The Georgia Writer

Coweta Writers Group To Meet On September 10

2011-08-21T07:46:00.002-04:00

Will Continue Discussion of Book Marketing and Distribution

At its meeting in August the Coweta Writers Group discussed Book Marketing and Distribution. There was so much interest in the topic and so many matters not covered that it was decided to continue the same topic at its next meeting. This meeting will be held on Saturday September 10 from 10 AM through 12 Noon at the Ashley Park Barnes & Noble in Newnan. The speaker and discussion leader will be the same -- Swanee Ballman who is both a book author and the owner of Jawbone Publishing Company in Newnan. The meeting is open to the public and there is no admission charge.

Information on this meeting and on the Coweta Writers Group is available from Forrest Schultz at 770-583-3258 or schultz_forrest@yahoo.com.

You Might Be A Good Writer, If...

2011-08-21T07:27:00.000-04:00

A review of David L. Anders You Might Be a Problem Drinker If... (Peachtree City, GA: David Anders Publishing House, 2011)
109 pp $6.99 ISBN-13: 9780615448503 ISBN-10: 061545125X
Reviewed by: Forrest W. Schultz

If you can create an appropriate attention-grabbing title for your book, you might be a good writer! If you can devise an interesting new format for presenting your thoughts, you might be a good writer. Dr. David Anders in the two books under review here has fulfilled both these criteria.

The titles, as I guess about 95% of Americans would know, are a take-off on Jeff Foxworthy's famous, "You Might Be A Redneck, If...". They are also the creative format. Each page contains one such gem. My favorite is the first one on the first page: "You Might Be A Problem Drinker, If You Pay More In Liquor Tax Than Income Tax.". Each of the two books contains 104 such one-liners.

At the rear of each of the two books is an announcement about at You Might Be A Problem Drinker, If...Contest, for those who would like to try their hand at composing some of their own. Information is available on the website www.AndersUSA.com.

Since these two books are humorous works, there may be some literary critics who might object to the addition of the serious discussions in the preface to each book, which bears this title: "Introduction, Explanations, Disclaimers, and Apology" -- wow!; all that in a preface. These critics can make a good argument for their case, and, frankly, I would have preferred just the comedy. But, you need to consider the fact that the author is a medical doctor: as a health care professional he feels obligated to teach us and warn us about the medical dangers of alcohol in the usual straightforward manner that is customary for his profession.

Dr. Anders and his wife and his mother have been writing for some time. Last year he established the David Anders Publishing House, which so far this year has published six of these books.

Rick Ryckeley, Author of Musings from a Cluttered Mind, to Discuss his Book in Peachtree City

2011-08-15T15:43:00.000-04:00

The Friends of the Peachtree City Library are honored to present Rick Ryckeley, The Wife, and The Boy in the first ever event featuring the entire family, on September 10, 2011 at 1:00 PM.

Rick will read from and discuss his book, Musings from a Cluttered Mind. The book is a compilation of his columns in “The Citizen” newspaper plus an introduction to each article.

Rick was born at 110 Flamingo Street, in the State of Georgia. He has been a firefighter for over a quarter of a century, and is currently a Fire Apparatus Operator of a Quint, or ladder truck. He is also an educator, and has won awards at the state and national levels for his work educating children about fire safety. His awards include Georgia’s Fire Safety Educator of the Year, Firefighter of the Year, and the Martin Luther King Humanitarian Award.

Musings from a Cluttered Mind is Rick’s first book; his second book in a series of four, Musings from a Really Cluttered Mind is set for release in April, 2012. His first novel, The Calling will be released in the fall of 2013.

Rick is one of the founders of the Go Two Guys, an organization of firefighters who work in the community as handypersons and who operate a charity. A portion of all of Rick’s book sales goes to that charity. The charity provides car seats, bike helmets, batting helmets, and other safety equipment for infants and children.

Musings from a Cluttered Mind will be available at Omega Book Store in the Peachtree Crossing Shopping Center, as well as from on-line outlets. Copies will be sold and autographed during his presentation at the Peachtree City Library.

For more information on library programs, check the web site at www.peachtree-city.org/library, or contact the Friends of the Peachtree City Library at ptc.library.friends@gmail.com.

Donny Bailey Seagraves, Author of Gone from These Woods, to Read and Discuss Book at PTC Library

2011-07-27T20:24:00.000-04:00

The Friends of the Peachtree City Library present Donny Bailey Seagraves, author of Gone from These Woods, Sunday, August 14, at 1:30 PM. Ms. Seagraves will read from and discuss her book in a program that is expected to last an hour. She will also sign copies of the book, which is available at the Omega Bookstore in the Peachtree Crossing Shopping Center.

The book is a first-person narrative by an eleven-year-old boy from rural Georgia whose squeamishness about hunting evolves into tragedy when he accidentally kills his beloved uncle in a hunting accident. The young Daniel then faces the wrath of an unforgiving and abusive father with support from his mother and others in the close community. Still, Daniel is overwhelmed with guilt. His journey to understanding and acceptance leads him to contemplate suicide.

Written at the 4th—6th grade reading level with the vocabulary of the child narrator, the book’s language will nevertheless appeal to adults, and the powerful themes of death, guilt, and forgiveness deserve the attention of parents, teachers, and children alike.

Ms. Seagraves is a native of Athens, Georgia and is a longtime resident of the nearby small town of Winterville. She studied journalism at the University of Georgia, was a newspaper columnist and freelance writer for many years, and has owned and operated a used and rare book business, Junebug Books for twelve years. Gone From These Woods, published by Random House/Delacorte Press, is Seagraves' debut novel.

Amazon.com readers have awarded the book five stars. A review in the School Library Journal notes that the tough topics will engender many discussions about support and forgiveness. Booklist describes it as a “coming-of-age” story that will draw the reader in. Kirkus points out that Daniel’s “internal superhero-vs-villain battle” will appeal to middle school boys. Booklist compared Seagraves’ book to Gary Pausen's Hatchet. a book that many teachers and young readers will recognize.

For more information, visit donnyseagraves.com or her blog, wintervillewriter.com.

For information on programs at the Peachtree City Library, check the city web site at www.peachtree-city.org/library. For Friends membership information, check that link or send an email to ptc.library.friends@gmail.com.

Open Mic Under the Stars at Upcoming Writers Conference

2011-05-10T09:32:00.000-04:00

The upcoming 4th Annual Writers Conference scheduled for May 20-21 in The Village at Indian Springs in Flovilla, GA, includes a free open mic event for writers and poets to read their work under the stars. There is a 3 minute limit for each reading.

RSVP required: 770-227-4002

For more information, contact Generations Gallery Business Office at 800-352-7212 Monday-Thursday. Friday and Saturday call 770-775-7916. The two-day event includes meals, materials, seminar sessions and booksignings for $150. Most Credit Cards are accepted. Moderately priced accommodations are available in The Village's vintage cottages, or nearby in lake cabins, RV sites and camping areas in the state park and in nearby hotels in Jackson and Forsyth, Georgia.

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The 4th Annual Generations Gallery 2011 WRITERS CONFERENCE

2011-04-22T11:45:00.000-04:00

Writers and poets return to Historic Indian Springs on Friday and Saturday, May 20 -21st, 2011 for The Fourth Annual WRITERS CONFERENCE hosted by Generations Gallery in Flovilla, GA. The event is targeted to those who dream of being a writer but need to sharpen their skills and learn from the experiences of published authors and poets.

“An experienced author will tell you that writing the book is only half the journey,” explains conference moderator, author Anne B. Jones. ”Knowing what a publisher expects is critical.”

The casual venue and small group size will allow for intimate interaction with the speakers. Popular writers will share stories about their own careers and provide insight into style. This year, the event features a workshop by The Georgia Poetry Society. Editor, Judy Bozrath will delve into how to polish a manuscript before submitting it to a publisher. William Rawlings, Jr. will discuss the challenge of marketing a book once it is published. The casual venue and small group size allows for intimate interaction with the speakers.

Featured presenters include writers Haywood Smith (The Red Hat Club),

Anne B. Jones (Tides of Fear), William Rawlings (The Mile High Club),

Jaclyn Weldon White (Whisper to the Black Candle), Jaclynn Morris

(From Me to You), editor Judy Bozarth and Georgia Poetry Society Poets

Ron Self (editor of the Brick Road Poetry Press) and J.C. Reilly (La Petite

Mort).

The schedule includes a Friday afternoon tour of the Indian Spring Hotel Museum; a session on “Empowerment is Having the Tools” by thriller author Anne B. Jones; a workshop by Georgia Poetry Society Poet Ron Self; a Mix and Mingle Reception at the Hayes House circa 1853 with a Friday night Open Mic Event hosted by the Georgia Poetry Society.

Saturday includes a Continental Breakfast and morning sessions presented by Keynote Speaker Haywood Smith, author Jaclynn Morris, and editor Judy Bozarth. A catered lunch will feature readings by Poet JC Reilly and a Featured Presentation by Anne B. Jones. This will be followed by to afternoon sessions by William Rawlings and Jaclyn Weldon White, and a Georgia Poetry Society Workshop by J.C. Reilly. The evening’s campfire meal offers a chance for debriefing and networking.

Fee $150. Most credit cards accepted. For more information contact 800-352-7212 or 770-227-4002 weekdays, 770-775-7916 on weekends.

A detailed conference schedule is presented for review at www.gallerygenerations.com and www.TheVillageatIndianSprings.com

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Michael Garrett, Editor For Stephen King and Joyce Carol Oates, to Hold Writing Workshops at the University of Georgia April 30 - May 1, 2011

2011-04-08T10:04:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education is offering a series of five writing workshops on April 30 - May 1, 2011. The workshops will be taught by Michael Garrett, an internationally respected editor and published author.

Garrett is credited in Stephen King's non-fiction book, On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, as Mr. King's first editor. In a professional capacity, he has edited the works of such greats as Joyce Carol Oates, Harlan Ellison, Lawrence Block, and many others for major publishers like Pocket Books and Kensington Publishing, and is one of the top recommended freelance manuscript editors in the world. Additionally, Garrett is the co-editor of a thirteen-volume internationally award-winning horror fiction anthology series, Hot Blood, which has been optioned for television.

According to Mr. Garrett, "…the best person to give unpublished authors advice on how to avoid rejection is someone who rejects manuscripts -- editors! Only editors know for sure why manuscripts are rejected. Unpublished authors will keep making the same mistakes until someone in the industry points out what they're doing wrong, and that's what I hope to achieve in my workshops."

Writing workshop dates and times are outlined below.

Fiction Writing for Beginners
April 30, 9 am-12 pm

The Truth about Self-publication
April 30, 1-4 pm

How to Become a Published Author
April 30, 6-9 pm

Creating Your Novel
May 1, 9 am-12 pm

Short Story and Novel Feedback
May 1, 1-4 pm

To register or for more information go to www.georgiacenter.uga.edu/writing2sell, call 706-542-3537 or 800-811-6640. Discounts are available if registering for more than one workshop.

The University of Georgia Center for Continuing Education is a unit of the University of Georgia's Office of the Vice President for Public Service and Outreach. The Center, provides innovative lifelong learning opportunities through its continuing education programs.

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Bill Monroe Releases First Poetry Collection: Slow Turning

2011-04-02T12:10:00.000-04:00

A review of William D. Monroe, Jr. Slow Turning: A Collection of Songs and Poetry for Adults who were Sexually Abused as Children (Volume I) (Create Space, 2010); 95 pp $14.95; ISBN-10: 1453774831 ISBN-13: 978-1453774830

Reviewer: Forrest W. Schultz

Bill Monroe of Newnan is a businessman, an aspiring martial arts instructor, and a poet. Late last year he published the first collection of his poems, which were individually written on various dates spanning from May 9, 1991 through July 24, 2010. They are arranged in the chronological order in which they were written. Following each poem is its date of composition and a few brief remarks on its meaning by the author. These remarks are helpful. In fact, I wish more poets would do this. With so many poems the reader can only guess at what they mean.

