TAKE TEN: Author Carrie Elizabeth Greene

Author Carrie Elizabeth Greene is claiming 2009 for herself with a vengeance. With a novel just released and a second book coming before the end of the year, she is living the life that many aspiring writers only dream about. On top of all her other activites she is also a judge for the country's first literary reality show The Write Stuff that will be debuting during the summer. How did her journey begin? She reveals that along with what saved the life of some of the characters in her debut novel and more in this exclusive interview.

Carrie, thank you for taking the time to talk with Conversations. Before we get into your book A VOICE BEHIND THUNDER, I want to fast forward to the reaction to the book. Has it surprised you what readers are saying about your debut?
Yes, I never thought it would be so greatly received. I am very excited .

For so many writing is a dream they can only hope to realize. How does it feel to be living this dream today?
It was a long time coming, but I'm grateful that I held out and didn't give up.

I have never asked you this before, but I think our readers would be interested to know when did you decide writing was something you wanted to do?
I can't say that it was always something I wanted to do, not like some who know from a child that they want to be a writer. However I always liked a good story, whether on television, movies, or the written word.

With that being said, how did your debut novel come about?
I loved to read Christian fiction and had a desire to write a Christian novel one day. When Genesis Press first started I wanted to contribute to the new project. I had this story in mind and I wrote it for them, however it was rejected. That was in 1995.

You have successfully produced a balance of romance and inspiration. Was it difficult for you to decide how far to go with either?
People don't like to think that romance is a part of a Christian’s life. It is very much so, and I wanted to show that although people are Christians, saved and desire to do God's work, they have and desire to have romance in their life. I lead the singles group in my church and am often confronted with how they should conduct themselves as a single Christian. There are times when we need to face the fact that Christians sometimes get off track. I wanted to do that with this book.

The characters you developed are so universal that anyone should be able to see themselves or someone they know. Who did you have in mind when you wrote it?
My characters are a combination of myself, and others, women and men with good and bad characteristics. People that i have met throughout my life.

Redemption is a big part of the message I got from your book, especially when it comes to dealing with issues of faith and people of faith. Do you think some people take the notion of 'once saved always saved' to heart and stop trying in their relationships with people and God?
Our egos like for us to believe that we are right, and the problem is with everyone else. Until we can see our own flaws and imperfections we can never forgive and love the way that we should. Our salvation is not based on works, but our ego's can keep us from living a fulfilled life while we are here on earth. So in the long run when we refuse to make our corrections we suffer.

I'm not going to give away the story but it seems as though you wanted us to expect more from your characters. Will there be a sequel and what should we expect from you next.
Actually, I wanted to kill off some of the characters but we decided it would not go well with the readers. I don't know if I will bring a sequel but I will write about the period, late seventies to the end of the eighties, because I believe it is an important time in our history especially for African Americans and it is worth taking a second look at.

I do have a second book called "Don't Delay your Increase: A spiritual guide to giving. which will be released in Dec 2009, and is published by Urban Christian Fiction. It is a guide that answers questions about giving, how to give, when to give, what organizations or people to give to and when to stop giving.

Now that you are a published author I know that those aspiring to be where you are have many questions. What advice would you give to them about moving forward from a thought to action?
I think it is important to write a story that has a purpose and a message. Think about the person that will read your book. What are the messages you want to leave with them, and write for that one person. Don't think about how many people will read your book, just write what you feel and be transparent.

Thank you again, Carrie. If our readers want to find out more about you online how can they do so?
You can email me at carrie@avoicebehindthunder.com. My website is www.avoicebehindthunder.com

TAKE TEN: Author Alicia Ash

Her personal story is an inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds across the world. Author Alicia Ash has been near death more than once, but in the end her desire to be there for her kids and her family helped her to come out a winner. In this exclusive interview she talks about her past, the transformation she has made both on the inside and outside and what she hopes her example does for others.

Alicia, thank you for taking out the time to speak with us. First of all I know you are preparing for the release of your debut book. Tell our readers the name and what led you to write it.
The title of the book is I Dropped 142 lbs in a year & lost 220 lbs in a Day. When I started this journey of transformation I started journaling to be able to keep track of my daily routine to see if I needed to make changes. As I began to see I was really getting great results, I wanted to share my experience with other people like myself that felt like it was not possible. As the transformation started to be so visible to others around me they were begging me to please help them so I knew then this was not about me anymore it was a ministry to bless others with a proven system that I knew works.

Alot of people find it hard to look at themselves and reveal personal details about their life, but you seemed to be okay with sharing what was your truth. Was it always easy for you to do so?
In the beginning it was not easy at all. You could not even get me in front of a camera let alone to be around a crowd of people, because I was ashamed at how I looked and felt. As I came to realize this was bigger than me, it was a message I wanted to share with everyone that wanted to not only shed weight but shed issues because I was carrying not only physical weight but mental weight as well. I believe we all carry too much of one or the other and we need to learn how to balance it to live healthier lives.

