Conversations Book Club and Waldenbooks (Mississippi) Team up to promote G-Unit Books

In an effort to encourage reading of the G-Unit Books (a division of Pocket Books), Conversations Book Club and the Reading My Lips Literacy Project have teamed up with the management of the Waldenbooks in Jackson, MS to offer this special offer: For every G-Unit book sold through the store, the buyer will also get a signed 8 1/2" x 11" print of 50 Cent FREE!

Presently the store is offering a "Buy 2 Get One Free" promotion, which means you can get 3 titles and 3 prints. Choose from co-authors Nikki Turner, K-Elliott, Relentless Aaron and Noire.

You have to hurry, because this promotion will end on March 1, 2007. To find out more about the partnership, contact either Lisa or Pam at Waldenbooks Metrocenter at 601.969.6949.
AND VISIT www.thebestbookclub.info to see when these G-Unit authors will be visiting Mississippi.

Conversations Book Club Honors Bestselling author Travis Hunter

Since his literary debut, THE HEARTS OF MEN, National Bestselling author Travis Hunter set a new standard for the way that men were portrayed in relationships and everyday life. With each novel he has managed to educate, entertain and provide thought-provoking dialogue. Through his work he has found a way to honor us...
Now we have decided to return the favor!


Conversations Book Club, in connection with For The People Productions and the Read My Lips Literary Project, is pleased to announce the recipient of the 1ST ANNUAL LITERARY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD is none other than National Bestselling author Travis Hunter!

The award will be presented during this year's literary dinner that will be held on Saturday, August 11, 2007 at the Canton-Madison Multipurpose Complex in Canton, MS. The event begins at 6p.m. with the red carpet, with dinner (catered by Real Roots Bar and Grill) beginning at 7p.m. Come enjoy live entertainment and good conversation as well as a fitting tribute to those who are making a difference through the written word.

(Travis Hunter seen here with bestselling author Jihad)

Confirmed special guests include National bestselling author Alisha Yvonne and radio personality/author Trent Jackson(see below).




Tickets are $35 in advance online and $50.00 beginning July 2007.

This is a semi-formal event. For more details, visit www.thebestbookclub.info or contact Stanley Clark (President, For The People Productions) at 773.344.7220.

Def Poetry Jam poet C-Bone Jones returns to MS with Conversations in April 2007

(Seen here with vocalist/poet Jill Scott)

With 2007 already set to be one for the record books for the new public relations firm FOR THE PEOPLE PRODUCTIONS, it only seems to get better and better--- especially when you add news such as this.

Award-winning spoken word artist, C-Bone Jones of Russell Simmons Def Poetry Jam will be visiting the state of Mississippi and take part in events arranged exclusively by For The People Productions. His visit during April (National Poetry Month) is C-Bone's first to the state in two years and will packed with speaking engagements and poetry sets--- all of which will allow him to showcase his unique flow as well as introduce his new merchandise.

Go ahead and clear your calendar now: Friday, April 13th and Saturday, April 14th--- C-Bone Jones takes over the state of Mississippi with "FEEL THE PASSION."

Another event that is part of the revolution that For The People Productions and its partners are bringing to the world day by day.

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About C-Bone Jones:

After a life-threatening accident, C-Bone Jones took a leap of faith and invested his pro ball earnings into the labor of his only child; Bread N Butter Productions, with the unique purpose of seeking and creating quality roles and appreciation for Black women in Hollywood.

Relentlessly following his heart, the pen-witty writer has authored an infinite number of poems, TV pilots, scripts and the acclaimed short story Friction. He writes, directs and produces short films and television shows including “Ha Ha Very Funny” that aired on California TV stations.

The ambitious entertainer has graced audiences across the United States sharing stages with entertainers including; Teena Marie, Mack 10, Malcolm Jamal Warner, Saul Williams and Kim Fields. As an open mic performer he was recognized by a prominent Los Angeles DJ and invited to appear as a weekly feature on LA’s KJLH 102.3 FM. His work has been captured on Black Entertainment Television’s Life Tracks; Russell Simmons’s HBO Def Poetry Jam and recorded with hip hop trendsetters, Jurassic 5 and legendry producer X-Man.