These poems deal with the author's struggle to overcome the effects upon him of the sexual abuse he suffered as a child. This liberation occurred not all at once, but slowly, i.e. it was accomplished by the author's slow turning from darkness to light -- thus the title chosen for the collection. He plans to release later this year a second collection of poems titled Left-Handed Poetry.

Monroe is the second Southside author to have a book published dealing with childhood sexual abuse. The first one, Through The Eyes of Abuse, was published in 2009 by Clayton County author Deborah Hall-Branch. Both books are written with realism, maturity, and hope, which is a challenge when dealing with such a horrific topic. As such they are a testament to the vitality of the Southside literary scene.
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Carole Marsh Nominated as Georgia Author of the Year

2011-03-15T11:24:00.000-04:00

Michele Yother, President of Gallopade International, announced today that local author Carole Marsh has been nominated as Georgia Author of the Year for Children’s Books by the Georgia Writer’s Association.

Marsh’s newest children’s fiction book MARY AMERICA: First Girl President of the United States is the story of an orphan girl who becomes the president at age 12, through a fluke in the law and a high IQ. “This seemed like the perfect time for a book that helps children understand what a big job it is being president, while being entertained by how somebody their age would handle the job. I’m also passionate about subject matter that helps children dream big dreams,” Marsh adds.

Marsh has been writing since 1979 and has hundreds of titles in print. Previously, she has been named Communicator of the Year, received Learning Magazine’s Teacher’s Choice for the Classroom award, the iParenting Award for Greatest Products, Excellence in Education award, and honored for Best Family Books by Learning Magazine. Midwest Book Review called her mysteries for children “true gems of education and entertainment for young readers.”

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Award-Winning Author Writes Civil War Field Trip Activity Book

2011-03-04T12:49:00.000-05:00

“With the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War starting in 2011, it is a truly teachable “four-year” moment for kids to understand that history has happened all around them! All they need to do is take a step out their backdoor!” says award-winning author Carole Marsh. Nothing will leave a better impression then seeing some of the sights where the soldiers fought and made history.

The Civil War Field Trip Activity Book is filled with activities for kids at or on the way home from a Civil War field trip. The book’s activities include scavenger hunts, coded messages, word scrambles, matching problems, civil war math problems, fill-in-the-blanks, and more!

There are so many Civil War sites to visit, and the new book from Marsh makes field trips and family outings even more interesting and educational for kids. The book’s kid-friendly format helps make the most out of visiting Civil War sites! With summer right around the corner, many people are making plans to visit Civil War battlefields near and far. The top 10 Civil War sites according to Fodor’s:

1. Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia
2. Fort Sumter, South Carolina
3. Manassas/Bull Run, Virginia
4. Shiloh, Tennessee
5. Antietam, Maryland
6. Fredericksburg, Virginia
7. Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
8. Richmond, Virginia
9. Petersburg, Virginia
10. Appomattox, Virginia

Carole Marsh is founder and CEO of Gallopade, a 31-year-old publisher of Marsh’s The Student’s Civil War, Georgia Civil War Reproducible Activity Book and other children’s books. Further information is available at www.gallopade.com.

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Grammar Street Characters Help Youngsters With Nouns and Verbs

2011-02-03T09:46:00.000-05:00

Common Noun lives on a farm in Lower Case Countryside; Proper Noun lives in a high-rise apartment in Capital City. Their stories of usage in sentence structure are part of a new book designed to help students grasp basic parts of speech: nouns and verbs.

“Grammar Street: A Guide to Nouns and Verbs,” written by Valarie Warr Gober, a fourth grade teacher at Fayetteville Intermediate School in Fayette County, uses illustrations and stories that are told in character, with voices and emotion, and sometimes in costume, to help youngsters remember the basic functions of nouns and verbs.

An excerpt from the book states that Proper Noun dresses in a sophisticated top hat and carries a classy cane. He never says store or restaurant, but uses the actual name such as “Fluffy” instead of “cat.” The teacher or parent is encouraged to accessorize with a top hat and cane, and speak in a “rich and famous” voice when telling Proper Noun’s story.

Gober was a student teacher at an elementary school in Milledgeville, GA when she began developing the characters of her book, realizing she needed to do more to help students understand grammar than just complete the lessons in the textbook.

“I was surprised that fourth graders were still unclear about the most basic parts of speech. So, I began drawing the citizens of Grammar Street and telling stories,” she says. “Students soon began to look forward to grammar and were increasingly able to remember the basic functions of nouns and verbs long after the lesson was taught.”

She brought her stories to Fayetteville Intermediate when she began teaching there six years ago, and soon teachers throughout the school were encouraging her to put them into a format that any parent or teacher could pick up and use. It took Gober three years, working on and off, to complete the book. She finally saw printed copies roll off the presses just before the Christmas.

“The majority of my feedback thus far has come from my students and colleagues, all of whom have been very encouraging,” she says.

In fact, Gober has been asked to write a guide for adjective and adverbs. She says she has some ideas, but they are in the developmental stages.

“I’m still bouncing them around with the children to see what seems to work best. If new characters and stories emerge that consistently help children grasp concepts of adjectives and adverbs, then I will pursue putting them into a format that will assist teachers in using those strategies as well,” she says.

Grammar Street is available for purchase at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and at http://grammarstreet.weebly.com.

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Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation Offers Nonfiction Writing Class

2011-01-04T15:26:00.000-05:00

The Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation (OCAF) will offer a six-week class on “Writing for Money: the Art of Freelance Nonfiction Journalism” beginning Jan. 18, 2011. The class will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6-8 p.m. at the OCAF building in Watkinsville. The instructor will be Dr. Wally Eberhard, journalist and retired professor from the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and mass Communication. Eberhard was a newspaper and magazine writer and editor before becoming an educator. He continues to publish articles and columns, and teach nonfiction writing courses. There are no prerequisites beyond having an interest in writing for publication. Fee is $90 for OCAF members and $100 for non-members. For more information and to register visit www.ocaf.com, call (706) 769-4565 or email info@ocaf.com. OCAF is located at 34 School Street in Watkinsville.

Canton, Ga. Resident Writes Guide to Civil War Sites in Georgia

2010-12-09T10:32:00.002-05:00

“Crossroads of Conflict” book signing Dec. 16 at Yawns Book Store

Soleil Laurel Canyon resident, Rich Elwell of Canton recently completed the book “Crossroads of Conflict” A Guide to Civil War Sites in Georgia”. The book details the impact of the Civil War in Georgia and its influence in the United States’ most tragic conflict. The book is published by UGA Press and includes a forward from University of Georgia former athletic director and football coach, Vince Dooley.

Elwell, a former program coordinator and administrator for the Georgia Civil War Commission, retired command historian for the Georgia Army National Guard and current historian for the Georgia State Defense Force, penned the book with Barry Brown, a heritage tourism specialist for the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

The two will be signing copies of the book at Yawns Book Store in historic downtown Canton on Dec. 16 from 5-7 p.m.

Based on a comprehensive survey of sites identified by the Georgia Civil War Commission in 2000, “Crossroads of Conflict” covers 350 historic sites in detail, bringing the experience of the Civil War to life. The full-color edition is an updated and significantly expanded version of the guide originally released by the state in 1994.

“We greatly expanded the original version,” said Elwell. “We added historical context and a lot of photos and renderings including rare images we were able to find from The University of Georgia’s Hargrett Rare Book Library and Atlanta History Center. We really focused on images that were one-of-a-kind.”

The book is arranged geographically, separating the state into nine distinct regions. Beginning in northeast Georgia, sites are followed west to east, north to south. Detailed maps of each region are supplemented by inset maps of urban areas. For each site, the guide provides a detailed history, driving directions, online resources and GPS coordinates.

Elwell’s love of Civil War History began at young age. While just 11 years old, Elwell who lived in Orlando, Fla. had a deep desire to visit the Cyclorama in Atlanta, a panoramic painting of the Battle of Atlanta that was fought on July 22, 1864. Although his parents did not have the time to plan a family trip, his dad did put him on a bus to Atlanta by himself so that he could visit the Cyclorama.

“You’ve got to understand, it was a different time and place,” said Elwell. “This was the early 1950s. My dad paid the bus drive and told him when we got to Atlanta to get me a cab to the Cyclorama. It was a 14-hour bus drive with all of our stops. When I got to Atlanta, I spent three hours at the Cyclorama and then got back on the bus for a 14-hour ride back.”

Elwell said that the three hours spent viewing the Civil War painting was the spark that turned into a flame and the rest as they say is history.

Elwell moved to Soleil Laurel Canyon in June 2007. Far from the traditional active adult community, Soleil Laurel Canyon includes activities and clubs for every lifestyle. With a clubhouse that is equipped with a full-time, on-site lifestyle director who helps coordinate the community’s more than 50 social clubs, there is always an activity that meets the needs of the residents.

Nestled in Soleil Laurel Canyon’s expansive property are walking trails, bocce ball courts, six lighted clay tennis courts, a greenhouse and horticulture center and an outdoor amphitheatre. Soleil Laurel Canyon’s 50 social clubs which are organized by the residents, include three cooking clubs, a singing group, a garden club, quilting society and many more.

Rebecca Miller Pringle on Tour for "She's Not My Mother-In-Law: She's My Husband's Mother"

2010-10-05T23:00:00.000-04:00

Author Rebecca Miller Pringle presents an eye-opening look into the trials of building a solid life together

"She's not my mother-in-law: She's my husband's mother” presents the reader with a comprehensive picture of what one could expect after the vows are recited, the honeymoon is over, and trying to settle into a blended family becomes a much more difficult prospect than one could ever have imagined.

Anyone who’s ever been married is more than familiar with the stresses that can accompany a fresh set of in-laws. From lies to jealousy to disrespect- and even seasoned married couples- are often confronted with the ongoing drama of having to earn the acceptance of a loved one’s family members.

And sometimes, there is little to nothing anyone can do to change their minds…

We grew up with them (Our Moms) and sometimes we expect our wives to bond with them as if by magic or osmosis or some other cosmic process. Rebecca Miller Pringle spells it out in simple and understandable language, that yes, any guy can understand. So, when she has gotten on your last nerve for the very last time, get this book from Amazon and leave it for your guy just where he'll find it on his next visit to the throne. It's an easy read, not too long for his manly attention span and he will clearly get the message! “Sometimes we just don't get it”- Loring Jermain

Rebecca is the founder of Miller Mediators & Arbitrators. They provide individuals with assistance in resolving their legal disputes in and out of court. This new alternative method of dispute resolution is court approved, less expensive, and quicker than traditional law suits. Rebecca uses her legal background to address common tensions found in extended families with her new book.

Author's Upcoming Events

Fayette County Library-Aspiring Writers Night
9 October 2010 1-4pm
1821 Park Place Court, Fayetteville, GA

Fort McPherson PX-AAFES
13 October 2010 11am-2pm
Mini Mall-Bldg. 135
404-753-6258

Nubian Bookstore
29 October 2010 4-7pm
1000 Southlake Mall, Morrow, GA

Bell, Book & Candle
November-TBD
45 John Frank Ward Blvd
McDonough, GA
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New GA Publishing House Offers Traditional Book Publication

2010-09-29T09:28:00.000-04:00

In a day and age when self-publishing and digital print-on-demand are the options to which many authors feel they must resort, a new publishing house in Georgia holds the line on traditional publication methods. Presswork Publications of Toccoa released its first book in June of this year. Alexandra: A Williams Family Journal traces the historic journey of two Mennonite teenagers forced to run their family farm and take care of their younger siblings when their parents pass away.