Your journey has been anything but ordinary. In fact your unhealthy lifestyle almost killed you. What was the turning point?
My turning point was once I had three strokes because of my unhealthy lifestyle. The third one did it for me. Then there was knowing that I could possibly not be here for my children. To leave behind for them to know how to be healthy and teach them how to live a better life is the best gift I could ever give them.

Weight-loss is only part of your story. How much would you say you have changed emotionally and spiritually as your body changed?
I have grown so much. Some may say it is a bad thing to get a divorce, and at first I thought that too but to stay in it I would have been pleasing people. I was married 15 years and in order for me to grow he and I both knew we had to be apart to be happy. We are much better as friends than we were in a marriage, and we are better parents and not living in a marriage that was not growing spiritually or emotionally. I always say evaluate your situation and make changes from there.

In 2006 you achieved what is the goal of so many people: being on The Oprah Winfrey Show. What was that experience like for you, and how much did it encourage you to your commitment to stay healthy?

Wow, being on the show and meeting Ms Oprah was the second best goal to accomplish. When I walked on that stage I was like I can do anything I put my heart and soul to because I do know there are celebrities that have not been on her show. I was just amazed and very thankful for the oppurtunity. She is my American Idol and that alone keeps me motivated. I promised myself if I accomplished this major task I would not go back to living minor in my mind.

I'm curious, Alicia, what do you hope people get from hearing and reading your story?
I hope my message will encourage people to live happier, healthier lives. Do research ,get checkups know your body and don't let it be too late to want to make a change. Do it now and pass it on to your children. Obesity is nothing to play with. It causes so many other health problems that can be prevented, so hopefully by me having another chance at life people will see it can be done and it's not about a number on the scale or a size 2 clothes: It's about being healthy and feeling good on the inside and that will flow out.

What advice would you give for someone who has a family member or friend that is battling the demons that you faced?
To encourage them and be a support team for them in a good way, not being negative. Make small changes like I did instead of celebrating all with food do something different.

Aside from your book, what other projects are you involved in?
I am excited to be a guest judge on the upcoming reality show Write Stuff that will be debuting in the summer of 2009. It is such a great opportunity for aspiring writers to see what is involved in the process and to network with those who are making their mark in the end. Though there can only be one winner, all the contestants will glean so much from the experience. I also have a foundation called SKIN DEEP. You can go to my web site and get more info www.aliciaash.com, and in the I future I am hoping to launch a clothing line. On top of that I travel the country as a motivational speaker.

When it comes to writing, if someone feels as though they have a story to share, what would you tell them to do?
I would say get as much of your material in the proper format, do plenty of reseach on how to become an author because there are plenty of people that have a great story but are not writters. Get to the right people and never give up on your dream because only you can make it become a reality.

Thank you for your time. How can our readers find out more about you and your upcoming events?
You can visit my web site and pre order the book today and if my tour does not have your city on there request it by going to www.aliciaash.com or www.myspace.com/merceytee

TAKE TEN: Author Don Greco

A heartwarming story of love and acceptance, author Don Greco gave the world a literary treasure with Abramo's Gift. Here he talks about the book and what he hopes others get from his debut novel.

Donald, Happy New Years and thank you for talking with Conversations. Before we get into your novel Abramo's Gift, I want to talk about the response you have had to the book so far. Have you been surprised at the feedback from readers?
I have been pleasantly surprised both at the universal approval it has received and the insight that some readers have into its content. When one writes a story, it is very gratifying to see that some readers derive life lessons and personal comfort from it. When one is a little known writer as I am, it is nice to know that readers like what I do and are glad they took the time to read my story.

I know from your interview on Conversations LIVE! Radio that you didn't even tell many around you that you were even writing, let alone going to have a book published. How has the support of your family and freinds encouraged you to forge ahead?
It’s satisfying to realize that people you have been very close to all your life enjoyed reading your story. But it was also fun to see how surprised they were upon receiving a novel in the mail from this strange person they thought they knew so well. Now most of them are impatient to read my next novel, so that sets a new goal for me.

Let's rewind a bit to the actual storyline of Abramo's Gift. I can't help but realize that there are some similarities between you and the main character Abramo Cardone. Both of you have had to deal with personal tragedy. How did the story develop for you?
It developed from a sense of longing, for the love that was lost… in my case, my wife, Angie. In that sense, Abramo Cardone also has that longing for the love that he lost. Some of the most poignant stories are those about people who are lonely and anguished yet then find grace and comfort when they least expect it. That belief was the genesis of my story.

