG hosts an annual Author Awards Weekend held in a different city every year and attended by all the chapters in the organization. Members vote for a winning author in two categories: New Author of the Year and Author of the Year. The winning authors are invited to attend our Author Awards Weekend. The chapter(s) in the designated city is our host chapter. At the author awards lunch (or dinner), the authors are given a handmade plaque especially designed for them.

Our Author Awards Weekend serves two purposes: it gives our members a chance to express our love and appreciation to the winning authors, and it provides all the chapters a chance to get together to meet/greet and express love for our literary sisterhood. Interviews of our winning authors are published in an annual GOG Magajournal and distributed to our members.

In between the author awards luncheon or dinner, GOGs enjoy the hospitality and activities that our host chapters plan for us.  Our website, www.GoOnGirl.org has the details.

Many of our members socialize outside of our book club meetings. Chapter members also attend author readings and signings in their area to support our writers. For the past two years we have worked collectively with the NAACP by reading, reviewing, and voting for books being considered for their Literary Image Awards. Some of the authors on our reading list were discovered from participating in this project.

 

BPM: Which is the preferred way to find new books: a friend's recommendation; on social media; or advertisement for the book, such as: online radio, newsletter eblast, contests or tagging on FB?

Members of the Reading List Committee use any and all resources available to find books for our reading list. We scour the internet, read book reviews in magazines (online and paper), listen to interviews and check literary websites, publisher websites, blogs, etc. Sometimes we get book recommendations from GOGs, friends; sometimes authors reach out to us. We're forever searching for that next good book.

 

 

 

Brown Girls Read 
Business Name

Long Business Description

Tamela C. Todd founded Brown Girls Read in March, 2016. The program provides age and grade level appropriate workshops that are engaging and educational. There currently are 40 members enrolled in the program.  Brown Girls Read operates out of the Northwest Activity Center on Detroit’s west side near Meyers Rd.

Brown Girls Read is a book club/mentoring program. Our purpose is to increase adolescent literacy and to empower our youth in the community. Our program strives to provide workshops that are both fun and educational. The members learn essay writing, tips for applying for college, best practices for obtaining financial aid, money management and more. Our clubs are divided into groups based on age and grade level for girls ages 7-15. The groups are as follows:  Group Yellow:  ages 7-9,  Group Orange: ages 10-12 and Group Green:   ages 13-15.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? 

Brown Girls Read has a theme for each month. Book selections are based off of that particular theme. Example: For November our members will read about voting, presidents, debates. We feature our monthly books, for all three groups, on our website.

BPM: Do you prefer to read books by authors of color? Do you borrow books from the library?

Brown Girls Read book club is open to all books as long as they fit the age range for our youth. We are very supportive of all authors. Yes, I personally borrow books form the library.

BPM: How do you feel about attending literary festivals and events?

I absolutely love any type of literacy event. Brown Girls Read was apart of the Motor City Book Experience where we met other book clubs and many wonderful authors promoting their books. In June, 2017 Brown Girls Read will be looking forward to attending the 9th Annual AAMBC Literacy Awards in Atlanta, GA. I would like to see more participation from the community at literary events.

 

TOMEE CARD DESIGN
Business Name

Long Business Description

Owner Tomeekha Pitre

Website: www.tomeecarddesign.com

 

Established in 2015, after five years of creating thank you note cards, invitations, menu cards and more for friends, family and myself.  In 2014, I began creating cards for referred clients.  Everyone I've designed for always commented how I should make this my business.  In March of 2015, that's exactly what I did.

I enjoy scrapbooking and making all sorts of cards.  What makes TOMEE CARD DESIGN so special is that each card is unique.  Love and attention to detail is put into each card.

TOMEE cards become keepsakes and pieces of art to the receiver.  Each card is hand crafted and assembled piece by piece.  Your guests will be talking about their TOMEE card months and years after they've received it.

The name of my company is a tribute to my father.

About Tomeekha Pitre

 

Tomeekha is a successful business professional within the corporate world of medical healthcare.  She is a zealot for multi-media art and community advocacy for artists. She has curated and represented emerging visual artists, produced theatre productions, and spearheads HUEMANITEE, Inc., a non-profit that focuses on visual, performing, and literary art education and its ability to heal the mind, body and soul.

Tomeekha is the co-owner of Black Cotton, LLC where she is Publisher of literary projects for the Black Cotton Publishing division. Her expertise in business and the arts allows her to enjoy consulting for startup businesses and creative projects.

Her robust creative background has made her an astute observer and writer. Her debut novel, Earth’s Quiet Chaos, is a fictional narrative inspired by life experiences. She is spirit-led to share stories that will uplift, empower, educate and inspire individuals to live in the highest version of self.

Tomeekha resides in Los Angeles, California, where she enjoys writing, painting, making happy birthday video's, singing and dancing in the company of family and friends. She has recently begun the study of songwriting and the art of vocal instrumentation.

"We heal ourselves and others by sharing our stories. We are both the educator and the student of everyday life experiences. I simply want to be used as a vessel to inspire and heal as many as I can in this life that is gifted to me."

 

Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group–Tulsa Chapter
Long Business Description

The Tulsa chapter of Sisters Sippin’ Tea Literary Group is committed to providing an opportunity for women from all walks of life to come together for a common and primary goal…reading and promoting literacy through our community outreach programs.  Our pledge is to transmit our passion for literary pursuits to future generations.

