| Author |
Message |
    
Bayou Lights
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, December 15, 2002 - 09:47 pm: | 
|
Hey, folks...
I just finished "The Territory of Men" by Joelle Fraser, and it was great. Non AA author but a nice memoir, without the woe-is-me tone that permeates so many memoirs that explore childhood.
I also completed "Harlem Redux" (usually read three books at once) and I cannot say how much I loved this book. I really appreciated the attention to detail, and the authenticity the author brought to the project. The characters were engaging...loved the West Indian gangster...and I managed to learn a lot about that era without feeling like a history lesson was being crammed in my face.
Now, I am about to tackle "The Monk Downstairs" before completing "Train Whistle Guitar".
Bayou |
Soul Sister-
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 16, 2002 - 02:42 pm: |
|
Hey Bayou -
You a reading somebody - I have been so into JET and EBONY with the LL Cool J covers I aint been able to think straight - tee hee
But I have been reading one thing for some time and its good and getting spicy. Its Joy by Victoria Christopher Murray. I am stickler for the certain things - I love murder and intrique but can't take the swearing - this story has it all and is a Christian title! I am impressed. Most the Christian authors I have read - weren't good story tellers to me - but this is good.
Earlier I finished - October Suite by Maxine Clair - definately not Rattlebone - but a good story.
Oh well - have a great week of reading - and a HAPPY HOLIDAY season. Peace
ps -- what is Monk Downstairs about????
|
Bayou Lights
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, December 16, 2002 - 05:03 pm: |
|
Soul Sister--
I'm so glad this board is back up. I love hearing from everybody and getting new titles. The Monk Downstairs is set in San Francisco. It's about a single mother with an apartment to rent who has just left the monastery after 20 years. A friendship develops and eventually blooms into an odd little love story.
Very nice story so far, with a sly sense of humor.
Ciao |
K
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, December 17, 2002 - 04:50 pm: |
|
Some of Us Did NOT Die- June Jordan and White Teeth-Zadie Smith. I'm in the last few pages of WT and I get the novels overall theme but I still don't get the book. You know what I mean? |
Soul Sister
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 12:45 pm: |
|
Bayou
Thanks for the reply -- I think I will check out that title since its about all this love affair stuff -- oh well -- I have finished JOY and it was pretty good - I am waiting for Sapphire's Grave out 12-24 -- about a slavery and a women's lineage. Now I am working on a biography of Sojourner Truth -- If we don't talk before midnight 12/31 - have a GREAT, SAFE and PEACEFUL holiday --
|
Crystal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 01:05 pm: |
|
Happy Holidays Everybody! I'm reading Dark Matter and I LOVE IT! I read "Black No More" by George Schuyler on the bus on the way to work this a.m. and I see it's an excerpt from a novel so now I have to find that.
Not a Black author but I'm also reading The Crimson Petal and the White by Michel Faber. An 800+ page story of a prostitute on the rise in Victorian England. The first half of the book was actually kinda slow - a whole lot of description but it's picked up quickly after that. I don't see it becoming the classic some reviewers say but I've invested enough time in it and I'm interested enough in the characters to try and help them out end. Faber doesn't leave much to the imagination when dealing with the prostitutes and their clients and lifestyle.
Crystal
|
Bayou Lights
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 04:01 pm: |
|
Crystal--
I have had Crimsom Petal on request for over six weeks. It's that popular at my local library. Looking forward to reading it... I enjoyed "Conspiracy of Paper" and "Girl With a Pearl Earring" and the first chapter of "Crimson gave me the same feeling. |
Steve
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, December 18, 2002 - 11:39 pm: |
|
Reading Amos Tutuola's The Palm-Wine Drinkard in order to try and understand how Reginald McKnight is using it in He Sleeps. James Baldwin's Princes and Powers is about western and African literature and mentions Tutuola specifically. |
Sandra
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, January 02, 2003 - 12:35 am: |
|
I'm reading The Prodigal Husband for my local book club. It's our Jan selection and I think that the author--Jacquelin Thomas--will be visiting us.