Alexandra is just the first of several books already set for release by Presswork in a variety of genres. Drummer Danny, a fictional children's tale of a Southern drummer boy interspersed with educational teaching points about The War Between the States, will hit the shelves in September. Next will be Sautee Shadows, the carefully researched first novel in of the romantic Georgia Gold trilogy set in Clarkesville and Savannah during the mid-1800s, quickly followed by a modern series of children's books enlivening farm animals, written by eco-friendly Barb Bolen.

While the first two books have Christian overtones, the Georgia Gold trilogy, while inspirational, is a mainstream release, as the Bolen series will be. According to Presswork founder and publisher Jessica Handwork, the manuscript selection process is determined by niche marketing.

Handwork, who owns Aisling Bookstore in Toccoa, registered Presswork Publications as an American publisher more than two years ago. She was not sure at that time when she'd get Presswork rolling, but after Stephanie Ayers brought her the Alexandra manuscript in summer of 2009, Handwork couldn't put it out of her mind. "I decided I needed to focus on publishing," she says. "Aisling Group is our overarching company. Now I'm seeing things from two views, which a normal publisher wouldn't, because of our bookstore. I'm able to ask myself, 'what causes me to buy a book?'" That in turn leads to informed publishing and marketing decisions.

Presswork is already staffed with an acquisitions editor and a substantive/layout editor. Substantive editor Denise Weimer says of the company, "Both Jessica and I feel that while self-publishing and print-on-demand are viable options for many authors, there are sometimes drawbacks or pitfalls involved. Some publishers out there do not offer full support for their clients. We want to create a company where writers can feel confident that if their material is selected for publication, their publishing process will be respectful, traditional, and comprehensive."

Presswork offers authors book signing tours, national print and electronic publicity campaigns, and social media promotion including Facebook, LinkedIn, Scribd, and Twitter. Booksellers may purchase Presswork releases wholesale through Ingram and Baker & Taylor. Books are also available on Amazon.com and at Presswork's web site at www.pressworkpublications.com.
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Ben Halpert Goes Old School to Keep Kids Safe Online with New Book: The Savvy Cyber Kids at Home: The Family Gets a Computer

2010-09-24T09:31:00.000-04:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Teaching children online safety begins long before kids create their first Facebook page and Ben Halpert has written a new book to bring that message home. On October 1, 2010, in conjunction with National Cyber Security Awareness Month, Savvy Cyber Kids, Inc., an Atlanta based 501c3, will release its first book for young children, The Savvy Cyber Kids At Home: The Family Gets A Computer. Using traditional early childhood education tools, parents have a new means to keep their children safe online.

Ben Halpert is no stranger to the dangers of the Internet and the anonymity it provides for those who mean harm to children. Ben spends his days as an information security practitioner for a Fortune 500 company and his nights as a champion for children in cyberspace. Seeing a void in online safety for children before they begin K-12, Ben created Savvy Cyber Kids in 2007. The organization teaches kids safety before they go online.

"Technology has become so ingrained in our lives that we entertain our children with a video or an interactive game on a mobile phone. When something becomes so familiar, it carries the false belief that it must be safe," states Ben Halpert, Founder of Savvy Cyber Kids and author of The Savvy Cyber Kids At Home: The Family Gets A Computer. "A child's immersion in today's virtual world must be accompanied by a parent, teacher, or other adult caregiver's good advice. Savvy Cyber Kids creates the tools to enable that conversation."

Savvy Cyber Kids, Inc. and others know we need to reach kids when they are young enough to listen, regardless of economic background. Organizations including the Girl Scouts of America, Web Wise Kids, the Simple Abundance Charitable Trust, the Internet Security Alliance, (ISC)2 and the National Cyber Security Alliance are giving advance praise to the book and the organization.

The Savvy Cyber Kids At Home: The Family Gets A Computer , written by Ben Halpert and illustrated by Taylor Southerland is available online at Amazon.com and through bookstores nationwide for $21.99 on October 1, 2010.

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The Morris Museum of Art Announces the Winners of The 2010 Porter Fleming Literary Competition

2010-09-18T07:18:00.000-04:00

The Morris Museum of Art has announced ten winners of the 2010 Porter Fleming Literary Competition, an important regional contest that recognizes talented amateur and professional writers who reside in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. This year, more than three hundred entries in four categories—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and playwriting—were submitted.

This competition, funded by the Porter Fleming Foundation and administered by the Trustees of the Academy of Richmond County, was established in 1993. The Porter Fleming Foundation was established by Berry Fleming in 1963 as a memorial to his father, Porter Fleming, a prominent Augustan and one of the city’s leading philanthropists.

“The Trustees of the Academy of Richmond County are honored to have sponsored the literary competition since its founding by Augusta author and artist Berry Fleming,” said Cobbs Nixon, a Trustee of the Academy of Richmond County. “Our hope is that this competition will foster more great writers within our city, state, and region.”

“We are, of course, very pleased to be associated in this important endeavor with our friends at the Porter Fleming Foundation,” said Kevin Grogan, director of the Morris Museum of Art. “The region’s literature is an unusually rich component of the culture of the South. It offers us another means of achieving understanding of the region and its people, just as the visual arts, music, and dance do.”

This year’s winners will be honored at an Awards Ceremony Saturday, September 25, at 5:00 p.m. in the auditorium of the Morris Museum of Art. It is a highlight of Augusta’s annual Westobou Festival, a celebration of the arts held from September 16 through 25. All winners are invited to participate in a special literary program during the Awards Ceremony in The Morris Museum of Art Auditorium.

Fiction:

National Judge John Bridges, Author and Award-Winning Columnist and Editor

First Place ($1,000) Tom Turner, Augusta, GA – “Burnt Sugar”
Second Place ($500) Gary Carden, Sylva, NC – “Arsenic and Quince”
Third Place ($250) Paul Byall, Savannah, GA – “You Are In My Power”

Non-Fiction:

National Judge John Winters, Award-Winning Author, Columnist and Editor
First Place ($1,000) Bonnie Arndt, Jacksonville, FL – “Rhubarb”
Second Place ($500) Elizabeth Estes, Lincolnton, GA – “Becoming a Pragmatist”
No Third Place Winner

Poetry:

National Judge Dr. James Smith, Associate Professor, the Department of Languages, Literature, and Philosophy, Armstrong Atlantic State University, Associate Editor of The Southern Poetry Review.

First Place ($1,000) Barbara G. S. Hagerty, Charleston, South Carolina,
“The Swimmer”
Second Place ($500) Mary Alice Sharpe, Anderson, South Carolina
“The Mailman (retired) and I
No Third Place Winner

Playwriting:

National Judge Allan Gurganus, Award-Winning Author, Playwright and Teacher

First Place ($1,000) Richard Davis, Augusta, Georgia
“Sounds of the Sea in Her Little Shell Ear”
Second Place ($500) Peter DuPuis, Charleston, South Carolina
“Hail Mary”
Third Place ($250) Jonathan Cook, Martinez, Georgia
“Close to Home”

Who's Going to Get Us Out of This Mess: First Girl President Mary America!

2010-08-26T22:10:00.000-04:00

She’s an Orphan. She’s Smart. She’s the Leader of the Free World. And she’s 12. Meet Mary America, the first girl president of the United States. “She’s ready to serve and show us all a different perspective,” says award-winning author Carole Marsh about her newest character.

Go along on the first exciting adventure of MARY AMERICA: First Girl President of the United States as the chapters of Marsh’s newest children’s book unfold. An orphan, Mary America becomes the president at age 12, through a fluke in the law and a high IQ. You’ll also meet her grandfather, First Gramps, her pesky little brother, Josh, her Aunt Doo-Dah and her baby cousin, Prissy, among other interesting characters.

“This seemed like the perfect time for a book that helps children understand what a big job it is being president, while being entertained by how somebody their age would handle the job. I’m also passionate about subject matter that helps children dream big dreams,” Marsh adds. Each book includes great educational content for children 7 to 12 about the presidency, White House, how government works, diplomacy and much more, as well as teaching children about character traits such as integrity, dependability, responsibility, creativity, trust and friendship

As with all of Marsh’s children’s fiction titles, MARY AMERICA: First Girl President of the United States will have an assigned Accelerated Reader level, Lexile measure, Fountas & Pinnell level, and a DRA level – always important for parents and teachers.

Best-selling author Carole Marsh is CEO of Gallopade International. Her award-winning Carole Marsh Mysteries series is now 78 titles strong and her latest non-fiction series, The Student’s Civil War, is garnering great reviews. Gallopade International products have won many awards, including Learning Magazine’s Teacher’s Choice award and the iParenting Award for Greatest Products. For more information, go to www.gallopade.com or call 800-536-2438.

“Saying What You Must:” Free Poetry Workshop at Fayette County Public Library

2010-08-26T22:07:00.000-04:00

Starting Monday, September 13 at 7:00 p.m.

The Fayette County Public Library invites adults and high school students to participate in a free four-week poetry writing workshop titled “Saying What You Must.” The course takes place at the library on four consecutive Monday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., starting on Monday, September 13 and running through Monday, October 4. The workshop is free and open to the public, but space in the class is limited, so advance enrollment is strongly encouraged. Please call the library at 770-461-8841 or sign up in person by Tuesday, September 7.

The workshop includes study of the work of several contemporary poets, including Mary Oliver, Elizabeth Bishop, Ted Kooser, William Carlos Williams, James Wright, Czeslaw Milosz, Robert Bly, Anne Sexton, Lucille Clifton, William Stafford, Raymond Carver, Maxine Kumin, and Wendell Berry, among others. Participants in the course will explore the basic elements and devices that poetry employs. But mostly they will write—both in and out of class—and share new writing with one another in a supportive atmosphere.

“Saying What You Must” is facilitated by Sara DeLuca, a Fayette County resident who has led several poetry and memoir workshops in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Georgia over the past 15 years. Ms. DeLuca’s poetry has been featured in numerous literary journals, including Emory University’s “Lullwater Review.” Her poetry collection, “Songs From an Inland Sea,” was published by Acorn Whistle Press in 1998. She is also the author of a girlhood memoir, “Dancing the Cows Home,” published by Minnesota Historical Society Press. This story has been adapted for the stage, and produced by theatres in Wisconsin and Minnesota. It is scheduled for production by West Georgia Children’s Theatre in Hogansville next summer.

Suggested reading for participants in “Saying What You Must” includes two well-known poetry texts: “A Poetry Handbook” by Mary Oliver, and “How To Read A Poem and Fall In Love With Poetry” by Edward Hirsch. Copies of both books are available for checkout at the Fayette County Public Library.

The Fayette County Public Library is located behind the Fayette County administrative complex in downtown Fayetteville, at the southwest corner of Highways 85 and 54. For additional information, please contact the library at 770-461-8841.

Whit Gibbons: Book Recounts Efforts to Protect Jekyll

2010-08-23T22:44:00.000-04:00

Author Babs McDonald

Any book that begins with the words "I love public land" and is dedicated to "the thousands of citizens who have consistently and persistently opposed... commercial, timeshare, and condominium development" on a coastal island should appeal to many people. The dedication goes on to acknowledge those "who work for the establishment, protection, and preservation of public lands everywhere." Although this book is about the commercial and political forces that threaten Jekyll Island State Park, Ga., the principles should resonate anywhere powerful individuals and corporations decide that personal profits should outweigh the preferences of the general public.

"Remember Jekyll Island" (2010, Langdon Street Press, Minneapolis, $14.95) by Babs McDonald gives an inside view of the history of what she refers to as "inappropriate planning" by the Jekyll Island Authority. The authority was created to oversee conservation, development, and management of the island. Yet some citizens became actively involved in thwarting development of the island as proposed by the authority because they thought the plan would reduce public access to the magnificent coastal habitats. A primary threat was an increase in private development and restricted-access housing areas. Jekyll Island State Park is currently open to the public and belongs to all the people; the idea of private development was viewed by some as unacceptable.

