A CONVERSATIONS EXCLUSIVE: Our Interview with Bobby Blake

Conversations Book Club is pleased to share one of the most intriguing interviews we have conducted to date! The man who is known in the adult film industry as Bobby Blake is no stranger to attention. Now after retiring from the entertainment world, he has penned a memoir that people of all walks of life will be talking about. MY LIFE IN PORN reveals much more than he could have exposed in any movie, and his story of how his path could not have been any different is one that will resonate with many.

This is our conversation:
Bobby, thank you for taking out the time to talk with me about your new memoir MY LIFE IN PORN. There is alot I want to discuss with you about the book, but I first want to ask you why did you decide to write and release it now?
Although I have been retired from the porn industry for seven years now, thanks to the internet my work continues to be available all over the world, and my fan-base has continued to grow as a result of that. My fans have so many questions about my life in the industry, and many of them have no real understanding of the business and how it works. That in part caused me to want to answer their questions about my time in the adult industry and from that came the book. People also saw - and see - me as something of a role model, and come to me for advice and guidance, so I also wanted to share with them the complex human being behind the Bobby Blake facade, and let them know about the experiences I went through in my life that made me who I am today.


Your faith is something that is talked about throughout the book. Like myself, many may not realize that you were a minister before you became involved in the industry and are a minister now. My obvious question to you is how has your faith affected the decisions you have made?
My faith in God is very strong, and has always been with me. But like many gay or bisexual people I felt pulled in many directions by the way the world treats us. On the one hand I was a minister, yes, but on the other there was a journey I needed to go on out into the world, like the Prodigal Son, who has to go and have certain experiences before he learns better and returns, contrite. And I returned, tempered, able to give back to the community in a way I could not otherwise have done. So I believe that, strange as it sounds, my sojourn in the world of porn was all part of God's plan for me. After I retired from the industry I took time off before reentering the ministry. The power of God is stronger than eyes could see or ears have heard. I believe that and will always believe that.

What about those who attended your church? What was their perspective of your career choice?
When I was a minister my congregation were in fact very tolerant of the fact that I was in partnership with another man. This was because of the way I carried myself. I neither hid nor flaunted my sexuality, and always presented myself in a masculine, respectable way. I stepped down as minister at that church before I became involved in the adult industry: the two roles didn't seem to me to belong together: they were like oil and water. At the church I work at now, as a counselor with young people troubled by their sexuality, everyone knows about my past and accepts it. They understand that it is because I've had the experiences I've had that I am able to advise without judging. And for my part, though I often enjoyed it, I would never recommend anyone to become involved in the adult industry. But in the end it's not about me. It's about what is right and wrong to God.

Bobby, one of the parts of the book that really touched me was when you were ministering in the hospital to those who were afflicted with HIV/AIDS. You say in the book "Burnt onto my mind is the face of a young woman who had lost her child to AIDS shrieking to God, "Take me and leave her here! It's not her fault!" She, herself was HIV+, but her daughter had died firt, over in another hospital. I had to tell her that her daughter had passed. How can you comfort someone in that situation? But Id did the best I could. (p.109)" How has the disease affected the way you live your life?
For years you know that HIV/AIDS was considered a gay disease, but you have children being born with the disease at no fault of their own. It's something that affects everyone, born or yet to be born. When I saw that scene my soul cried out to God for understanding. We have situations like this because of lack of knowledge. Because of the lack of knowledge of the parents and the world about HIV/AIDS we have senseless infections and death. You need to know your status. Everyone should. That is why the Bible says that God's people perish for the lack of knowledge. We have to educate ourselves in order to protect ourselves.

You realize that many people look up to you for what you have accomplished in the entertainment industry. They look at what you do in the movies and some try and emulate you. Do you feel that pressure when it comes to the public and how you are perceived?
People watch tapes or dvds of me and pick up some of my ways. When you are in that business, people may take things that they see and use them in their own lives. I realize, that some of the things they pick up on aren't good, including unprotected sex. Because of that I feel a certain responsibility to conduct myself in a way that is accountable to my fans. I'm particularly proud that through my work I improved the situation for my fellow black performers and that I helped open doors for other minorities within the adult industry. Also that I projected a black masculinity that many have found in some ways attractive and admirable.

That last question is a great transition into how you separate who you really are (Edgar Gaines) from the character you created on film (Bobby Blake). How much do the two differ and how much are they alike?
I had created a name and a certain type of character that I wanted to portray and that is what I did. A lot of what people see on film is me, of course, and I enjoyed portraying that persona. Inevitably people were more interested in who I portrayed than who I really was. That was the persona I put out there, so I understand that. But after I had taken that persona as far as I could go I felt a need for people to get to know the real me.

