Many thanks to J. for organizing a dynamic and engaging Black Women Energy event at Goucher College yesterday with a variety of  workshops, vendors, artisans, and performers. It was a fun, enlightening occasion that deserves to become an annual event. [hint, hint:-] More thanks to everyone who stopped by my table to chat, to play quick rounds of Tic Tac Trope, and to try their luck at the hourly raffles. My book geeky hand-decorated kicks made their debut, but no one could see them hidden under the table. It still made me happy just to wear them. Happy reading, writing, creating, healing!

Forever Wolf by Maria Vale Sourcebooks Casablanca  March 2019 While comparisons to Patricia Briggs and Kelley Armstrong are appropriate, Maria Vale establishes a distinctive depth and range of storytelling excellence in her Legend of All Wolves series that is unique in its artistry. As the third entry, Forever Wolf continues the pattern of transcending the boundaries of the paranormal shape-shifting genre by creating more poignant character sketches of compelling individuals who embody a variety of multifaceted points of view about how to survive. That shared intention is just one of many ways in which Forever Wolf exudes its primal energy. Varya and Eyulf’s story progresses like a heartrending blend of ballad, dirge, and warriors’ battle cries. Seraphina Does Everything by Melissa Gratias; Sue Cornelison, illus. National Center for Youth Issues  April 2019 At a time when privileged kids are over-scheduled and internalizing society’s const...

It's Poetry Month! Check out the scheduled events at your local library branch, favorite bookstore or community gathering place. Come listen to talented wordsmiths - or perform your own work, then play Tic Tac Poe(try) for a chance to win an "I <3 Books" t-shirt at these free events in gorgeous Prince George's County.

Khatt: Egypt’s Calligraphic Landscape Noha Zayed, photographer; Basma Hamdy, editor; various contributors Saqi February 2019 Contemporary non-fiction From prehistoric paintings on rocks and cave walls to the hieroglyphs of Ancient Egypt to present-day graffiti, humans have felt compelled to decorate their environment with a durable record of their experiences, ideas, and beliefs. These symbols document the evolution of human history. Khatt ’s specific focus on the progression of Arabic lettering calligraphy of Egypt is declared on page 4 in the foreword: During the Pharaonic times, writing was considered the language of the gods, and writing in the Middle East still retains this spiritual connection to the invisible and divine world beyond… this book attempts to examine and underline the social and symbolic power of Arabic lettering… its integral role in the construction of contemporary Egyptian visual culture. Captivating in arrangement, composition, sc...

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B. Lit Doesn’t Quit Neither rain nor darkness nor insufficient signage nor inconveniently located (for easy transport of one’s event materials) kept the B. Lit Black Literature Festival organizers, participants, supporters or vendors from being inspired, entertained, and enlightened at Goucher College last Saturday night! A spirit of openheartedness and camaraderie permeated the venue and that inviting feeling deepened throughout the night as talented poets and musicians performed with compelling artistry and emotional gravitas. Vendors Paparazzi, and a blinged-out accessories artisan (whose sister saved me from a daunting hike from the visitors’ parking area to the venue), Olivia L. Baylor of Before “I Do” counseling resources, the Jesus Gang (who also rapped like superstars), and Urban Unicorn all offered an irresistible variety of merchandise along with encouragement and networking opportunities. Thank you to the American University grad student who interviewed eve...

#StrahanandSara #GMA #AmericanSoul In a complete 180-degree serendipity flip from Monday’s travel frustrations, Tuesday’s commute into NYC from the ‘burbs went smoothly, leading to an early arrival for priority check-in to see Strahan & Sara. Fabulous new line friends were interesting and charming and so funny! One of them had the inside scoop on behind-the-scenes tidbits about The Wendy Williams Show, Kelly and Ryan, and Rachel Ray. Jui-cy. Sara Haines and Michael Strahan were even more entertaining in-person than they appear to be on television. (Seems impossible, yet it’s true!) Michael was headed over the Sara’s home after the show to babysit her two kids. Looking forward to seeing video from that experience. 1iota priority ticketholders received fab swag! Thanks, Grande Cosmetics, Flora.py, and Amazing Cosmetics! My lashes will be lush. My skin will be primed, toned, and glowing thanks to your generosity. The audience wranglers were hilarious a...