BPM: How did your organization develop? How many members are in the group?

The African American Resource Center was hosting Roslyn McMillan and extended an invitation for people to read three of her books and we would meet once a month for three months prior to her visit to discuss. We had an awesome time and wanted the group to continue but because of prior commitments and time constraints the AARC Coordinator could not commit.  A couple of us located book clubs but they were not a good fit, they lacked structure and consistency.  Several months later I attended a weekend Literary Retreat with two friends at a secluded B & B in Texas hosted by Sistah Circle Book Club.  We had an awesome time.  I decided then that if we couldn’t find what we were looking for I would get a few ladies together and we would discuss starting our own club. My vision was to form a sisterhood who shared a passion for reading, promoting literacy and making a difference in our community.  We began as Emerging Minds Books and More.

After a few months I started investigating national book clubs and brought the idea to the group of becoming affiliated with a national group where we could broaden our literary experiences and connect with other sistah’s from all around the globe. I provided the group information on three national organizations and it was a unanimous decision that we join up with Sisters Sippin’ Tea; it’s been a wonderful journey every since! The Tulsa chapter currently has 11 members.

BPM: What is the primary mission of the group?

SST is dedicated to promoting literacy in our community.  We are actively involved in various activities that are geared towards raising literacy awareness through mentoring, counseling and outreach programs.

 

Fourth Sunday Book Club
Long Business Description

The 4th Sunday Book Club was founded in the 1994 by six professional African-American women from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area . These women shared a desire to read books of quality and substance and formed a loosely structured book club simply referred as “the book club”.  The objective was to read books written by African-American authors. Over time the club diversified to include at least one non-fiction book per year and has grown beyond solely African-American authored works.

The book club, which met on fourth Sundays, soon found that contemporary literature did not reflect them or their lives. Motivated by this realization, the club began writing its own book. The result is Fourth Sunday: A Journey of Book Club, which was written under the pseudonym B.W. Read and published in May, 2011 by Strebor Books for Simon and Shuster. In honor of the success of the book, “the book club” was renamed “4th Sunday Book Club.” The 4th Sunday Book Club has grown in membership and purpose. The club now has 13 active members. However, it remains an unstructured, intimate club where books are our connection and our bond is our strength.

BPM: In your opinion, why is reading important in our lives?

Reading is important because it exposes us to experiences and information we may not otherwise encounter. Reading helps us to become more educated and well rounded. Books, like "A Wrinkle In Time" by Madeleine L'Engle, influence lives at an early stage and have lasting effects.

BPM: What types of books does your group read? How do you select the featured books?

The club reads11 books per year. At least one non-fiction and a book with a romantic theme or undertone are read each year in February. The club meets only once during the summer months, for a co-ed meeting where spouses or significant others are invited. Books are selected at the January meeting and are selected by consensus.

BPM: Is there anything you would love to see more of in books? 

YES. More diversity including, but not limited to mixed race couples, gay characters that aren't caricatures or stereotypes, people doing meaningful things with their lives that make them happy, and people being accountable for the decisions (good and bad) they make without blaming society, lack of money or their parents.

 

Girlfriends Book Club – Dallas Chapter
Long Business Description

My name is Shameka Latimer, President of Girlfriends Book Club Dallas Chapter. GBC was founded in 2004 by Tamika Shamberger, CEO in Sacramento, CA. Dallas Chapter Officers are: Shameka Latimer- President/Secretary, Tonya Henderson-Smith-Vice President and LeTanya White-Kennedy- Treasurer. GBC Dallas was founded in July, 2009 and is the fifth out of seven chapters. As of now we have a total of eight members.

Our mission is to promote sisterhood and utilize this book club for self, as a stress reliever and a motivational tool. We look forward to working with all local and mainstream authors as much as possible to promote their novels.

BPM: What impact has reading had on you? 

Reading has been a stress reliever for us. It helps to take our mind off of things we may be going through. Reading has opened me up to new author and great discussions.

BPM: What impact has being in a organized group had on your life? 

GBC has been more then just a book club, it has been an outlet for me. All women face challenges, everyday, be it at home or in the work place. When we get together we open up our hearts to each other. This organization has led me to meet some wonderfully encouraging women. It's like having an extended family.

BPM: What is your favorite genre of books?

This is a tough question. We enjoy Contemporary fiction, Memoirs, Biography, Self-help, Mystery, Romance, and other genres. Since we all have different personalities our taste in books varies. Books that relate to our everyday lives are the ones that remain on our mind long ever the books are closed.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books?

As far as electronic book, I think its convenient and great. I think it depends on the person because some people want to collect the books they have read and some don't.

 

BPM: Do you think our authors are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations? 

Yes, I do think the authors of today are leaving the same legacy as authors from other generations and some are leaving even better ones!

 

Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club
Long Business Description

My name is Toshona E. Carter and I am the Founder & President of this awesome book club.  I currently reside here in Little Rock, Arkansas. My book club name is Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club located here in Little Rock, Arkansas. Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club was established on July 17, 2010.  Our first meeting was held at the Texas Roadhouse Restaurant in Little Rock. We started with only four members. We have grown to 18 members and counting.

Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club was created to promote “Togetherness” among all Women of Color. When we thought of the word Diva, we thought of someone beautiful who knew what they wanted and would do what it takes to make things happen. Our invigorating club thrives to enrich the lives of Women “one page at a time” through literacy & community service.  Our mission is to help uplift, magnify, encourage, respect and provide a nurturing environment for women of color; who are strong mentally, physically, spiritually by educating, encouraging and supporting each other while utilizing “POSITIVE” energy from one to another.

BPM: What has the main focus become over the years?

Our main focus over the years has been on community service.  We have given financially and of our time to many local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the Union Rescue Mission, Arkansas Food Bank, Ronald McDonald House, The Dorcas House for Battered Women & Children, New Beginnings Pregnancy Resource Center, Fund-a-night Stay at the 20th Century Lodge in Little Rock for cancer patients and the Salvation Army to name a few.  We have participated in numerous projects over the years.

We would like to leave the legacy of service behind to those watching in the community.  We want to make a difference. At the end of the day, we hope that our contributions will positively impact our society. We would like to encourage every one to be a Drum Major as in the words of Martin Luther King Jr. in his sermon "The Drum Major Instinct."

Another main focus of our club is to promote literacy through reading and encouraging other to pick up a book regularly from local and well-known authors.  Facebook:  Divas Leaving No Pages Unturned Book Club

 

The Book Worm Diva’s Book Club
Long Business Description

I am Shabrika Mitchell, The Secretary/Treasurer of The BookWorm Diva's Book Club. We are The BookWorm Diva's which consists of  Val Hinton as The President,  Tamika Cloud as The Vice President,  and I, myself, as The Secretary/Treasurer. The BookWorm Diva's Book Club is located in Newnan, Georgia.  In March, 2010, Val, Tamika and I started the club because we all had an interest in reading. We now consist of  9 members.

Our name has its own special meaning  each letter stands for something different. BOOKWORM  DIVAS  means Brilliant. Obedient. Observant. Kind. Women. Outstanding. Reliable. Mindful. Dedicated. Intelligent. Vibrant. Awesome. Sisterhood.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person?

We are looking for a commitment and passion for reading and helping others.  We have an Cyrus probation period before  you become a member.  Basically a trial period to see if your heart is really in it. We have a Facebook page which is open to the public.

BPM: How do you feel about attending book signings, literary festivals and events? 

We love attending book signings, literary festivals, and author meet & greets. We enjoy hearing the authors reading from their books.

BPM: Do you  host special events during the year or do you work for any charities?

Yes, we host several events yearly such as an  Easter Egg Hunt,  Family and Friends Day,  Thanksgiving Dinner,  and a Christmas Toy Drive.  We sometimes do a girls night out or just hang out.

BPM: Do you  have any words of wisdom for other readers starting a book club? 

Yes, make sure everyone has love and passion for reading and set goals  and achieve them. Also set rules for everyone to follow  and it should  help the club last a long time.  We are 5 years and counting and we love it!!

 

Real Divas Read and More Social Club
Long Business Description

The Real Divas Read & More Social Club, located in Conley Georgia, began in 2013, and currently has 10 members. The conception of RDR was an idea that Diva Wanda established, after not receiving the fulfillment and satisfaction that she truly desired out of other groups, therefore; she blended her love of reading and interacting with other women that shares the same passion as she does.

The Real Divas Read & More Social Club was conceived, to build everlasting friendships with beautiful women who are ambitious, hardworking, optimistic, passionate and enthusiastic about life and reading. As a “Sisterhood”, our book club signifies the words of our mission statement as follows: “Enlightening, Uplifting, and Empowering Women through Fellowship, Service and Support”. The women of this group portray a more positive, sisterly and supportive attitudes with one another to debunk the myths about all of us being catty and confrontational, which ideally sets us apart from groups.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person?

The Real Divas Read social club welcomes women who are authentic. They must enjoy participating in community awareness events, social events, and of course have a passion for reading. We would like to have divas that have the time, dedication, and openness to be a part of our club. Life happens to all of us, therefore ones priorities change because of circumstance, so we understand when a diva wants to leave the group. Ladies request to be a part of the group all the time. Meetup and our Real Divas Read Facebook page are the two ways women who are interested can learn more about our group.

BPM: Do you primarily purchase books online or in a bookstore?

The days of purchasing printed/hard copy books has become obsolete, but in order to support authors that are invited to our meetings we do support them by purchasing their novels and having it signed. Although, the price is cheaper that is not our deciding factor. Ebooks come into play because they are convenient. A member can log on from any device to enjoy a great read on a tablet, phone or desktop at work. Being avid readers who may travel a lot, digital books provide the convenience (no packing) of having several books on hand at once not to mention purchasing a book in a matter of seconds.

 

 

Destined Readers Book Club
Long Business Description

Destiny Hawkins and Tiffany Booker are the Co-founders of Destined Readers Book Club. Destiny Hawkins is an Admin. Asst., a wife, a mother of two sons, ages 17 and 18, and the adoptive mother of two small furry dogs. Destiny enjoys attending book events.

Tiffany Booker is a children's author, a current middle school teacher, a wife, and mother to two young men. Tiffany hopes book clubs will some day become as prevalent as being a sorority member. Books are Tiffany's passion of choice.

