End-of-Year Wrap up 2019

Seasons greeting, and happy holidays!!!  Blessings during the Winter Solstice, Merry Xmas, and Harambee, Kwanzaa!! Peace to all the Nubians, sistas, zubians....

Okay....time to be serious...

The end of 2019 has arrived.  Not a very fruitful year for me.  I at least DID publish a second entry into the Black Fist Saga.  Releasing "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019) was no small feat.  I truly cherish the character, and love the story.  I can't wait to complete Books III & IV in the series.  Unfortunately, as always, the sales just weren't there.  I wasn't able to go out, and physically promote the book like I wanted to.  Because of my day job issues, I never had a consistent enough schedule where I could do a number of appearances, whether my own reading & book signings, or doing a book fair/festival/comic con.  Hopefully, I'll be able to change that in the coming new year. 

Speaking of which, I might want to invest more in promoting myself in the PA & So. Jersey areas.  Philly and Atlantic City aren't too far away from me, where I could organize an event out in those areas. My day job work schedule is more consistent this time around, so I might be able to work something out.  Delaware isn't much of a reading state, so I may need to promote myself elsewhere.  As I always say in a hashtag, #AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind.  This is real to me; this ain't some bs bucket list item, or some fake ass hobby for me.

2020 will make it TEN YEARS that I've been published!!  :-O!!!  Shocking, but NOT shocking at the same time.  I've always dedicated my life to being a story teller, and now I've found the perfect medium for me to do it in.  The dual book release is going on as scheduled; everything is being finalized.  Doing some last minute editing, and final checks.  The books covers are all done, and I've finally written out the backcover descriptions.  Now, all I have to do is wait until March of 2020...

I'm hoping to do more promotions of my various works, and do more in-person appearances.  I might have to travel to do that, seeing as how Delaware isn't much of a reading state.  I need to go where my audience is at.  I tried to tell that to certain dumbfucks that I was partnered/dealing with, back when I was still living in NYC; QUITE OBVIOUSLY I ain't fucking with them no more, cause niggas don't know how to listen.  Niggas either wanted a hook up, were playing around, or wanted to play 'follow the leader'.  I don't need any copycats, or disciples kissing my ass.  If you want me to teach your ass something, fucking listen to what I'm trying to teach your stupid ass.

Aaaaaaaanyway....

I'm happy that I was FINALLY able to produce and post episodes of "The Rough Draft".  I've shot and posted six episodes on YouTube so far, and look forward to doing more videos.  I'll definitely be posting more videos in the new year; just wanted to take a break for the holidays.  I hope that people are enjoying the videos; as usual, I can never get the feedback that I want, or need to help me improve my craft.

The Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement was able to celebrate TEN YEARS as an organization.  I'm proud that we've been able to last as long as we have; considering the lack of assistance.  Being a one-man show is NOT easy.  I could always use more hands to help me to get things done.  Of course, there aren't too many people out here who think like I do, or, who are willing to put in the time & effort.  BUT...it's a major accomplishment to be running a grassroots and independent organization, and STILL be successful at it.  We've made our impact, and have our followers & supporters.  Much respect to those that stuck with us for all of these years that The Movement has been around!!

Well, that's all for now.  I don't plan on posting any other blog entries, until the new year.  So, please enjoy the upcoming holidays, and keep reading.  PLEASE continue to support my work.  Leave some comments, spread the word, and BUY some/multiple copies of my books.

Keep the fist raised!!!!
Uhuru sase, y paz

It's Now DECEMBER :-O!!!!!!!/Publishing Release 2020

It's been a while, hasn't it?  Think I missed an entire month worth of posts, haven't I...?

Well...first things, first.  It's December.  FRIGGIN DECEMBER!!!  :-O!!!!  It's the end of the year, already!!!  Man, time sure did fly this year, didn't it?  The Winter Solstice, Christmas, and Kwanzaa are right around the corner, down the street, and sitting there on the corner, waiting for all of us.

As an end-of-year wrap up, this years was quite uneventful.  I was happy to have released my second entry in The Black Fist book series with the release this year of "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019).  The sales for it were OBVIOUSLY nowhere near where I wanted them to be.  Of course, my instability at employment this year caused me to be unable to properly promote the book publicly, and had to resort to strictly online sales, which have never been a strong suit for me.  People are quick to press a 'like' button, but sure as shit won't press the 'buy now'/'add to cart' button.....

 Aaaaaaaaanyway....

GOOD NEWS!!!!!  :-)

2020 marks TEN YEARS that I've been a published author!!!!  Yay me!!!  Aaaaaand....to celebrate my tenth year as a published author, I will be holding a DUAL BOOK RELEASE!!!!

Target date for the release of both books will be March 13, 2020.  MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!  And PLEASE actually buy and read the books!!  I've already created an FB Event for it, and have posted a few update there.  If you have an FB account, join the event, and help to spread the word!!


As it is December, I have also posted the latest episode of "The Rough Draft" to YouTube!!!  Episode number SIX!!!  You can check it out here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW6XRG8Znw0

If you have a YouTube account, PLEASE leave a comment...as well as 'liking' the video.  All I want is some feedback.  Is that so much to ask for...?  This will be my last video for the year, as I have other things that I'm preparing for, and need to focus on.  I will start shooting and posting new videos in the new year.  Six episodes ain't that bad.  I'm proud of myself.  :-)

That's about all form me, for now.  I'll try to be a bit more consistent on here, to finish the year out strong.  He's to hoping for improved sales, and better support in the coming new year.  Gonna be grinding plenty, in 2020!!!  Hey...I kind like that!!!  I might make that my new slogan for the Literary Arts Movement in 2020!!!  :-)

Keep the fist raised
Uhuru sase, y paz
#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 

October End-of-Month Wrap-up....