Other than Abramo, which character resonated with you on a personal level?
It’s hard making a choice, but I think Mrs. Reid is a good one. She is hurt and lonely and realizes that all her great wealth cannot buy her happiness. She lost a husband and an only son and has had to endure in silence the false rumors that circulated about her son possibly being killed in Army service in less than honorable fashion. She’s honest, reverent, and kind, but has a short fuse in her righteous anger. But her great heart, and her willingness to change and grow ends up being her salvation in the story.

One of the things I got from the book was the importance of walking in your own truth, that is, facing challenges and hardships head-on instead of trying to mask it with something else. Out of curiosity, how did you deal with your own grief, and what can others learn from Abramo and your examples?
When something terrible happens in your life, people close to you try to help you cope with your grief. But because grieving is such a solitary process they often don’t know what they can do to help. When my wife died suddenly, a dear friend of ours gave me the best advice. She said that I had to learn to let people help me, and not to shut them out. She told me, “Your friends love and care about you, and they want to do something to comfort you and help you heal…but often they don’t know how. If you let them try to help you, they will feel better and so will you.” It was the best advice I ever had, and it helped me get through the worst time in my life.

The world of publishing is a very competitive one. How much research did you do about how to be successful in the industry before deciding on trying to break into print?
Not much. I thought my only job was to produce a good story, and everything else would fall into place, but I was wrong. Consequently, I have been following a steep learning curve regarding the business aspect of marketing a book.

Have you been surprised at how much of the book's success still falls on the author even after the book is available in stores worldwide?
Since my greatest challenge is getting my books into bookstores anywhere, I’m not sure I can answer this question accurately. But I think that books are like your children: you will always be a parent, and you will, likewise, also be a father or mother to your stories.

Your book was chosen as one of Conversations' "Best Kept Literary Secrets" of 2008. For those that are just finding out about the book through this interview, what would you hope they get from the story you tell in Abramo's Gift?
I would hope that ordinary people would realize that they can achieve greatness in their own quiet ways, not by wealth or high attainment, but by finding love and grace in the people around them.

What would you say to those who may have a story in their head and heart but haven't taken the time to try and share it?
First of all, if it’s only a matter of taking time, I urge the imaginer to find the time and give it all the energy he can muster. Most stories are told in their own best time. If one has a good story, he should not let it fade away. Stories have a way of doing that. Often times, a story can be told at only one period in a person’s life. As years pass, the imaginer changes, his tastes and circumstances change, and so the story sometime changes, or becomes more anemic and obscure in memory. When that happens, the story is lost, and may never be resurrected again.

Having said all this, the reality of life is such that not everyone can write good stories. So if you are one of those people who cannot put stories in your imagination into pen and paper, and if you believe your story is wonderful, then by all means tell it to someone else who may have the gift of finding words to tell your story. Both the imaginer and the writer, not to mention the readers, would have a great sense of satisfaction and fulfillment for your efforts.

Thank you for your time, Don. What is next for you in 2009?
This year I want to concentrate on making my story, Abramo’s Gift, known to as many people as possible. If I can do that, and if readers like my novel and my writing, then I’ll feel comfortable putting forth a new novel in 2010. It’s as good as the current one, but a different kind of story.

TAKE TEN: Author Roishina Clay Henderson

After dreaming about being an author since she was nine years old, Mississippi native Roishina Clay Henderson is now living that dream to the fullest. Her first novel Make Me Whole debuted in December 2008 and is already getting rave reviews. A former journalist with The Clarion-Ledger, she now lives in Atlanta, Ga., with her husband and son. Henderson talked with Conversations Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb about her book, the experience of being published and her advice for others who wish to do the same.

Roishina, it is so good to talk with you. It's hard to believe that we first met some nine years ago when you were interviewing me about my involvement in the Arts. At that time you were working for the State of Mississippi's largest daily newspaper. Did you have any idea at that time that you would be eventually on the other side promoting your own work?
First, let me say ‘thank you’ for the opportunity to talk about my debut novel, Make Me Whole! To answer your question: I did know that I would eventually be on the other side promoting my own. I just didn’t know when it would happen. I’ve dreamed of being an author since I was nine years old.

Your book Make Me Whole is an enjoyable story that I believe both men and women will be drawn to. What brought about the three main characters and were you surprised yourself as their personalities began to come forth to you?
The three main characters are Jacky, Neicy and Cee-Cee. For those who haven’t read the book yet, Jacky is the financially-challenged, care-free spirit. Neicy is the married woman who still likes attention from other men. And Cee-Cee is the homemaker who mistreats her loving and devoted husband. Now, Jacky was conceived about two years ago, and Neicy and Cee-Cee came when I finally got focused on writing the story— which was November 2007. I’m a little surprised at how their personalities unfolded before me. I wrote what I felt God gave me to write, and their personalities just came to life as I was writing.

