Conversations Celebrates Its "Family Affair" beginning November 30th

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Betselling author KaShamba Williams: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Thank you to everyone who came out to show support of Bestselling author KaShamba Williams' trip to Mississippi this weekend.
We had a blast, and as our 27th author to host this year, we tried to do all we could to make the visit one she would remember.

We began day two visiting the bookstores in the city of Jackson. KaShamba was able to meet with the management teams at Barnes and Noble as well as Books-A-Million, signing books at each stop. (This is a hint that if you missed her at these spots you can get autographed copies.)

From there it was on to the Willie Morris Library where the Savvy Book Club was having their Thanksgiving dinner as well as a "3-for-1" with authors: KaShamba Williams and author Fon James in person and Bestselling author Francis Ray via conference call. Before we left the book discussion with Savvy we awarded them Conversations Book Club "Literary Achievement Award" for all they have done in the eight months since they were formed. (As always we thank Savvy Book Club for being a partner in our fight to encourage reading in Mississippi.)

The next couple of hours were spent at our final stop of the day--- Waldenbooks Metrocenter---and it was the icing on the cake. Many patrons were pleasantly surprised to meet the author behind so many of their favorite novels. You can get limited autographed copies of BLINDED, GRIMEY, DRIVEN, AT THE COURT'S MERCY, AROUND THE WAY GIRLS 2, GIRLS FROM DA HOOD 2, GIRLS FROM DA HOOD 3 and her teen book from our literary partner, Waldenbooks Metrocenter, while they last.

With the busy holiday season kicking into full gear, Conversations Book Club will host three other authors this month: Mississippi author Voncele Savage (Saturday, November 24, 2007) and Bestselling authors Kendra Norman-Bellamy and Brittney Holmes (Friday, November 30-Saturday December 1, 2007). Look out for their schedules at http://www.thebestbookclub.info and make sure to visit http://www.readingmylips.com
As always: Enjoy your day. Enjoy your life. Enjoy your world.

C-Murder gives Conversations his first tv interview in over 4 years... WATCH HERE!

Conversations Book Club is pleased to give you C-Murder's first television interview in over FOUR YEARS*. Taped in Mississippi at the P.E.G. Network (Channel 18), it is already highly praised in Mississippi. Now it is time for the whole world to see what all the talk is about.


To read about Conversations Book Club's decision to honor the book click on this link:

* Thanks to Tru Publishing for making this literary history possible.

Bestselling author KaShamba Williams: Day One

DRIVEN, AT THE COURT’S MERCY, GIRLS FROM DA HOOD, GRIMEY and now MIND GAMES…
Since 2003 Bestselling author KaShamba Williams has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with in the literary industry. She started off as a self-published author, but it wasn’t long before she was able to catch the attention of the power players in the publishing world. This is all fascinating when you realize that she never thought she would be an author professionally. Now she a publisher's dream---and a publisher herself!

Kashamba told Conversations that she was looking for a way to reach young women and men about life and the consequences of the choices they made. She decided the best way to do this was to write a book—and the rest is bestselling history.

A lot of what she writes is based on real life experiences (of herself and others), and for this reason Kashamba Williams says that “There is a story within us all.” For her writing is her way of trying to encourage people to be the best they can be. “People don’t expect you to do great things,” she explained. “It is up to us to show what is inside of us.”

What has her success done for her personally? The answer is astounding: “It’s not about selling books for me. It’s about changing lives.”

Publishers Triple Crown Publication and Urban Books have been singing her praises since the beginning, and the stories she has penned about lives out of control turning around have resonated with so many. Williams enjoys the writing, but she admits the down side is the politics of the business. “It can bring you down,” she told us, “but you have to remain true to who you are. If you can do that, then there is no limit to what you can accomplish.”

And with the track record she has amassed, it is obvious that she is taking her own advice.

On Friday, November 16, 2007 KaShamba Williams became Conversations’ 27th author to host in Mississippi as part of our “Read My Lips” literary campaign. Her new book MIND GAMES will be in stores everywhere soon. Her advice to others out there? "When God gives you something, don't hold back on it."