Damn...the month is almost OVER!!!!!  :-O

Trying to end the month on a strong note.  One good thing...my oldest nephew's birthday is next Monday!!!!  YAAAAAAY!!!  He'll be turning 21.  TWENTY-ONE!!!  I remember when his mother was pregnant with him. MAN, time sure does fly.  Happy birthday to you, Romello!!!!  :-)

Halloween is next week.  I used to love this holiday when I was a kid.  Once I got older, it kinda lost it's appeal...besides getting involved with the cultural activist community.  I kinda miss those days of playing dress-up, and going trick-or-treating.  I could use a good costume party....or, maybe a cosplay party instead, making it more cultural....?

Speaking of Halloween/All Hallow's Eve, I posted the latest episode of "The Rough Draft" (episode FOUR!!!) in honor of the holiday.  I profiled my novel (now series) "The Chronicles of The Black Fist" (CreateSpace, 2015).  You can check out the link for it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HELrV1ipchE&feature=youtu.be

The book is STILL available for purchase in paperback AND eBook formats.  Not to mention, the sequel in the series "The Chronicles of the Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (KDP, 2019), is also available.  Would be nice to get some support for it......

Other than all of that, I'm still considering my options for a DUAL book release for 2020.  Both books are ready to go, and I FINALLY completed the cover for Suicide Amy.  It's an interesting idea for me to do, but the lack of support that I get for my books, smdh.....

Aaaaaaaaanyway.......

I'll let you guys know what I finally decide in November.  I should start doing any necessary promotions for it by then, if I decide to go forward with the dual release.  I'll keep you guys updated on it.

Uhuru sase, y paz.  Keep the fist raised. 

October Updates.......

As a co-worker of mine stated the other day, much to my shock....the month is already HALF OVER. :-O!!!!!!  Man, time sure does fly, don't it...?  We basically have TWO MONTHS left in the year!

Anyway......

So far, this month is going.  I can't really complain.  I didn't do too much for my birthday, earlier this month.  All I really did was get some additional sleep; since I had to work earlier in the day, I didn't really feel like doing too much, afterwards.  I did get a nice card from some of my co-workers; one of my favorite ones even gave me a really nice hug.  :-)

GOOD NEWS!!!  I was able to shoot episode THREE of "The Rough Draft".  If you're not on Youtube, you can catch the link for it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yE5aM4L1LL8&feature=youtu.be

Hope that you enjoy it!!!  In honor of Latino Heritage Month, I did a profile of my 2-book series "Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Authorhouse, 2010), and "Raise Your Brown Black 2: MORE Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Outskirts Press, 2011).  If you have a YouTube account, DEFINITELY 'like' and comment on the video.

I'm still considering doing a DUAL book release for 2020.  Both "Time Will Reveal" and "Suicide Amy" are ready for publication.  I just need to work on the cover art for Suicide Amy, which I'm currently working on right now.  Of course, I have my doubts about that; my writing career, financially speaking, has been quite dismal over the years.  Why bother to drop new projects that aren't going to be supported?  I do all that I can to promote my works, but ppl still won't support shit.  I couldn't even tell you the last time I registered any sales online, despite all of the online promotion that I do, whether through my email Mailing List, or through social media.  Wtf is the point of all of the emails to my personal Mailing List, if cats WON'T purchase shit, or come out to any of my events...?

But, I digress...

Right now, I'm looking forward to trying to end the year out on a strong note, and focus on promotions for next year.  This struggling shit is for the birds.  Hopefully, my fortunes will change in the coming new year.

Catch you on the rebound, people.  See ya in the next post.

Uhuru sase, y paz.  Keep the fist raised.  

October Flow/Latino Heritage Month Pt. II

Iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiit's October.  It is now officially fall, and there are now officially TWO months left in the year.

So, my birthday passed this past Tuesday.  I am now officially 45 years old.  Happy birthday to me.  Had to WORK on my birthday, but hey...welcome to adulthood.  Just took a nap after work.  The older you get, the less that you want to be reminded of it.  I was never to the type to go out and party on my birthday, anyway.  Maybe if I had a special someone in my life, it would matter a little more, but for now, it's just another day.

It's the SECOND HALF of Latino Heritage Month.  Been pretty quiet on my end, so far.  Other than promoting my first two books of "Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Authorhouse, 2010), and "Raise Your Brown Black Fist 2: MORE Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Outskirts Press, 2011), I haven't done much on the activist front.  Too many fake-ass people involved in that movement any fucking way.  If you don't have academia kissing your ass, or being hyped up because your ass is computer savvy, nobody really recognizes, or fucks with you.  Of course, activists like me have been doing this fighting since before most of these fuckers were BORN, but, hey....who really cares about experience...?

The year 2020 is coming up.  One...I need a new catchphrase for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement; "Back/Fresh on the scene..." worked well in the twenty-teens, but I need something new that's gonna get me through the next decade.  Two...I'm considering doing a dual book release for 2020.  Both "Time Will Reveal" and "Suicide Amy" are ready for publication.  I really don't know if I should do a dual book release, or not...considering the lack of sales and support from my so-called fan base.  Why bother to publish books that people aren't going to support? Even if I did get around to doing more personal appearances, would that really make a difference....?  Personal appearances hardly made a dent with my first three publications....and that was when I was working on my writing career FULL TIME!!!!  I'm getting to the point where I'm wondering to myself wtf is the point, and why the fuck should I even bother...?

Episode three of "The Rough Draft" has been a bit delayed.  I'll probably have it uploaded by next week.  I should have it uploaded to YouTube by next week.  I'll also share the link to it here on the blog.  Hope that you're subscribed to me on YouTube!!!  Check out my other videos, and don't forget to leave comments!!!

Other than that, I'm just maintaining.  looking forward to ending the year on a strong and positive note.  Hope that I can do a Kwanzaa event, or two before the year is out.  I could use some hand-to-hand sales right now, if just for some confidence.

Uhuru sase, y paz.  keep the fist raised.   

Celebrating Latino Heritage Month

Paz, mi gente.