This is your first book, and I hear authors say all the time that they like to bring themselves into their work at times. Make Me Whole has many slivers of your own life in it. Was this intentional or just the way it unfolded?
I can relate to each of the characters, but their lives are not based on my life. The story just unfolded on its own as I prayed to God and meditated on how the story should pan out. God gave me the story three chapters at a time.

One thing that struck me was that you had three voices coming forth in the book, letting the reader into their individual personalities. I have to ask as you were writing the book which one of the ladies were you more drawn to because of shared experiences?
I would say there’s really two, and that’s Jacky and Cee-Cee. Jacky is a newspaper journalist who was ready for a career change. I’m a former journalist who can relate to that. And Cee-Cee is independent, strong-willed and won’t be fully satisfied until she gets what she wants. Cee-Cee was once career-minded before getting married and having a family. I think my shared experiences with these characters are simply womanhood and just dealing with everyday life issues.

To me one of the most profound statements in the book came not from one of the main characters, but Bishop Solomon. He said "You don't have to go back home the way you came because God has heard your cries and your pleas for help. Many of you are going to leave here with...situations worked out and a renewed faith to go a little bit further because you understand that God is carrying you through today and forever more! (p.193)" That is deep. It proved to be true for your characters. How have you seen it to be true in your own life?
I’ve been at that place where I was at my lowest low and struck with depression. I didn’t think God heard me, and sometimes I didn’t feel I was worthy of God’s love. And quite frankly, I was upset with God about some things on how I felt what direction my life should’ve gone in. But I thank God that He didn’t take His hands off me. So in time, I was encouraged to press a little further. And when I looked back, those valleys of life had only drawn me closer to God and renewed an awesome faith in Him. Now, I’m at a permanent place in my life where nobody or nothing can take me away from God or from knowing that God is my rock, my source of peace, protection, blessings and joy.

Roishina, this year I had the pleasure of interviewing bestselling authors Reshonda Tate Billingsley and Victoria Christopher Murray: both are powerful wordsmiths with great support. Both told me that although their work carries an inspiring message, they don't like to call what they write Christian Fiction. I noticed, however, that on your website you embrace that as your genre. Can you tell us why, and if there was any hesitation knowing that some who might benefit from your book won't pick it up because of the label and stereotype that is sometimes associated with those titles as being preachy and condemning?
I don’t feel I picked Christian Fiction. I wrote what God gave me, and I think it fits into the Christian Fiction genre. I pray that it won’t prevent someone from picking up my book, because I want people to be encouraged. And I really believe people will be blessed from reading about these characters. They’re not perfect and have human flaws.


Let's turn for a moment to the business element of writing. With hundreds of books literally being released every week, how did you prepare to have your book stand out from the rest?
I worked with an amazing designer who produced my book cover. I adore the cover, and it’s something that would make me stop to read if I saw something like it in a bookstore. As far as the story that I’ve written, I was a willing vessel for God to pour in. You can never go wrong when you allow Him to use you. Also, I haven’t read any fiction books that tell about the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) convocation experience that actually takes place every November in Memphis, Tennessee. The book is fiction, but many of the details, events and places are real. So, I’m hoping that church experience will make the book stand out a little more.

Now that the book has been out a few weeks at this point, can you tell us what it is like to be doing interviewing such as this and promoting something that you birthed into the world and now others have a chance to appreciate?
This feels so wonderful!!! I’m looking forward to more opportunities like these to let people know that my work is out there. I truly feel blessed, and I’m really proud of my first novel. I want to share it with the world.

I can't let you go without giving advice to those reading your interview who might have a book in them but fear the work that goes into making it successful. What would you tell them, and then as a twist, what would Jacky, Denise and Prescilla tell them?
I would say to don’t let another day go by without making your dreams become a reality! If you only write 50-100 words a day or even a week, start somewhere. Just start and watch how your motivation will pick up! Drop that fear off in 2008 and pick up boldness and determination in 2009!

As for my characters and their advice:
· I can see Jacky saying: Don’t be like me—the queen of procrastination! I spent six years in and out of college; I may not be the right one to talk to! But hey! Put your imagination down on paper!
· Neicy would say: Is he cute??? Wait a minute. You asked about writing a book? Write until your heart is content and kick down that door that leads to success!
· Cee-Cee would say: A book, huh? You know I have a career background in marketing! Get started with writing TODAY, and I’ll be your marketing coach! I need something to do besides sitting comfortably in my 6,000 square feet home!

Thanks again, Roishina for a great book and an even greater conversation. If my readers want to find out more about you online, how can they do so?
Please visit my Web site at www.roishina.com. Order my book and send me an email! I would like to hear from readers! And book clubs?! I’m available to meet with you! Thanks for this opportunity, Cyrus! I enjoyed this!