I feel certain that a book written by the Jekyll Island Authority about their process of decision making, planning, and management would offer explanations for the authority's actions. And such a book might be appropriate, because in McDonald's opinion the members of the authority have "got some 'splainin' to do." For example, she states that the way the authority appears "to discount public opinion, deflect public scrutiny, and act with impunity may be related to its accountability to Georgia's governor."

One helpful feature of the book is the chapter titled "What You Can Do." If you don't like the way a publically owned area such as a national or state park is being treated, you can take action. Some of the suggestions are geared to Jekyll Island but they have generic applicability and would work in many different situations. For example, set up a website and let people join your effort. Give away free bumper stickers ("Save ..."). One suggestion that I am always in favor of is to contact your local newspaper or any others whose readers are interested in the ecological issue.

South Beach, Jekyll Island

And let us not forget elected officials, who often have great influence. They seem to be more attuned to the public interest when they realize that their actions are under scrutiny.

"Remember Jekyll Island" details efforts to protect a specific place. But it has general applicability to any place where public habitats and natural environments are vulnerable to political maneuvering and self-serving justification by people with an eye on personal profit.

The writings of Gifford Pinchot in 1910 express the environmental spirit that many people, probably a majority, would like to achieve. Pinchot, the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service, is quoted in McDonald's book: "I stand for the [Teddy] Roosevelt policies because they set the common good of all of us above the private gain of some of us." In other words, a state park that thousands of people a year can enjoy is of greater value to the nation than a developed enclave accessible by only a privileged few.

Who's right and who's wrong in contests to decide how land is used sometimes depends on whom you talk to and how articulate they are in making a case for their side. At this juncture in the development prospects for Jekyll Island, it would appear that a few developers and possibly some politicians could get rich by limiting access to a state park that is currently open to the public.

Perhaps the black-hat players described in the book could justify their actions if they told their side of the story. Or perhaps Dr. McDonald's assessment is right on target and no justification is possible.

Send environmental questions to ecoviews@gmail.com. Whit Gibbons is an ecologist and environmental educator with the University of Georgia's Savannah River Ecology Laboratory.
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You: A Writing Contest Winner?

2010-08-23T13:42:00.000-04:00

(NAPSI)-If you've ever thought about becoming an author or professional illustrator, a new contest could be good news for you.

More than 600 novels have been published by the winners and over $30,000 in prizes awarded annually through the Writers of the Future contest. The most successful contest for aspiring writers to have a chance for their creative efforts to be seen and acknowledged, it has the highest success rate in launching careers of any writing competition.

The contest was started by L. Ron Hubbard, himself one of the most successful writers of the Golden Age, and other famous science fiction authors have praised it.

What Authors Say

For example, Neil Gaiman, author of dozens of books, including "Coraline," said, "Writers of the Future has a record of nurturing and discovering writers who have gone on to make their mark in the science fiction field. Long may it continue." While Orson Scott Card, who pens the "Enders" series, among many others, said of the contest, "It's what keeps sci-fi alive."

What Winners Get

Winners receive trophies and cash prizes. They also get to attend a weeklong workshop taught by contest judges-including New York Times best-selling authors Kevin J. Anderson ("Dune" series) and Sean Williams ("The Resurrected Man") and internationally acclaimed artist Stephen Hickman, each one an experienced professional in the field-providing sound advice based on hard-won experience.

About Writing

As for how to write the story, here's some advice that Hubbard himself gave an interviewer at the time of the first contest:

"There are some activities that are simply so much fun that one can't give them up. Writing is that for me. I love every opportunity to write.

"Many young writers are told to write in order to learn how to write. That is good advice. I used to find any excuse to write because I loved to do it. If I didn't have a typewriter, I wrote in longhand.

"I chose science fiction because there is great versatility in this genre. A writer must pick his medium as carefully as a painter must pick his brush and colors."

According to Joni Labaqui, contest director, there are no entry fees. All the judges see is a number assigned to a submission.

Where To Learn More

To enjoy fine sci-fi and to get an idea of the type of work that wins, you can read previous collections, available online and at bookstores. For more information, go to www.writersofthefuture.com or call (323) 466-3310.

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UWG Professor Wins Poetry Award

2010-06-21T13:30:00.000-04:00

Dr. Greg Fraser, a UWG associate professor of English and creative writing, recently received the 46th Georgia Author of the Year Award for Poetry. The award honored Fraser’s book, Answering the Ruins.

The award, sponsored by the Georgia Writers Association, was one of many honoring a variety of Georgia authors for categories ranging from poetry to prose.

The association held a ceremony at the Kennesaw State University Center that was attended by almost 200 people. Steve Goss, the host of Morning Edition for Public Broadcasting (WABE 90.1 in Atlanta), hosted this year’s ceremony.

The author award was not the first time Fraser has been honored.

Fraser’s first book of poetry Strange Pietà (2003) won the Walt McDonald Poetry Prize and was a finalist for the Walt Whitman Award.

Fraser is a recipient of a grant from National Endowment for the Arts and the Houston Arts Council.

Fraser has also written a book with fellow UWG professor Dr. Chad Davidson, Writing Poetry: Creative and Critical Approaches.
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What if Little Red Riding Hood carried an axe, and wasn’t afraid to use it?

2010-06-15T08:17:00.002-04:00

Sisters Red
By Jackson Pearce

“This well-written, high-action adventure grabs readers and never lets go.” - School Library Journal, starred review

Young adult author Jackson Pearce gives readers a thrilling modern-day twist on the classic Grimm Brothers’ tale with her new novel Sisters Red. Scarlett and Rosie March have spent most of their lives hunting the Fenris, the race of werewolves that transform from handsome men into relentless killers. Ever since a Fenris killed their grandmother and took Scarlett’s eye in a brutal attack years ago, the sisters have honed their skills in fighting back. Donning blood-red cloaks and wielding sharp blades and hatchets, they lure out and kill the Fenris to protect other young girls from a grisly fate.

When the Fenris begin mysteriously growing their ranks and a rash of murders shakes Atlanta, the sisters move to the city in search of answers. While there, Rosie finds herself drawn to Silas, the sisters’ childhood friend who has returned to help them hunt. But as he and Rosie grow closer, their bond threatens to drive the sisters apart, potentially destroying all they’ve worked for.

An empowering story filled with heart-pounding action, fierce sisterly love, and a romance that will leave readers breathless, Sisters Red is not to be missed.

Jackson Pearce is a graduate of the University of Georgia and is now a full-time writer. At twenty-six years old, Sisters Red is already her second published novel. Jackson currently lives in Atlanta and you can visit her online at www.jacksonpearce.com.

Author Papa Moon Book Signing Event

2010-06-13T19:02:00.002-04:00

WHEN: 6-19-10
TIME: 11 a.m.
WHERE: Books-A-Million, The Avenue at Peachtree City, Peachtree City, GA 30269
WHAT: Papa Moon, a resident of Newnan, GA, will be available to sign copies of his Children's book, My Window.

It's difficult to watch the world pass you by on a day when you can't go out to play. If you've ever had to watch your friends play without you, you will be able to identify with the little girl in My Window when you find out why she can't go out to play on this particular day.

Porter Fleming Literary Competition

2010-06-11T09:47:00.000-04:00

Submission Deadline: July 31

The 2010 Porter Fleming Literary Competition, now in its seventeenth year, recognizes the outstanding work of writers of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and plays who reside in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, and North Carolina. All are invited to enter. The deadline for submissions is July 31, 2010. Entry forms and guidelines can be found on www.themorris.org/porterfleming.html

“The Trustees of the Academy of Richmond County are honored to have sponsored the literary competition since its founding by Augusta author and artist Berry Fleming,” said Cobbs Nixon, a Trustee of the Academy of Richmond County. “Our hope is that this competition will foster more great writers within our city, state, and region.”

“We are, of course, very pleased to be associated in this important endeavor with our friends at the Porter Fleming Foundation,” said Kevin Grogan, director of the Morris Museum of Art. “The region’s literature is an unusually rich component of the culture of the South. It offers us another means of achieving understanding of the region and its people, just as the visual arts, music, and dance do.”

The writing competition is held in memory of Porter Fleming, a prominent citizen of Augusta, Georgia. In 1963, Porter Fleming’s son, Berry Fleming, who had himself achieved renown as a writer, artist, and philanthropist, established a charitable foundation in honor of his father. To this day, the Porter Fleming Foundation contributes to the educational, literary, artistic, scientific, historical, musical, and cultural enrichment of the lives of the residents of the City of Augusta and the geographical area immediately adjacent to it in Georgia and South Carolina. The literary competition is administered by the Morris Museum of Art, the first museum in the country devoted to the art and artists of the American South, with the financial support of the Porter Fleming Foundation.

Porter Fleming Literary Competition winners receive cash awards. The awards will be presented during a special literary ceremony which will be held on Saturday, September 25, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Morris Museum of Art auditorium. The event takes place during the Westobou Festival, an annual celebration of the Arts in Augusta, Georgia.

The Morris Museum of Art was founded in 1985 and opened to the public in 1992. It is the oldest museum in the country that is devoted to the art and artists of the American South. The museum’s permanent collection of nearly five thousand works of art spans more than two hundred years, from the late-eighteenth century to the present. The Morris is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., and on Sunday, noon–5:00 p.m. For more information about the Morris Museum of Art, visit www.themorris.org or call 706-724-7501.

"The Carnegie Literary Circle" Chooses its First Book (Coweta)

2010-05-06T11:26:00.000-04:00

The newly formed Carnegie Literary Circle has chosen its first book. “The Glass Castle – A Memoir” by Jeanette Walls chronicles her upbringing at the hands of eccentric, nomadic parents--Rose Mary, her frustrated-artist mother, and Rex, her brilliant, alcoholic father. Book club members receive a discount at Scott’s Book Store in downtown Newnan. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 24th at 10:30 a.m.

“We had a wonderful response for the planning meeting” said Carnegie Media Coordinator Amy Mapel. “A book will be chosen each month by one of the members on a rotating basis”. “It’s not too late to join”!

Please call 770-683-1347 to sign up.

About the Carnegie

Newly restored by the City of Newnan, the Carnegie has brought back library type services in the downtown area. The bottom floor of the building serves as a reading room and the second floor as a meeting space. Among its many offerings, the Carnegie brings popular magazines and newspapers, computer workstations and Wi-Fi access, a gallery for local exhibits, meeting rooms with warming kitchen and programs for adults and children. The Carnegie will serve the public with a non-circulating reading room, children’s area, and an art gallery. It seeks to be an integral part of the community by offering print and electronic materials.

The Carnegie was funded by the General Fund and partly by 2007 Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). The Carnegie’s cost to be renovated was over $1.5 million dollars to the city.

For more information on the Carnegie, please visit www.newnancarnegie.com or email amapel@cityofnewnan.org
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Third Annual Writers Conference in the Historic Village at Indian Springs‏ April 23-24

2010-04-14T09:18:00.000-04:00

Award-winning authors join aspiring writers in the charming Village at Indian Springs in Middle Georgia to share the secrets of how books get made. Writer Dr. Anne B. Jones has planned an exciting program that includes professional writers, editors, and publishers. Small, intimate sessions mean more time to rub elbows with the speakers: Dale Cramer, Rosemary Daniell, Louise Staman, Dr. Anne B. Jones, Peter Bowerman, Beverly Browning, Jackie Lee Miles, William Rawlings, Jr., Patricia Sprinkle, Jackie Cooper.