This past Sunday officially kicked off the start to Latino Heritage Month, on September 15th.  As always, I fight for the inclusion of Latinos of African descent, such as myself, to be included in such celebrations.  I always promote the publishing of my 2-book series "Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Authorhouse, 2010), and "Raise Your Brown Black Fist 2: MORE Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Outskirts Press, 2011).  I usually try to make a point of going out to, and participate in, certain Latino festivals and events that are taking place in whatever city that I'm living in at the time.  This year, I've been feeling really run down by the day job, so I kept my celebrations to a solitary affair.  I'm hoping to make it out to a few other events that are going on around town, depending on how I'm feeling.  We'll see...

I would like to announce that Episode TWO of "The Rough Draft" has been produced and uploaded to YouTube.  In this episode, I'm discussing my networking group called the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  You can check out the link for it here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eP4HCf-Wu8&t=129s

If you have an account on Youtube, please like the video, and leave a comment below.  The feedback is always important, if you want the product to improve.  The more feedback, the better the product.

Since it is Latino Heritage Month, I usually would like to highlight something that I'm working on, or an event that is taking place either locally, or some other city.  I've been off my game, since I've withdrawn for the so-called Afro Latino Movement in recent years.  I've gotten really burnt out as of late, and feel a certain level of disrespect; I've been doing this type of activism for well over TWO decades; other have been doing it longer.....yet, those of us who have been in the fight for decades don't seem to be getting our respect, or props.  New jack media darlings are getting all of the shine, for NOT even doing half the work.  I guess that comes with this digital media age.  Whatever...

Viva mi gente, africano y negro!!!!  Soy negro, y orgullo!!!  Lets make our voices heard during this month, and give voice to our accomplishments, existence, and plight!!!

Keep the fist raised....

September Vibes

Once again, it's on....

Glad to be back online.  The day job has been dominating a lot of my free time, as usual.  I barely have the ability to do the things that I want to, to help boost my writing career, or to handle any business regarding the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  But....thems the breaks that you gotta live with when you have to pay the bills, and your dreams don't pay for them...

We are now in SEPTEMBER!!!!  Three quarters of the year is over already!!  :-O!!!!

September marks the NINTH month of the release "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019).  Sales haven't been great, but I'm still pushing and promoting, regardless.  Hoping to take advantage of some end-of-year Christmas or Kwanzaa events to promote the project, since online sales ain't doing shit.

September also marks the beginning of Latino Heritage Month!!!!  Feliz el mes de la Herencia de Los Latinos!!!!  Viva mi gente, Afro Latino!!!  Soy negro, y orgullo!!!!  I usually take this time to promote local Latino events, as well as the publishing of my book series "Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Authorhouse, 2010), and "Raise Your Brown Black Fist 2: MORE Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Outskirts Press, 2011).  Both projects are available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  I'm still considering writing a Part III to the book series, but I have yet to finish writing it.  I haven't been really motivated to finish the book , b/c of some of the shit that I've seen going on in the so-called Afro Latino Movement.  But I digress....

     

The Fall Season SoE list has been sent out for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  If you're not already on our Mailing List, let me know of your interest, and I will add you to the list.  All that's needed, if your email address.  I'm still working on putting on some real world events, but it's rather hard; I neither have the time, nor the help necessarily to do that.  I still want to FINALLY organize the Expo, for once.  It's hard to have a movement, when it's actually one person doing all the work....

I'm working on completing the manuscript for my novel "Suicide Amy".  I guess it could be considered an YA Street Lit novel.  It was one of my first scripts that I completed years ago, and converted it into a novel.  I'm doing the rewrites as I type this, and I'm hoping to have it completed soon.  I'm already planning on publishing "Time Will Reveal" (2020???) next year; should I do a double release...?  If I finish editing the book before this year is out, I might consider it...

Other than that, I'm just going with the flow.  Once more month until my Earthday.  I usually get a little melancholy around this time of year, the older I get.  It doesn't help that September marks the one year anniversary of the ascencion of my brother-comrade Etaniel to the ancestral realm.

Well, that's it for me, for now.  I'll let you all know how things are going.  Hopefully, I'll be able to blog more than once a month, this month.  I barely get support as it is; I don't need to fall off here in cyberspace.

Keep the fist raised.....

August News....

Peace, folks!  Yeah, I know....it's been a hot minute since I posted a blog.  My apologies.  The day job has been dominating my time as of late.  But now, I'm back with the latest news.

First off....it's the 4 year publishing anniversary for my poetry eBook "Spittin' Lyrics N Waxin' Poetic" (Draft2Digital, 2015).  Can't believe that it's been fours years since I published that particular book, my first eBook only project.  Sales haven't been impressive at all, but I'm proud of publishing it nonetheless.

It's the birth month for both of my parents.  Their birthdays (not to mention, their wedding anniversary) are in the same week & month. Feeling a little sad about that, as my mother is no longer here among the living.  That's gotta be hard on my pops.  Happy birthday, dad!!!

I FINALLY got around to shooting the pilot episode of "The Rough Draft".  It is now available on Youtube.  You can view it through the link here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wyfPsiWOXmA&feature=youtu.be

Hope that you enjoy the video!!!  I apologize for the poor sound quality, as I didn't realize that I was mumbling when I was talking.   I was tired when I'd shot the episode; that's what I get for shooting an episode after work.  I should've waited for one of my days off, but I was working multiple days that week, I just wanted to get the shit done.  I can hear my communications professors screaming in my ears about the "5 Ps"...  (Proper Planning Prevents Poor Productions).

On the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement front, I've finally compiled the preliminary Schedule of Events (SoE) list, and emailed it out.  I still have some November events that should be added, but I need the info to do that, and the outlets haven't posted any updates to their websites.  Oh well....I do what I can.

Time Will Reveal (2020) is DONE!!!  The cover art is finished, and the book is ready.  I just need to figure out when I'm going to actually publish the book next year. I haven't picked a date, yet.  If you guys have any suggestions, feel free to let me know when you'd like ot see it come out.