On your website http://www.bobbyblake.net there is a video interview that address your view of Gay Marriage as well as a posting on your website that addresses it as well. Tell our readers about your stance on the issue.
There have been quite a few people who have come up to me or written to me saying they agree with my view on this. I don't believe in gay marriage. However, I will support anyone else's decision to do it: it's between that person and God, and you have to live according to your faith. I do believe in civil partnerships, though: two people in a relationship, whatever their sex, should be allowed to arrange their lives in relation to hospital visitation rights, living wills, inheritance and all those things. All of us should have equality in law. But faith is something different, and I cannot change what I believe is God's will.


Another issue that you address in the book is that of drag queens and how you refused to do a scene with a man dressed in drag. If you were being paid to have sex, why not do the scene?
I wasn't going to do a scene with a drag queen because that's not my type: drag turns me off sexually. I have friends that are female impersonators, but I am not sexually attracted to them. That is true with all people, gay or straight: you know what you like and what you don't. And I was at that level of success within the industry where I had broad approval of who I worked with and who I didn't. Obviously the sex is hotter when your partner turns you on.


What do you want people to learn about you after reading the book MY LIFE IN PORN?
That there is a great difference between the actor and the person they portray. And whether you are Bobby Blake or Denzel Washington we all want the same thing: to be loved and to be able to love others.

What do you hope they learn about themselves?
I want them to see the importance of learning who they really are and dealing with that. I want them to be real and honest with themselves, face up to the things they want to work on and honestly work on them. It's also important that they realize that you may lose all of your material things but there is one thing that can't be taken away from you and that is knowledge. Knowledge is power. It is authority. When the career is gone then reality sets in. You have to be able to live with yourself.

Thank you again, Bobby, for this look into your life. We appreciate your providing such a revealing look into who you are and how we can learn from your journey. For more information about you or to order the book MY LIFE IN PORN: "The Bobby Blake Story" they can visit you online at http://www.bobbyblake.net.

Take Ten: Marcia Ann Gillespie, co-author of MAYA ANGELOU: A GLORIOUS CELEBRATION

Conversations Book Club has had its share of exclusive interviews since 2004, however, this is one of the most powerful ones ever! Marcia Ann Gillespie, one of the co-authors of MAYA ANGELOU: A Glorious Celebration took out time out of her busy schedule to talk about herself, her relationship with Dr. Angelou and why this book was a labor of love.


Marcia, thank you for taking out the time to talk with us. Before we get into your current project involving the life of Maya Angelou, tell our readers about who you are.
I am an African American woman, who takes great joy and pride in my ancestry and in being part of this extraordinary tribe of survivors and achievers, dreamers and believers. I was born and raised in a village on Long Island New York amidst a Black community made up mainly of folk from the south, North Carolina in particular. The youngest of two daughters born into a family of strivers and activists, I was constantly being reminded to do well in school, encouraged to read and to ask questions, to use my mind.


What role did your parents have in the way you evolved as a person?
My folks were people of deep faith who always strove to live the song. Both were natural leaders: My mom headed the PTA and served on the town’s board of education. My father headed the local civic association and his local Masonic lodge. Both were active in the NAACP and engaged in civil rights. And although my father had little formal education, he was determined that we were going to get the educational opportunities that he’d been denied. From them I learned the importance of standing up for the things you believe in. They were my role models and my heroes who always encouraged me to dream and to go for my dreams, to take pride in myself, and believe in myself, and to live in the world.

I had the great fortune of coming of age in the midst of the modern civil rights movement and to be a foot soldier in the struggle, taking part in protests, marches and rallies. I went to college (Lake Forest College) on scholarships in 1962, majored in American studies and planned to go to grad school after working for a couple of years to save money. When I graduated in 1966 I was hired as a researcher at Time Inc in New York City and discovered that I loved working on books and magazines.

Many know you from your years with Essence Magazine. Tell us about how that developed.
In 1970 I was working on a Black history book and fired up about the need for more books and magazines that told our story when Essence magazine was launched.

I never imagined that one year later I would be the editor in chief. It was likely a fairy tale come true. For the rest of the decade I served as the editor and turned what had been a floundering publication into the fastest growing magazine in America. But far more important every day I was working to celebrate, inspire and inform Black women, helping to sing our song. When I decided to leave Essence after the magazine’s 10th anniversary I did so knowing that it was and would be an enduring success and now it was time for me to test my wings.

