First of all let me say this is an absolutely amazing book. If you have never read a book by Kennedee Devoe you are in for a special treat. If you are a fan (like I am) you will see another side of this talented writer. The plot & story line are based on real events and it takes you on a journey thru the life of a single mother & the difficult choices she has to make. From not knowing who the father of her child is to choosing what man will give her the best life for her and her daughter Kourage. It’s a cautionary tale & a coming of age story all in one. It has plot twists from the 1st page to the very end of the story. It’s widely considered to be Author Kennede Devoe’s best work and I agree wholeheartedly. The center piece of the story is the beautiful baby know as Kourage who blossoms into a strong determined young lady that not only survives a troubled childhood but emerges triumphant and ready to step into her role a a independent strong & proud black woman. I Don’t Know What To Tell You is a story that will delight, entertaining & educational
I just finished recording an amazing book discussion with Lisa Borders Muhammad & Author Kennedee Devoe . We sat down with KD to discussed her latest release entitled “I Don’t Know What To Tell You”. Look for the exclusive interview / book discussion soon. #KD#kennedeedevoe#DJGatsbyBookclub#Kindle#5stars#KindleUnlimited#WBMediaGroup#WWIAAL
In the meantime get your paperback / Kindle copy of this 5 star read at https://amzn.to/3yyWnbp
Tuesday Oct 25, 2022 @ 9pm EST #bookdiscussion#kennedeedevoe *Check out this exclusive book discussion with the hottest chick in the book game Author/Publisher Kennedee Devoe. KD sits down with book reviewers / interviewers Jeff Gatsby Jeff Gatsby Wilson (Atlanta) & Lisa Borders Muhammad (Virginia) to talk about her book “I Don’t Know What To Tell You”.
After a long wait DJ Gatsby Book Club much heralded “Book Of The Month” selection is back. As many of you know our selections are voted on by our Active Book Reviewers & Members. We pride ourselves in being one of the most respected Book Club’s & Bloggers on the Internet. This month our selection is MOMENTS.: Writings, Thoughts and Letters of A 2x Felon by 1st time Author David Hopper. As always we urge all of our members and followers to #BUY, #READ & REVIEW this months #BOTM selection.
David Hopper, a 2 time felon compiled this work of writings, letters and thoughts. He was born to heroine addicted mother, raised on public assistance and homeless as a teen. This book journeys through the struggles a young Black Male endured during a seven year prison sentence. David details raw insight of anxiety and how he came to a near mental breakdown at the start of his sentence. This is an authentic look at some pitfalls and hurdles one goes through being raised in the fiery streets of New York City while trying to maintain one’s soul. This book is intended to give hope, inspiration and insight for those who take time to read it.
MOMENTS.: Writings, Thoughts and Letters of A 2x Felon Paperback – May 15, 2020 by David Hopper (Author)
David Hopper, a formerly incarcerated individual, began his prison term in 2006 and ended in 2012. Off of his second felony, he served seven years in several prison facilities. David, since being released, has become a first-time author. David began using his book titled “Moments, Writings, Thoughts and Letters of a 2x Felon” to initiate a conversation surrounding the emotional and mental warfare individuals experience while being incarcerated.
David uses his journey as a platform to educate others on the ins and outs of the prison system. David likes to use his past experiences as teachable moments mentoring youth and peer groups in the Bronx, NY. David has used his book to paint a raw yet vivid picture of what a prison term may look like. When asked how he got through his prison sentence, David stated by normalizing the chaos in a world filled with systemic barriers, inequality and injustice.
In addition to his book, David has also created and produced a docuseries titled “Prison to Prosperity” which focuses on the good deeds, accomplishments, and milestones of the formerly incarcerated. David’s life journey gives him great insight about navigating the pitfalls of the urban city streets,especially the big city of New York. In addition to experiencing incarceration, David has also experienced homelessness, parental substance abuse, poverty as well as a host of other psychosocial factors that plagues today’s youth. David’s goal is to educate the youth on the criminal justice system and ways to prevent them from becoming a “statistic”. David is also focusing on re-entry reform and community activism.