Other than that,  I'm just trying to figure out a strategy for the upcoming fall, to finish out the year on a strong note.  I wouldn't mind doing some vending, or a few public readings of my latest book.  The promotions for my books have been lacking as of late, an unfortunate consequence of a having a day job with an inconsistent schedule.  Weekends are out, and my days off aren't always consistent; not to mention, my days off always fall on weekdays.  Oh well, I'll figure something out....

That's it for me, right now.  Hope to be a little more consistent with my blog posts.  if not, I might just do more videos, and post the links for them here.

Keep the fist raised, my peoples.....

End-of-Month Wrap-up [JUNE]

So, we've entered the final week of the month of June.  Time really does fly, dosen't it?

The Summer Solstice has just passed.  Welcome to summer!!!  I had to work that day, but wanted to send out some positive energies for the official coming of the summer season.  Light a candle, light some incense, and say a prayer or two to the Creator.

Just entered a THIRD book entry into the North Street Book Contest.  I decided to enter my short story anthology "Drum Speaking: Tales From An Inner City Griot" (CreateSpace, 2016) into the mix.  Since the deadline is this coming Sunday (June 30th), I decided to take advantage of the opportunity.  It couldn't hurt; hell, it might actually up my chances at winning at least one of the three main prizes.  Getting the recognition is what really matters to me.  Since my sales are stagnant, I need to generate some attention for my work somehow.  The exposure is what really counts, for me.

I just outlined the first four episodes of "The Rough Draft".  I'm hoping to start shooting some footage for it by this weekend/the start of next week.  Once it's shot and edited, I'll post it here on the blog, and on Youtube.  I already have my Author Book Trailers uploaded there, so feel free to look me up, and view the videos.  I might share them on Facebook as well, but as a link. 

The day job is going pretty well, so far.  Not that I'm looking to hook up with any co-workers there, but we got some niiiiiiiice looking women working in my department. My first month has gone by on a good note, and I've earned my boss' and coworkers' respect for my work ethic.  As long as they treat me right, I might actually stay there for a while...

Been networking with a brother out here, who is ALSO a transplant from NY.  Met him at the local library out here ( and people wonder WHY I like going to the library so much).  I'm getting that hustle-mode mentality back, like I've always had.  Since he knows of my literary activism, he's trying to help hook me up with some people that  he knows that could help me, not just with my literary career, but also with my efforts for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  ANY help that I can get with both would be much appreciated.  a brotha is TIRED of struggling, and not getting supported....

That's about all for now.  Hoping to hit you back in July with some good news.  Hopefully, I'll have the first episode shot & edited in time to upload it here.  Wish me luck!!!!

Keep the fist raised.

Mid-Month Stride.....

Wow.....the month is already half over.  Where has the time gone.....?

Father's Day has recently passed.  I hope that all of the fathers out there that have been holding it down get the proper respect that they deserve.  No disrespect to the sisters out there that are holding it down, handling both positions, but don't disregard the men that are doing what they're supposed to do, and are holding it down, as well.  You also have single fathers out there that are holding down both roles, as well.  Don't down one gender, just to lift up the other.

Today is the last day of Juneteenth.  Me personally, I 'celebrate' the cultural event from the 16th to the 19th.  Most people, if they even celebrate the event, only celebrate it on the 19th, and that's it.  I think we need to look at the entire scope of what this event stands for, and give it its proper observance.  But...that's just me...

"The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019) celebrates its 6th month of existence, this month.  It's available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  Still struggling to make sales off of it.  Still considering doing a reading for it; I just need to find the proper venue for it, and a date when I can get it done.  Juggling the new day job kinda complicates that.  I'm not complaining; at least I'm getting some money in my pockets, now...

Still working on getting an episode of "The Rough Draft" done.  I might just do a cheapo version of it, and post it here on the blog, and to Youtube.  As long as I get it done, and stop trying to be so anal about it.  It's just my Communications college major background kicking in.  I know how to do this shit professionally, and don't want to do some busted ass production, and put my name behind it.  Then again, I've seen some terrible videos posted on YT, and they have thousands of viewers.  Go figure for quality....

I think that I'm finally over my writer's block.  Did some editing for "Time Will Reveal" (2020), and I'm adding more content to "Walk Like A Warrior" (2021??), yet another literary project that I have.  I still need to create the cover for TWR, but at least I have the basic concept in my head.  Plus, I have time before publication; I'm not planning on publishing it until next year.  I haven't touched "Suicide Amy" (2022???) yet, though I'm still editing that one.  Not to mention, I'm still working on the other two sequels to The Black Fist book saga.  So many stories, so little time...

The day job is going well.  Can't really complain.  I'm getting along with my co-workers, and they seem to respect my work ethic.  And yes, I do find a few of my co-workers VERY attractive  ;-).  Not looking to hook up with anybody at my job, buuuuuuuuuut......if somebody spits game at me, I'm going for mine!!!  :-)

That's all for now.  Hoping to have even more news for you with my next entry.  Hopefully, I can finish out this month with a few more blog posts...hopefully with an episode of "The Rough Draft".  You'll be able to see and hear wtf I look like, lol, lol, lol. 

Keep the fist raised. 

June Happenings....

Oh, wow.....it's JUNE!!!  :-O!!!!  The year is already half over!!!  :-O

The start of summer is here.  We're almost into the middle of the month of June.  Let's see what's happening...

June is the 4-year publishing anniversary for my novel "Demure Nights" (CreateSpace, 2015).

Four years ago, I published this book; my FIFTH book, and SECOND novel.  It was a departure from what I'm usually known for, as I decided to tackle the genre of Erotica, though I still consider the book to be more Urban Lit.  The sales for this one hasn't been what I wanted them to be (much like all of my other books), BUT, it's still a good story, and I'll continue to do my best to promote it.

A lot of events are going on, starting in June.  I'd just sent out the latest Summer SoE listing for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement to the other members.  I just wish that I could participate in some of these festivals/book fairs/conventions, and be able to further promote my books.  I'm itching to get back onto the book fair/festival/comic con circuit, and get my work out there, and give my books the proper exposure that they deserve.