It's all about passing along the stories of how these professionals got published; what they learned along the way; what helped them break into the business; and what pitfalls lie ahead for any writer in today's economy. Sessions include discussions on doing research; choosing your words carefully; writing memoirs; marketing and promoting your book once it is published; landing more lucrative freelance writing assignments; what the life of a writer is really like; what makes a book a thriller; writing the mystery; how to stay motivated and complete your manuscript; how to solve a murder; using your writing to heal your own life; turning your own life into a great book; writing the inspirational novel; and knowing what a publisher wants. Professional editors, designers, and publishers will be on hand to weigh the idea of self-publishing against traditional publishing. A full schedule can be viewed at www.thevillageatindiansprings.com/gallery. Conference registration starts at 2:00 pm Friday afternoon.

The two-day seminar is offered at a special reduced price of $100 this year and includes access to all seminars, book signing events, and meals. Space is limited to make the interaction more personal. Call Phase One / Generations Gallery to register by phone at 1-800-352-7212. or mail your check to Generations Gallery, attn: Writers Conference,1825 Hwy 42 South, Flovilla GA 30216. MasterCard, Visa, Discover accepted.

Charming cottages are available in The Village at reduced rates for conference attendees. Call 770-775-5350 to register at The Big Chief Country Store. Additional accommodations are available inside Indian Springs State Park at www.gastateparks.org/info/indspr or in nearby Jackson GA. Rooms are available at special reduced rate for the writers conference at Plantation Inn & Suites at www.plantationinnjackson.com

EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

An OPEN MIC Event will be hosted by Generation Gallery Writers Group on Friday evening. Reception starts at 5:00 pm and is open to the public as well as seminar attendees. You are invited to read from your latest work. Call 1-800-352-7212 to register. The informal, cozy setting at the gallery is an ideal format to receive feedback from a supportive audience.

GENERATIONS GALLERY hosts a free on-going writer’s workshop every Saturday from 1-4 pm. Art classes and free workshops in an open studio environment makes this resort gallery/gift shop a favorite destination for year-round fun. See the website for details or call 1-800-352-7212 for more information. Nearby activities include Indian Springs State Park, the 100 acre lake with swimming, boating, and fishing, Dauset Trails' free wildlife exhibits, RV and cabins, hiking and bike trails, kayak rentals and the Museum and Garden Tours. Bring the family and plan to stay for a weekend of fun while you learn about writing. Writing Group Moderator, Patsy Clark, can be reached through the gallery at 770-775-7916 on weekends. Hours: Friday 10 am -5 pm; Saturday 10am -5 pm, all other days by appointment only. Generations Gallery Staff can be reached by phone anytime at 770-227-4002 through Phase One Design Services Inc, 282 Fox Rd., Griffin GA 30224.

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Local Poet Speaks from the Heart

2010-04-11T09:59:00.000-04:00

In his first book of poetry, The Heart Of The Poet, Lawrence (Larry) B. Jones, a Jackson resident, lays bare some very familiar truths that we all feel, but perhaps unconsciously, choose to deny - often for a lifetime. This ordinary man, now retired from a career in business management, asks us to step out of character...to listen to his words with our hearts ...to find what rings true for every man. He doesn't use fancy words, or write poems that are too hard to follow. He makes sense - balancing honest, everyday words into thought provoking poetry. His look at life is refreshingly simple, yet profound.

His book has just recently been published and is available exclusively at GENERATIONS GALLERY in The Village at Indian Springs, Flovilla. Larry started coming to the writers' group meetings, led by Patsy Clark, on Saturday afternoons at the Gallery about a year ago. "Poetry was something new for me," explains Larry, " and while we work together on many styles in the group, and I read from the other books I am writing, there was encouragement from the others to try my hand at poetry. I am glad I did."

Lawrence Jones is a published writer and photographer, who was born in Newport News, Virginia in 1938. He attended Old Dominion University, in Norfolk, Virginia. In 1966, he trained at the University of New Mexico for VISTA and served as a Volunteer in Service to America in Arizona until 1968. He received a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the State University of New York in Saratoga Springs in 1990. Well traveled in the United States, his first collection of poetry is primarily based on his life experiences.

The gallery encourages local artists and writers and sponsors the ANNUAL WRITERS CONFERENCE on April 23-24th, bringing professional writers to Butts County to speak on a variety of subjects: how to improve writing skills; writing your life story; how to get published; how to finish your manuscripts and more. A full description of the sessions is available at www.theVillageatIndianSprings.com/gallery or you may call 1-800-352-7212 for more information.

If you want to publish your work, contact the gallery at 770-775-7916. The gallery is open on weekends, Friday and Saturday from 10:00-am - 5:00 pm or by appointment. The Heart of a Poet by Lawrence B. Jones is published by GENERATIONS GALLERY / Phase One Design Services, and is available for $18.95.

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Authors Dianna Love and Mary Buckham Present Free Workshop for Aspiring Fiction Writer

2010-03-31T23:25:00.000-04:00

Fayette County Public Library on Tuesday, April 13 at 7:00 p.m.
Award winning author Mary Buckham and New York Times best-selling author Dianna Love visit the Fayette County Public Library on Tuesday, April 13 to present a free workshop for aspiring fiction writers. The two-hour program begins at 7:00 p.m. in the library meeting room.

What makes a great story? Why do some stories fall apart before they get started? Once you have a manuscript that is ready to go, what’s the next step? How has publishing changed in the past year? Mary Buckham and Dianna Love will answer these questions and many more, plus share a sample worksheet from their new book, “Break Into Fiction,” based on their successful national writing workshops. Copies of “Break Into Fiction” will be available for purchase at the event, with proceeds benefiting the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library. The event is free and open to the public.

Dianna Love lives in Peachtree City. Her first book, “Worth Every Risk,” published under the name Dianna Love Snell, won ten awards including the prestigious RITA Award. Her second release was “Phantom in the Night,” a romantic thriller she co-wrote with best-selling author Sherrilyn Kenyon as part of the ongoing Bureau of American Defense (BAD) Agency stories. Love’s partnership with Kenyon continues, with two more novels and an upcoming novella so far in the BAD Agency series.

Mary Buckham lives in the state of Washington. Her novels of romantic suspense include “Invisible Recruit” and “The Makeover Mission.” Prior to getting her fiction published, Buckham enjoyed a successful career as an editor and a freelance writer of nonfiction.

The Fayette County Public Library is located behind the Fayette County administrative complex in downtown Fayetteville, at the southwest corner of Highways #85 and #54. For additional information, please contact the library at 770-461-8841.
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Jackie Gingrich Cushman Nominated for Georgia Author of the Year Award

2010-03-04T12:10:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Author, columnist, speaker and founder of the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation, Jackie Gingrich Cushman has been nominated for a Georgia Writer's Association (GWA) Georgia Author of the Year Award for her book, 5 Principles for a Successful Life: From Our Family to Yours, which she co-authored in 2009 with her father, former Speaker Newt Gingrich.

The book has been nominated in the Creative Non-Fiction category, and the winner is set to be announced in June at the GAYA ceremony.

"As a longtime resident of Georgia, it's an honor to be nominated by the Georgia Writer's Association this year for a book that has such importance to me and my family, and was inspired by the students in the Learn, Earn and Achieve program run by the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation," said Cushman. "5 Principles for a Successful Life can help every reader move closer to achieving their dreams, and I'm thrilled about the opportunity to share its message with fellow Georgians."

In 5 Principles for a Successful Life, Cushman and her father show how one can live life to the fullest by following just five principles: Dream Big, Work Hard, Learn Every Day, Enjoy Life and Be True to Yourself.

In addition to being an author, Jackie Gingrich Cushman is a nationally syndicated columnist for Creators Syndicate, writing a weekly column that focuses on current events and political issues from a mom's perspective, and is a sought-after public speaker represented by WorldWide Speakers Group. Cushman serves on The Georgia Advisory Council for the Trust for Public Land, the board of Genesis: A New Life, and the board of the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation. She has been a guest on the Mike Huckabee Show, Geraldo At Large, Fox and Friends, CNN and NPR.

The Georgia Writer's Association was founded in 1994, sponsoring conferences, seminars, and monthly writing workshops. GWA is currently housed in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Kennesaw State University in Kennesaw, GA.

GWA sponsors the annual Georgia Author of the Year Awards (GAYA), first given in 1964 by the Dixie Council of Authors and Journalists. Commercially and independently published authors from Georgia are eligible for nomination. Awards in a variety of categories are announced and presented at the GAYA ceremony.

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Poet Chad Davidson is the Next Author in the Clayton State Visiting Writers Reading Series

2010-03-02T20:41:00.001-05:00

On Thursday, Mar. 4 at 6:30 p.m., the spring 2010 Visiting Writers Reading Series at Clayton State University continues with poet Chad Davidson reading in room B14 of the Lecture Hall.

The Visiting Writers Reading Series is sponsored by the Clayton State Department of English under the direction of Assistant Professor of English Dr. Brigitte Byrd. Davidson’s reading is sponsored in part by the Georgia Writers Registry through a LEGG (Literary Event Grants of Georgia) grant, and is free and open to the public.

An associate professor of literature and creative writing at the University of West Georgia, Davidson is the author of The Last Predicta (2008) and Consolation Miracle (2003). Both published by Southern Illinois University Press. He is the co-author, with Gregory Fraser, of Writing Poetry: Creative and Critical Approaches (Palgrave Macmillan, 2009).

Prior to his reading on Mar. 4, Davidson will visit Byrd’s Advanced Poetry Writing class at 5 p.m.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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Poet Chad Davidson is the Next Author in the Clayton State Visiting Writers Reading Series

2010-02-23T13:58:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, Mar. 4 at 6:30 p.m., the spring 2010 Visiting Writers Reading Series at Clayton State University continues with poet Chad Davidson reading in room B14 of the Lecture Hall.

The Visiting Writers Reading Series is sponsored by the Clayton State Department of English under the direction of Assistant Professor of English Dr. Brigitte Byrd. Davidson’s reading is sponsored in part by the Georgia Writers Registry through a LEGG (Literary Event Grants of Georgia) grant, and is free and open to the public.

An associate professor of literature and creative writing at the University of West Georgia, Davidson is the author of The Last Predicta (2008) and Consolation Miracle (2003). Both published by Southern Illinois University Press. He is the co-author, with Gregory Fraser, of Writing Poetry: Creative and Critical Approaches (Palgrave Macmillan, 2009).

Prior to his reading on Mar. 4, Davidson will visit Byrd’s Advanced Poetry Writing class at 5 p.m.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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They’re “Stealing Dixie” at Clayton State Tomorrow Night

2010-02-17T20:25:00.000-05:00

Clayton State Theatre Director Phillip DePoy invites theatre and Civil War enthusiasts to the first-ever professional reading of “Stealing Dixie,” his latest commission from Marietta’s Theatre in the Square, at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 18 in the Clayton State Theatre (room G132 of the Arts & Sciences Building). This event is free and open to the public.

Professional actors - including DePoy’s brother Scott DePoy - and Clayton State senior theatre majors Kalani Fraser and David Henry, will read from the “Stealing Dixie” script. Following the reading, the audience will have the chance to critique the work.

“This is a rare opportunity to see a play in its formative stages before it goes into production,” shares DePoy.

Based on a true Civil War event, the action behind “Stealing Dixie” follows the ill-fated Union men lead by civilian James Andrews as they plan and execute the theft of the Confederate train The General in an effort to end the Civil War without violence. As history records, The General’s Confederate engineer pursued them (at times on foot) until their capture. Given that the men boarded the train in Marietta, it seems fitting that should there be a play written about the event, and that it should be performed where the fateful ride began.

