November Anniversaries!!!!

 We have now reached the month of NOVEMBER!!!  The second to last month of the year.  Time has surly flown by, this year.  Weren't we just celebrating new years, just last week...?  Now the year is almost over.  It seems like the older you get, the fast time goes by.

 

As we are now in November, help me to celebrate the TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARY of this blog!!!!!  Ten years ago in 2011, I first started this blog (November 10th, to be exact).  I wasn't really sure if I should start a blog or not, as I wanted to be consistent with its content.  Starting the blog was a testament to my desire to build my writing career, as I was in the process of releasing my second book, at the time.  This blog was to be a platform for both my political activism, especially concerning Afro Latino issues & affairs, as well as a vehicle to help me promote my books, and later, novels.  I have to admit, it's been a struggle to maintain this blog.  People have fallen off with their support, and there were times when I struggled to have content to post here.  People seem to not know that I get viewership analytics, whenever I log into my account.  Basically, I can see how many people have actually viewed my posts; recent, or otherwise.  But...I'm still doing it.  The blog is still here.  I'm still posting content, and promoting my works.  In certain ways, it kinda beats having an actual website to maintain, but it also has its shortcomings.  Here's to another decade of posting content, and spreading my philosophy....

 

November also marks the ten-year publishing anniversary of my second book "Raise Your Brown Black Fist 2: MORE Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" (Outskirts Press, 2011).

 

 

Ten years ago, I published the follow-up sequel to my first book.  I expanded the "Black Thoughts" essay series, and expanded it to sixteen essays, from the original seven.  It was warmly received when I originally published the book.   Of course, there were a few folks who shitted on me, and didn't support it, claiming that they had never received their copy of the first book, so they didn't want that to happen with the second book (even though I used a totally different publisher with this book).  But, yet...niggas never called customer service to let them know that, or even me for that matter, and I paid for it with their nonsupport.  But....I digress...

 

RYBBF is available in both paperback AND eBook formats.  If you don't feel like buying the physical copy, you can always download it for $1.99 through the various eBook outlets of Kindle, Nook, Kobo, iTunes, Scribd, and in eBook format through libraries, as well.

 

November marks TEN months that "Knuckle Up" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2021) has been released.  Sales are still stagnant, though I'm doing what I can to promote it. Haven't received any reviews for it, either.  I've tried promoting it to actual female fighters through social media, but that has been a no-go.  Oh, well....it's out there, and I'm still promoting it.

 

November also marks the beginning of my Holiday Economic Support Initiative.  Lasting from "Black Friday" until New Years Day, this campaign is meant to bolster economic support for Black-owned & Latino-owned businesses & entrepreneurs.  If WE don't support our businesses & entrepreneurs, who will?!?!  Don't be talking all of this rhetoric on social media, and then you don't even back up that shit you be talking about.  Stop trying to act all 'woke' & shit, when yo ass, ain't!  I've being doing this initiative since 2014; if you want to support, you can tag a business of entrepreneur that you know on social media, and use the hashtags #HolidayEconomicSupportInitiative, or #HESI to help to promote & support that business, or entrepreneur that you know, and have actually supported.  Also...SPEND YOUR MONEY WITH THEM!!!!  I'm hoping that this campaign will catch fire, and cause us to actually support our own.  Considering how corporate America disrespects us, and our community (and the larger society, for that matter), let's try to hit them where it really hurts.  You don't have to be marching in the streets to be involved in activism.  Let's start using whatever social media powers and influence that we have for good, hmmm....?

 

That's about all for now.  Help me to celebrate my anniversaries, and to support my economic campaign.  Also...buy a couple of books....and leave a damn review, while you're at it!!!  I'll keep you guys updated on my progress.

 

Keep the fist raised.

 

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

 

 
  

Going Through The Motions....

SO......

The first full week of May is almost done. This weekend is Mother's Day weekend.  Nooooot really looking forward to it, since my mom past in 2019.  It gets kinda tough to deal with that holiday, whenever it comes around.  My worst days are generally New Years (when she passed), Mother's Day, and on her birthday.  I tend to be a little cranky throughout the day, but I'm usually able to play it off.  I just get pretty quiet, and keep to myself.  That's just me, and how I'm dealing with my grief, for now.  I'll probably find a more constructive way to deal with it in the near future, but for right now, my moodiness will have to do...