I moved to Jamaica in the West Indies and lived and worked there for several years. When I returned to the States I became more involved with the Women’s Movement and became a contributing editor at Ms. magazine writing a regular column, then the magazine’s executive editor and later the editor in chief. In 2002 I stepped down as Ms magazine’s editor in chief, after ten years in that capacity. Now I’ve started a new phase as a full time writer.


Your friendship with Dr. Angelou has spanned many years. Why did you think it was the time now to put together a tribute of her life now?
I’ve known Dr. Maya Angelou and called her friend for more than 35 years, since she reached out to me when I was a fledgling editor in chief at Essence. But I never expected or planned to write a book about her. Dr. Richard Long, one of my collaborators on this project, was the one who came up with the idea of doing a scrapbook with Rosa Johnson Butler (Dr A’s niece and archivist) using some of the photos from her archives. I was asked to join the party after their original idea didn’t quite pan out.

Although I’ve known Dr Angelou for a very long time and spent many many wonderful days in her company and home I had no idea that she was such a great pack rat who kept hundreds of photos, and all drafts of her many works, as well as so many other things from her journey. I spent several days in North Carolina exploring and marveling at this treasure trove and in the midst of it I realized that instead of a scrapbook we needed to do a full biography celebrating the extraordinary woman and her remarkable life. I immediately began reading and rereading everything she had written, the interviews she’s given over the years, and many of the articles and profiles that have been written about her. I also drew on the many, many conversations that we have shared in the past and continued to share as I worked on the manuscript. And then for the next eight months I wrote and rewrote the book.

In the midst of writing the book and after I’d completed the manuscript Rosa Johnson Butler, Janet Hill, the editor of this book, and I also spent days over many months going over every photo, culling and editing. Once we made our final selects Rosa sorted through the rights and permission, tracking down and reaching out to the many photographers whose work we wanted to use. I then began to work on the captions, often spending hours with Dr. Angelou discussing each photo and invariably getting wonderful anecdotes from her, many of which I incorporated in the final draft of the book.

The book was co-written with Rosa Johnson Butler and Richard Long with a foreword by Oprah Winfrey. How did the entire process develop?
It took several years to get this book completed, more than originally anticipated: computer crashes, personal emergencies and other life complications, as well as the challenge of getting all the permissions from so many different people and organizations. At times I’m sure we all despaired ever getting through it all, but the one person who kept faith was our editor.

When all was said and done last year, I suggested that we time the publication to coincide with Dr. Angelou’s 80th birthday and everyone agreed. In retrospect I think the all the delays we experienced along the way was really in divine order. This book was written to honor and celebrate Maya Angelou life and work. Publishing it to coincide with this milestone birthday was a perfect bouquet from us to her. Thanks to Rosa and Richard who asked Oprah to write the forward made even sweeter by her heartfelt contribution.

I was on pins and needles waiting for the book to come out because I so wanted Maya to be pleased and other than looking at the photos she had refused to read the manuscript, saying that she wanted to wait until it was in print. More than anything I wanted her to be pleased. To my relief and delight she told me it was “beautiful” and that she loved the writing, the photos, the design. We sat in her kitchen one day and she paid me the ultimate compliment of reading passages of the book that she particularly loved back to me. I was in tears.

One of things that I have learned from her life is the need to take advantage of the opportunities we are given. What are some of the lessons you have learned from her?
You ask what are some of the lessons I’ve learned from Maya Angelou? I hardly know where to begin there are so many. I hope I’ve learned to become more gracious, thankful and giving from her example. She is one of the most thoughtful people I know. I’ve learned to be a better friend from her because she constantly emphasizes the importance of caring for our friendships. I’ve learned to laugh at myself more and to be more of a risk taker because time and time again I’ve watched her step out on faith and heard her laugh about her own missteps and foibles. I’ve learned to be a better listener from her and that sometimes silence is the best response because when you are in her company you are always aware that she is constantly listening to things said and unspoken. She listens with her entire being and she remembers everything.

Although I don’t share her gift of total recall, I most certainly do try to follow her example and have discovered so much about myself and others as a result. I’ve learned the value of sweet speech from her. I’ve listened closely as she’s challenged and/or corrected someone with carefully chosen words that bring honey not hurt. And I am always reminded of the importance of doing ones personal and professional homework by watching how disciplined she is in her pursuit of information, in how hard she works at her writing, in her quest for greater self understanding and spiritual growth.

