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Thanksgiving Story
One of the missions of this blog is to encourage each of you to tell your story. In the telling, you have the opportunity to practice your writing techniques, thus increasing your skills. Since we’re into the holiday season why not share a memorable tale. I have one about Thanksgiving. I grew up in a traditional family home where we shared dinner every day around the dinning room table. The table was always set and we were in our seats before my grandfather was called. These were the times when black men did back-breaking work their entire lives. So, when they came home from work, they expected a calm and…
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Words Are Powerful
Last week while browsing through a bookstore, I saw a toddler about two years old. He was sitting on his heels, as only small children can, looking in a book. There were only pictures on the pages, but he was talking to them, babbling really. Just then his mother walked up and asked “Have you selected the book you want?” It was a stunning scene. Here was a very young child who was (1) a beginning reader, (2) comfortable enough to quietly study a little book on his own, (3) who had obviously been read to, because he was talking to the pictures and (4) he lived in an environment…
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Memphis
Those of you who have been with me since the start of my literary journey will remember that Memphis, Tennessee is one of my favorite cities. In Friends to Die For one of the characters was from Memphis and the city plays a small part in my upcoming novel, Sloane. I was in Memphis last recently and was reminded why I’m so fond of this wonderful city. I had a chance to have lunch at the Soul Fish Cafe on Poplar Avenue. It was a fabulous experience: great food, ambiance and of course, the service. The menu was expansive and the prices just fine. The great southern drink, sweet tea, flowed freely. I felt comfortable…
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NOLA
I was recently in New Orleans. It was my fifth visit. While roaming through the French Quarter I came across a used bookstore and as is my usual habit whenever I encounter a bookstore, I went inside. Books were everywhere, floor to ceiling. Not having nearly enough time, I looked around quickly. The two owners told me they’d been in the same location for 39 years. The inside was beautiful with extremely tall ceilings. I purchased three books for only $12.00. If you’re in NOLA stop by Beckham’s Bookshop.