So far, I've entered TWO of my books into the North Street Book Contest.  The deadline for the contest is June 30th, and I'm considering adding at least one more book entry into this contest.  I could definitely use the exposure, even if I don't win the contest, but I need to do SOMETHING to get my work out there.

Father's Day is coming up.  Don't forget to give a shout out to your dad when his day comes around!  Biggups to all the men that are being men, and are handling their responsibilities, raising their children!!!  Show these young cats out here how to be real men, and look out for their community, and families!

I know that it's only been a little over a week, but the new day job is going okay.  I can't really complain.  Things are going good, so far, and I'm getting along with my new co-workers.  Like I said...it's a job.  It's how I fund my dreams, goals, and writing career.

Still working on doing that pilot episode of "The Rough Cut".  I don't want to do some ghetto ass production, but I'm looking to get this done.  People need to actually see me, and hear my own words.  I don't want the masses to get this perception of me as this bitter ass individual, according to my blog posts.  I'm usually always on the move, always on my literary grind.  I want to be able to reflect and convey that to the masses, and my potential fan base.  Hope to be able to shoot an episode, soon...

That's about it for now.  See y'all on the flip side!!!

Keep the fist raised.

May Monthly Wrap-up

Wow....the end of the month is almost here!!!  :-O!!!!  The year is almost half over!!!!

Been trying to track my progress over the month.  It's been primarily stagnant, as I've taken recently with some writer's block, as well as some self evaluation, concerning some recent deaths that I've had to deal with.  The good thing is that my book slated for publication in 2020 titled "Time Will Reveal" was completed prior to the writer's block.  But, other than that, I haven't done much writing for any other projects.  I think that I'm finally starting to overcome that particular hurdle, as I've been brainstorming some creative ideas, recently.  I'll go into those later in the post....

Nooooot too satisfied with the writing career as of late.  I need more public exposure, and to do more speaking engagements, panel discussions, or some reading/book signing events.  Online sales ain't shit, and people don't buy your stuff, even when you post about it 2 gazillion times a day online on social media.  Need to go old school with it, and street team, or something.  Need to get my hustle back, and get my work out there.  I'm also starting to send my novels into some book contests.  I need to get that exposure SOMEHOW....

Got a new day job.  Working back in food service.  Hell....it's a living, and a paycheck.  Not only will I be able to pay my bills, I can continue to fund my writing career.  Book copies ain't cheap, and neither are vending fees, or rental spaces.  Since niccas don't know how to buy your shit online, I gotta get the money to pay for everything I need to do from SOMEWHERE.  But, I digress...

"Time Will Reveal" needs a book cover.  I have an idea of what I want it to look like, so I just need to buckle down, and start designing it.  Most of my book covers are fairly simple to create, and since I have some computer graphics skills, it makes it easier for me in the final stages, as I can design my own book covers.  Maybe I'll invest in a cover designer in the future, when I can actually make a living off my writing. Yeah....that'll be the day....   ***sarcasm dripping***

Been able to fight through tis bout of writer's block, little by little.  Been marinating on a few ideas for some future book projects.  Thinking of writing a sequel to "Drum Speaking" (CreateSpace, 2016).    This time around, I might do a Sci fi/Fantasy anthology;  try and tap into that Black Speculative ficition, AfroFuturist market.  I have a few story ideas rolling around in my head, as we speak.  I might novelize a few of my sci fi screenplay projects, and turn them into short stories for the anthology, IF I decide to do it.

I've also thought about novelizing one of my other movie screenplay ideas; a sci fi project called "Nobility's Rise".  It was kinda my answer to both Star Wars, and Superman...with an Afrocentric slant, of course.  It would've been a 3-movie film series, even though I've only completed one of the scripts; the first sequel is incomplete.  I might choose to convert them into a novel series, and promote it as a Black Speculative Fiction/Afrofuturist novel series.  It's a thought...

That's about it for now.  Still considering doing "The Rough Draft" video blog series.  I also start the new day job this week.  I'll let you all know how it goes.    

Keep the fist raised...

May Happenings......

It's now MAY!!!!  Man...time really is flying, ain't it...?  we're already FIVE months into the new year!  :-O

First off, there a few events that I know of that are happening in May.  I just found out about this one the other week.  The 1st annual Dominican Writers Conference will be taking place THIS SATURDAY, May 4th in NYC on the campus of City College of New York, or, CCNY as we like to call it back home.  I won't be attending this event, but I just wanted to shout them out....

Also, later in the month, my FAVORITE Black comic con will be taking place in Philadelphia.  Coming on May 18th, the East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention, or ECBACC for short, will be taking place!!!

 

 YAAAAAY!!!  Hopefully, I can attend it this year.  Now that I have the hat and t-shirt to represent the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement, I can look official at the event, or any other literary events that I go to.

ALSO...

May is the publishing anniversary for my novel "Seductra: Web of Desire" (CreateSpace, 2017)!!!

Two years ago, I was able to publish this novel, and release it to the world.  Help me to celebrate this particular novel turning 2 years old. It's a good Urban Lit story about a trained dancer (and transplant NYer) trying to make ends meet.  Available in both paperback AND eBook formats!!!

Haven't been writing as much, but I'm still promoting the latest novel.  Trying to push "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019) as much as I can.  Doing public appearances for it would help, but I don't necessarily have the funds to do any festivals/book fairs/comic cons right now.  Being in-between jobs ain't fun, and I'm getting nowhere with online sales. I'm considering doing a few readings of it, but I don't really trust the crowd here in Delaware.  Maybe if I set up a few reading in Philly, it would work; the crowd out there might be more receptive to my work.  Delaware folks....?  Hmmmm....I don't know about them....

Got a job interview coming up for a part time gig.  Wish me luck on that.  I need SOME sort of income to come it, since the ones for book sales don't exist...

Right now I feel like I'm at a crossroads.  I need to figure out what I'm going to do in regards to my writing career.  I need ot figure out a way to move forward, and make it beneficial to me, specifically financially.  OBVIOUSLY, the people who know me personally don't take my writing career seriously, so I need to take my work to an audience who will.  I need to be able to make a living at this; that's the bottom line.  I need a team around me who is going to help me to promote my work.