It's a pretty quick read--nothing complicated. Husband cheats on wife with his business partner in a weak moment; will wife take him back; their only daughter was killed in a car wreck--husband blames himself; husband's business partner is a scheming hussy who wants him for herself; wife prays for guidance on her marriage troubles; yadda, yadda, yadda, etc. etc
|
ONC329
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, January 02, 2003 - 06:48 pm: |
|
Hello Everyone,
I just finished Some Sunday by Margaret Johnson-Hodge today. It's the sequal to Butterscotch Blues. Some Sunday was OK, but I was a little dissapointed, I could hardly put down Butterscotch Blues & this was not like that. It didn't have me thinking as much & some of it was a little too far fetched for me. Has anyone read either one of them? What do you think?
I'm also reading Raising Fences by Michael Datcher for my local book club. I'm half way through & it's pretty good so far. He goes back & forth between past & present and I would actually like to hear more about what's presently going on with him, but it's a nice balance. Has anyone read this one?
I'm looking for a book that I just can't put down. I haven't had one of those in a while & would love your feedback.
Thanks. |
Tee C. Royal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, January 02, 2003 - 10:40 pm: |
|
ONC329, I read both Some Sunday and Butterscotch Blues and of the two, my favorite was Butterscotch Blues. It was emotional, raw, and made me happy over the aspect of true love shown...simply, I thought it was amazing. Now Some Sunday I liked...but I just couldn't deal with some of the issues in the book. I won't give spoilers for those who haven't read it, but at our book club reunion last year, MJH was our featured author and we discussed these two books, so it was really cool hearing her take on them, however when we got to Some Sunday, I told her why I didn't like parts of the book, and I believe she said something to the extent of true love should overlook something like who it was (in this case her dead husband's brother.) I'm sorry, but I can't deal with that...LOL.
As far as a book that you just can't put down, I would say read A Man Most Worthy by Marcus Major...it was AWESOME...and also This Side of the Sky...these are two of my favorites that I read list year...can't say enough positive things about them. Two different reads, but I gave each of them top ratings.
-Tee |
Carey
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 04:12 pm: |
|
Hello
A few of the post have mentioned brnging in authors to their book clubs. Well I'd like to recommend a couple. First, one of our regular postees, Sis E (Elenora Tate), She's a past President of The Black Storytellers of America, I could have the title wrong but you know if she's been keeping company with the likes of Ossie Davis and his wife Ruby, the women can put on a show. She's published numerous books so there's plenty to choose from along with her show.
You all know the next gentleman can write, but you probably didn't know he puts on one hellava show and sings while doing so. Yep, it's our Thumper's nemisis Brian Egeston. Brian is not only a writer he's an entertainer as well. Although Thumper's review of Brain's books were not what an author would wish for, Brain makes up for any lost ground with a wonderful performance. If you haven't read Granddaddy's Dirt, check it out for yourself.
Don't you just hate it when you have to pry conversation out of an author. You will not have to worry about that with Brain and Sis E, they come prepared, thier professionals. Isn't that what it's all about, entertainment. These two individuals will definitely do that.
Carey |
Onc329
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 06:05 pm: |
|
Tee C. Royal, I agree with you regarding Sandy & Rachel. I did not like that AT ALL! There were also a few other things in Some Sunday I just didn't care for. Butterscotch Blues was definitely better than the latter.
Thanks for the suggestions. I am headed out to the bookstore later today & will definitely look for the two books you listed.
How did you get the author to attend your book club group? Did someone in the group know her, is she from your city? I belong to a group in St. Louis & would love to have the author present at a meeting. Suggestions anyone.... |
Carey
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 06:19 pm: |
|
Hello Onc329
Most authors have web sites. They generally list their e-mail address also. I've found them to be very open and will answer back. If that fails, try their editor. You'd be surprised, even some of the big hitters will answer their e-mails. See, they don't know who's on the other end of the mail and they'd hate to pass up an opportunity and some are just nice like that. Really, I've NEVER NOT recieved a reply, really.