Destined Readers Book Club was founded in Marietta, Georgia in August 2014 by Co-founders Destiny Hawkins and Tiffany Booker. We started a book club out of the sheer frustration from attending several meetings of another book club whose club seemed, to us, to be very snooty. They did not have a sense of genuine warmth, fun, nor true friendships in their club. Destiny and I are very down to earth people and have a lot in common, so we wanted to create a book club with like minded women as well.  Destiny Hawkins is so humble that she makes it a point to ensure everyone knows that she WAS NOT responsible for creating the name of our book club. It was actually my idea to name the club Destined Readers Book Club. Due to our frustration with the other book clubs unwelcoming club culture, we WERE DESTINED to begin our own club. The rest as they say, is history or in our case HERstory. Although we are still a fairly new club, we are nine members strong with several prospective members awaiting acceptance. We want to keep our book club at a maximum of 15 dedicated members.

We have successfully developed a culture of a genuine kinship with one another, which has allowed us to forge ongoing, true and genuine friendships that we know will last a lifetime, all while having fun doing it. For example, one of our members took a teaching job in Japan, but she comes back every year to visit the club and facilitates a book discussion. This is a true example of what our club means to her. It's the friendships, the fun and the books that keeps her coming back.

BPM: In your opinion, what makes a good book club conversation?

In Tiffany's opinion, what makes a good book club conversation is our unique Trivia Question segment of the meeting. It is our tradition to ask random trivia questions to our members as a good book conversation starter. This keeps members on their toes in reading the selected novel thoroughly and paying attention to key details in the book. This leads into a well prepared discussion. We either use the available reading guide the author has provided or we use our own to lead the discussions, but the key is having fun while doing it. Our trivia questions are the key to our book club discussions. Most times if the book is interesting enough, then we tend to keep the book discussion on topic, however, if for some reason we conclude that the current book was either boring or we didn't like the book, we tend to roam off topic, but our agenda keeps us on task to ensure we do not waste valuable time during the book discussions.

 

Round Table Readers Literary Book Club
Long Business Description

The Round Table Readers were founded by La Sheera Lee. The book club is located in Danville, VA. The group was founded on the principles of spreading literacy, fostering sisterhood, and assisting their local community.  The group was founded in 2010. Currently, we have eight members. Their names are Tora Ballard, Latonya Terry, Hannah Lee, Kay Edmondson, Traci White- Williams, Twozynn McGhgee and Joyce Laverne Mayo.

The Round Table Readers has hosted five events to date. Each event presented their local communities with the opportunity to meet their favorite authors and to learn about the world of publishing. The literary events have also served their communities. One event featuring Zane, raised funds for a Breast Cancer Survivor. Attendees of other events, have donated can goods and school supplies for admission.

The Round Table Readers also likes to connect with other book clubs. The Sisters of the Red Tent, Sistahs of Urban Literature, and Victorious Ladies of Reading are all considered their sister book club. The Round Table Readers have enjoyed organizing book club events with these wonderful ladies!

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about authors?

Social media has forever changed the literary landscape. Authors, book clubs, readers are able to engage and discuss books. Video sharing platforms have also made it easier for readers to virtually host authors for meetings etc.

However, I think that authors need to be mindful of comments or pics presented online. Everyone is certainly entitled to their own opinions. However, if you are a public figure, you must be mindful of the impact your actions might have own your readership.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers starting a book club?

It is essential for all members to respect the time and opinions of all members. It is also important to make sure you have members who personalities click.

 

Cilla’s Book Maniacs
Business Name

Long Business Description

Priscilla C. Johnson, aka ‘Cilla, is the founder of Cilla’s Book Maniacs. Cilla developed a love of reading and books during childhood where she would spend hours in the library waiting for her mother and her brothers while they were practicing sports.

Having befriended the owners of a local AA Book store in 1999, Cilla began working there part-time just to be close to the books. It was at this time that she began building relationships with her favorite authors, scheduling book events and books signings. Cilla joined Beverly Jenkins’ Yahoo Group where she developed friendships with the women and they began traveling together to various book events.  In 2015, Cilla began PCJ Consultant Group, LLC where she helps aspiring authors achieve their dreams of getting published, organize and build street teams, and introducing authors to new readers and book clubs.

Cilla’s Book Maniacs’ main purpose is to simply share our love of books, encourage and support each other and have fun. We travel together to various conferences, particularly the Romance Slam Jam Conference, where we have been named 2015 and 2016 Spirit Book Club of the Year.

BPM: How do you find new authors and interact online? 

We find new authors at events and conferences. When we find or come across someone we think everyone will enjoy, we simple post the author and book in the group or we will post the review. Social media has introduced us to alot of authors we would not ordinarily chose to read. Current author favorites: Keith Thomas Walker, Eva J Brock, Beverly Jenkins, Brenda Jackson, all of our Club Authors (they know who they are ).

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers who might want to start a book club? 

Find a group of people that you like and enjoy to be with or have similar interest. Keep everything fun – leave the personal stuff outside. Remember – every book is not for everybody and its okay to not like a book.

 

One World Singles Blog
Business Name

Long Business Description

One World Singles Blog, winner of The 2017 Black Pearls Literary Excellent Awards

A blog for people of all colors, ages (18+) religions, ethnicities, and lifestyles. Bringing you informative articles and advice on dating, romance, love, relationships, featured romance authors, virtual book tours, interviews, events, movie trailers, and so much more.