Check it out!!!  I've posted the latest episode of "The Rough Draft"!!!  The vlog is now in the double digits!!!  I've posted episodes 10 & 11 on YouTube, so if you have an account, go there and check out the videos.  Don't forget to comment!!!

Episode #10:
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ee-00p5e_OI


Episode #11:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h29g5r85Tqk&feature=youtu.be

Enjoy the episodes!!!  'Like' the episodes, and don't forget to leave a comment!!  Feedback is always welcome!!  :-)

Still trying to increase sales for my books. Yeah...verbal pats on the back are nice, and people will post positive rhetoric on social media congratulating me on my success...but, I need some damn sales, and reviews!!!  Really, people....cut the shit!!  You're stuck indoors, for crying out loud!!!  I can't even count on you people to download my novels during a pandemic?!?!?!

Aaaaaaanyway.....

I'm considering my options, as to what to do next.  I've got a few ideas marinating in the old noggin.  I'm working on trying to complete the rest of the books in my The Black Fist book series.  I just need to finish the first draft of Book #3, and start writing more chapters in Book #4.  I'm also considering a few sequel ideas, among other projects that I'm writing.  Ahhhhh....a writer's job is never done.

Hope that you enjoyed this little slice of my life.  With this pandemic going on, I'm trying to be a bit more consistent with posting content here.  Can't make you guys any promises, though.  Until next time....

Uhuru sase, y paz.

Keep the fist raised.

#AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!! Welcome to 2020!!!!!

Omg......it's 2020!!!  TWENTY-TWENTY!!!!!!  :-O!!!!!  Reminds you of some type of futuristic, Sci Fi movie shit, don't it...?

Aaaaaaaaaaanyway...

Welcome to the new year!!!  Had to work my day job on New Years Day....not to mention, it was the one-year anniversary of my mother becoming an ancestor....but, other than that, it was okay.  Went on a "follicle fast" by shaving my head and facial hair, starting on the Winter Solstice, up until New Years.  Now, I'm letting my hair grow back.  Was trying to purge myself of any negative energies stored in my follicles, and releasing them into the universe, starting the new year anew.  seems to be working, so far....

Looking forward to making things happen in 2020!!!  As I always hashtag throughout my social media accounts, #AlwaysOnMyLiteraryGrind!!!  I'm trying to get back out there, and do more public appearances; whether at festivals/book fairs, doing panel discussions, or organizing my own shit.  Need to get my face out there more.  It's now or never, if I'm ever going to have a viable writing career.   Fuck this struggling shit.....

Also for this year.....MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!!  The countdown has officially begun!!!

Looking forward to the DUAL book release this year of both "Time Will Reveal" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020), and "Suicide Amy" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2020) this year.  Looking forward to their publication in March; March 13th is when they'll BOTH be released, to be exact.  Already started promoting their releases on my other social media, as well as through eblasts to my personal Mailing List. Let's hope that these particular books will be supported by my fans.

It's January, so it also marks the One Year Publishing Anniversary for the release of "The Chronicles of The Black Fist: F.U.R.I. of the People" (Kindle Direct Publishing, 2019).  Sales haven't been anywhere near where I wanted them to be, and feedback has been minimal....abysmal is more like it.  This is a HOT character, and a HOT story.  A self-made, grassroots BLACK superhero, for crying out loud!!!  C'mon, people!!!!  Don't complain about not having shit, and then NOT supporting wtf you've been begging and crying for!  It's now a series, as it is Book II in the saga.  I'm still working on writing Books III & IV in the series, so this character is NOT going anywhere!!!  He is still going to represent, and I will continue to write this wonderful novel series.  Don't wait for the book to gain white/mainstream approval; that may never happen.  Get in on the grassroots level; that's what really matters.  #TellingOurOwnStories

I might try to focus my efforts into PA, and So. Jersey.  I think that you may have untapped audiences out there that are begging for something to read.  My work(s) might appeal to those populations out there.  Just gotta do the research and continue to grind.  I just live in Delaware; I don't need to conquer it.  They ain't readers out here, anyway.

Well, I hope that the new year is treating you all well.  I'll keep you updated as to the release of the new books; books nos. 11 & 12.  This year also makes it TEN YEARS that I've been published.  Looking to make a LOT of noise about it next month in February...my OFFICIAL anniversary!!  Stay tuned.