FOLLOW DAVID HOPPER ON THE FOLLOWING SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
DJ Gatsby Book Club is proud to present their Book of the Month selection for the month of November 2019. “Memoirs Of A Broken Side by Annisa Davis Jackson *Available at Amazon on Kindle and in Paperback .
*As always we encourage all of our members to *Buy, Read & Review all of our books of the month. Click the link to buy this book https://amzn.to/2D9E5QZ #DJGBC #TeamGatsby
Synopsis:
A man, with a promising football career and destined for greatness, had his life cut short due to his untimely murder on Christmas Eve, 1987. Broken by tragedy, a chain reaction of events kept hold over his entire family, emotionally and spiritually. His children grew up without knowing the truth until a spiritual revelation was given to the middle daughter. She discovers the events in her life were destined by a powerful divine design, to uncover and unveil a truth. This truth was hidden under an ocean of lies, drowned with deception, and the corruption of wrongful convictions behind the true circumstances surrounding her father’s death. As she walked into such purpose, it was revealed that her mission was to seek all truth, which would later turn into a spiritual journey, revealing the Glory of The Most High. At the same time, this would be the catalyst for the healing of her entire family…Through his daughter’s eyes, based on the true story and the life of Annise Davis, Jr., I give you Memoirs of a Broken Side.
About Annisa Davis-Jackson
Author, Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur
Annisa Davis-Jackson, A native of Kansas City, Missouri. Who is a survivor of loosing a parent to violence uncovers the truths behind her father’s murder in her book, ” Memoirs of a Broken Side”, a book based on the life and wrongful death and conviction of Legendary football player Annise Davis Jr. of The University of Missouri and Pittsburgh Steelers. The book of pain, Wrongful persecution, and how the effects of loosing a parent as a child, especially to violent crimes is written by Davis’s daughter Annisa Davis. She reveals the psychological effects of death on children at a young age, coping and battling legal districts and the politics behind her father’s murder
Ni’Cola Mitchell is so excited to be a L’Oreal Paris USA Women Of Worth honoree. With each vote, her organization #GirlsWhoBrunchTour could win $25,000 to help support their mission.
As a victim of domestic violence, Ni’cola Mitchell understood first-hand how at-risk youth are significantly less likely to successfully transition into adulthood due to a lack of resources and opportunity. Her own past led her to create Girls Who Brunch, a non-profit that combats this cultural epidemic by addressing low-income communities, and sponsoring girls in foster care, as well as sex trade victims and teen mothers. Through mentorship and panel facilitations, Girls Who Brunch teaches different ways of thinking that ultimately enables at-risk girls to succeed and flourish.
“Knowing your worth is POWER, YOUR POWER! Being a L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth means I can continue to display my power globally, by helping one girl at a time own her story.” – NI’COLA MITCHELL, FOUNDER OF GIRLS WHO BRUNCH
Girls Who Brunch combines fun performances, raffles and music with challenging workshops that focus on education, STEM, health, sexual trafficking awareness, bullying and empowerment topics. Girls Who Brunch also hosts a Masterclass that specializes in training participants in on business development and financial literacy. Since founding the non-profit three years ago, Ni’cola found fulfillment in helping at-risk girls. Through her work with Girls Who Brunch, she has positively impacted and equipped over 6,000 girls nationwide to become the leaders of tomorrow.
VOTE FOR NI’COLA MITCHELL AS THE 2019 NATIONAL HONOREE
On December 4, 2019 in New York City The 2019 Women of Worth Honorees will be recognized during the 14th annual celebration.
A: I started writing in my early teens to Express innermost feelings. I didn’t start taking it serious until I was in my mid twenties.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
A: When I published my first book ( Tears of evidence) in 2015.
What inspired you to write your first book?