Williams' next project will be part of a Christian Fiction anthology called EVEN SINNERS HAVE SOULS, published through Urban Christian Fiction with Bestselling author Chunichi, Joy, Noire, B.L.U.N.T. and Nikki Turner.

Bestselling author Che Parker, author of The Tragic Flaw

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 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.

Conversations Book Club: ONE YEAR OLD and going strong!

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"Meeting with CBC has been a rewarding experience that I hope never to forget. The
members of CBC are remarkable! I loved all of the exposure and the many opportunities to experience the people of Mississippi. Thank you for your literary support and for your hospitality. I definitely plan on returning. Happy Anniversary CBC!"
--- Bestselling author Shelia E. Lipsey (author of INTO EACH LIFE and SINSATIABLE)
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“To the man with the sexiest voice, congratulations on your one-year anniversary. Thank you Conversations Book Club for your support. May Conversations Book Club continue to thrive and enlighten readers for many more years to come.”
--- Desiree Day, Bestselling author of ONE G-STRING SHORT OF CRAZY and CRAZY LOVE
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"Hello CBC! I couldn't wait to write you in order to say, "thank you." Each of you made my trip to Mississippi enjoyable. I have traveled many places promoting my novels and meeting with book clubs, but spending four days with you has been by far the best. My mother and I felt like we have known you forever. We were treated extremely kind, loving and considerate. It just doesn't get any better than that. I look forward to seeing you in a week or so. Remember that you never, ever know how you touch someone's life. Keep doing what you're doing. Keep moving forward. Keep being committed and keep on believing in whatever your God given talents may be. I am praying for each of you and for each book club. You have a great leader in Cyrus, even though he doesn't want his horn tooted, I still have to say 'beep, beep.' When I tell you that I love you and will cherish your kindness toward me and my mother forever in my heart, then I truly do mean that. Blessings to you and your family, and continued success with the book clubs!"
--- Bestselling author Shelia E. Lipsey, author of INTO EACH LIFE and SINSATIABLE after her first trip to Mississippi.
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"Cyrus, the huge success of both of my visits to Mississippi were because of you. Your professionalism, your kind spirit and your patience made everything run smoothly. You have the gift of making others feel special and for that I am thankful. I left Mississippi with new found friendships, an ever greater love for the arts and of course one of the most fun-filled book events I have ever experienced. For those in Mississippi who are not members of this fine book club, now is the to climb on board and experience the thrill! Again, thank you Cyrus, thank you Conversations, thank you Mississippi!"

--- from Bestselling author Shelia E. Lipsey, author of INTO EACH LIFE & SINSATIABLE after her second trip to Mississippi.
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"First of all let me start out by saying how grateful I am for all that you and Conversations Book Club has done for me as a writer. You guys are the best!!!! And when I hear stories like Kim and Dana's daughter I am inspired to do my best as a writer. And BTW...I've heard you talk so much about C-Murder's book that I'm going to have to purchase a copy:) Thanks for the support!"

--- Bestselling author C. J. Domino, author of SIDELINE HO
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"Cyrus, I don't know how many ways I can say, "Thank you!" But, consider yourself thanked in every way that is possible. In addition to this interview which you presented so well the live interview I had with you,and your bookclub tonight was nothing short of amazing. The depths, and insights of tonight's conversation were just much more than I could have hoped or asked for. I ask a special blessing for you."
--- Bestselling author Evie Rhodes, author of OUT A ORDER & THE FORGOTTEN SPIRIT
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"You did a first-class affair. I have and will continue to sing your praises to all of my literary colleagues. Your book club is a model for others to emulate."
--- Bestselling author Reshonda Tate Billingsley, author of MY BROTHER'S KEEPER & EVERYBODY SAY AMEN.