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

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.  

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. 

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!!!!

October Flow....

Okay.....I've been away from the blog for a while...

It's OCTOBER....my birthday month.  Just turned 44.  Yay, me!  :-)  Got to see another year of life, so THAT'S always good...

It's the second half of Latino Heritage Month  (just officially ended this past Monday).  Been on my grind trying to promote both "Fiesta Girl" (Draft2Digital, 2018) AND the "Raise Your Brown Black Fist" book series (Authorhouse, 2010, Outskirts Press, 2011) via e-blasts.  Don't really know how effective I've been with it, but, that's how I do every year, this time of year.

A new day job is on the horizon.  Just got to go through a few more steps, and I should be starting by next week.  I'm glad; getting kinda low on cash, though I will definitely miss the free time.  Haven't had an official vacation since moving out here to DE, so this time off was very helpful.  Especially with how they were shitting on my at my last gig, I needed the break....

Continuing to work on my latest literary project.  I finally got around to converting one of my screenplays into a novel.  The latest project is called "Suicide Amy".  The first draft is already complete; now, I just have to concentrate on the editing process.  I'm hoping to have it completed by 2020.  I want to give myself more than enough time to get it to where I want it to be, literarily speaking.  I have a literary standard to keep, ya know....  ;-)

Have an idea rolling around in my head.  Want to do a web based TV show; an interview type of show.  Kinda got inspired watching "Uncensored" on TVOne; wanted to do something similar for writers, comic book artists/publishers, etc.  Haven't come up with a name for it yet (actually...I do have a name for it; I just don't want to say it here, and have someone jack the idea before I can do it), but the premise is basically to highlight those of us that are struggling for exposure.  We're out here, but we're not getting the recognition, or the support.  Just wanted to create a platform for us to get our shine, and some exposure.  Wanted to combine it with my Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement, since all of us are out here trying to get exposure, and (financial) support from the masses.  Maybe do it as a web series, or a vlog, or even as a cable access show.  I'm still working on it.  I'll let you guys know how that turns out....

Since the end of the year is coming, I need to concentrate on end-of-year holiday sales.  That has always been a tough sell for me.  People will spend loads of money buying a bunch of expensive shit, but NOBODY will buy any of my books, no matter how much I e-blast/cyber promote their availability.  Other than vending at a Kwanzaa event, or two...I don't know htf to get over this hurdle every year.  My online sales are a joke, so I guess hand-to-hand sales are my best option, as I'm always stating.  Of course, having the free time to actually do those types of sales, is the major hurdle.

Aaaaaaannyway......

That's it for me this time around.  Will keep y'all updated on my latest efforts.  Try to support a brotha.  It's not just paperbacks...I have eBooks too.  And, YES...they're on Kindle!!!

Uhuru sase, y paz!!!!

Celebrating Latino Heritage Month/Celebrando El Mes de la Herencia de Los Latinos!!

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Wilmington, DE-- Celebrating Latino Heritage Month!!  Celebrando el mes de la herancia de los Latinos!!

As we enter into September 2018, Author/activist Kevin Alberto Sabio continues to celebrate his most recent literary release, the Urban Lit tale of "Fiesta Girl" (Draft2Digital, 2018), an Afro Latino love story set in 1990s NYC to the rhythms of Latin Freestyle and Hip Hop.  Published this past February, the book is still available as an eBook. 

ALSO, in honor of Latino Heritage Month, Mr. Sabio will be celebrating his seminal 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" (Outskirtspress, 2011); a collection of political essays speaking on issues of race/racism, history, political ideology, and Afro Latino issues & affairs. 

Raise Your Brown Black Fist books I&II are available in BOTH paperback & eBook formats, and are available through online distributors such as Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. Fiesta Girl is available in eBook format only, through distribution channels such as Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Kobo+, iTunes, Scribd, Overdrive, Playster, 24Symbols, Bibliotheca, and internationally through Tolino.  Digital ARCs (Advance Reader Copy) are available upon request for interview and review purposes.

KEVIN ALBERTO SABIO is an author and activist, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. He is the youngest child of Honduran Garifuna immigrant parents.  He is the founder of the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement.  He is the author of NINE books of nonfiction and fiction. He currently resides in Wilmington, DE.