According to DePoy, “Stealing Dixie” uses a two act format to offer “two terrific, conflicting points of view” of one of history’s most notable dichotomies: Act one: the Union; Act two: the Confederacy.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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Clayton State University's Hollowell Publishes 'The Forgotten Room': Legislation Introduced to Protect Children from Misuse of Seclusion

2009-12-10T14:16:00.000-05:00

/PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Mary Hollowell, an associate professor of Teacher Education at Clayton State University, recently published "The Forgotten Room," a book covering an ethnographic case study of a public alternative school which highlights solitary confinement.

"I've tried to write the kind of education book that I've always liked to read -- a chronology of a school year from start to finish that sucks you in, sweeps you along, and spits you out," explains Hollowell. "'The Forgotten Room' is a unique and somber story of students on parole, and it reveals what happens to them and their hardworking teachers when they are put in crumbling school buildings and overcrowded conditions. It's dark and gritty. I saw students threaten and assault teachers. We had lockdowns, SWAT team visits, gang fighting, drug dealing, and students on rampages, but we also had oases of peace in the classrooms of exemplary teachers."

During her study of this school she discovered the "forgotten room" used for solitary confinement. She noted and photographed the graffiti written in blood covering the walls of this room.

"I have been an advocate against 'school seclusion,' as it is called, ever since. Seclusion rooms are allowed in Georgia public schools provided they are big enough for children to lie down, have good visibility, and have locks that spring open in case of an emergency such as a fire. The small, dark solitary confinement cells that I have seen, though, are double-bolted on the outside and do not meet these criteria," Hollowell expresses. "This week I learned that U.S. Reps. George Miller (D-CA) and Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) will introduce new legislation to protect all children in schools from misuse of restraint and seclusion. If my book 'The Forgotten Room' can play any part in the process, I will be satisfied."

For her book Hollowell used her own black and white images to accompany the text. Each chapter opens with a provocative photo of the deteriorating facility or neighborhood. Her work is featured as the cover image as well.

The 2009 Laura Ingalls Wilder Award winner from the American Library Association for lifetime contributions to children's literature, Ashley Bryan, wrote the foreword for Hollowell's book.

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Give the Gift of Southern History this Holiday: West Georgia Novelist Explores the History of Racial Tensions in Forsyth County in 'Soul Purpose'

2009-12-04T16:29:00.000-05:00

Give the Gift of Southern History this Holiday Season: West Georgia Novelist Explores the History of Racial Tensions in Forsyth County in 'Soul Purpose'

/PRNewswire/ -- Soul Purpose, a historical fiction novel written by Dr. Kele Sewell, tells the story of the fiery racial discrimination of the 20th century in Forsyth County. The author weaves two stories throughout the book: life in Forsyth County during 1912, when all black residents were burned out of the city following the death of a white girl; and from 1965 to present day, showing a county that did not have a single black resident until years after civil rights leaders marched through, protesting the hatred that dominated for so long.

The narrative set in the early part of the century gives life to the story told in history books of Mae Crowe, a young white girl who was raped and murdered. Her father, the local district attorney, sentenced two black men to a public hanging for the crime. Race riots broke out, and eventually all black residents were forced to leave the county to sell their homes for a fraction of their value or they were burned down by the Klan.

The modern-day part of Soul Purpose focuses on the transformation of Kelly, a young white boy raised in Forsyth County whose adult influences were his father, who was an alcoholic and racist; his grandfather, a preacher who taught hate at home and from the pulpit; and his mother, who taught the importance of viewing individuals as equals--no matter the color of their skin. Kelly's life could have gone toward ignorance and hatred or toward understanding. Thanks to his mother's influence, he befriended a black psychiatrist and his son. Over time and through this friendship, Kelly is able to break the cycle of racism that plagued his family's history.

"I was raised in Forsyth County and my experience was very similar to that of Kelly, the lead character of the present day storyline," said Sewell. "I was racist because I didn't know any better. Racism was all around me, at church and at home. In my adult life I've learned how wrong I was. I struggled for years with the blind discrimination of my youth and came to the conclusion that I had to write this story to bring to light the pain that ignorance has and can cause."

Sewell's ground-breaking novel artfully blends fact and fiction to give the reader a greater understanding of racism spanning the last century. Its message is a significant, social commentary about the necessity of healing deep racial wounds, both real and imagined, to bring about change.

In honor of Hosea Williams' efforts to integrate Forsyth County in the 1980's, Sewell will donate a percentage of proceeds from Soul Purpose to the non-profit Hosea Williams Feed the Hungry organization.

Soul Purpose is available online at www.Amazon.com and www.BarnesandNoble.com and in Georgia retail outlets including Borders in Douglasville and Humpus Bumpus books in Forsyth County.

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Call for entries announced for SPJ’s annual Sigma Delta Chi Awards in journalism

2009-11-12T16:28:00.001-05:00

The Society of Professional Journalists is pleased to announce it is accepting entries for the Sigma Delta Chi Awards, a contest that recognizes the best in the journalism profession. The SDX Awards honor excellence in print, radio, television, newsletters, photography, online and research. The awards program dates back to 1932 when the Society first honored six individuals for contributions to journalism.

NEW THIS YEAR: Entrants can submit their work online. The new format allows journalists to enter their work easily and efficiently.

To be eligible for SDX Awards, work must have been published or broadcast during the 2009 calendar year. SPJ members may enter the SDX Awards for $60. The non-member fee is $100. Winners will be honored at the 2010 SPJ Convention & National Journalism Conference in Las Vegas Oct. 3-6. Contest rules and categories can be found here.

The entry deadline is Feb. 12, 2010. Visit the SPJ Awards site for more information and to enter.

Direct questions to Awards Coordinator Lauren Rochester at (317) 927-8000 ext. 210 or awards@spj.org.Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ promotes the free flow of information vital to a well-informed citizenry; works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists; and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press. For more information about SPJ, please visit www.spj.org.
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Teen Tackles Unusual "Job" - Writes Book Featuring Vanishing Towns of Rural Georgia

2009-11-07T20:37:00.001-05:00

While other teens hope for a high school job bagging groceries or working in a local retail outlet, Andy Kite has done something unusual. He spent his entire summer traveling to small towns in rural Georgia, interviewing long-time residents, and photographing each town's most interesting sites. Each trip began with a visit to the local public library, and research continued after returning home. This "job" produced the book, Vanishing Towns of Rural Georgia (2009 Andy Kite) which is out today.

Vanishing Towns of Rural Georgia is a history and photography book. It is aimed at people of any age who enjoy small town Americana. Carefully written, photographed, edited, and entirely produced by this 16 year-old, the book highlights 14 "dying" Georgia towns including Auroria, Boneville, Buckhead, Chauncey, Cohutta, Culloden, DeSoto, Elko, Kite, Newton, Norristown, Omaha, Penfield, and Sharon. The book contains detailed information, historic anecdotes, and photographs of what these places are like today. It portrays the author's deep love of and curiosity about the rural South.

Andy Kite is an eleventh grade student at Etowah High School in Cherokee County, Georgia. He also attends Kennesaw State University in the Joint Enrollment Honors Program. Andy is available for interviews and may be contacted at the numbers above.

Books are available for individual or bulk purchase from:

Indigo Publishing Group, LLC
Henry S. Beers, Publisher
435 Second Street, Suite 320
Macon GA 31201
866-311-9578
http://www.indigopublishing.com
Vanishing Towns of Rural Georgia
ISBN: (13 digit) 978-1-934144-64-0
(10 digit) 1-934144-64-9
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The Science of The Lost Symbol

2009-10-05T08:24:00.002-04:00

Like Dan Brown's other books that creatively use scientific ideas within the storyline, in the end "The Lost Symbol" is a work of fiction, and so is most of the science it contains.

Dan Brown's latest book, "The Lost Symbol," is woven with a maze of secretive plots, conspiracies, symbols and codes. "Symbol" is another thriller by Brown that draws inspiration from a mixture of science and mysticism.

One of the main characters is a researcher at the Smithsonian Institution's vast support center, a location that is off-limits to the public. The real science in "Symbol" takes a turn toward fiction when Brown suggests that noetics -- a metaphysical discipline that attempts to examine the connection between human and supernatural intelligence -- will revolutionize human knowledge. The "research" is based on the work of institutions that were formed in the late 1970s, during the height of New Age mysticism.

The researcher becomes interested in noetics when her brother mentions that many ancient texts contain ideas that could be considered similar to the discoveries of modern science. Modern ideas such as quantum entanglement, string theory and multiple universes are presented as parallel to content mentioned in the writings of early philosophers. The book repeatedly tries to connect actual science with mysticism, even weaving in Albert Einstein's thoughts on cosmological religion.

The fictional Smithsonian lab that Brown creates is a sleek and full of modern, cutting-edge technology. Hydrogen fuel cells power the vast dark space of the archive, and data is stored via holographic servers.

Most of these advances are at least plausible. Holographic data storage is not yet financially feasible for conventional computer markets, though it has been produced commercially for limited applications. Hydrogen fuel cells exist and can store power-making components longer than chemical batteries can, but not for the hundreds of years suggested by the book. "Symbol" cites a few real scientific treasures housed by the Smithsonian, such as a Mars rock meteorite, a 40 foot giant squid, and some of Charles Darwin's original collections.

But like Brown's other books, while creative in their use of science and scientific ideas, "Symbol" is, in the end, a work of fiction, and so is most of the science it contains.

By Martha Heil
Inside Science News Service
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Win $1000 in Short Story Writing Contest: "Rain Stories"

2009-10-04T19:18:00.004-04:00

BookRix, sponsor of the Georgia Writers Association Writers conference announces a Short Story Writing Contest. The contest deadline is October 15th 2009.

Anyone registered at BookRix.com website can join the contest.

Authors and readers can enter the competition for free and win cash money. Enter a book about rain that you have already written and published or write a new rain story.

Prizes for authors:

First Prize: $1000
Second Prize: $500
Third Prize: $300

Prizes for readers:

10 Amazon vouchers each worth $20 will be raffled for free among all readers taking part in the voting process.
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New Fiction Portrays Gripping Life Story

2009-09-21T22:49:00.001-04:00

If you could reinvent your life, how would you do it? In her new book releasing this month, “What About the Children?” Georgia author Alice Heath-Gladden explores a fictionalized life story, uncovering wounds so deep that only she could go there.

After both parents die within a few months of each other, Alisha Copper and her three brothers are summarily separated and placed in orphanages. How could these siblings, so geographically separated, ever be reunited? The story's twists and turns are mixed with tragedy after tragedy, all overcome by the unlikely advantage of the Copper Children's beginning.

Mary Ball, of Alexandria, Virginia, says, “This poignant and deeply moving story of orphans spoke to me. Their separation at an early age, and Alisha's determination and pursuit of music, paralleled with her brothers' struggles and triumphs will stay with you long after you've finished their story. Its authenticity will touch your heart as it takes you into the lives of the amazing people who enter their lives to nurture and to heal. I loved this book.”

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore or by visiting barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or target.com. This is also an eLIVE title, meaning each copy contains a code redeemable for a free audio version from TatePublishing.com. eLIVE – Listen, Imagine, View, and Experience!

Heath-Gladden worked for many years in the military housing industry and currently resides in Newnan, Georgia.

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Clayton State Visiting Writers Reading Series for Fall 2009 Semester

2009-09-20T19:02:00.003-04:00

The Clayton State University Department of English’s popular Visiting Writers Reading Series features three authors reading their works this semester.

The series opened last week with Dr. Brigitte Byrd, Clayton State assistant professor of English, reading from her just-published third book of poems, “Song of a Living Room.” (Ahsahta Press).

“In writing `Song of a Living Room,’ my field of inquiry was a couple who step into a relationship as one steps into a magic circle -- more accurately in their case, they step into a Celtic knot -- which opens an imaginary world to them, a world they create, a world that also creates them, a world that forces them to create each other, a world that blurs time and space, a world in which they escape reality, a world in which they may lose themselves.,” explains Byrd. “Because prose poetry is a form that is natural to me, a form I love, I wrote `Song of a Living Room’ as a series of prose poems revolving around these two characters.”