Conversations Book Club Makes History again bringing together Bestselling authors KaShamba Williams and Dwayne S. Joseph in November 2007

"WRITERS ON-LINE" with Bestselling authors Shelia E. Lipsey and Daphine Glenn Robinson

Conversations Book Club President Cyrus A. Webb recently sat down with Bestselling Christian Fiction authors Shelia E. Lipsey and Daphine Glenn Robinson to talk about their visit to Mississippi. Both shared information about themselves, their books and what they hope to accomplish through the written word.

C-Murder's Book DEATH AROUND THE CORNER recognized as "Book of the Year 2007"

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Conversations Book Club has been making history in the literary world since its inception in November 2006. The book club has grown from just 3 members in November 2006 to seven chapter in November 2007. After being recognized nationally, hosting 26 bestselling authors in the last 10 months and talking with over 60 authors via conference call, it has proven that it is a force to be reckoned with the fight against illiteracy.

Now we are pleased to announce that our book of the year, "DEATH AROUND THE CORNER" (written by Platinum-selling recording artist/bestselling author Corey "C-Murder" Miller) will be discussed Wednesday, November 28, 2007 during the debut of Conversations' new book club, "The C.U.T. Society" (http://thecutsociety.blogspot.com). Immediately following the book discussion Conversations Book Club founder Cyrus A. Webb will recognize the book as his choice for book of the year.

The C.U.T. (Conversations Urban Teen) Society meets every 4th Wednesday at the Richard Wright Library (515 W. McDowell Road in Jackson, MS) at 6p.m., and is designed for those 17 and up who enjoy urban or street literature. The purpose is to get the reader to see the comparison between their lives and the characters---and see how we can use their experiences to better our own life. (Those under 17 may attend but must be accompanied by an adult or guardian.)

In October 2007 Conversations Book Club made history by being the first group to host Miller's events outside the state of Louisiana in promotion of the book which was released in December 2006. This feat was covered nationally in newspapers, online reports and newswires as well as FoxNews.

Prior to its release, Miller sold over 70,000 copies of the book DEATH AROUND THE CORNER through his myspace page, and the book has maintained a perfect 5-star rating on Amazon over the past 11 months. While he was in Mississippi, over 2,000 individuals attended events with Miller, and over 300 books were sold during the month of October 2007 alone in the state. While some in the media attempted to downplay the effect of Miller's visit to the state, it can't be denied that many saw this as a positive event that will always be remembered.

Webb hopes that the book being the choice for November 2007 will get others interested in the message that Miller conveys, and that it helps young people see how important it is to take responsibility for the choices they make in life.

Below you will find just some of the topics that Webb will be tackling that are addressed in the novel:

* Why is hate something that has to be addressed early in life before it festers and grows in ones heart?
* What happens after you die? Do we all have guardian angels that want to help us do what is right?
* When it comes to hiphop, can it break down the racial barriers that exist?
* To what extent do you show loyalty to those who you feel as though have been with you through the good and the bad?
* When we hear someone has bee arrested or charged with a crime, do we automatically assume their guilt?
* At what age should youth be educated about sex, pregnancy and how you get sexually transmitted diseases?
* When it comes to the truth, is everything always cut and dry--- black and white?
* The book has what is considered a "mercy killing" by some. How do you feel about it and can you understand the reasoning behind it?
* Is abortion ever a solution in a relationship between consentual adults? What if the two were using some form of protection and it failed?
* For Miller's main character, Daquan, how did music affect his life? Was music the answer to his living the life that his Grandmother would have been proud of?
* When it comes to the relationship between Daquan and Nut, why did things change and what does it show about those who we believe are closest to us?
* When it comes to people like Pam (one of Daquan's sexual partners), what does it show for the reason why some young ladies are quick to have sex with the "bad boy" or "rough neck" on the block?
* What lessons can we learn from Darryl? Macy? Jerome? Mickey? Mandi?

For more information, contact Robin Gardner at 601.664.8805 or email Cyrus A. Webb at cawebb4@juno.com. Purchase your copy of DEATH AROUND THE CORNER online at www.deatharoundthecorner.com