Can you share with our readers how she felt when you all presented the project?
I hope that readers, especially younger readers of this book will come away more committed to pursuing their own dreams. Maya Angelou’s life reminds us that the road may not always be straight, that there will be challenges, that we may stumble and occasionally lose our way, but one can pick oneself up and forge on. You have to be prepared to work at living, not simply being alive. If you find something you love, discover your talent(s) don’t waste it, work at perfecting it. Respect yourself and others. Have faith in yourself and always keep faith with the higher power, the Creator of it all.

The book was released just days before her 80th birthday, her birthday being the same day that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assasinated. What significance does the day have for you seeing that we celebrate her life and his death?
You're right, the release of this book also coincides with the 40th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King’s assassination on April 4th which is also Maya Angelou’s birthday--a bittersweet coincidence for her and for us all. These two great Americans, great human beings were friends and colleagues who shared a profound and abiding belief in the possibilities of humankind. In so many ways in her life and work, Dr Angelou has been expressing his philosophy as well as hers.

You have devoted many years of your life to sharing your love of words. What else is in the works for you in the future?
Words have so much power to inspire, transform, inform, to bring joy, love and laughter. Reading is one of my passions. I do love books. I love reading them and I’m determined to keep writing books of my own. Currently I’m working on a memoir about my life and Black life in the 1970s its called When Blacks Became Americans because this was the period when we began to really move into the mainstream of America and claim our places at the table. It was also the period when I was the editor in chief of Essence and in that capacity met and interacted with so many of the folk who were blazing new trails for us all. So its my personal story but it’s also a social history which—fingers crossed—I hope will resonate for many readers.
When it comes to giving advice to others I would echo the advice Maya Angelou’s mother gave to her—“just do your work”.

What advice would you have for aspiring writers, actors or anyone who is looking to be a professional in the arts?
You may not ever become rich or famous, but you can be good at what you do. So take pride in your work, keep perfecting your work, but always strive to enrich your life, count your blessings, love and nurture you friends and family, build strong positive relationships and take time to notice, explore and savor the wonders of this world and of this life cause we only have this one shot at it.

Marcia, thank you so much for your time. We look forward to your upcoming work.

Take Ten with Bestselling author Che Parker

(NOTE: Listen to an audio interview with Che Parker by clicking here.)
Che Parker is one of those authors who you just know will last a long time in the literary industry: he’s calm, cool and collected—and not satisfied with anything but success. His book, The Tragic Flaw, is something that all people can relate to, but not all will admit to seeing themselves within the characters.

In December 2007, Che confirmed that he will be visiting with Conversations in 2008.
In this frank discussion we touch on everything from his beginnings, race in the literary industry and why the adage of ‘reaping what you sow’ is all too true.

TODAY WE HAVE THE PLEASURE TO TALK WITH CHE PARKER, AUTHOR OF THE THRILLER THE Tragic FLAW. CHE, FIRST OF ALL THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME. LET'S START WITH SOME BACKGROUND: TELL OUR READERS A LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF?
I was born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri and although I've lived in Virginia for seven years I still consider KC home. I have a very loving and supportive family and I wouldn't be here today without them. I never know how much detail to provide so I'll just say that I really like cold beer, I love barbeque and I'm a really big fan of the Kansas City Chiefs.


YOUR BOOK, THE TRAGIC FLAW, WAS PUBLISHED BY STREBOR BOOKS. CAN YOU TELL US HOW YOUR LIFE AS CHANGED SINCE BECOMING A PUBLISHED AUTHOR?
I'm not sure my life has changed all that much at this point. I'm holding book signings and interacting with people a lot so that's all new. Having a new book out can definitely be a full time job with promotions, and signings and events. It's been fun, though. It's been a blessing.

HOW HAS YOUR PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND HELPED TO PREPARE YOU FOR THE SUCCESS THAT THE BOOK HAS BROUGHT TO YOU?
My day job is in public relations for a very large company, so communicating with people is what I do on a daily basis. In addition to that my jobs have always had a writing aspect, be it as a journalist, or a staff writer, or a public relations professional. So I've been able to bring a professional writing aspect to my fiction. My undergraduate degree was in Communication Studies and I'm currently pursuing my Master's degree in Writing at Johns Hopkins University, so I'm constantly trying to gain more knowledge and perfect my craft.