At One World Singles Blog, (OWSB) our visitors are the primary focus of everything we do. We want to provide the level of information that will best meet your dating, romantic and relationship needs and wants and to take this time to thank you for visiting our blog.

If you haven't done so yet, please visit and join our dating site One World Singles. And please tell your single friends and associates about the benefits of becoming a member of One World Singles. There are over one million active members seeking love, romance, a lifetime partner, pen pal and much more.

If you have any success stories in meeting someone on our blog or dating site that you would like to share, we would like to hear from you. Stories submitted become the property of HMCS and may be republished on our blog or in any other media without any compensation to the person submitting the story.

When submitting your story, please include your name, age, and country where you reside. If we publish your story, only your name and country will be mentioned. We have the right to edit your story for clarity. Send your stories to us and in the subject area, write My Success Story.  To participate in any of our events, you must over 18 years of age.

 

About Professional Blogger Vivienne Diane Neal

My name is Vivienne Diane Neal. Born in 1946, I am a writer, blogger, and an author with a wicked sense of humor. I have been writing articles for over thirty years, started penning fictional short stories in 2007, and get my story ideas from observing people, places, and things and watching true TV court cases and talk shows.

I have been featured on Black Pearls Magazine online, SingleEdition, Black Love is Beautiful, A Book Inside, Susan Whitfield’s Blog, Cluculzwriter, Have Stress Relief Now, 1st Author Interviews, IMRR Bookclub Newsletter Fall 2011, Writers Get Together, Mary M. Forbes Blog, Romance Review Ramble, AuthorMePro, The Writer’s Voice, Polygirl Publishing, and Writers Get Together and was a contributing writer to NINA Magazine and Honey Magazine, Multicultural Media and Vocal.

Now, semi-retired, I continue to write articles on love, romance, relationships, and other topics of interest.  Check out Vivienne Diane Neal, founder:  http://www.oneworldsinglesblog.net

 

Lady LOTUS Book Club – Louisiana
Long Business Description

The Lady L.O.T.U.S (Loving Others Through United Sisterhood) book club began in July, 2013. They are located in Monroe, Louisiana. The Lady L.O.T.U.S book club consists of 20 sisters (members). The first book that they read was The Reverend's Wife by Kimberly Lawson Roby. Their first literary they attended was the National Book Club Conference in Atlanta.

Tammy Washington, Lady LOTUS Bookclub Founder, is a country girl at heart, with a love for reading that takes her imagination beyond the stars. She is a graduate of the University of Louisiana at Monroe. She is an Early Childhood & Elementary Ed. Curriculum Monitor. Most of her adult life has been dedicated to mentoring and servicing children and families. Tammy said, this is not just a passion, but her ministry.

She loves to encourage others with a famous quote by Dr. Seuss, "Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You." She shares this quote in an effort to help others embrace who they are in spite of what society says they should be. Tammy's very own quote is, "True beauty begins with the heart and mind, and then flows to be seen through the eyes and smile."

Amanda Presley, Lady LOTUS Bookclub Co-Founder, is somewhat of an Army brat. Both her parents were in the army. She was raised and still lives in Monroe, Louisiana. She currently works at an elementary school as a Pre-K Paraeducator. She has been in this position for the last seven years. Amanda also does after school tutoring through the school's tutoring program.

She is very active in the church. She sings in the church singing group and also work with the mentor program. She loves spending time with her family and friends, especially her girls. In her alone time, give her a good book and she is good to go.

BPM: What legacy will your bookclub leave for those watching in the community? 

The lesson and legacy that Lady L.O.T.U.S bookclub purposes to leave is that reading is not only an outlet, but can unlock doors in the mind to build, strengthen, and enhance knowledge (spiritually, mentally and academically). They strive to model UNITY and SERVICE to our community. As God allows us to be a blessing to one another, so shall we be to our community.

 

King Brooks – Black PageTurners Founder
Long Business Description

Black Page Turners was formed by Cleavester b.k.a. King Brooks in 2013. Before Black Page Turners, I hosted an online radio show and various other book magazines and websites. I am a team of one.

I was inspired to start Black Page Turners by the closing of Black Issues Book Review. I wanted a place where I could come and find out all about African Americans books, publishing information, writer’s tools, etc.  The purpose of Black Page Turners is to inform readers about books written by and about African Americans.

BPM: Has social media changed how you feel about any authors?

No, I have learned how to separate the work from the person. So I want be disappointed. As long as you write a good book. I have no problem with you; but if the book is not good, then we have a problem.

In the words of Don Miguel Ruiz "Don't Take Anything Personally: Nothing others do is because of you. What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream. When you are immune to the opinions and actions of others, you won't be the victim of needless suffering."

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for others who might want to start a book blog?

In the famous words of Nike 'Just Do It.' If you are getting into this business to be about yourself or to be famous. Turn and exit now. Be prepared to invest long hours into your blog and be patient. The followers, authors, and publishers don't come overnight. If anyone tells you 'No,' don't take it personal. Just keep moving forward and be very creative.

Website:   www.blackpageturners.com

Twitter:  www.twitter.com/bpageturners

Facebook:  www.facebook.com/blackpageturners

 

Indulge Book Club – Washington DC
Long Business Description

Indulge Book Club was started December, 2005. We are located in Washington DC. We currently have ten members. Indulge Coordinator/Founder is Micole Marbury, Secretary is Marcia Horton, Activities Coordinator Latarsha Reid, Photographer Chaquita Goode, Indulge little readers facilitator Mailka Watkins.