Carey |
Tee C. Royal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 06:33 pm: |
|
Hey Onc...I hope you enjoyy the books, please be sure to let me know. I was disappointed in my book club members because a lot of them wouldn't pick up This Side of the Sky because it's sort of a historical fiction book, shoot, I probably wouldn't have read it so soon had I not been sent an early copy, but WOW...that book is amazing and on my all time favorites.
As far as getting MJH, I merely asked her. I know a lot of authors as a result of our book club and reviewers, so I reach out to them for things like that. The worse they can do is ask. It worked out well for us because she lived in Atlanta and she's followed our group for a while. My suggestion would be to contact them, let them know what you'd like to do and see if they'd be interested.
Carey , I just ordered 4 of Sis E's books last night and look forward to receiving them. The interviews and information I found in my research last night was delightful. And I've had the pleasure of meeting Brian. My husband is even mentioned in Granddaddy's Dirt...got his own paragraph as a result of a golf bet! Hmph...but Brian also attended our reunion and I've had the pleasure of being around him numerous times. My most memorable was in 2000 when I first met him.
We were at the Words Escape Me conference in Birmingham, AL and I had never met him. Well, it was the opening mixer and I was minding my own business headed to the ladies room and he was on the floor next to a table talking to someone and tried to TRIP ME. ahaha... (not really), but he jumped up and told me.."If you're hurt, my name is Omar Tyree." I loved him immediately...his humor is awesome...and have you ever heard him read his poem...I think it's called "The Nerve." Simply WONDERFUL. I also attended the Male Fiction Writer Symposium he helped organize, so I've seen him in action...and I look forward to greater things from him.
And...I read and really enjoyed Granddaddy's Dirt minus the golf scenes and that dang quail scene...ahah....my huband enjoyed it as well (even the golf scenes, since he's a golf addict)...he's also read the first book though I can't remember which one he liked better.
Oh ONC, if you can find the self-published version of Rising by Darnella Ford...GET IT FAST!!
-Tee |
Carey
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 06:59 pm: |
|
Hello Tee C
I didn't know Brain was a golfer. When he came here the subject never came up...dang, I could have used some extra cash and my own paragraph *smile*. in what paragraph (page) is your husband mentioned? No, he didn't do the "Nerve" for us but as I mentioned he did sing for us and he really has a nice voice. His first book is Whippins, Switches & Peach Cobbler. |
Tee C. Royal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 07:22 pm: |
|
Ahahha...don't get me talking about golf, Brian, and Geoff in the same sentence. They had me rolling on several occasions, but I think Geoff now has won his name in Brian's next three books. Ahahhaa. And if we're ever at a conference together, Geoff would LOVE to play with ya. And I have Whippins...just haven't read it yet. I was saying that I couldn't remember which one Geoff liked better since he's read both.
And Geoff's mentioned on the last page of the acknowledgements, fifth paragraph and Brian alludes to TRIPPING me in the last paragraph of the first page of the acknowledgements...how'd I miss that? Must've been when Geoff was gloating over his whole paragraph. LOL. MEN! (There aren't any page numbers by the way for the acknowledgements.) Also, my blurb is on the back. *giggling*
-Tee |
Carey
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 09:35 pm: |
|
"Mr. Geoffrey Royal....It would be my honor and privilege to tee it up with a gentleman like yourself anytime". Now that's a nice paragraph.
Tee C. Royal, Founder
RAWSISTAZ Book Club "A Totally engrossing novel..."
You and Thumper need to talk *LOL*
Carey |
Tee C. Royal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 04, 2003 - 09:47 pm: |
|
LOL Carey...now ya know reading is subjective, but Thumper is actually the first person that I heard didn't like the novel. But, I still think it was everything my blurb said...especially the flood part. It seemed SO REAL to me.