TAKE TEN: Author Jacqueline Rhinehart

When it comes to books that Conversations has read and enjoyed as interactive journeys with the author, in 2008 Jacqueline Rhinehart's* MY ORGANIC SOUL rises to the top of that list. Chosen as one of Conversations Book Club's "25 Best Kept Literary Secrets of 2008", it allows you to enjoy adages that inspire and encourage as well as give you the opportunity to add your own voice to the pages. We talked with the author about the motivation of the book and what she hopes it does for those who share the experience.

Jacqueline, thanks for a taking out a few moments to talk with Conversations LIVE! today. Before we get to your book My Organic Soul, tell us about your business.
Organic Soul Multicultural Marketing is a marketing consultancy . . .I advise companies such as packaged goods/financial / travel industries on ways to connect and market their products to multicultural consumers. My niche is the integration of entertainment elements into traditional marketing practices.

It seems as though you have used your adult life to try and make the lives of others better. Would you agree with that?
My interest has always been the intellectual and cultural condition of man - that's does not provide a clear career trek , but it does imbue my work with a lot of passion and curiosity!

If I had met you 10 years ago, what would be the biggest difference in the Jacqueline Rhinehart then and the one we see today?
Not a lot! Which is not say that I haven't changed... but if you had been a perceptive ,thoughtful friend you would have sensed the woman I would "blossom" into. I liken it to the evolution of a rose - the rose bud is not going to become a sunflower - 4 days into its evolution - it will still be rose ,even when the rose petals turn brown and wither - it will still be a rose. That's what you would have witnessed 10 years ago, the evolution of a rose. Its a change, sure, but not into something else- but a deeper, wiser, more joyous me - the one you knew when you first knew me!

Your book My Organic Soul is a combination of wisdom that encompasses religion, music, sports and includes the thoughts of everyday people as well. Where did the idea for doing the book come from?
In conversation with a friend,( who journaled) we were talking about the intersection - the influence of media/ hip hop/ religion, and consequently, "where was the book that spoke to us?" and a light went
off ! That's it - create a book/journal that would be the repository, for all that's going on - our philosophical mash-up , like a great hip-hop record!

Respected rapper and activist Chuck D wrote the foreword to the book. How did the two of you meet, and what was it like to have his blessing on the project.
Actually, I had not met Chuck D before the creation of this project- I am a fan like most ! We reached out to him, my agent, Gwen Quinn and I, and sent him the book proposal with my intro and sample of the book pages. He then went on to expound on the theme - he really got it ! That was gratifying.

People are always writing down or remembering quotes are adages that mean a great deal to them. Once the entire book had been compiled what led you to want to share it with the world by publishing it?
There was to me, a pronounced need to address the generational divide I began to sense within the ranks of post civil right group and the hip hop generation. A respect for the wisdom that both generations posess, not this resentment that sometimes wells up in intergenerational communication melt downs - i.e. Jesse Jackson vs. Barack Obama ; Ice T and the Superman rapper - there was just an unnecessary discord.

In the dedication and the promotion of the book you mention talking to yourself. Talk to our readers about how you feel that knowing oneself adds to better understanding others.
I say in the dedication that I thank my mother for her encouragement to talk to myself. She believed that I knew the answers I searched for, but I should trust myself and hold each thought captive - flip it over, deconstruct it - know from whence it came.
To hold thoughts captive and speak back to them . It is the only way to not let thoughts lead you - but to lead them.

This year Barack Obama was elected our 44th President of the United States and our first black President. One of the quotes in the book is from Public Enemy and it says "It takes a nation of milions to hold us back." With that in mind, what do you hope Obama's achievement does to encourage the same passion and drive in others?
Well the inverse of the quote is obviously true - it takes a nation of a million to lift us up too! I hope in the micro, Obama's election will provide an example to today's black man of what promise he holds, IF he emulates the values evident in Obama - separation from old ideologies that limit the woman's role,that limit the inclusion of "others", that aren't humble , a man that doesn't let EGO lead everything in his life - his relationship, his career.

We haven't seen this preeminent, iconic a black man - one whose life and background are so accessible and familiar to many black men - in a long time , if ever.

Do you have any advice for those who will read your book, pick up a pen and wonder how they can best add their own voice to its pages?
These quotes speak to each other ( which is why they are juxaposed and arranged in this order) they are the conversation that I have in my own head. And as I encounter thoughts and create my own life, I hope that readers too will have their own conversation - and it can lead anywhere! A conversation that can go anywhere! So, come on now and finish the book its your story and - It is about you - not me!