TODAY THE "STREET LIT" OR "URBAN LIT" SEEMS TO BE BURNING UP THE BESTSELLERS LIST---AND THE LINES AT THE BOOKSTORE. YOUR BOOK, HOWEVER IS DIFFERENT. DO YOU THINK YOUR ABILITY TO FIND A NEW NICHE IS PROOF THAT READERS WANT SOMETHING MORE?
What's interesting to me is that I just wrote. I just wrote what was in my heart and what was in my head. In fact there were instances where I had no idea where something came from. I didn't think about the audience or the genre or how the book would be categorized. In that way the first book is easier because there's no pressure, no deadlines and no specific expectations. I do think The Tragic Flaw is different than a lot of fiction out there because of what I bring to the table and how I approach the subject matter.

ARE YOU SURPRISED AT HOW YOUR BOOKS---AT LEAST I CAN SAY HERE IN THE SOUTH---ARE CROSSING OVER RACIAL LINES SIMPLY BASED ON THE STORY LINE? I can't really say I'm surprised. I think what surprises me more is that reading and literature is still segregated. Do we really need an African American section at the bookstore? We don't have a Caucasian section. Some people may say that it's helpful that we have a separate section, but I'm not so sure about that. I think when you have a section like that some people may avoid it because they may feel it's not for them. I think we're writers first, and we just happen to be black.

FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T READ THE BOOK, TELL THEM BRIEFLY ABOUT THE Tragic FLAW.
The Tragic Flaw is about one man's thirst for the power and the flaw that leads to his downfall. For me it's a modern tragedy with a twist. Basically you reap what you sow. The bad guys are cool and dangerous and the women are too.

CHE, MANY DON'T KNOW THAT BESTSELLING AUTHOR ZANE IS BEHIND THE IMPRINT STREBOR BOOKS. HOW DID THE TWO OF YOU MEET?
When I was searching for a book deal I would often look at the Book section of the Washington Post and find out which authors would be in town for book signings or talks. I saw that Zane would be a Howard University's bookstore making a rare public appearance (at the time), and I decided to go check it out. Turns out her editor was also there, and we struck up a conversation about writing, submitting work, and so forth. I sent her my material and a few weeks later she e-mailed me saying that she loved it and that they were interested in publishing me. The rest is history...

HOW DO YOU FEEL HER NAME RECOGNITION HAS HELPED YOU SINCE YOUR BOOK HAS BEEN IN STORES?
Zane has an amazing fan base. It's primarily women but it's really diverse and they love her. With that being said, at signing events when Zane is present there will be crowd, and she has been great in promoting her authors and allowing us to shine and write material that's creative and true to us.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR YOU ON THE LITERARY FRONT?
I'm working on my next novel now. Completely different characters and storyline. It's about how an ideal marriage can end tragically (I guess I have a thing for the dark side of life). But it's new characters, new setting. It will probably be based in DC or Maryland, but I'm still working on that part. And for the record it's not about my marriage (laughs). Just wanted to put that out there. I also enjoy writing short stories so hopefully I'll be able to pursue that one day.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME, CHE. IF READERS WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT YOU, YOUR UPCOMING WORK OR JUST WANT TO SAY HELLO, HOW CAN THEY REACH YOU? Thanks for having me. Your readers can visit my web site at www.cheparker.com, or e-mail me at cheparker@hotmail.com. They can also check out my myspace page at www.myspace.com/ciceroday. Shoot me a note or send me a friend request.

TAKE TEN: Our interview with author Jonathan Richardson

In August 2007, Conversations Book Club debuted its "Non-Fiction" chapter of the brand. The first book to be discussed by the group is THE COMPLICATED LIFE OF THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN MAN by author Jonathan Richardson.

To read our "Take Ten" interview with Richardson click here.

TAKE TEN: Bestselling author Dywane Birch

With the release of SHATTERED SOULS, bestselling author Dywane Birch showed why he was handpicked by Zane to be apart of the Strebor family. He has a way with words that many authors would love to obtain, and the humility that will go along way in the literary industry.

This interview will encourage you to see why some issues are best handled in the beginning instead of allowing them to fester and grow.