We started Indulge because we love to read and we wanted an outlet from our daily lives and to fellowship with friends. We are a group of individuals who meet every 1st Sunday at various member homes for book discussions. We are varied in age and are of numerous backgrounds. We are passionate readers who have been reading together for twelve years.

The mission of the group is to free our minds from the stresses of life and indulge ourselves in great books, food and conversation. Indulge was not originally established for community service purposes, but in the upcoming years we plan to start promoting the importance of reading.

BPM: What types of monthly activities do you enjoy as a group? Do you travel?

We meet once a month for our book club meetings. We have activities planned for every three months in the year. We have an annual game night, we see movies together, go to dinner together, and for our 5th Anniversary we went on a cruise on the Odyssey.

BPM: How do you feel about electronic books such as for the Kindle, Nook or iPad, etc?

These devices are good because it helps the reader now have so many books all over the place. But they do not hold the same substance as printed books.

BPM: What impact has reading or being in a organized group had on your life? 

As the Organizer/Founder of Indulge Book Club, it has been a great pleasure to know and meet so many amazing people and to hear their thoughts and emotions. The experience helps us grow as individuals. The books are a bonus.

 

Janice L. Dennie, Writer & Filmmaker
Long Business Description

Janice L. Dennie is an Amazon.com Bestselling Author and Indie Filmmaker.

Mrs. Dennie’s Underwoods of Napa Valley series, has readers reaching for her books time and again as she delivers entertaining stories featuring tall, dark, handsome heroes and feisty heroines. Mrs. Dennie has thrown her hat into the film industry by making The Underwoods of Napa Valley into a feature-length Indie film.

Born in Denver, Colorado and raised in Northern California, Dennie graduated from California State University, before starting a career with a Federal Agency.

 Kente Productions is an Independent Film Company that develops scripts, handles casting, filming and provides a platform for actors, and film crews to display their talent.  Janice L. Dennie, formed Kente Productions in 2016 to bring her novels to life. Together with Producer, Donyale McCollins, they began planning season one of The Underwoods of Napa Valley, based on Dennie’s bestselling novel, Kenton’s Vintage Affair.

Kente Productions plans to release The Underwoods of Napa Valley in the theatrical market, or as a film produced for television, cable, Internet web-series, Digital HD markets, Blue Ray, DVD, “Made for Pay” motion picture.  The Underwood’s of Napa Valley movie:  www.TheUnderwoodsofNapaValley.com

The Underwood’s of Napa Valley is a feature-length film about an African American wine-producing family of four brothers and their grandmother who deal with internal conflicts, complicated love relationships, and obstacles in the competitive wine industry–a story that has rarely, if ever, been reflected on film or television.

 The  Underwoods of Napa Valley History

Henrietta and Frank Underwood worked as sharecroppers in Waco, Texas before moving to Napa, California during the Great Migration. They made a modest living growing corn and then in the eighties, switched to growing Cabernet grapes. After opening Underwood Hills Winery, they became independently wealthy. Although Frank has since passed away, Henrietta has turned over the running of the winery to her eldest grandson, Kenton Underwood.  Henrietta’s focus these days, is on marrying off all four of her adult grandchildren to loving spouses, beginning with Kenton. She’s dubbed each one with a character trait.

 

Mississippi Magnolias Book Club
Long Business Description

Mississippi Magnolias Book Club was founded November, 5, 2012 in Gulfport, Mississippi by Antionette Gates, President. MMBC officers are Antionette Gates, President, Ethel Smith, Vice-President, Taironzika Wesley, Secretary, Angela McNair, Treasurer, Photographers, Lisa Ladner and Kimberly Robins. MMBC currently have ten active members. Our first book read was Money Can’t Buy Love by Connie Briscoe.

MMBC was created from avid readers that also happen o be members of Unity Festival, Incorporated, a non-profit organization. Yes, a few of us post reviews on Amazon. We contribute to all UFI events throughout the community; Thanksgiving baskets to needy families, books or prizes for the Children’s Book Jamboree, and sponsor Angel Tree children, at Christmas. MMBC members also volunteer at the organizations various functions including the neighborhood Unity Festival in March of each calendar year.

BPM: What type of books does your group read? Do you support self-published authors?  

Romance, Contemporary Fiction, Erotica and Mysteries are group favorites. Some members thoroughly enjoy paranormal books as well. There is no genre that we absolutely will not read. A book excerpt does not help in the book selection. The majority of books read by MMBC are by authors of color, but books have been chosen by authors who aren’t of color.

MMBC members definitely support self-published authors. Any support given self-published authors help promote awareness of the book and enlighten other readers about both the author and their books. This action in turn will someday garner a larger following for the self-published author.

BPM: What factors help a book remain on your mind long after the last page?

A few key factors are great characters, realistic problems or events, and a fantastic location.

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?

Our goal is to improve our community through literacy and literature. We hope to bring a sense of joy, hope, and adventure associated with the love of reading, and volunteerism to the youth on the coast. It is our goal to further these efforts in future through a youth reading group or book club.