That's all for now.  I'll hit y'all back when I have more updates, and other news for you.

Keep the fist raised.

End of April Updates......

So far, this month seems to have gone by a bit slower than usual...at least to me, personally.  Oh well...

First, some news.  I finally broke down and decided to republish "Fiesta Girl" (Draft2Digital, 2018) as a paperback.  You can purchase your copy here:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1095026070?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

I priced it lower than my other novels, simply because of the lower page count.  I'm hoping that this will help to boost the sales for it, since the sales for the novel solely as an eBook were abysmal, at best. Niccas claim that they wanna see diversity in books, but when you make shit available for them, they don't wanna support, unless you're being propped up by the mainstream machine.  Go figure, smdh...

Still out here, trying to promote "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019).  Everybody seems to be on a superhero kick, when it comes to the powers-that-be with their commercial movies, but can't none of these sheeple support an indie author (or artists, for that matter) trying to push their own diverse character(s).  The novel has been out since JANUARY, and is available in BOTH paperback AND eBook formats.  What's the excuse for the nonsupport....?

There are a few cons and book fairs that I want to vend at.  I ended up missing Khem Comic Fest in Newark, NJ  :-(.  This weekend is another multicultural comic con called Newark Culture Con.  That'll be this weekend, April 27th.  Also, you have East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention (ECBACC) in Philly coming up next month in May (May 18th, to be exact).  I would like to be able to make it out there, even if I can't vend.  Since I finally got the Shirt and hat for the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement printed up, I can at least go out there, and represent for my organization, and be able to network and politic with some other indie creators.

I need to get back to vending at events, and doing panel discussions/speaking engagements.  Exposure is the only surefire way to get my work noticed, and gain SOME sort of support.  I have TEN books published, and yet I can't make a living off of them, collectively?!?!?!  That's mf SAAAAAD!!  

Taking a bit of a break from writing.  I haven't been as motivated lately to write.  I actually DO have at least two projects that I'm currently working on.  One novel is already complete, and I need to design a cover for it (Time Will Reveal); where as I'm still editing down the other one (Suicide Amy).  As I always say on social media, I'm ALWAYS  on my literary grind.

That's about it, so far.  Grab you copy of ANY AND ALL of my novels.  Give Fiesta Girl a chance; it's a decent storyline, especially since the lead characters are Afro Latino.

Keep the fist raised.

The Itch Is Still There....

Contrary to the title of this post, it ain't about catching an STD, lol, lol, lol, lol.  ;-)

Soooooo...I officially gave up on being involved in the film/television/video production field back in 2008.  I gave up on trying to get my foot in the door in NYC in 2006, when I initially left the city (the first time), and thought about trying my hand in greener pastures in the south, or the 'New South', as they were billing it.  Opportunities were opening up in the southern states, and I though that I might try my hand out there.  Be that as it may, the last project that I did, was to shoot and produce a dvd for the organization that I belonged to at the time; a benefit dinner made to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the existence of our local chapter.  Since these broke ass bamas ain't have no money to PAY me for my services, the deal was that I'd shoot and edit the event FOR FREE, and get hit off with a portion of the proceeds (60%-40% split, they got the majority). Since these simple minded bamas don't know how to sell shit, they wanted to complain about it being a bad deal, and want to try to reneg on our deal. After that bullshit, I was completly DONE.  I moved on to becoming a (self-published) author, after that.  I never wanted to become involved in video/film/television production again, after that experience.  Considering that I'd wasted my late teens and twenties trying to get my foot in the door, with no success, I might add...I was done with that whole field.

Apparently....the itch has never faded.

I've been telling you guys about this idea that I have for a new vlog called "The Rough Draft", right?  I wanted it to be styled after "Uncensored" on TVOne, except that my vlog was supposed to focused on writers (me, specifically), telling of our literary journyes from our perspective, raw and uncut.  Basically...telling it like a rough draft of a story.

The more that I think about it...the more that I'm interested in doing it, but in a more professional manner.  My background as a Communications major in now starting to kick in.  There's actually technology out there that can make the production of this show easy, and affordable.  You can shoot it on a smartphone, or tablet, rather than a video camera, and there are apps that you can download to edit the footage.  You don't even have to heavily invest in lighting, or microphones, which can make the production easier and cheaper (financially) to make.  As Arsenio Hall would say...things that make you say hmmmmmmmm....

I have the contacts through my networking group, the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  I know plenty of them that would LOVE to get that type of exposure.  I still have some other stuff to figure out, as far as the viewing outlet is concerned; should I just post it on YouTube, or create my own site for the UALAM?  I would at least need a camera person, and an editor to help me put it together, after all of the footage is shot.  Should it be my own thing, or an extension of the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement...?  Am I just overthinking this too much...?

I'll still keep working on the idea, and let you all know how it goes down.  I guess that itch never faded, after all.  I just needed to find my niche....

Kinda taking a break from writing, and trying to figure out this promotional thing.  Considering entering my book into this writing contest, and at least gain some exposure for my work, if I don't win.  I'm figuring out which titles I'm going to enter into it.  I'll keep you guys updated on that....

The Literary Arts Movement merch should be arriving this week!  Hopefully I can take a picture of my rocking the gear, and post it here, as well as on social media. Stay tuned for that!!!  :-)

Other that that...still job hunting, and chilling.

Keep the fist raised.

April Happenings....

Welcome to April!!!  Spring is in the air!!!!