Keep the fist raised,

Kevin Alberto Sabio

Author/Activist

July Updates/Rant Session...

Soooooooo.....where was I?

Oh yeah....still working on my sequel to my Black Fist novel.  I'm actually planning on updating the files to the original novel, as I've noticed a few grammatical mistakes, that I thought I'd already fixed.  The revisions are going very well, and I am happy with my progress.  No publishing date so far....don't know if I'll choose to drop it next year, or not.  Kiiiiiinda tired of dropping books, and nobody buying them (at least, online).  Then again...what I really need to do is get back onto the festival/book fair/convention circuit again, and try to get some face time, and hand-to-hand sales.

Got a new eBook distributor in Bibliotheca, thanks to my e-publisher.  The files should have cleared last week, or so.  That's another outlet available to me; they distribute to libraries across the country.  I should start contacting some local branches, and see if they'll carry my stuff in their archives...

Things didn't work out with the new girl at the day job.  She ended up leaving the day job before I could get her contact info.  I'm a little hurt by that.  She was cuuuuuuuute!  Really down to earth, and had some spunk to her.  She reminded me of the hermanas from back in BK that I grew up with.  I don't know....maybe I'll try to friend her through social media...?

Considering opening an account with Instagram.  Talked with a few of my peoples, and they think that Instagram will serve me better, as far as reaching out to my audience....or, at least, gaining an audience for my literary works.  I don't know...that'll be yet another social media account that I'll have to maintain, and monitor, and contribute to.  That's basically a full time job...

Speaking of jobs....I LEFT my day job.  FUCK THAAAAAAAT!!!!  These people were disrespectful, and treated me like a mf slave!  I'm tired of busting my ass for people who don't appreciate my hard work.  Cats wanted me to do all of this work, and give me absolutely NO help.  I just quit that mf; just walked the fuck off.  The other night guy who also worked there quit a good week and a half before I did, because they tried to pull the same shit.  We have a trifling ass old dude who works in the mornings, and don't do SHIT...but he doesn't get written up, or fired for it.  Then...after the other night worker left...they tried to put all of that work on ME!!!  Fuck that...this job ain't worth it. 

I'm pretty okay, financially speaking.  I can survive unemployed for a little while.  I have a few prospects in the winds, anyway.  Besides, this is Delaware...you can easily find a job, as long as you have a good work ethic.  At least, i can catch up on some much needed sleep that I've been denied the last week and a half...

I'm keeping the faith, and moving forward.  I'm in good spirits, and keeping my eyes on the prize.

Uhuru sase, y paz. 

July Musings.....

So, the new business cards are IN!!!  Much better looking than the ones that I got back from GotPrint.  Will be sticking with VistaPrint, again, from now on.  I tried to support those guys, but the results were less than stellar.  Presentation matters, y'all...

So apparently, I have a new distribution outlet through Draft2Digital.  They're called Bibliothetca, and they distribute eBooks to libraries.  That should REALLY help me, as a few of my titles would interest teens, and other urban readers.  They would like my novels, and hopefully my nonfiction works, as well.

Still doing revisions for "FURI of the People", my Black Fist sequel.  I've even added a few chapters to Book III, "The Diaspora United".  I'm ironing out the concept for Book IV, and should also be starting on that project pretty soon, as well.  This will be the first book series that I've actually written.  When I initially started my writing career, focusing mainly on screenwriting, I never intended to turn any of my film projects in to a film series; maaaaybe one, or two action film ideas that I had.  At the time, I didn't feel that any sequels were necessary, and that they were being done primarily as a money maker; basically, milking that project for what it's worth.  I wanted to write quality project, that had longevity; instant/modern/cult classics, if you will.  As a novelist, on the other hand, it's a great character and storyline, and I definitely want to be able to expand on it.

Now that I have the business cards, I need to work on making some appearances, at least locally.  Once my work schedule straightens itself out, I'll be able to better plan some appearances, and events.  I was hoping to make it back to NYC for an even that a brother that I know throws; The Pre-Harlem Book Fair Meet-&-Greet.  Because of my constantly changing wack work schedule, I won't be able to go....not to mention, I don't have any PTO time on the books to request off; courtesy of my bitch ass former boss (GOOD RIDDANCE, MU'FUCKA!!!!).  Hopefully, one of these other jobs that I've been applying to will hire me, and I can actually have a consistent work schedule.