 

Sandra Randolph  Literary Ladies Book Club
Long Business Description

In October 2008, the Literary Ladies Book Club was established in Rahway, New Jersey by sisters, Sandi and Maria. As busy career women with little free time to enjoy friends, fellowship, adult conversation and a good “Girl’s Night Out”; the sisters decided to start a book club driven by their love of African American Literature and their shared desire to engage in honest, enthusiastic, enlightening discussions with other individuals that truly enjoy reading. In order to rise to their fullest and purest potential not only as readers but also as women, they encouraged members to empower one another by sharing ideas and materials throughout the month that promote personal growth and enhance awareness within literary, social, spiritual and economic areas.

In a nutshell, the original eight members gathered with the purpose of creating unity, friendship, and sisterhood amongst positive women of color. Presently, we have 11 active members.  In addition, our members are busy scheduling authors to participate in future monthly discussions. Currently, approximately 80% percent of our monthly discussions entail author participation either in person or via video or phone conference.

 

BPM:  What is the purpose for your organization? Do you host events during the year or provide services for the community?

The purpose of our group is to gather literary women who enjoy reading. We come together to fellowship and discuss our book of the month along with what is going on in the literary world. We explore many different genres and writing styles. Literary Ladies looks forward to growing the club, possessing a stronger presence in the literary world and to whatever the universe has in store. We host an annual bowling party every August and  we host the "Lunch with the Literary Ladies Book Club & Friends” every Fall.

BPM:  As a loyal reader, what are some of the things you want to see more of or less of in books?

The African American community includes people from all socio-economic levels; so we’d like to see a broader representation of us as a people overall in African American Literature. We would also like to see more books for teenagers. As loyal readers, our biggest pet peeve is poor editing. Often, there are so many typographical and grammatical errors that it becomes necessary to go back and reread a sentence, paragraph or worse yet an entire page in order to understand and follow the storyline. It is very frustrating to say the least.

 

Don’t Read Me, Read A Book (DRMRAB)
Long Business Description

DRMRAB members have earned the nickname, “The Paperback Gang,” due to their high level of participation at the many book festivals held throughout the year, and their voracious appetite for purchasing paperback books. Members are proud of their expansive bookshelves, many of which hold books with personal, handwritten notes and signatures from their favorite authors. Their motto is: "We are not just a book club, we are a movement.”

Don't Read Me, Read A Book is based out of Columbus, Ohio, with chapters located throughout the United States and on Facebook. DRMRAB started online as a Facebook group in January 2015. I started the book club because I wanted my own group, instead of administering someone else’s. Fast forward to April of the same year, when I became acquainted with a couple of local readers and decided to start an in-person club that would meet once a month here in Columbus. A very good friend of mine, author Fabiola Joseph, suggested that I start offering readers in other cities a chance to organize under the DRMRAB umbrella. So, in February 2016, the first chapters began. Our Facebook membership has grown to over 2,000 members and our chapter members now total over 200 and growing!

DRMRAB promotes literacy in the African-American community, while supporting authors in a positive, judgement-free environment. We stand out from other groups for a few reasons. First, our members support the authors we read by purchasing thousands of paperback books. With the popularity of eBooks, common thought was that paperbacks were dead until we came along and showed everyone how false that assumption was. Second, we host and participate in face-to-face discussions with authors, and you really don't see that anymore. The name of our organization has a very special meaning to me. My favorite cousin (who passed away last year) helped me come up with the concept during a battle for my attention, while I was trying to read. That memory is so dear to my heart, that I give out a yearly award in his honor.

BPM:   Do you host special events during the year or do you work for any charities?

Every year, we  gather at the Sistahs on Lit Book Festival. Papaya Wagstaff, who happens to be our DMV chapters chairman is the owner of this great event. S.O.L is amazing because it gives book clubs a chance to mingle with fellow readers as well as different authors. Yes, we also participate in several charities. When we first heard of the Flint, Michigan, water crisis, we teamed up with Hood Books to send over 8,500 bottles of water to Flint’s residents. In 2015, we adopted a family for Christmas, and in 2016 we adopted two families. We've also donated countless books to children. This year, we will also assist families with back-to-school and Christmas needs, among other initiatives. As far as hosting event every chapter host several authors throughout the year.

Book Pearls Book Club – Chester, Virginia 
Long Business Description

There are readers, individuals who may casually stroll from series to series as film adaptations have peaked their interest and driven them to the nearest bookstore or library. Then there are literary advocates, individuals who believe that books are as recreational as they are academic and socially impactful; these are individuals who have made it their life's work to foster and nourish the livelihood of literature despite society's shift and focus on media that can be absorbed quickly.

Opting to combine the base philosophy of literary advocates like herself with her personal beliefs, Yvonne Bailey has founded Book Pearls, a book club devoted to increasing readership within Black communities and uniting women through sisterhood and fellowship.

The Book Pearls meet monthly to discuss the chosen book of the month. Each discussion is different as these women have chosen to embrace all literary genres. "We love to read all genres, each book that we read carries a different message and has touched our lives in various ways".

Often, the monthly meetings carry the Pearls to various locations within their community and surrounding areas as they believe literature is a moving art form that reflects the world we live in. As the Pearls grow, they hope to become more involved within their local communities and reading communities worldwide.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month?

Whoever host for that particular month gets to choose the book. This gives each member a voice and a chance to pick a book they may have been wanting to read for some time. We generally do not read and discuss books outside of our book club pick. We may read other books during the month and suggest them to one another but we do not discuss them. We are currently on Facebook and will be branching out to Instagram and twitter within this month. We share our bookclub meetings as well as our featured books on Facebook.