Selling over 10,000 albums including Bread N Butter releases, Interview with a Smart Mouth, CB1J and Break Bread and Leimert Park Poet’s Spreading Love-N-Spoken Word.

C-Bone Jones is working on a new project and will be preparing a tour schedule in the near future.

Visit C-Bone Jones online here: www.myspace.com/wwwmyspacecomcbonejones

BREAKING NEWS FOR CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB: Bestselling author RELENTLESS AARON agrees to interview and visit with Conversations Book Club.

The good news just keeps coming for the Conversations Book Club and its partnership with public relations firm FOR THE PEOPLE PRODUCTIONS and bestselling authors. We are pleased to announce that bestselling author Relentless Aaron will be talking with Conversations Book Club on Friday, February 16, 2007 at 6p.m. CST. This will take place at the Medgar Evers Library in Jackson, MS. Relentless will also be visiting with the Conversations Book Club in Mississippi May 18-20, 2007 in a series of booksignings and discussions. Look for more details to be released soon at www.thebestbookclub.info.



Relentless has sold an astounding 200,000 books since his debut in November 2003 and recently signed a deal with 50 Cent's publishing imprint G-UNIT BOOKS. Find out more about this outstanding author/businessman at www.relentlessaaron.com.



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WORDS FROM THE AUTHOR Relentless Aaron
I think this is amazing for a popular artist to drive the concept straight into the belly of pop culture. I'm an author of 32 novels, all of them written over the past ten years, and I've made some headway in the local, regional, and mainstream press. I've sold over 200,000 copies since November 2003 (when I came home from that 7-pack they put on me), Been on the cover of the A&L section on the New York Times, TIME magazine, as well as the The New York Daily News, The Hollywood Reporter, Publisher's Weekly, The Library Journal, NPR and ABC World News. There are more relevant and positive remarks about my books on the web than negative and sensational. And, overall, the critics who are substantial, with substantial backgrounds and real jobs have accepted and praised my work. I did all of this (mostly) myself by being out there in the streets, selling these novels like my life depended on it. I've even hired an army of young women to go out there with and without me to do the same. I've wrapped trucks, hoisted moving billboards, hired street teams, and marched outside of sold out concerts. However, nothing makes reading popular like this, and nothing will quite match the mob of followers that 50 Cent can call upon at any time or place. Regardless of all the work I've done to create and grow a brand, NEVER have I enjoyed the fanfare, book sales and press that 50 Cent received in ONE DAY, on January 4th at Borders. It sort of makes my climb feel like a waste of time! But, there's a catch 22; because I don't think I would have been recognized by this partnership if I didn't do all I've done.
It's great that 50 & his partnered agents and publishers at Pocket Books, Simon & Schuster and MTV have acknowledged my craft, and that I can now enjoy some of that popularity that has been missing from my archive of accomplishments. At the end of the day, this man has mined the very best writer and he's coupled it with his own power and money. Now, all those who have never heard of me ultimately WILL hear of me, but in a loud and relevant, and even important way. Can anyone hate on a man who's encouraging young people to read? And do you think for a minute that any of the stuff he publishes will be redundant or without some ethics and moral grounds embedded in the stories? People, if you look at a good story (or, even a good rap song) there is a beginning, a middle and an end. Nobody (50 Cent, included) is gonna waver from a concept that has been working for generations.
And, it's not just books folks. I already have two and three movie projects in the works, before the 50 Cent deal. And yet, the work I do with him will also be made into movies; likely more powerful budgets, and marketing. So, I'm working at the top and the bottom of the literary book and movie chains. Wow.
So, when it comes to feeding the kids, putting them through school, and putting clothes on their backs, I gotta do the smartest thing possible with my time. Thanks to 50 Cent, I will not only have my previous books read, but, I'll be able to write WAY into the future, so that my GREAT grandchildren (as well as the world of literature) can enjoy the fruit of my labors.

Now, that I've said that, how about a shameless plug???