Speaking of the job...there's a new girl working there.  She's cute!  From back home.  I like her.  Kinda young...but, I like her!  Might be a new friend.  I'll let you know how it works out...  ;-)

That's about it for me.  Still trying to work on that video that I promised.  Hit y'all later!!!

Uhuru sase, y paz. 

Sequel COMPLETED!!!!

SO I have some great news.....THE SEQUEL IS COMPLETE!!!!  :-D

Just finished writing Book II to The Black Fist saga!  I'm totally ecstatic about that!!!  The first draft to "F.U.R.I. of the People" is finally completed, and I can now move on to the future drafts.  I still have no idea when I'm going to publish it, but I'm just glad to have that one in the books, as they say.  I've already designed the front cover for it, and just need to clean up the story, until I feel that it's just right.  I've added more characters this time around, on both sides of the battle.  I'm still using a lot of symbolism and metaphor in the story, just not as much as in the first book.  I can't wait to get it perfect, for when I finally decide to publish it.  I'm already working on Book III, and already have a working concept for Book IV.  I'll give you the details later on that of the book series....

Finally reordered my business cards, today.  They should arrive by the beginning of next week.  I went back to VistaPrint to print up my business cards.  They ended up costing me around the same amount of money as with GotPrint, but I'm expecting a much better quality of product with VistaPrint.  They haven't let me down before, so I'm expecting the same quality of work, if not better.  Shoulda never went with the new guys; I knew what I had with VP.  Oh well, live and learn...

Other than writing the new Black Fist series, I'm considering my options as far as my other literary projects are concerned.  I still have a few projects that I want to complete, and others that I'm contemplating writing.  Ah....the mind and life of a writer...

So, for all of the fathers out there...Happy (belated) Fathers Day!!!  Hope that you all feel appreciated, and I give you much respect.  I haven't joined the ranks of fatherhood yet, but I seriously want to join the club.  I very much want children...just not no crazy chick coming with them, lol, lol...

For all my Boricua gente out there, specifically in Nueva York...DICE WEEEEEEEEEEEPPPAAAAAA!!!  I know that the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade recently passed, and wanted to give my shout outs to my Boricua peoples out there.

Que bonita bandeeeeeera....
Que bonita bandeeeeeeera...
Que bonita bandera...la bandera puertorriquena!!!

Working on doing a video blog (vlog) to talk about my books.  I need SOME way to generate interest in my books, and boost sales.  I'll let you know when I actually shoot it, and post it online.

Later peoples!  Uhuru sase, y paz!!!

Latest June Updates......

SO.......

My new business cards FINALLY arrived, after like...a two 1/2 week wait.  NOT happy with the final product.  That'll teach me to go with a company on the cheap.  Stay away from GotPrint.  My cards look like trash.  I could've done better on my own, if I had access to my old printer.  I knew that I should've stuck with VistaPrint.  Oh, I WILL be going back to them.  Glad that I never cancelled my account with them...

My sequel to The Black Fist is almost complete.  Like I said last time, I have about another chapter, or two, before the first drafty is complete.  I don't have any real plans to publish that particular story any time soon.  Besides, I'm planning a SECOND sequel to the series.  I've already started writing that next sequel, which was actually initially part of the first sequel.  The upcoming sequel (book 2) will be titled "F.U.RI. of the People", while the next sequel (book 3) will be titled "The Diaspora United".  I'm expanding the character base on both sides, including more heroes to fight along side The Black Fist, as well as new villains to fight against.  I can't wait to finish writing the series.  I've already got ideas swimming around my head for a fourth book.  ;-)

The day job is in flux.  My boss finally left [YAY!!!!!], and we have a new boss.  Don't really care for him off the bat, but that could change.  As it is, I'm still looking for a new gig.  Been at this one for about a year already, and I'm done with it.  Why continue to bust my behind for people who don't appreciate my hard work?  F**k that!  I need a better (and more consistent) work schedule, anyway.  If I want to get back onto the festival/convention/book fair circuit, I need a decent schedule to be able to plan around.