Dywane, thank you for talking with Conversations. I have alot I am going to try and get into this one interview, but I wanted to start at the beginning: Tell us a little about who Dywane Birch is.
You're very welcomed. However, the thanks really goes to you for allowing me the opportunity to share with Conversations. So, thanks...it is truly appreciated!
Okay, a little about me. Wow...this is always a hard one since I'm an extremely private person. Let me see. Well, I'm a graduate of Norfolk State University and Hunter College with a masters degree in psychology. Over the last sixteen years, I've worked in a variety of settings, from prison to community-based programs, that have afforded me an array of professional experiences. In addition, to my novel Shattered Souls, and it's sequel, From My Soul to Yours, which releases Nov 6, 2007, I'm the self-published author of When Loving You is Wrong. I live in Jersey, but divide my time between here and Maryland (and, if all goes well, San Diego will be added). Other than that, I'm just a man who is still learning, and growing, and evolving; a man who is not without fault or flaws, yet still strives to be the best that he can be.

For some writing was a form of therapy. For others it was an escape. What role did writing play in your life?
Honestly, neither. I didn't choose writing. It chose me. And, as a result, has evolved into a means for me to educate, enlighten, entertain, and, hopefully, inspire.

Are you from a family of readers? How have they responded to the career you have been able to weave together through words?
Yes, I do. Fortunately, they have been extremely supportive of my writing career, but I'd have to say my mother is probably my biggest fan. However, over all, I've been truly blessed.

In doing research on your career, I read where some reviewers said you were being "slept on". Why do you think it took the world so long to catch up with your talent?
It was my own doing that has kept the world in the dark about me as a writer. I honestly was very comfortable and satisfied with being an underground writer. I really wasn't ready, personally or professionally to see my literary work go to the next level. But, now I am. And I'm ready to share my talent with the world.

SHATTERED SOULS is the only book I have read of yours up to this point, so let's talk a little about it. As the back of the book explains, it tackles "the lingering effects of childhood turmoil on four thirty-something friends... all four are struggling with demons, striving to mask the deep emotional wounds they sustained long ago." I could relate to the book on alot of different levels: being in that age range and having my own obstacles to deal with in my youth. Why did you feel as though this was a story that needed to be told?
When I wrote Shattered Souls in 1999, I was the director of an adolescent crisis shelter, and a social worker at a youth detention center. I'd been at each job seven and six years, respectively. And during that time, I had seen and heard first-hand the pain and the hurt and the scars of psychological, emotional, physical and sexual abuse. I had heard the cries, and the pleas for help, for healing, for love, and forgiveness; I saw the shame and the guilt and the embarrassment; heard the feelings of neglect and rejection and abandonment. And, not once, did I ever consider putting pen to paper to write these experiences. It was through a series of dreams over a three-night period that the voices and the images began to take shape in my mind. It was at three a.m. in the morning when I saw the title, Shattered Souls, amongst shards of glass that I woke up, got out of bed and started typing to set these nameless faces, and unfamiliar voices, free. So...it was a force much greater than me that said this was a story that needed to be told.

Did you know when you were writing the book SHATTERED SOULS that there was something special about it?
Yes. There was definitely a part of me that had this "knowing" that there was something remarkable about Shattered Souls.

There seems to be an underlying message of accepting one's truth---regardless of what it is---and walking in it. Would you agree, and why do you think it is so hard for us to sometimes let the real us shine through?
Absolutely. I believe fear is what keeps many of us from being who we are. Fear of rejection, fear of ridicule, fear of isolation (and the list goes on)...these are the things that keep many of us stuck into being who and what others expect us to be instead of being who we really need to be for ourselves.

Just as I have my own story as to how I can relate to the book, I'm sure you have heard many others from readers. Can you share some of the experiences about the impact of the story?
Yes. Over the years I've heard from both men and women who speak of how reading Shattered Souls forced them to remember things about their own pasts that they believed (or thought) they had forgotten or neatly tucked in the back spaces of their hearts and minds. I've had women email me and say after all these years that after reading my book that they now know and see what they've been: A shattered soul. And I have been thanked for touching them in a way that allowed them to cry and scream and laugh and cheer the characters on because they felt connected to their pain, their experiences were their very own realities, and they too want to heal and forgive and let go. And for me, that has been the most beautiful part of this journey.

Your book was released by Zane's Strebor Books. How did that relationship come about and how has that opened new doors for you?
Interestingly, I met Zane in 2001 at a book event in Memphis. Unbeknownst to me, she had already read the self-published version of Shattered Souls and had nothing but great things to say about it. Over the years, we developed a deep admiration and respect for each other, and she has been one of my biggest supporters and fans from the beginning. She actually wrote in one of her acknowledgment sections that publishers were crazy for not re-releasing Shattered Souls .***laughing*** Honestly, I'm glad they didn't.