My current release is EXTRA MARITAL AFFAIRS, a big lesson in love, and my 32nd novel. It's not for everyone, so, for all you out there in "Readerland" who have (so to speak) "Been There & Done That" and are not interested in exciting urban fiction, please pass this one up. I have books that are just as engaging, and that won't get you as "hot and bothered" as EXTRA MARITAL AFFAIRS will. Meanwhile, for thoe of you who have never read a Relentless novel, don't keep doing yourself that way! Dive into some of my deep, thought-provoking,unpredictable, toe-curling stories. You won't be sorry. And besides, everyone else can't be lying when they keepcoming back for more.
Peace and Love and Soul.

Relentless Aaron

And stay tuned for this forthcoming novel, “Single With Benefits” by your favorite author, Relentless Aaron

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Bestselling author Roz Bailey

When Roz Bailey was five she danced on the cocktail table at the summer cottage while the adults weren’t looking and quickly learned that a very ordinary movement could be parlayed into extraordinary fiction. Even after enjoying success as a National Bestselling author, Roz still enjoys dancing, cocktails, and summer places. She lives in Oregon with two roommates who also enjoy living beyond their means. Readers can visit her website at www.rozbailey.net, but here you will get a unique glimpse at the woman behind such entertainment novels as RETAIL THERAPY, THE SECRET LIFE OF MRS. CLAUS and now POSTCARDS FROM LAST SUMMER. Our conversation with Bailey reminds you that at the end of the day, girls just wanna have fun.

Roz, I am glad we had this opportunity to talk about your remarkable career. I am always fascinated as to how the writers I interview began their careers. Tell us about when you began writing.
My journey was a little different than most in that I was actually in romance publishing before I began writing, so I got into the business through the back doors. I would have to say that being an editor first and knowing the behind the scenes process was intriguing to me. I couldn't get enough. We were only able to publish so many authors each year, and of course there were certain markets that we targeted at different times of the year so many of the unsolicited manuscripts were read and stored. As part of my duties, I edited Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys novels, so they were tightly scheduled. Once I saw what the books that saw the light of day were those that were wrote to formula and kept to their style, I began to do the same.

Did you grow up in a house of readers?
Oh yes, we were all big readers. I went to the library to get books with mom and sisters all the time. We all were really into books and writing, so I’ve been a closet writer for some time. My siblings and I have always been good friends and I think that has guided me in the subjects I choose to write about.

That’s a good point, Roz, because one thing I noticed about the characters in POSTCARDS FROM LAST SUMMER was that they were not only friends, but almost like family.
I agree. My characters are friends who genuinely like each other, despite their differences and personalities. I enjoy creating subject that have real substance and support each other. They are really kind people.

So what that your goal from the very beginning when you decided to make a career out of writing?
I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to write at first. Like I said, I knew that my books needed to follow a particular formula in order to be relevant, but my ultimate goal was to bring a young group together with my books.

POSTCARDS FROM LAST SUMMER follows the lives of three girlfriends as they reconnect in the Hamptons for cold margaritas, hot hookups, and plenty of drama. Some have even called your books as literary versions of Sex in the City. How do you go about deciding who you are going to introduce in your books?
I like to read characters that have some substance to them, so I have made it a point to create characters I along with my readers can sink their teeth into. When I begin a project I like to let my characters grow and evolve.

One of the things that I noticed with POSTCARDS was that even though we got a full picture of the characters, the book ended in such a way that it gave us the idea that we may not have heard the last of them. Was that planned?
I do love my characters, and when I am writing about a particular group of friends I give them my full attention. But after the journey ends with a particular book, I leave the characters there. No sequels.

Okay then, well, if not in a sequel what about a television series?
That would be a fun project. I would love to see the characters brought to life in a show—not really a full-fledge weekly show, but an extension of their literary counterparts.

Since you have established a formula of lasting friendships in your books, what has been the response from your fans.
It is always great to read what my fans have to say or meet them and hear how they related to some of my characters. I hear all the time that they see themselves in my stories. They say things like “How did you know that about me without meeting?” Another thing about my books is that I am known for telling multicultural stories. They are all so different yet that is what makes them so easy to relate to. I have to write what I see in my own life, and that makes me smile, lifts me up

Do you feel any pressure when it comes to each new release?
There is always that pressure you feel no matter how many books you have published. I try not to focus on that. Instead, I just try to make sure that I am keeping them interesting. I have to make sure that I turn the censors off when finding the voice of my characters. It’s all about letting go and allowing them to speak.