First off...April the the publishing anniversary for my book "Drum Speaking: Tale From an Inner City Griot" (CreateSpace, 2016).  I published the book THREE years ago, a collection of short stories.  I'm pretty proud of that anthology, as it showcases my storytelling abilities (imho).  Available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  Hook a brotha up with some purchases, or a download, or 20.  ;-)

Still plugging away at promoting "FURI of the People".  Sales are typically as I expected; dismal.  Still constantly promoting the novel through e-blasts, and pushing it via social media.  I can count the number of purchases and downloads that I've received so far on ONE hand.  Instead of just pressing the "like"  button every time I post the link for it on social media, how about pressing the "buy now" button...?  I would like to do a few comic cons and book fairs, but money is the issue.  Especially now that I'm in between jobs, I need to be smart with my money so that it can last to cover my essential bills.  AGAIN....available in BOTH paperback AND eBook formats.

All my New Jersey people stand up!!!  The Khem Comic Fest is back!!!  Brick City representing!!!  Back with their 5th installment of the comic festival (and more), Come out to Newark on April 13th!!!  Purchase your tickets now!!!  Help to spread the word and PLEASE come through!!!  I'm hoping to make it out there, myself! It would be nice to get out of town for a little while, and be able to enjoy myself.

I've always said that as Afro Latinos, we NEED to be more involved with the rest of the African diaspora.  Here is an opportunity for us to make it happen: a symposium is being held at Delaware State University (an HBCU) called the Pan African Development Conference, looking to help build up sustainable agriculture and economic initiatives for Africa.  My dear brother and comrade Ezrah Aharone is one of the leading figures of this symposium.  It is a 3-day event, form April 10th-12th.  Here is the flyer for it:

You can register online.  The info is all on the flyer.  Spread the word, mi gente.  Come out , and support this, and make it part of El Movmiento Afrolatinidad!!!

I'm still working on other literary projects.  Still writing the other sequels to my 'The Black Fist Saga'; Books III and IV.  I'm still developing the characters and storyline(s).  The rough drafts are going, so I can at least say that.  At the same time, I'm still editing my Street Lit novel "Suicide Amy", based on one of my old screenplays. My new Sci fi novel "Time Will Reveal" is pretty much complete; I'm considering publishing it next year in 2020.  All I really need for it now, is some decent cover art.  I have a concept for it in my head, but I don't know if I'll design it myself, or hire and outside artist.  I'll let y'all know....

Well, that's it for now.  It's still early in the month, so I'm sure that I'll have more stuff to inform you about as the month progresses.  Finally designed a shirt and hat with the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement logo on it.  Gonna order me a set, soon, and hopefully take a picture rocking the gear.  Catch you guys on the rebound!!

Keep the fist raised.

Veneral (Spring) Equinox 2019

The Veneral Equinox has come and gone.  The day seemed to have lasted longer, as it is the official first day of spring.  It is a time for reflection, and for renewal.  We were blessed by a beautiful full moon on that night.  I was actually able to go out, and enjoy myself, and listen to some great music by some local artists.  Shout out to Delaware Music Network for making it happen!!  Y'all did your thing!!

Suffered yet another personal loss.  A childhood friend that I grew up with, passed away earlier this month.  It really sucks, because he was a really good, and close friend.  I had just seen him posting something on social media before his passing; a picture of he, and his father, and how much he loved and respected him. I knew that he had heart issues, but his passing hurts nonetheless.  This is the third such personal loss in recent months.  One was a close comrade/bredren in early fall of 2018, my mother recently passed on New Years, and now my peoples from childhood.  It's made me become really reflective of my own life.  It's given me a lot to think about in recent month, and is making me re-evaluate certain things in my life.  I'm kinda at a crossroads at the moment, rethinking my writing career, and other decisions that I've made...

Still struggling with promoting "F.U.R.I. of the People", as well as my other projects.  It gets a little sickening that I constantly push my shit, but get absolutely NO real support; maaaaaaybe a person, or two, but that's it.  With TEN published projects, I should be making SOME sort of a living off of my works...at least collectively.  Even doing the festival circuit seems like a fleeting endeavor.  Everything takes time and money, and I always have the issues of maybe having one, but not the other at a particular space and time; hell, sometimes I have neither.  Niccas can always click a gd "like" button, and leave you a bs congratulatory message...but, how many of them back it up by a) actually BUYING the book, b) leaving a review, c) encouraging their circle of peoples to support your books, and d) coming out to your appearances/book signings, etc.?

But....I digress....

I've pretty much narrowed down where I want to repatriate to.  In West Africa, I'm really feeling the country of Gambia.  Something about that country is striking a cord with me.  In the East Africa, I'm being pulled strongly to Tanzania.  I'm going to continue to do my research on both countries, and hopefully make the move out there by the end of 2020/early 2021.  That's my goal for right now.  Since I'm unattached, and have no children, i might as well make that move.  There's really nothing for me here in this country (save some family members), and I'm sick of what I'm seeing culturally, and politically.

I've recently shut down my "Chronicles of the Brown Black Fist" Facebook page; my Afro Latino activism fan page.  It wasn't getting any type of real support, and it was too time consuming trying to find content for the page.  Fuck it...it was more trouble than it was worth continuing to keep it up, and running. Niccas don't wanna support what I'm doing, or partake in the information that I'm sharing, why keep stressing myself out trying to maintain it?  Let them jump on the bandwagon of some kit kat Afro Latina millennial that's only content is about hairstylists, makeup, and guess-who's-an-Afro Latina-actress-that-we-didn't-know-was-Afro Latina? nonsense;  I've been in this activism game too long to waste my time on dumb shit.  As it is, I've been a bit disgusted with the current state of the so-called Afro Latino Movement for the last five years. Cats seem to be having a hidden agenda, and ulterior motives for their participation.  This ain't a platform for you to jump on, and exploit for your own personal gain.

Aaaaaaaaanyway.....

Ima do what Ima do.  I'll keep y'all in the loop as to my progress.  There is positive, as well as negative.  It's all about keeping the balance.  Later, peoples.

Keep the fist raised.

Updates for March...

Soooooooo......it's been a while.

"F.U.R.I. of the People" has been out for about a month and a half, so far.  Sales are as I expected them to be....dismal.  I've had TWO purchases so far, and no downloads that I know of.  Yeah....people are reeeeeeeally supportive of my career, smgdmfh...