A: Honestly, I needed money to get me a lawyer. Unfortunately, that never happened. My knowledge about how the literary industry was far fetched. Aside from that, I end up liking the art and the reviews, so I continued writing.
Do you have a specific writing style?
A: I’ve been told that I have a style of Carl Weber. I don’t know if it’s true because I never read his work. I focus on writing realistic stories that people can relate to.
How did you come up with the titles ?
A: I draw from the things around me. I also look at what’s trending at the time but I still do it my way. My way consist of what’s real to me.
Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
A: Each book I’ve written has a principle that we all can learn from. For an example, I forgot to be your lover is a book a novella about choices. Our day to day choices can bring us success or it can bring up destruction. We don’t always get a second chance to amend what was broken. No one is perfect but we must try to make the best decision from all aspects of our life.
How much of the book is realistic?
A: 85% to 90% is real.
What books have most influenced your life most?
A: Blueprint for black power, they came before Columbus, stolen legacy, miseducation of the negro etc
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
A: Dr. John henrik clark.
What book are you reading now?
A: Jay Morrison. He’s talk about real estate and how to build credit.
Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?
A: Honesly, I haven’t had time to read anyone new because I’ve been so focus on trying to get myself together.
What are your current projects?
A: O’Shay and Sanaa 2. I’ve been working on a few other projects as well.
Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.
A: I’ve gotten alot of support from people on facebook.
Do you see writing as a career?
A: I do.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?
A: No.
Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?
A: I can’t recall exactly but I do know that I was a teen.
Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
A: Not really. Writing does make you explore fields and things you normally wouldn’t.
Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?
A: TN Jones and KL Hall. They are consistent writers. Good story plots.
Do you travel much promoting your book(s)?
A: If I could I would.
Who designed the covers?
A: I have a few cover designers I’ve worked with. 1) Aija Monique, 2) Angela Bearfield, 3) Tina Shivers, 4) Bryant Sparks.
What was the hardest part of writing your book?
A: I don’t have a problem with writing but there are times when I get side tracked with other things that comes with life.
Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?
A: Writing is therapeutic. It help me analyze situations and people. It even helps me understand things about myself.
Do you have any advice for other writers?
A: Write what’s real. Study how you can perfect your craft. Learn the literary business. Last but not least, PROMOTE ! PROMOTE ! PROMOTE !
Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
A: Thank you for your support and I have more work coming soon.
This month DJ Gatsby Book Club & WWIAAL are focusing on Children’s Books. It is back to school time and millions of our children will be reading more books. We are recommending a few Children’s Books for your children to read during the school year. Some of the books are old & some are new but the topics and subjects are both educational and interesting. As always we encourage all of the followers and members of DJGBC & WWIAAL to Buy, Read & Review more books to support African American Authors & Literature.
Animals Of The Amazon by Catherine ReardonMeasure Up by Debbie MongPizza PartsBiscuit And The Little Pup by Alyssa Satin CapucilliJackie Robinson by Reyna EisenstarkHolidays by Todd Stirniman
J. BRINKLEY, is an urban fiction and urban romance writer at Voma Publications. He is best known for his Euphonious Romance Novels. His writing keeps readers on the edge of their seats, with page turning bliss, betrayal, sex and even murder. His writing sets passions afire in readers and questions to probe the mind in matters of the heart.
In his own words, Mr. Brinkley tells his audience, “My love for writing stems from my love for people and the desire to touch a life and make a difference. I believe that every dream can be materialized if we will just believe in ourselves. If, through my words, I am able to touch one soul and ignite one passion, then my job is done.”