Not much else is going on.  I don't have any plans as of yet to do any events, or set up any reading & book signings.  I need my work schedule to straighten out first, as well as being able to bring in more income to pay for everything.  Working independently ain't cheap, ya know.  Especially since book sales have been abysmal, it makes me wonder why I bother, sometimes.  I love writing, but obviously, niggaz don't respect what I do as a career.  I either need a new strategy, or need to throw in the towel...

Hopefully, I can get that issues with my business cards straightened out, and be able to move on.  That's an important first step.  Once I have my business card, I can easily move forward.  I can (hopefully) organize local appearances, and then move forward from there.

Wish me luck.  Uhuru sase, y paz.  

So it's now June....

We have now entered the month of June...

It's the beginning of summer, and the weather is warming up.  People are ready to head to the beaches for some summer fun.  All of the literary and cultural festivals are about to kick into high gear...

So, what's up with me...?

I finally got around to ordering some new business cards.  I hope that they'll arrive soon.  That just brings me one step further to where I want to get to in my literary career.  At least I've recently gotten that out of the way...

I'm still missing our old Restaurant Manager.  I miss her presence, and she was a FOINE woman to look at, as well  ;-).  I guess I'm going through some form of withdrawal, considering the huge ass crush that I have on her, lol, lol, lol....

At least my own manager is leaving.  Good riddance!!

Nah, nah, naaah, naaaaahhh....
Nah, nah, naaah, naaaaahhh....
Heeeeey, heeeeey heeeeeeey...
GOOOOOOD-BYYYYYYE!!!!

Did y'all really expect me to say something nice, and good about him?  Y'all don't know me very well, if you actually did.  Either that, or y'all are stuck on some old religious bs that you KNOW that I don't subscribe to!  Fuck outta heeeeerrrreeeeee....

On a more positive note.....I'm almost done writing the first draft to the Black Fist sequel.  I've got maybe a chapter, or two to go until it's finished.  Once the first draft is done, I'll look into doing  the revisions, and getting the story to where I finally want it to be.  I've actually already designed the cover for it, though it's not that different from the original cover to "The Chronicles of The Black Fist" (CreateSpace, 2015).   It's pretty much the same cover...

ALSO....."Demure Nights" (CreateSpace, 2015) will be celebrating it's 3-year publishing anniversary in June!  I still say that it's a slept-on story.  From the few people that have actually read it, I've gotten plenty of positive feedback for it.  I'll be sending out the usual e-blasts to promote it to my circle of media contacts, and others, though ti don't know why I bother sometimes...

So, this is to stepping off on the right foot for June.  I hope that this month is more positive, and progressive for me.  Looking forward to any positive vibes that come my way.

Uhura sase, y paz.

Updates, Plans, & Projects

So, things are looking up a little bit.  I've gotten my writing mojo back a little bit.  I've actually been working one of the sequels to my novel "The Chronicles of The Black Fist" (CreateSpace, 2015).  It's going pretty well, and I should be done writing that first draft by the middle of summer at the latest, if the inspiration keeps hitting me the way that it has been.  I'm actually pretty happy about that.  I've been in a bit of a funk ever since I published "Fiesta Girl" (Draft2Digital, 2018), and the sales for it have been dismal, to say the least.  I'm continuing to promote it to my contacts, but nothing seems to be working.  That's basically been affecting my writing ever since.  The story line for the new Black Fist book, however, has inspired me to continue on writing.  I finally found the angle that I needed, and have been able to continue on with the story. Don't know when I plan to publish that particular book, but I'm enjoying the process of writing it.

On a sadder note, one of my coworkers is leaving the day job.  It really hurts, considering the fact that I have a HUGE crush on this coworker.  I understand why she'd leaving though, and wish her the best of luck.  I'm looking forward to seeing her on her last day of work, and giving her a going-way present that I got for her.  I hope that she really enjoys it, and knows that I'll miss her very much.  Then again, maybe now I can actually ask her out, without the fear of getting fired, lol, lol, lol (she's a manager, after all).  Why the hell not...?  She's FOINE as all get out.  The least that I can do is ask.  ;-)

My hours are picking up, ever so slightly, but I'm still looking for another day job.  Fuck this place; they don't know how to treat their employees.  And now that my favorite coworker isn't going to be there anymore...?  Eff that!!!  I have no reason to stay.  If I can't earn enough money to get my own place, I can at least invest in my writing career by investing in new business cards, at least.  Maybe afterwards, I can concentrate on doing a local festival/book fair/convention, or two.  Since I always create the Schedule of Events (SoE) list for my group the Universal Africana Literary Arts Movement, I have access to the different events that I can (possibly) go to to promote my book(s).  I also have good friends here locally in DE that would be willing to help me do a showcase of my books, or something.  I'm keeping my options open....