I chucked my day job.  It got to be too much.  It was becoming a hostile work environment, and I wasn't having that.  I liked my boss, and the people in my department; it was the higher ups that made the place difficult to work at.  Specifically, it was ONE higher up that made it hard to be there.  Oh well.  When the bitch is standing there, BY HERSELF, with nobody to work there (except, maybe nothing but temps), maaaaaybe the job will finally get rid of her stupid ass.  She's the main reason why nobody want to work there anyway, and why they have such a high turnover rate.  Then again, wtf do I know...?

I've actually just completed writing my next novel.  It's a Sci Fi/Action novel called "Time Will Reveal"; another conversion job.  It is starting to seem that some of my screenplays actually work better as novels, lol, lol, lol.  I'm also still working on Book III and Book IV of the Black Fist series; they're both still in the rough draft stages, as I haven't finished writing them yet.  I'm also still editing "Suicide Amy"; my Street Lit novel.  So many projects, so little time, lol, lol, lol.  Don't ask me how the hell do I do it....I don't even know how I do it.  I'm just a natural storyteller.  It would be nice if people actually appreciated that fact, and invested in my mf books.

Aaaaaaaanyway......

I still want to do that vlog "The Rough Draft".  I just need to take the time to actually shoot it.  Kiiiinda don't want to shoot it at my residence, and have it look all bootleg, and whatnot.  I could easily shoot it on my laptop, and then edit it in MovieMaker; it doesn't need to be uber professional.  At the same time, I have higher standards, having been a Communications major in college, and all.  Maybe I'm just overthinking this, and making it more complicated than it needs to be....?  We'll see what happens.

Been connecting a lot with my Jamii lately, and have started to make some long term (and short term) goals. One of my more long term goals is to FINALLY repatriate to the continent.  With the way that things are going in this bullshit country, and considering how spinless & ignorant a lot of people are nowadays, I DEFINITELY need to gtfoh.  Right now, I'm just doing my research on the different countries that I want to go to.  I've at least narrowed it down to five countries; two in the west of Africa, and three in the east.  Repatriation has actually been on my mind for quite some time now, and I'm feeling the call to do it more and more in recent years.  Hopefully within the next year or two, I can finally make that commitment, and finally move there.  Research and preparation are the immediate concerns right now.  I'll let you all know how that progresses.

That's about it for now.  Hopefully, the sales will improve.  Still debating if I should do a reading & book signing, or not.  I'd rather do a festival, or comic con, or something to that effect, but that costs money.  Being unemployed hinders that a lot.  I'll let you know what happens.

Keep the fist raised.

(New) Author Book Trailer 2019!!!!

Greetings all!!!!

I have updated my Author Book Trailer to reflect the publication of my latest book "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (KDP, 2019).  The cover to the new book has been added to the trailer, so now it reflects all TEN books that I've published in my career so far.  And, considering that this is my publishing anniversary month, I thought that it was fitting to share it here.  The trailer is already posted up on YouTube, so you can also see it there.  So, without further ado....:

Hope that you were able to enjoy it.  Might take a break for a while, and just concentrate on promoting the books that I already have out, for now.  Looking forward to doing some panel discussions, or a book signing, or two.  Aaaaaaaand....don't forget to buy a few of my books!

Keep the fist raised!!  

The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People [BOOK II]

"It's been four years since Nyerere Lewis has donned the uniform and the mantle of The Black Fist.  He continues to watch over and protect his beloved hometown of New Washington City, and combat against the influence of the powers-that-be/PTB, Unlimited, and battle against their agents of The System.

Realizing that he can't fight them off all alone, with the help of Det. Amirah Umi, he builds his own underground force called the Freedman's Underground Revolutionary Initiative....or, FURI for short.  Follow along with his new adventures as he engages with enemies new and old, and works with new allies and revolutionary associates to take them down.  The chronicles continue as we witness the F.U.R.I. of the people!"

This is novel number TEN for me, and Book II of The Black Fist Saga!!  Paperback available now for purchase through Amazon!!  eBook format is coming soon!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1794692339

Keep the fist raised!!!!

Been Away For A While...

Greeting in the new year!!  Welcome to 2019!!!

It's been a while since I've written a blog post.  The new day job dominates most of my time, especially since they were working me for six days a week, for a while.  I've only recently started being scheduled with consecutive days off.  That's kept me offline a lot, and off  my online promotional game.

I've also recently lost my mother, so I'm dealing with that.  She passed away very early New Years morning, which I was actually working (both on NYE, and NYD).  I'm dealing with it day by day, lucky to be surrounded by good friends who can relate to having lost a loved one.  That has also kept me off the computer, as I needed my personal head space, and go through the initial grieving process.

The release of my latest book, and Black Fist sequel "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (KDP, 2019) is TWO WEEKS AWAY.  The cover is designed, and the final edits have been made.  Just waiting to load it up, and let the publisher handle their business.  The book will be available in both paperback and eBook formats.

Hoping to get the opportunity to do some vending at some festivals/book fairs/conventions this year.  I was noticeably absent last year, and want to do a better promotional job this year.  I would still love to do panel discussions, as well.  Hopefully, my schedule will straighten out, and I can get the opportunities that I need to get my stuff out there, especially with the release of this latest novel.  I would love to do a few Black comic cons to promote it, and the first book as well.

2019 marks the 10-year anniversary of the organizational formation of the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  We changed over from Black CapaCity, primarily because of some bama ass bullshit, and rebranded ourselves (by we, I mean ME).  Niggas never understood wtf I was trying to do anyway, so why not branch out on my own, and do the shit the right way, as I envisioned it?  Stupid ass bamas never understood what I was trying to do anyway, as it was more than just a fucking festival.  It was a concept envisioned on a very broad scale, with a networking piece to it.  That's what happens when you fuck with country ass, bama ass niggas, faking like they conscious.

Aaaaaaaaaaaanyway....

Here's to 2019.  Hoping to have a better year that last year.  And....make that transition to move to the continent, finally.

Dueces....