Thank you again, Jacqueline, for taking out the time to talk with us today. If our readers want to find out more information about you, how can they do so?
THANK YOU! You can Check out www.jacquelinerhinehart.com and www.myorganicsoulbook.com or www.organicsoulmarketing.com

* Recently author Jacqueline Rhinehart was a guest on Conversations LIVE! Radio. You can hear her interview here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/11/07/Author-Jacqueline-Rhinehart-talks-with-Conversations-LIVE

TAKE TEN: Bestselling author Elaine Flowers

Conversations talked with author Elaine Flowers as she was promoting her second book ITS MORNING, a collection of stories with rich characters that readers will love to discover and discuss as well as empathize with. The book was chosen as one of Conversations "25 Best Kept Literary Secrets of 2008", and during the interview she talked about her return to the literary world and how she feels about the response of the new project. Here is our conversation.

Elaine, thank you for taking out time out of your busy schedule to talk with Conversations Magazine! Before we get into your new book IT'S MORNING, begin by tell our readers a little bit about who Elaine Flowers is.
Although this is my second book, I’m still a new author on the scene. I am a divorced mother of two adult children. A full time writer and lover of everything literary.

When you were growing up, did those around you have any idea that you would take the path that you have and become an accomplished author?
No, in fact when I wrote my first book “Black Beauty“ no one in my family even knew I was writing a book and they were shocked when I told them I planned to publish it. It took me five years to finish it and I didn’t want the pressure of them asking me when the book would be finished, so I kept it to myself and wrote late at night and sometimes between clients at the salon. My family had no idea that I had any interest in writing professionally. But they have been very supportive and excited about my work. I have met other grassroots authors who say they don’t have the support of family and close friends so I don’t’ take that for granted.

One of the things I like to do when I am preparing for these interviews is research my guests so I can best serve our audience. You seem to have taken a hiatus from the literary industry before resurfacing this year with the new book. Tell our readers about your first book and why you took the break.
My first book is my baby. “Black Beauty“ is about three women and two of them work in a beauty salon named Black Beauty. When I independently published the first book I had to come out of writer mode and wear many different hats as a publisher. For me, and I’m not speaking for any other author out there who published their own work, but that took me away from the practice of writing. There is a certain element that I need to create in and I just don’t do my best work when I am running around and being overly interactive with people, as you have to do when you are busy with the business of publishing and promoting. Although “It’s Morning“ was written before “Black Beauty“ was even published there were a couple of other books that I was working on during that time off as well as searching for a publisher.

I was struck that your book IT'S MORNING has characters that are just as passionate and diverse as those created by Judith Krantz, Jackie Collins and even Danielle Steel, however, most stores will categorize you in the African-American section when shelving you. I want you to speak about your intended audience when writing and how you counter the obvious limitations that are put on authors as talented as yourself who just happen to be black.
First let me say thank you for that lovely compliment! I am going to answer this question like an artist. I do write with black readers in mind. I don’t concern myself with trying to cross over, or thinking how I can invite a more diverse group into the demographic of readers that I write for. Growing up I read many books that didn’t have characters that looked like me and I’m not bitter about that at all. One of my favorite books back in the day was “The Promise” by Danielle Steele. And like many other writers who were also avid readers growing up, I always wanted to read stories where the characters looked and behaved, culturally speaking, like me. So, this is the reason I’m moved to write what I write.

Addressing the categorizing of AA books in the stores, I would love to see them do away with that and categorize books based on genre alone. And maybe with this new shift in the atmosphere that we all witnessed this past Tuesday, eventually this can happen. And other cultures and races maybe will be more interested in us as a people and desire to read about us. I’m excited to see where this new frontier and true diversity that is obviously taking place right now is going to impact the literary world.

Let me also add, that the publisher may not share my exact views because at the end of the day it is all about book sales and if writing more diversely will sell more books then that’s what needs to happen. I don’t want to speak on behalf of Brian Smith or Hollygrove, but I believe we share the same ideas about being true to the art, which is one of the reasons we clicked so well right off the bat.

Along the lines of the last question, Elaine, I want to talk about your role in marketing and promoting. You are published through Hollygrove Publishing, a company who has been nationally recognized and respected. With that being said, the author still has a major part to play in getting their books out to the public. Let's say I am a new author on the scene. What advice would you give me?
My advice is so simple, when I share it with others who ask the same or a similar question of advice to new writers or authors they almost look at me with disappointment because they were expecting something more profound. But, my advice is this; be true to yourself, read as much as possible, and write everyday. To expound on that, I would also say not to concern yourself with the finish line—because none of us start there. Don’t worry about becoming some famous, world-renowned author and big time celebrity. And if you’re writing to become famous, forget it. That’s just the wrong attitude to have. When you write, just tell your story, give your advice, or inspire someone, depending on what kind of books you write, and don’t concern yourself with all of the other stuff.