For more information, go to http://www.brigittebyrd.com/.

On Thursday, Oct. 8, Clayton State’s foremost mystery artist, Clayton State Theater Director Phillip DePoy, will introduce the Visiting Writers Reading Series to “The King James Conspiracy,” (St. Martin’s Press) his acclaimed new novel that’s, according to Atlanta Magazine, a dizzying mix of historical facts and figments of the author’s imagination.

Set in 17th Century England, the story centers on a group of scholars assigned by King James I to create a definitive English translation of the Bible, what has become known as the King James edition of the Bible. When one of the scholars is murdered and mutilated, DePoy leads the story into, not surprisingly, a conspiracy.

DePoy will be reading 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room 200 of the Clayton State Library. For more information, go to http://www.phillipdepoy.com/

Finally, on Thursday, Nov. 19, in room 272 of the Baker Center, poet/photographer Kate Greenstreet will read from her latest work, also recently published by Ahsahta Press (http://ahsahtapress.boisestate.edu/subscription.htm), “The Last 4 Things.” For more information, go to http://www.kickingwind.com/.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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Author Alice Heath-Gladden Book Signing at Books-A-Million PTC

2009-09-18T22:17:00.001-04:00

Heath-Gladden will be available to sign copies of her novel, "What About the Children?" at Books-A-Million, 258 City Cir., Peachtree City, 9/26/09, 2-4 p.m.

Author Joseph Skillin Book Signing Event

2009-09-09T19:16:00.001-04:00

9/19/09
11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Carestone at Mount Zion,
7493 Mount Zion Blvd.,
Jonesboro, GA 30236

Skillin will be available to sign copies of his book, "Confessions of a Caregiver: When Alzheimer's Comes to Your Home."

Southern Women Writers Conference Draws Top Authors, Emerging Talents

2009-09-05T04:52:00.001-04:00

Some of the most distinctive voices in Southern literature will gather on the world’s largest college campus, Sept. 24-26, for the 2009 Southern Women Writers Conference. Two Pulitzer Prize winners – poet Natasha Trethewey and playwright Marsha Norman – will headline the biennial celebration, which is hosted by Berry College.

The Southern Women Writers Conference is dedicated to showcasing the works of well known and emerging Southern women writers, expanding the literary canon, and developing critical and theoretical understandings of traditions and innovations in Southern women’s writing. The theme for this year’s event is “Many Souths: Remembering, Sustaining, Creating,” which invites attendees to explore the distinctive ways in which Southern women have used the written word to evoke indelible images defined by such factors as geography, gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, class, sexuality and spirituality.

Joining Trethewey and Norman on this year’s program are Natalie Daise and Connie May Fowler. Daise is one of the masterminds behind the Nickelodeon program Gullah Gullah Island, while Fowler’s novel, Before Women Had Wings, was adapted into an Emmy-Award winning film produced by Oprah Winfrey. Also on hand will be Sarah Gordon, one of the foremost experts on the life and work of Flannery O’Connor, and Melissa Fay Greene, winner of the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award and the Lillian Smith Award for Praying for Sheetrock and a two-time finalist for the National Book Award. Other featured authors include Allison Hedge Coke, a noted poet, memoirist and anthologist of Indigenous American and European descent; Judith Ortiz Cofer; Thulani Davis, Sharyn McCrumb; and Mab Segrest.

Also featured will be emerging writers with local roots. Several Berry alumni will participate, including Joanna Grant, Berry’s first Rhodes Scholar, and Alicia Clavell, editor of a new journal, Southern Women’s Review, inspired by her past participation in the conference. The journal made its debut in July and is available for download at www.SouthernWomensReview.com. It features a variety of material including poetry, fiction, non-fiction and photography. Submissions are welcome.

“As an undergraduate at Berry, I had the opportunity to work at the very first conference and have been back almost every year since,” Clavell explained. “This is my first year as a reader at the conference, and I couldn't be more excited … or nervous.”

Registration for the full conference is $175. Student and Saturday-only registration is $90. Call 706-368-6996 or e-mail swwc@berry.edu for more information. Online registration and event details are available at www.berry.edu/swwc2009.

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Are you ready to be ‘Fabulous Over Forty’?

2009-09-02T13:37:00.001-04:00

Does aging have to define and limit women in the middle of their lives? According to author Josie Slaton Terry in her new book “Fabulous Over Forty,” No!

“Getting older is the expression of our best self,” she says. With the right attitude and activity, Terry claims, women can be more powerful as the years stack up. In hope for new dreams being birthed and old ones being fulfilled, “Fabulous Over Forty” can be a middle-aged woman’s best friend. Terry’s goal is to let the 40-something female of today know that time is still on her side and that the aging process is as beautiful on the outside as the heart on the inside.

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore, or by visiting barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or target.com. “Fabulous Over Forty” is also an eLIVE title, meaning each copy contains a code redeemable for a free audio version from TatePublishing.com. eLIVE – Listen, Imagine, View, and Experience!

Born in Woodbury, Ga., Terry has lived and worked most of her life in Atlanta. She is a business owner, graphic designer, writer, and speaker who is aging quite well. She is the organizer and founder of the Atlanta based Integrity Networking Group for Business Support. Terry’s “Fabulous Over Forty” journey has spurred her desire to age well and accomplish her goals by sending one message to women 40 and over… “It is never too late.”

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Fourth Annual AJC Decatur Book Festival Presented by DeKalb Medical Sept 4 - 6

2009-08-20T13:46:00.001-04:00

2009 Decatur Book Festival Set for Labor Day Weekend, September 4-6

The Fourth Annual Atlanta Journal-Constitution Decatur Book Festival Presented By DeKalb Medical (DBF) will be held on Labor Day Weekend (September 4-6) 2009, DBF Executive Director Daren Wang recently announced.

“We’re very excited about this year’s event,” Wang said. “With the continued support of the AJC, DeKalb Medical, the Georgia Center for the Book, and other sponsors, DBF 2009 is sure to be the can’t-miss community event of the summer.”

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Decatur Book Festival Presented by DeKalb Medical is an annual, free book festival held in Decatur, Georgia at venues located in and around the downtown square. Conceived in 2005 and launched in 2006, the festival brings more than 250 authors to Decatur for the holiday weekend. The authors — who include Pulitzer Prize winning and best-selling fiction and nonfiction writers — give readings and participate in panel discussions.

The 2008 event drew over 75,000 people to Decatur for three days of literature, music, food, and fun.
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Phillip DePoy Talks Conspiracy at Decatur Book Festival

2009-08-20T13:16:00.001-04:00

He’s just written a highly-acclaimed novel speculating on a conspiracy in conjunction with the compilation of the King James Bible, so it should come as no surprise that Clayton State Theater Director Phillip DePoy is “booked” at the upcoming Decatur Book Festival on a panel about conspiracy theories.

The date is Saturday, Sept. 5 from 11:15 a.m. to noon. As part of the largest independent book festival in the country, DePoy will be appearing at the Old Courthouse Stage with fellow mystery authors Mitchell Graham and Robert Greer to discuss “conspiracy theories.”

While DePoy may not be discussing the Single Bullet Theory or whether or not a bunch of astronauts landed on the moon 30 years ago (Actually, the three authors will be sharing excerpts from their recent novels and answering questions.), he certainly knows about conspiracy. His newest book, “The King James Conspiracy” (St. Martin’s Press, $25.95) is, according to Atlanta Magazine, a dizzying mix of historical facts and figments of the author’s imagination.

Set in 17th Century England, the story centers on a group of scholars assigned by King James I to create a definitive English translation of the Bible, what has become known as the King James edition of the Bible. When one of the scholars is murdered and mutilated, DePoy leads the story into a, that’s right, conspiracy.

A folklorist, playwright, composer, actor, producer, musician as well as a novelist and director of the Clayton State Theater, DePoy should also be one of the highlights of this year’s Decatur Book Festival.

For more information, go to http://www.decaturbookfestival.com/2009/authors/author-detail.php?PresenterID=60.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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ETreasures Publishing for Sale

2009-08-19T22:22:00.001-04:00

ETreasures Publishing, a five-year-old established print-on-demand book publishing company, is currently for sale, due to the failing health of the owner and founder, Vickie Kennedy.

Kennedy is looking for someone trustworthy to purchase the company and website, which will include all contracted books. The new owner would have to establish new accounts with re-sellers, which she will also help obtain. The asking price for the contracted books and website is $3,000. Training will be extra and is negotiable. Anyone interested, please contact Vickie Kennedy at 770-683-9745 or by e-mail at v.kennedy@numail.org

“Read a Book / Create Some Art” Deadline Extended to August 31

2009-08-13T18:17:00.001-04:00

Calling all artists who love to read … The deadline for entries in the “Read A Book / Create Some Art” juried visual arts competition has been extended to Monday, August 31. “Read A Book / Create Some Art” is part of the second annual “Fayette on the Page” project.

“Fayette on the Page” is a “One Book, One Community” program comprising a variety of activities centered on the novel A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines. The countywide initiative is a partnership of Fayette County Public Library with the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library, Barnes & Noble of Fayetteville, Clayton State University, and Kimbo’s Frame & Design of Fayetteville.

For “Read A Book / Create Some Art,” visual artists from Fayette and surrounding counties have been invited to create works inspired by their reading of any of Ernest Gaines’s novels or short stories (not limited to A Lesson Before Dying), and enter them in a juried competition. The competition is open to all artists, whether student, professional, or amateur. Interested artists can pick up an information sheet with entry form at the Fayette County Public Library, or download a copy from the library website. Artwork may be submitted to library staff during library hours between now and Monday, August 31 at the Fayette County Public Library in Fayetteville. Works entered in the “Read A Book / Create Some Art” competition will be on public exhibit at the Fayette County Public Library for two weeks in September.

The “Fayette on the Page” reading celebration will have a grand finale on Thursday, September 10, at 6:30 p.m., when Ernest J. Gaines will “visit” the library via live two-way videoconference from his home in Point Coupee, Louisiana. Mr. Gaines will talk about “A Lesson Before Dying” and answer questions from the audience. Winners of the “Read a Book / Create Some Art” competition will be announced during this free public event.

The Fayette County Public Library is located behind the Fayette County administration complex in downtown Fayetteville, at the southwest corner of Highways #85 and #54. For additional information about “Fayette on the Page” and “Read A Book / Create Some Art,” please contact the library at 770-461-8841 or visit online at http://www.fayettecountyga.gov/public_library.
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Award-Winning Coweta Author C. E. Walz Publishes Alley Loo

2009-08-13T15:16:00.000-04:00

Coweta Author C. E. Walz has won the Dragon Fly Publishing Best Book Award for her recently published children's book Alley Loo: A Spooky Swamp Tale. The book also has gotten a five-star review from Lori Calabrese of the Children's Book Examiner, which was published in the Amazon Customer Reviews last week. Calabrese has also conducted an interview of Walz which was published in the July 31, 2009 issue of the Children's Book Examiner. Both the review and interview are helpful in learning about Walz and her book. Additional information is available on her website www.cewalz.com.

Walz has been teaching writing and English for many years. She currently heads the middle school English Department at Woodward Academy in College Park. She lives in Newnan in the same subdivision as another award winning children's author, Kimberly Campbell. They also both belong to the Childrens Book Authors and Illustrators organization as well as the Coweta Writers Group.

Walz plans to join other Coweta authors in the book signing for local authors which will be held at the Powers Festival over the Labor Day Weekend. She will also be participating later in a yet to be announced program at The Carnegie in Newnan, which has not yet opened.

Walz (her pen name and maiden name) is married to singer/guitarist James Sennett, who is known as the Songman, who performs at local venues and will be one of the singers at Grantville Day.