Right now, the main book project is the sequel to the Black Fist series.  I'm also working on a third book for the series, and have ideas for how I want to do a fourth book; story direction, new characters, etc.  Once it gets the proper support that I feel it deserves, I know that it'll take off.

I'll keep you all updated.  Uhuru sase, y paz.   

The Chronicles of THE BLACK FIST: Latest Updates

So I FINALLY published my latest book (my fourth) on February 26th as an ebook, and then as a paperback through CreateSpace two days later.  I received my author's copies of the book about a week ago (March 9th, to be exact), and am now working on getting some hand-to-hand book sales.  I'm also promoting the book like mad all over social media.

I already have a plan of action as far as marketing the book.  Other than considering my own book signings, I have a few book fairs/conventions/cultural festivals that I want to vend at to get more of the word out about my book.  With the bulk of festival/convention/book fair season coming up (spring and summer), this is the perfect time to plan this promotional tour.  My only worry is having enough money to vend at these events, considering that some of them are out of state.

I'm really excited about the release of this particular project.  The initial feedback has been very positive.  Hopefully, that will translate into book sales.  Considering that it's a superhero fiction novel, and not nonfiction like my other projects, people seem to be a lot more receptive, and interested in getting a copy.  It kinda leaves you with a funny feeling about my prior three titles; apparently, nobody likes to read nonfcition to learn about something.  Of course, that could also be people just talking shit, and not following through....

I'm considering other marketing tools to use to help market the book.  But again...it all comes down to having the finances to do it.  Since I know a number of artists, I'm considering partnering with one to sell prints of The Black Fist in costume.  I'm also considering finding a 3D printing company, and creating action figures of the main character to sell.  Maybe even getting someone to cosplay the character...?

I will definitely keep you all updated as far as my progress.  Hope to see you at one of these events, or one of my book signings.  Don't forget to purchase a copy, and PLEASE HELP TO SPREAD THE WORD!!!!

Uhuru sase y paz!!!  

Rant Session: Fuck The Police

I'm really getting tired of this crap....

First you had the Grand Jury in Ferguson, MO let off the killer of Michael Brown, and now recently in my hometown of NYC, they let yet another cop walk for killing an unarmed brother on the street, Eric Gardner.

I'm also sick of the hashtagging and street protests.  Gathering and marching isn't going to change a DAMN thing!  The marches don't scare, nor intimidate them.  They see it as a nuisance...nothing more.  As I said before, marching worked back in the day because it was something that was unexpected of us.  They thought that we would remain docile and compliant, so when we did march, it was unprecedented.

FUCK MARCHING!!!!

I'm not going to march on Washington, City Hall, or wherever, and beg the government to do anything!  They won't do anything...they never have!  Even the Civil Rights Bills was ridiculously watered down and stripped of it's bite when it was finally passed.  What we really need to do is organize, and FIGHT BACK!!!!

We need to bring back a lot of these fighting formations from our past.  They won't stop wantonly shooting us down, and disrespecting our communities until we make some consequences for their actions.  Hell...even the ANC (African National Congress) had their military wing, the Umkhonto WeSiswe (MK), so that they could fight on both fronts.  We NEED to bring back the BLA (Black Liberation Army) and Deacons for Defense, and let the powers that be know that this WON'T be further tolerated.  You can keep your nonviolent bullshit, and shove it where the sun don't shine!

"To be practicing nonviolence against a violent enemy is doing a disservice to your community"--Malcolm X

We NEED to start practicing self defense!  Start forming RBG Fit & Training Clubs, organize ourselves, arm ourselves with political education, history, and military tacitcs, and FIGHT BACK!!!

In my 40 years of existence, I've been harassed and profiled by the cops.  I've known other associates who have been brutalized by the police.  This is systemic, it always has been.  Cut the crap!  If you're too much of a punk to stand up and fight, then sit down, STFU...and get the flying fuck out of the way, and let those of us that are willing to fight, fight.  If you're too busy looking out for your own self interest because you benefit from this bullshit system, they you are as much a part of the problem as they are, and you also need to be dealt with.