In the music industry artists sometime talk about the "sophomore jinx" when they have experienced extraordinary success with their first project. Since you had been away for a while what did you do to prepare for your return and did you have concerns about how you would be received?
Well, I’ve never heard of the sophomore jinx, but I can tell you that I don’t overly concern myself with what others think or how me, or my work will be received. And it takes way too much work to try to be something or someone that I’m not so I don’t bother myself with that. I’m just always hopeful that the readers will embrace the voice of my characters and the stories that I write.

The reviews I have read on Amazon about the new book have been incredible. Do you read reviews, and were you surprised at the response so far?
Yes, I do read reviews. And I could not be more thrilled with what I’ve read. I wouldn’t say that I was surprised but I am truly humbled and grateful. I know for a fact that human nature suggest that when people are dissatisfied they quicker to speak up then when they are satisfied. So, I’m thrilled that readers took the time to give a review instead of just keeping it to themselves how much they enjoyed the book because I need to hear what they think in order to stay motivated to do what I do.

Success comes in many forms and varies from person to person. What is success for you today when it comes to your writing?
Success to me is the absolute enjoyment I get out of creating these characters and weaving together the stories that I tell and having readers be moved and take things personal by getting angry or totally relating to what’s happening in the books. Being able to write everyday is a privilege that I don’t take for granted. I know that other people have different ideas of success and have different ideas of success for me, but I feel successful already. The only thing I would add to the success that I’m enjoying right now is to alleviate some of the simple financial burdens I experience from writing full time. Most writers have other careers or work that they do to keep with the expense of daily living. And I am a retired hairstylist and salon owner and used to make plenty of money that came fairly easily, but you couldn’t pay me to go back to doing that. On most days I enjoy the struggle of the artist it keeps the creativity sharp I think. But then there are days that I think “okay, this isn’t fun today. I need a job!”

What would you like to say to your fans that enjoyed your first book and have stood by patiently waiting for you and the release of IT'S MORNING? Well, I’m a little uncomfortable with the title ‘fans’ so I’ll call them readers. But, I will say that I appreciate them so much. And it’s because of them that I’m motivated to keep going. And actually, the readers were waiting on my novel “Broken Appointments” which has two characters spinning off from the first novel “Black Beauty.” I kind of slipped “It’s Morning” in on them unexpectedly. But, I’m hopeful that they can look for “Broken Appointments” next year.

Thank you so much, Elaine, for your time. How can our readers find out more about you and purchase your book online?
Thank you so much for inviting me to do this interview. And, I have joined the new age and can be reached at www.myspace.com/elaineflowers . And the books are available at all booksellers, and online at www.Amazon.com or www.hollygrovepublishing.com

Bestselling author Elaine Flowers also talked to Conversations LIVE! Radio about herself and her career. Listen to the interview here:http://www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive/2008/11/07/Author-Elaine-Flowers-talks-with-Conversations-LIVE

TAKE TEN with author Gary Andrew Poole

Conversations Book Club became aware of author Gary Andrew Poole in late October 2008. He is a journalist who has written for the New York Times, TIME, GQ, USA Today, and the Independent on Sunday (London), among other publications. His first book--The Galloping Ghost: Red Grange, an American Football Legend, published by Houghton Mifflin--is in bookstores. In a conversation with Cyrus A. Webb he talked about the history he made by writing the book, what success means to him and what advice he has for new and aspiring authors.


Gary, thank you for taking ten with Conversations today. Before we get into the book The Galloping Ghost, why don't you tell our readers a little about your background.
I was born and raised in Colorado. My dad worked as a geologist and so, as a kid, I spent a lot of time in remote areas with him. On those extended trips in the American West we had no television or radio so I spent a lot of time reading. After graduating college in Colorado, I moved around: San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York. I also went to Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism and that proved to be a formative experience for me. I have many interests, but other than spending time with my family, I feel most comfortable reporting and writing stories.

You have been able to do quite a bit of writing for notable publications before this. Are your family or those who knew you growing up surprised at the direction your life as taken, especially your becoming an accomplished author?
I don't ever really talk with my friends about my writing life, or sit around drinking beers and b.s. about being an "accomplished author." I am guessing they're not super-surprised that I have written for some great publications and authored a book. People who know me have seen the evolution. I am definitely not an over-night success. My first published article was in 1987 or so, and I have been grinding ever since. I was the guy in college who was writing short stories and sending them to literary journals, and writing articles and pitching them to newspapers and magazines and working for the college paper. While I was learning on the job, I was getting published almost immediately. At night I was re-typing passages written by Tolstoy so I could get the rhythm of his language. Earlier in my career, my ambitions were definitely larger than my skill level, but I have kept at it. I have been lucky enough to write for publications like the New York Times and TIME, as well as write a book, but I learned my craft at smaller publications.
When did it hit you that writing was something you not only enjoyed but wanted to share with the world?