In 2005, I was asked if I wanted to be a contributor to Zane's anthology, Breaking the Cycle which won the 2006 NAACP Image Award for outstanding fiction. In March of the same year, I was offered a contract for the re-release of Shattered Souls, and a contract for it's sequel, From My Soul to Yours. And...here I am. ***smiling***

Thank you so much Dywane for your time. How can readers find out more about
you and your collection of works?
Again, you're extremely welcomed. I've enjoyed the interview. I appreciate the support and the opportunity you've extended to me. And from my soul to yours...I thank you for wanting to share my work with others. For anyone, who may be interested in knowing more about me and my literary endeavors, they can check me out at www.myspace.com/dywaneb or www.freewebs.com/dywanebirch. I can also be reached via email at: bshatteredsouls@cs.com

Thanks again, for everything. Until the next time...peace, love, & happy reading!

TAKE TEN: Bestselling author Jerry B. Jenkins

He is one-half of the most successful writing team of our generation. Jerry B. Jenkins and Dr. Tim LaHaye, the authors of the bestselling LEFT BEHIND series, are responsible for a phenomenon that has both sparked discussion and a renewed passion in reading. Though impressive, this is only part of Jenkins’ story. Apart from the partnership with LaHaye, he has penned almost 200 books, many of which are biographies, selling millions of copies worldwide.

In this exclusive discussion, Jenkins takes time from writing his newest novel to discuss everything from the success of his religious thrillers, why people fear Bible prophesy and the Harry Potter books.

Mr. Jenkins, we appreciate your taking time out of your writing season to answer a few questions for us. When I am discussing the LEFT BEHIND series with others one of the things we always comment on is how real the world you describe is. Has it ever saddened you to think that so much of mankind will choose to walk away from God?
Yes, our capacity for sin is amazing. God created a perfect garden, and Adam and Eve sinned. He set up a system of laws and sacrifices, and His own people chose to go their own ways and to worship other gods. He sent Jesus to die for our sins, and He was despised and rejected of men. He will rapture His church and still people will decide against Him. God will rain down 21 judgments over 7 years, all prophesied in order, and despite that the Bible says no one will be able to doubt He exists, still people want what they want. Then comes the Millennial kingdom with Jesus on the throne, and by the end of that time, Satan will still be able to tempt the nations. It's mind boggling.

The Bible book of Revelations is avoided by so many Christians today. Why do you think its prophetic message evokes so much fear?
The biggest problem is the temptation to try to interpret it symbolically or figuratively when much of it is best understood literally, as it is written. We don't advocate a wooden literalism where it is obviously evocative. For instance, we don't believe the sword in Jesus' mouth is a literal sword but rather is His word. But where the revelator says, "I looked and I saw..." we take it literally, use it in our stories that way, and it seems to have brought the Book of Revelation to life for people.

Your work has made history on so many levels in the literary world, but how has it affected you personally? Do you see writing as part of your ministry?
Writing is my ministry, as it is my only gift and thus I feel obligated to exercise it. I don't sing or dance or preach, so I'm currently working on my 172nd book, more books than I've read. (smile) The Left Behind series had much the same impact on me as it did on the readers. I am much more aggressive about my faith and more expectant of the return of Christ.

I have heard it said that the mere thought of the end of the world is fearful to some, including those who say they are Christians. Why do you think the final battle between Good and Evil raises so many different opinions? There should be no fear for the believer, as the Scripture promises we will be delivered from the worst of it. But we are no longer people of the Word for the most part, and so many -- even believers -- live in fear.

In Mississippi we have battled apathy towards reading for many years among young and old. What advice would you give to someone who is interested in the subject matter that you write about but may be hesitate to pick up the book?
We have made our books available on unabridged and abridged audio, dramatic audios (with original music, sound effects, actors, etc.), and even in graphic novel (comic book) formats. It's in some format for anyone.

When I initially contacted you in June 2007, I found out that you have written quite a few non-fiction books as well, including a biography about one of Mississippi's own. Tell us about some of your other work?
About 80 of my books have been nonfiction, including marriage and family titles, documentaries, and many biographies. These include working with people like evangelists Sammy Tippit, Luis Palau, George Sweeting, and Billy Graham; musicians Christine Wyrtzen, Bill Gaither, and B.J. Thomas; and athletes Hank Aaron, Walter Payton, Meadowlark Lemon, Orel Hershiser, Nolan Ryan, Mike Singletary, Joe Gibbs, etc.