What do you think about the fact that people don’t seem to be as into books as you were growing up?
I actually do believe that people are still love reading. It’s just the way they are doing is may be changing. More or reading online now, that’s all. The point is that books are being read and minds are being exposed to new things. I just encourage them to read. There is nothing like getting lost in a book or having a personal meditative time with a book.

Thank you for your time, Roz. What would you like to say to your fans?
I have to say thank you to all the people who have followed me, being along for the ride. It’s been a really good time, and I will continue aiming to entertain, not to bore.

Conversations Book Club Turns up the heat for all book lovers worldwide

Everyday the mission of the Conversations Book Club is realized---and it wouldn't be possible without you. Thanks to a close alliance with For The People Productions, more people have been finding out about the new channel to connecting readers with the authors they love. Nothing made that more clear as when CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB took the Number 1 and Number 2 spot for most searched Book Clubs in Mississippi on Google Search Engines! (See this press release that appeared on Mississippi Political website: http://www.mississippipolitical.com/conversations.htm

Now we are pleased to pass on more valuable information! Please note that the schedule for the 2007 authors has been updated on the right side of this site, and you are sure to notice some obvious exciting additions. Here's a recap:

After the Carl Weber on Tuesday, January 23, 2007, the book club will be enjoying an exclusive conference call with bestselling author Theresa Gonsalves, the real-life "Billy Jean" in Michael Jackson's life. This will take place on Friday, January 26, 2007 at 6p.m. CST at the Medgar Evers Library in Jackson, MS. She will be discussing her book OBSESSIONS that chronicles their relationship and her own obsession that nearly killed her! This is one for the history books--- and Mississippi's CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB brings it to you!


In February we have added noted hiphop historian and bestselling author Bakari Kitwana! We first talked to him last year about his book WHY WHY KIDS LOVE HIPHOP. Now we bring him live to Mississippi via conference call to discuss this book, the new VH1 reality program THE (WHITE) RAPPER SHOW and why hiphop has been able to survive through its many evolutions. He'll take your questions on Friday, February 9, 2007 at 6p.m. CST at the Medgar Evers Library.

Our final interview of February 2007 will be another one that will attract both music and book lovers. Conversations Book Club proudly presents hiphop artist/author Corey Miller (aka C-Murder). He will join the book club discussion LIVE via conference call on Tuesday, February 27, 2007--- and this is definitely an EXCLUSIVE. Join us at 6p.m. CST as we discuss his life, what led him to read 500 books in 2 years as well as his first novel DEATH AROUND THE CORNER and upcoming album that will be released in March 2007!


Moving into March 2007 we have two surprises to our impressive roster. First, we will be hosting National Bestselling author Reshonda Tate Billingsley to Mississippi for a three-day tour of the state with Conversations Book Club. Capitalizing on our statewide appeal, We will be participating in the Grand Opening of the new Wal-Mart Supercenter in Meridian on Wednesday, March 14, 2007, hosting book signings in Jackson on Thursday, March 15, 2007 and then visiting libraries and holding a forum on Friday, March 16, 2007! Look for more details soon. Thanks Reshonda for answering the call to encourage the love of books in our state!

LAST but certainly not least, Conversations Book Club ends the month of March 2007 with an incredible development: Bestselling author K. Elliott, one of the hottest voices in Urban Fiction who has signed a deal with G-UNIT BOOKS (headed by 50 Cent in a partnership with Pocket Books) will be in Mississippi Friday, March 30th and Saturday, March 31, 2007 in a carefully-scheduled series of events brought to you by Conversations Book Club. Keep visiting the site, www.thebestbookclub.info for all the details.

CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB Continues Winning Streak!

Thanks to everyone who has been supporting the growth of the Conversations Book Club in Mississippi. On behalf of the Medgar Evers Library, For The People Productions and the moderator of the discussions, please know that your support is appreciated.

Look for more dynamic interviews and exclusives throughout the upcoming weeks. Pay close attention to the month of February 2007 and the group we have assembled.

Visit www.thebestbookclub.info for details.