In most times in life, you don't have an "A-ha," moment. Life is more complicated, and nuanced than that. But in my writing life, I did have one of those life-changers. I was in college. I did not have a clue about what I wanted to become. I was considering a career in photography. I loved photography and I thought I was semi-talented, but I wasn't sure I would ever be good enough. So I thought I might become a foreign language professor, but in all honesty I was taking language classes to meet girls, and, unfortunately, I was practically flunking out of French. I was really unsure of what I would do with my life. I always loved writing and reading and I idolized writers. I just never imagined I could be one. One day in my Journalism 101 class, a newspaper columnist came and talked to us. The speech changed my life. He lead off his talk by saying he was tired and hung-over: he had spent most of the night with a celebrity, wrote up the story while listening to the Rolling Stones at full blast, and then spent the morning with a local priest: he was following around the Father as he served the under-served.

That hooked me right away. He talked about journalism and how it gives you a license, so to speak, to talk with anyone. That appealed to me. The columnist mixed curse words and literary references and he was passionate about reporting, and the importance of writing, how it can make a difference in peoples lives. He also talked about re-writing, and how writing is something that you must commit to. The whole talk resonated with me. I started reading his work: he was the type of writer who would live with homeless people and tell their stories. I still remember one winter night between semesters and I was at a truck stop after working a night shift. I was reading his column and I just started crying I was so moved by the writing. I wanted to have that sort of impact on people.

The book The Galloping Ghost marks not only the most extensive volume that has been written about Red Grange but your first book as well. Now that you are a part of history, does it surprise you what you've done?
I feel very blessed.

I had told you prior to this interview that I had never heard of Red Grange before you wrote me about your book. What was it about his life and that attracted you to the story and why did you think it was something that was relevant today?
I see Red Grange as a great American character. Grange has been called the greatest ever college football player (ESPN), and he helped bring credibility to the NFL as the pro game's first superstar. He was an excellent athlete, arguably the most important football player in history, but his story is more complicated than just his feats on the field. He wrestled with different issues, and the interesting part of sports is the back-story. Many of the issues he dealt with--poverty, money, concussions, fame, paternity suits--are issues still being discussed today. Grange is the Babe Ruth of football. But surprisingly, not much had been written about him. I wanted to write his story; I think it is a timeless one.

In a previous interview you were asked how Grange would do today playing professional football. I want to know what can those playing professional ball today learn from his life in sports.
I think pro players can read this book and get an unvarnished history of their game, they can learn about its importance to this country, and they can learn that many--if not all--of the issues Grange dealt with are still issues today.

With the subject matter and the country's love of the game, I think the obvious question to ask would be have you been approached about bringing this story alive through either a documentary or on the big screen?
I think the story would lend itself to the big screen. We're working on making that a reality.

Success is measured in different ways for different individuals and situations. How would you measure as regards to The Galloping Ghost and your writing career as a whole?
That is a difficult question and I don't know how to answer it. There are different touchstone moments: my first published article, my first New York Times piece, seeing my book in print for the first time, good reviews, getting interviewed by Bob Edwards, having my kids see my book in my local bookstore, different awards I have won. All of those are nice, of course, but for me--with The Galloping Ghost and my career--I think the journey is the reward. I find my greatest pleasure at 3 a.m. when I have re-worked a sentence 106 times, and I finally make it as perfect as I can.

It has become common practice for me to ask writers such as yourself what advice you would give to those who see your example and want to know how they can take their work to the next level.
Four-fold answer:
01: Write. Working on your craft is the most important part of being a writer. I would never tell someone to write an hour everyday, or anything so specific. Some people are disciplined, others work in spurts. I don't believe in formulas. But I think it is important to write, and that is why journalism can be a good starting point in a writing career. There are some wannabe writers who spend too much of their time worrying about getting published when they need to be working on their craft.
02: Read. I find a lot of writers are surprisingly not as well-versed as they should be in the best books, magazines, newspapers and blogs.
03: Accept rejection but stay persistent. As a writer, you will experience a lot of rejection, especially early in your career, but it is important to understand that it is incredibly competitive in the publishing world. Remember: if you work on your craft and keep improving, it becomes easier. It really isn't as much about college degrees and connections, as it is talent. Writing is very much a meritocracy.
04: Follow your passion. In all writing, but especially book-writing, it is important to follow your interests. If you're interested in football, write about football. If you adore organic farming, write about that. If you love mysteries, write mysteries. It takes a tremendous amount of work and commitment to write a book; you have to string together 130,000 words.

Thank you so much for your time, Gary. If our listeners want to find out more about you, the book or just share their feedback with you, how can they do so?
Thanks, Cyrus. For more information about my book, you can go to my Website: www.garyandrewpoole.com. To contact me, email is best: info@garyandrewpoole.com