The time is NOW!!!!!!

STAND UP!!!!!

   

Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Book Series

So...how did all of this get started?

It all started about four years ago.  I had moved out of New York, and relocated to the south (Richmond, VA to be specific).  I had a profile on a particular social networking site (MySpace), and I used to post blogs there.  Apparently, my blogs caught the eyes of one of the people that I befriended on the site.  I was contacted by one of the co-creators of an (now defunct) e-magazine called Blacktino.net.  They had approached me to be a Contributing Writer for their site, so that they can add some original content.

Initially...I balked.  I told them 'no'.

I don't do journalism.  That bored me.  I liked to read it; it's quite informative.  But as far as actually writing it...?  Nah.  Plus, I had no practical experience writing journalism, save one class that I took in college (for credit).

Luckily...they were persistent.  They made a compelling offer, so I bit.  I decided to write for them.  I wrote a particular article, and forwarded it to them.

It ended up being posted on their proverbial front page.  I stuck with them after that.

Time went by, and a few more articles were written, and I was inspired to write a particular article series that put us BOTH on the map.  The series was called "Black vs. Brown"; it ended up being an eight-part series.  It spoke on the 'supposed' schism between the Black and Latino communities, and put that 'supposed' conflict in it's proper historical perspective.  Basically...we were never enemies to begin with, and the whole beef between the two is utter bullshit.  That particular series was inspired by an article that I had read in a local Black newspaper (Richmond Voice) about the impact of illegal immigration on the Black community.  The article itself started off pretty good...then it devolved into utter bullshit and ignorance, basically blaming Latinos for the current plight of the African American community.

??????????

Okay...so, Joe Bob and Billy Ray have been fucking you over ever since before this country was even a country, but you want to lay the blame on Jose and Miguel who just got here six months ago?!?!?!?

Anyway.....

That lead to my second article series.  That one is titled "Black Thoughts: A Political Ideological Perspective for Afro Latinos".  That particular series was (at the time) a seven-part article series dedicated to explaining why Latinos of African descent should embrace the ideology of Pan Africanism/Black Nationalism.  Alas...only the first three articles of that series was published/posted by Blacktino.net.

We had a falling out.  It was very negative.

They were bullshit artists.  Fuck 'em.  One thing that I stated in that series (and subsequently in the book) was that most Afro Latino media is produced by three main types of people; activists, academics/scholars, and journalists.  The people at Blacktino were none-of-the-above.  They were business people; they were out to make the best business decision available.  And the best business decision...?  NOT always the right moral decision....

They did some real gutter shit that pissed off A LOT of people.  The site soon went kaput after that.  I just continued to write the remaining articles, and posting them elsewhere, helped by a number of friends that I had made while writing both series.  The last article in that series was written in 2008.

Fast forward..

It was always in the back of my mind to eventually turn both series into a book.  They both a got A  LOT of feedback on the web; image what they could do in book form?  Let's face it...the "digital divide" isn't a myth; it exists, and it exists in our communities (Black AND Latino).  There were/are a lot of people who were unaware of both the two article series, and the website.  Better to put them in book form, and make them readily available to the masses.  Because of my advocacy for the literary arts, I learned a bit about the publishing industry (specifically independent self-publishing).  I contacted a few POD publishers, put together my manuscript, and sent it off to the publisher I finally decided on.

In 2010, I officially become a published author.  "Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino" finally became a reality.  It encompasses both article series in it, plus three miscellaneous entries.  Been spending the last year and change promoting the book, and being more active as an activist.  Since I hated being in Richmond, I finally was able to move the hell out, and moved to Baltimore.  I've been a lot more successful out here in B'more, being able to reach out to a (more organized) Latino community, and do more collaborative projects with them and my organization's local chapter out here (UNIA--Universal Negro Improvement Association).

By the end of this month, Book #2 should be dropping.  This one is titled "Raise Your Brown Black Fist 2: MORE Political Shouts of an Angry Afro Latino".  With that one, I've expanded the "Black Thoughts" article series into one complete volume.  I'm going with a different POD publisher this time around.  My old one fucked up; it's their loss.

So, there you have it; the genesis of the Brown Black Fist.

Keep the Fist raised!!!!!