Did you read it? If so, did you enjoy it?
-Tee |
Carey
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2003 - 02:08 am: |
|
Hello Tee
Yes, I did read Granddaddy's Dirt and Yes, I did enjoy it. Although that's not to say that I didn't have a few problems with it. Similarly, I LOVE my wife and I have a few issues with her *lol*. But you know what, when Brian was here there were individuals that told him in front of all in attendance that they had problems with the book but after expressing their displeasure, Brian was able to clarify or clean up the issues. Soooo, Ms Tee C *LOL* how's that *smile*. Okay, I'll tell you what, I had a problem with the opening scene. Mr. Scales actions of going off on the police officer, for no real reason was ......ahhh.....hard to accept. I couldn't figure out why he would do such a dumb act, especially having lived there his whole life. He knew what he was about to do had to lead to no good. So Tee, I had to steady myself after that scene and Brain mangaged corral me back in. But yes, I found enjoyment in reading it, but it could have been a better book.
Carey |
Sandra
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, January 11, 2003 - 10:51 am: |
|
I'm glad to read Tee's comments about Marcus Major. I just got an email from one of my book club members that he is coming to our local B&N on Thursday night. I will definately go check him out. Also, I will buy Brian's book ASAP--can't wait to read it! |
yukio
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 12, 2003 - 02:23 am: |
|
i'm reading whitehead's jhd. It's kinda dense, but i'll get through it. |
Tee C. Royal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 12, 2003 - 04:55 pm: |
|
LOL Carey! Ya know, I actually liked that scene...I was thinking he was having a rough day and just reached the end of his rope. As I got further in the book, I did wonder why he did it... I think one thing that really caught me was the literary tone of the book...Brian's use of alliteration and symbolism. And I already mentioned the quail and golf scenes...those I could've done without. <grin> Hubby liked them though...must be a golf thing??
Sandra , I hope you enjoy the book as well as meeting Marcus. He's a really down to earth brother and I enjoyed chatting with him on the book club cruise back in 2001. Tell him I said "heyyyyyyyyyyyy." I need to see if he's hitting Atlanta so I can get my book signed. |
Thumper
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 12, 2003 - 08:02 pm: |
|
Hello All,
Sorry Brian, I hate to rub salt in the wound, but, Tee and Carey, what book are y'all talking about? We have to agree to disagree on this one. Tee, which tone, there were so many. There were a couple of events that really rang false: the first one with Andrew and the policeman, then there was the confrontation with the police and the mortician at the businessman association meeting. C'mon now, Tee, really.
Sandra: I meet Marcus here in Indianapolis last May and I liked him immediately! Tell him I said Hello as well. Since Sandra is carrying messages to Marcus, do anyone else have a message Sandra can give him for you. *LOL* |
Tee C. Royal
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 12, 2003 - 08:54 pm: |
|
Thumper, I'm okay with disagreeing on this one as well. The tone I feel in books may be different from the tone that other people may have felt. I use my past experience, thoughts, and my own "feel" for the book to determine my assessment. It is however "interesting" to hear how other people view a book.
Bottom line...it was an enjoyable/engrossing novel to ME. As with all things, there is room for improvement. You may have thought Brian needed to improve the scenes you mentioned, I thought it was those boring azz golf scenes, mainly because I couldn't (and didn't want to) relate and I just wanted to get back to the action. On the flip side, my husband liked those scenes because he LOVES golf.
Anywho...thanks for sharing.
-Tee |
Thumper
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 12, 2003 - 10:04 pm: |
|
Hello Tee,
No problem. *LOL* It's funny that you keep mentioning the golf scenes and I can't remember them at all. Go figure. *smile* It is nice to read opposing views of the same book, at least I think so. It makes book discussions more interesting. *smile* |
Email This Page