BPM: Do you have any words of wisdom for other readers starting a book club?

The biggest advice to give to someone who is wanting to start a book club, Go for it! Life is too short to not live it beautifully, so why wait or let fear cripple you. Call a few friends who share the love of reading and choose a book. Interview submitted by Renee Bailey, president of Book Pearls Bookclub.

 

Mocha Girls Read Book Club
Long Business Description

I'm Alysia Allen. We are Mocha Girls Read an online and in person book club for Black women. We are located in five cities right now in Los Angeles and San Diego, California; Tempe, Arizona; New Lenox, Illinois and now Waldorf, Maryland. Mocha Girls Read started in October, 2011 after I looked all over the internet for a book club, I found two and joined them both. They were good and I have made a few new friends from them. But I noticed one thing about both of them…I was the only black, woman of color, African-American, mocha girl in the clubs. I thought about this for a while and finally said to myself, “Self, there has got to be some sistas in LA who like to read.” After much thought and discussion with family and friends MOCHA GIRLS READ was born. As of today Mocha Girls Read book club has about 2,000+ members world wide.

Mocha Girls Read members are all ages. Our youngest member in 21 years old and our oldest is in her 80’s. We have working mom’s, single women, grandmothers and newly weds. We even have a few non Black members who just love what we are about and want to support us in all our efforts.

We are a group of black women who love to read, want to read more and meet like-minded women. The books we read range from fiction, self-help, historical romance, best sellers, good ol’ short stories and basically anything we can get our hands on. Mocha Girls Read brings black women in the community together to read great literature, online and in person chit chatting about the monthly selection and a whole lot more. We are different form other book clubs because:

  1. We read all genres, by authors of all genders and races, and from any publication date.
  2. We are free to all women.
  3. We never close meetings and membership.
  4. We are ageless. We just ask that members under 18 years old have the permission of a parent each month.

 

BPM: What legacy will your club leave for those watching in the community?

Our main focus has been sisterhood. Our members are so diverse and have various reasons for joining but the end result seems to be the same. We love being in each other company. I hope Mocha Girls Read brings the joy of read to each community and uplifts the Black women in each chapter through fellowship.

 

Soul Sistahs Book Club – Chattanooga, TN
Long Business Description

Soul Sistahs Book Club was founded in 2011 by Kenya Ervin of Chattanooga, TN. Initially comprised of coworkers, membership has been extended to close family and friends that share a passion for books. Soul Sistahs Book Club's mission is to promote literacy and encourage sisterhood among women of all ages and backgrounds through the love of reading and lively conversations. Currently, we do not have officers assigned, but everyone comes together to get things done. We have five active members.

BPM: When accepting members into the group, what are you looking for in the person?  Do you have an online version of the group?

When accepting members into the group, we explain all of our requirements in detail. We look for people that love to read and are willing to commit to attending meetings once per month. Over the years, it has been difficult for people to stay in the group due to their lack of commitment and participation. We do not offer an online version of the book club at this time but we do have dedicated Facebook and Twitter pages to interact with other readers and authors.

BPM: How do you make your book selections for the month? When do you select the books? 

SSBC: When we started the book club, I would search online and best sellers lists to choose our book of the month. I would choose three books and allow my members to vote on the book they would like to read for the following month. Recently, I started a "Book Box". I allow my members to write names of books on a slip of paper and drop it into the box whenever they like. Each month, I draw from the box and that's what we will read. It's been very interesting so far.

 

Sisters With Books – Los Angeles California
Long Business Description

We are Sisters With Books. We are located in Los Angeles California. Our group began in 1995. A group of black women mainly educators decided they wanted to discuss books after they've read them. On roll, we have 25, we average 15 to 20 every month. Sisters With Books consist of black women, ages 40's 50's 60's and 70's. We're high energy, love to debate and generous. The purpose of our reading club is sisterhood, and to read books written by black women. We have made exceptions: Leonard Pitts, Amy Tan, Daniel Black, and Guy Johnson.

BPM: Have you faced any challenges as a group? If so, what and how did you deal with them?

One of our original book club members, lost her only child in a horrific car accident. It was in the month of June, she had just retired from teaching, her anniversary week-end and Father's Day.  We rallied around her. There are some books, that are just to difficult for our sister friend to handle. She has started attending book club again. This happened 3 years ago. We had a special meeting just to talk, it was therapeutic. This is an example of how our book club has served many purposes.

BPM: Do you post book reviews? How do you handle bad reviews or books that flopped?

Individuals have posted reviews. We give suggestions and identify what we didn't agree with. In 2011, Sisters With Books participated in DIGG INTO BOOKS web show, created by 4 Hearts Productions. It can be found on YouTube.

BPM: What type of books have generated the most interesting discussions?

The historical fiction "Wench" was the book we discussed on YouTube slavery vs enslaved. "Gathering of Waters" by Bernice McFadden, spirits, and so many of the women experienced spirits. "Before I Forget" by Leonard Pitts Jr., a Black man realizing he wasn't a good father.

BPM: What legacy will your club or blog leave for those watching in the community?

Sisters With Books' legacy will be black women coming together through adversity as well as celebrating each other.