There has been much discussion about how books and movies that feature supernatural characters affect the minds of especially the young people exposed to them. What is your opinion? Is it enough that they are able to find books and reading material that hold their attention, or should we be concerned about the subject matter they are drawn to?
If you're referring to Harry Potter, I don't have a major problem with it. If parents believe their children are too young to understand that it's fantasy, they should restrict them from reading it, or read it with them. Most people were raised on similar stuff, like The Wizard of Oz, which had every bit as much supernatural magic stuff in it and yet was plainly understood for what it was. Oz and Harry teach that good wins over evil, etc.

With the release of the final book of the LEFT BEHIND series, was it hard to see it end?
Sure, it was bitter sweet after almost 12 years, but it was time.

What is next for you on the literary front?
Dr. LaHaye and I are in the middle of The Jesus Chronicles, fiction based on the gospels. John's Story was released last year, Mark's Story will release this October, Luke's Story next year, and Matthew's Story the following year. Plus I have a 15-book, ten-year exclusive deal with Tyndale, the first title of which will release in March.

Thank you again for taking out a few moments with us. Do you have anything you want to say to those who might be considering reading one of your books for the first time?
Probably best to start with Left Behind.


© 2007 All Rights Reserved
Conversations Magazine®, a subsidiary of Shadow Play Publications®

"TAKE TEN" w/Bestselling author Stuart Woods

(Originally posted on "Reading My Lips" website. Interview took place on Wednesday, June 27, 2007.)

Over the past seven months, we have met a great deal of authors. So many in fact that there is always a problem of being able to schedule them for a 30 minute or hour discussion! Because of this, we have begun a new phase of Conversations Book Club. It is called "Take Ten". What is it? Well, to put it simply "Take Ten" is an interview of 10 questions that we can get answers to quickly without having to really schedule any of the author's precious time.
The interviews will be featured in print publications, online and in the Conversations Magazine.

This week we are featuring another one of our history-making interviews: Bestselling author Stuart Woods. Few writers hae been able to have such an impact on the world of fiction like Woods, and with over 20 titles under his belt---many of them New York Times Bestsellers---there is no way for him to be slowing down soon.

Enjoy the interview and look for it to be featured in the July 2007 issue of the Conversations Magazine!


Mr. Woods, thank you so much for your time. Looking back over your career one of the questions that immediately comes to mind is about your relationship with words. Have you always found it easy to tell a story?
It was harder in the beginning. Experience builds confidence, and confidence is a wonderful thing.

How much do you rely on your feelings about a certain situation or occurrence in the news dictate the story you tell us in your novels?
I have to construct the feelings to fit the scene.

Your career has spanned many years and has been filled with critical acclaim. Does it ever surprise you that you evolve such a eager anticipation for each new release?
All the time, but I like it.

In Mississippi where most of our readers are based, we are faced with a critical case of apathy towards reading and writing. What are your feelings about how the general attitude of books seems to have shifted over the years?
It's my experience that there are more readers and more books than ever. I get a lot of mail from people who tell me they never enjoyed reading until trying one of my books, and now they read all the time. That's very satisfying.

And the electronic age? In talking to librarians in our state, the consensus of visitors are coming to use the internet and not checking out as many books as they would have been 8 or even 10 years ago. In your opinion is that just a sign of the times?
I honestly don't know what that is. My guess is that those people wouldn't be coming at all, if there weren't an internet.

Tying in your books, there always seems to be a sense of morality, no matter what side of the law the characters find themselves on. Do you think this shows it's true that "There is some good in everyone" and are we being too pessimistic about the fate of our youth?
Yes. Normally, you need morality to separate the good from the evil, although I once wrote a book, L.A. Times, in which I set out to make not one of the characters a decent human being (it was set in Hollywood), and people still rooted for the protagonist.

From visiting your site, I know that you get quite a few requests for advice from aspiring authors. Who was inspirational to you in your literary endeavors?
All the writers I read, particularly Mark Twain.

Some of the authors we have talked to, Mr. Woods, tell us that in the beginning it was surreal to go into a store and see their name on books or posters with their face plastered in stores or in magazines. Has there been such a moment for you when it really hit home the magnitude you have made on the literary community?
It happened so gradually that I got used to it over the years. It's not like I was all over the bookstores right away.

Without giving away the plot to our readers, are you able to tell us about your upcoming release?
It brings together most of my continuing characters, including Teddy Fay, in one book.

Thank you again for your time. Anything you want to say to your fans that might be reading this interview?
I thank them for reading my books and making my career possible.

You can learn more about Stuart Woods by clicking here.