- Forrest Schultz
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"Historic Fayette County: An Illustrated History" Book Signing

2009-08-09T15:31:00.001-04:00

Saturday, August 22, 2-4 pm,
Fayette Co. Library
Sunday, August 23, 2-4 pm,
Fayette Co. Historical Society

Join author, Carolyn Cary and cover artist, Vicki Turner at a book signing for Fayette's beautiful new history book. The books will be on sale at the special introductory price of $25. Refreshments will be served.

Georgia Teacher to Appear on National Radio

2009-07-22T18:50:00.001-04:00

Interesting subjects, bright young minds: many say teaching is one of the most rewarding careers. Though the profession reaps giant rewards, it’s also renowned for a petite paycheck. Hoschton, Georgia educator Danny Kofke has discovered how to fulfill his passion for teaching and still make ends meet, and he shares the wealth in his book, “How to Survive (and Perhaps Thrive) on a Teacher’s Salary.”

A prolific public speaker, Kofke will be discussing his book on the nationally syndicated Ron Reagan Show this Monday evening. The radio show is affiliated with Air America Media and is hosted by decorated media contributor and correspondent Ron Reagan. Kofke will cover his book’s easy-to-use tips that equip readers to not only survive, but live happily within their means, multiply funds and even invest in the future.

“Although this book was written with teachers in mind, I believe the practices taught can benefit anyone, from firefighters and policemen, to CEOs and business owners,” Kofke writes. “In this book, I will show you how my wife and I were able to visit ten foreign countries, pay-off a brand new car in two years, and even have one of us stay home for the first year of my daughter’s life—all on a teacher’s salary!”

Published by Tate Publishing and Enterprises, the book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore or by visiting barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or target.com. An audio version also is available from the publisher.

Kofke is currently a special education teacher. He also has taught preschool, kindergarten, first grade and second grade classes. He and his wife, Tracy, have two children.

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Christian Writers to Meet

2009-06-29T22:38:00.000-04:00

Christian Writers United (CWU) will have their next meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at Coweta Community Church located on the 34 by-pass. The meeting will run from 7 – 9 p.m.

All Christian writers are invited regardless of genre choice. According to co-founder Swanee Ballman, “We recently had an author attend CWU who has written two Christian westerns. This is a genre which is not often seen in the Christian community. Everyone is excited about it.”

“Additionally,” states co-founder Linda Jennings, “our members and attendees don’t just write books and scripts, they also write magazine articles. Several have begun entering writing contests, and they are having a ball doing it.”

Connie Singleton recently placed second in the Newnan-Coweta Magazine’s 2009 writer’s competition. Her article, “Magic” was published on the magazine’s website.

Edwina Cowgill has made the first cut in the “Winning Writers Tom Howard Short Story Contest.” She has also been published in several magazines using different genres.

“The main goal of CWU is to encourage those who already write and those who desire to write – to write,” states Jennings. “Considering everybody’s hectic daily schedules, writers need continual encouragement to write. We also need help in the areas of publishing and marketing and CWU members can provide assistance in both areas.”

Presently, CWU members are working on a book of short stories written by CWU members. It will be published in the late fall.

Eugenia Price Exhibit to Open at St. Simons Island Lighthouse

2009-06-04T21:31:00.001-04:00

The Coastal Georgia Historical Society celebrates the life of Eugenia Price with a new exhibit opening in the St. Simons Lighthouse Keepers Dwelling on Saturday, June 13. Museum-goers will have a chance to explore Price’s life behind her acclaimed novels, visualize her research techniques and draw connections between the characters she created and their basis in the historical record.

Price’s desk, set with manuscripts, photographs, letters, and typewriter are central to the exhibit along with awards, photographs, and personal memorabilia including a hand made Braves tomahawk sent her by a reader.

Whether you are a longtime reader or a regular museum visitor, you will find new angles to explore the history of the Golden Isles and the writing of one of the area’s most popular and well-loved authors.

The exhibit will open with a weekend celebration on Saturday, June 13 and continue throughout the summer in connection with a series of speakers, book discussions, and other activities related to Eugenia Price and her career.

Opening Events:

Book Signing June 13
On Saturday, June 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Mary Bray Wheeler will sign copies of Eugenia Price: A Guide to the People and Places of Her Beloved South. This long-time friend and researcher for Price, has combined extensive journeys through the South with in-depth knowledge of Price’s literary people and places. Wheeler has an extensive publishing career and before retiring served as a researcher, writer and editor, as well as vice president of Providence House Publishers. She holds a degree in American Studies from Mercer University and now resides in Nashville, Tennessee.

Renee Pearman Presentation June 14
Then on Sunday, June 14 at 3 p.m., Renee Pearman will present Eugenia Price: One Author’s Life. Born in 1916 in Charleston, West Virginia, Eugenia Price credits her mother with nurturing her love of writing, music, and history. Pearman will discuss Price’s early career as a writer for NBC through her development of her own company, Eugenia Price Productions and the unlikely events that lead her to St. Simons Island and a future career as a historical fiction writer. Ms. Pearman is publications coordinator and adjunct instructor at Macon State College.

The book signing and presentation are held at the A. W. Jones Heritage Center at no charge.to the public and museum admission fees of $6.00 apply to tour the exhibit. CGHS members may visit the exhibit at no charge.
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Lauretta Hannon, Author of Southern Memoir “The Cracker Queen,” to Appear at Fayette County Public Library June 11

2009-05-26T16:01:00.002-04:00

The Fayette County Public Library is pleased to present Georgia author and National Public Radio (NPR) commentator Lauretta Hannon on Thursday, June 11 at 7:00 p.m. to read from and talk about her new memoir of growing up Southern, “The Cracker Queen: A Memoir of a Jagged, Joyful Life.” Copies of the book will be available for sale at the event, with proceeds benefiting the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library. The program is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served, compliments of the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library.

What is a Cracker Queen? A Cracker Queen is a strong, authentic Southern woman who holds her head up high, has a raucous sense of humor, and raises Cain when a line is crossed. She knows loss and hurt first-hand; these things have made her beautiful, resourceful and, above all, real.

In “The Cracker Queen,” Lauretta Hannon tells of her tumultuous upbringing in Warner Robins and Savannah, and explains why a Cracker Queen is the “anti-Southern–belle.” Young Lauretta was handed lemons and made the sweetest, tartest lemonade she could. Her entertaining stories of Crazy Aunt Carrie, The Goat Man, her own Mama smuggling cigarettes to chain gangs, and the more unsavory parts of Savannah will make you laugh, cry, and raise a toast. In “The Cracker Queen,” Hannon proves that all Southern families may not be created equal, but they do all know a thing or two about surviving hard times.

Lauretta Hannon is a commentator on NPR’s All Things Considered,” where her stories reach 25.5 million listeners. Over the years she has contributed pieces to newspapers across the Southeast. Lauretta has also worked as the vice president of an advertising agency, a fortune teller, an independent radio producer, a cocktail waitress, a writing instructor, and a marketing consultant. Just this year, she left her day job at Atlanta Technical College in order to pursue a fulltime writing career. Hannon also offers writing workshops through her Down Home Writing School.

The Fayette County Public Library is located behind the Fayette County administrative complex in downtown Fayetteville, at the southwest corner of Highways #85 and #54. For additional information, please contact the library at 770-461-8841.

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"The King James Conspiracy" Release Party – May 26

2009-05-22T12:24:00.001-04:00

Is “The King James Conspiracy” the second coming of "The Name of the Rose?"

Readers will have a chance to find out on Tuesday, May 26 when the Eagle Eye Book Shop, 2076 N. Decatur Rd., Decatur, holds a 6:30 p.m. release party for Clayton State Theater Director Philips DePoy's 11th novel, "The King James Conspiracy." (St. Martin’s Press, $25.95)

Since DePoy's latest work is an historical novel/murder mystery set in 17th Century England and centered on a group of scholars assigned by King James I to create a definitive English translation of the Bible, there are clearly similarities to Umberto Eco's classic 1983 historical novel/detective story, set in a northern Italian abbey in 1327. And while Eco’s novel is justly famous, there are few authors who can top DePoy for creativity.

For more information on the release party, call the Eagle Eye Book Shop’s George Scott at (404) 486-0307.

A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
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Fayette: Young Authors Win at Competition

2009-05-21T15:14:00.000-04:00

Three possible up and coming authors have been recognized through the Young Georgia Authors Writing Competition.

Tyler S. Patrick, first grade, Hood Avenue Primary; Ian Fertig, second grade, Braelinn Elementary; and Laura Wu, fifth grade, Kedron Elementary all had winning entries at the Griffin RESA district level, which includes Butts, Henry, Lamar, Newton, Pike, Spalding and Thomaston-Upson counties.

The contest, sponsored by the Georgia Department of Education, is open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. One winner is selected from each grade level. Any type of writing can be entered. Entries may be short stories, poetry, essays, journals, personal narratives, reports or any other original student writing. District winners advance to compete at the state level.

The purposes of the Young Georgia Authors Writing Competition are to encourage students to develop writing that represents their best efforts, provide a context for schools to support and celebrate the writing successes of all students, and encourage and recognize student achievement in writing throughout Georgia.
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Phillip DePoy, Author of New Historical Mystery Novel “The King James Conspiracy,” to Appear at Fayette County Public Library

2009-05-19T17:25:00.002-04:00

Saturday, May 30 at 1:00 p.m.

Multi-talented Atlanta author Phillip DePoy returns to the Fayette County Public Library on Saturday, May 30 at 1:00 p.m. to read from and talk about his new novel, “The King James Conspiracy.” Copies of the book will be available for sale at the event, with proceeds benefiting the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library. The program is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served, compliments of the Friends of the Fayette County Public Library.

“The King James Conspiracy” is set in 1605 England. The story hinges on an intricate and murderous plot to suppress the creation of the King James Bible. Although the story is fictional, it features numerous real-life historical figures. New York Times bestselling author Steve Berry (“The Venetian Betrayal”) has said “‘The King James Conspiracy’ is smart, detailed, and highly entertaining. The story resonates, blending myth with reality, tragedy with triumph, and history with passion into a compelling tale. Phillip DePoy clearly knows what he’s doing.” Booklist compares the novel to Umberto Eco’s contemporary classic “The Name of the Rose,” calling “The King James Conspiracy” “a splendid mixture of history and mystery, with vibrant characters and some solid twists and turns.”

Phillip DePoy is the author of ten novels (in two critically acclaimed mystery series featuring Atlanta private eye Flap Tucker and North Georgia folklorist Fever Devilin), two published plays, and 37 theatre pieces that have seen production throughout the United States. His stage adaptation of “Easy,” the first Flap Tucker novel, received the 2003 Edgar Award for Best Play from the Mystery Writers of America. “Too Easy” was a finalist for the Private Eye Writers of America’s Shamus Award in 1999. Mr. DePoy is currently director of theatre at Clayton State University.

The Fayette County Public Library is located behind the Fayette County administrative complex in downtown Fayetteville, at the southwest corner of Highways #85 and #54. For additional information, please contact the library at 770-461-8841.
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Christian Writers Group Working on a Book

2009-05-14T07:07:00.000-04:00

Linda Jennings of Newnan has been working hard in forming and running a new group for Christian writers in Coweta and nearby. The members are also busy now collaborating on the production of a book which will consist of a collection of short stories they will write. They will be discussing this book at their next meeting, which will be held on Monday June 1 at 7 p.m. at the Coweta Community Church, 310 Farmers Industrial Blvd. (the 34 Bypass). There will also be time during the meeting for watching a film of an author's talk at a writers conference. Info: Linda at 770-304-0282 or email at lajennings@charter.net. The Coweta Community Church can be contacted at 770-252-1616 or ccclife@gmail.com.

- Forrest Shultz
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