Best-selling author and award-winning publisher, Valerie J. Lewis Coleman serves professional speakers and experts to magnify and monetize their message by publishing quality books. With over fifteen years of experience in the book business, she has published over 130 authors and helped thousands of writers navigate the challenges of self-publishing. This expert divulges industry secrets on avoiding the top five mistakes made by 95% of new authors, pricing your book to sell and identifying shady publishers. Valerie founded Dayton Book Expo—the region’s premier book event—connecting almost 700 authors to avid readers. Her dynamic presentation and knowledge of the business takes writers from pen to paper to published as they master self-publishing to make money! www.penofthewriter.com | www.queenvpublishing.com
Another topic of interest is dating and relationships:
Valerie J. Lewis Coleman serves women who struggle to experience a fulfilling relationship by revealing The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box to attract and keep lasting love. With over twenty years of experience in family and relationships, this expert researches men to give advice on how to go from mess to magnet including identifying the four types of male hunters, avoiding 70% of men who only want the goody box and winning the heart of Mr. Right-For-You.
Self-Publishing Made Easy – Master self-publishing to make money! Click here to launch your writing career!
Free Your Mind Writers Retreat – relax, rejuvenate and release your creativity! Click here for access to this exclusive writing event in the rustic mountains of Kentucky. The Forbidden Secrets of the Goody Box – Relationship advice that your father didn’t tell you and your mother didn’t know. Click here to get your autographed copy of this Amazon bestseller. For Kindle, click here; for Audible, click here; for Nook and other formats, click here. Blended Families An Anthology – A real account of life in a stepfamily because we are not the Brady Bunch! There’s a blessing in the blending! Click here to your copy of this multi-bestseller. For Kindle, click here; for Nook and other formats, click here.
A Sneak Peak of “Lady V Godmother Of Gunplay” by Sonovia Alexander
All eyes fell on both myself and Eliseo once we stepped outside. The smile on my father’s face showed me he was pleased with my appearance. He stepped up to me and extended his hand. I placed my hand inside of his and was led to the back seat of a limo. This was honestly the first time that I had rode in one. I had to mask my excitement. Once everyone was inside, the driver pulled off. It was nerve-wracking sitting around a bunch of men I knew nothing about. I was afraid to be the first to speak.
“Do you have your weapons?” My father asked breaking the silence.
“Yes. I have them both.” I answered.
“Good. If for any reason you need to use them tonight, remember, no fear. You don’t take shit from anyone. Disrespect is not to be tolerated. This is your city and all will bow to you. Understood.”
“Yes.” I was nervous. Unsure of why he kept saying that caused me to believe that there was danger lurking. Was I brought here to fight or kill? This was unclear to me. What was supposed to be a vacation and a celebration of my 21st birthday was turning out to be something other than that. I couldn’t speak on it as of yet because I didn’t know what lied ahead of me. After speaking to my father for 2 hours before he sent me to my room to get dressed, he had filled me in on a lot of shit they had going on here. I was impressed to know that all of this would soon be run by me. All that training wasn’t in vain. It was surprising to know that I was being equipped to be a leader.
The drive to our location wasn’t that long. When the limo stopped, the driver came to the back and opened the door. All the men stepped out of the limo first before my father reached his hand out for me to take to help me out. My eyes lit up at the ambiance of the city. It was beautiful. It was still light outside, but the scenery before me was still beautiful.
“Where are we?” I questioned while taking in everything around me.
“We’re not too far from the Coliseum, but that right there is the Trevi Fountain.” My father pointed out. He dug inside of his pocket and tossed me a coin. I caught it with one hand always on point. “Go toss it inside.” He said. With half a smile on my face, I graciously walked toward the fountain with confidence and tossed the coin inside of the water. Capturing this moment, I took a deep breath in and exhaled. Rome was definitely a place I would love to come back and visit. I looked to the side of me and noticed all the people that were admiring the fountain just as I was.
I returned to where the guys were and we headed inside of a restaurant nearby. Upon entering the restaurant, I looked around at the decor in the place. It was nothing like any restaurants in New York. Everything about Rome screamed money. People were dressed in formal clothing as they sat amongst family and friends and supped. The hostess approached us and bowed her head at my father’s presence. I kept my head high and took in my surroundings noticing the stares from all the faces inside the restaurant once the bus boys raced over to a corner section of the room and hurried to clear the table before we were escorted to our seats. A few men had stood to acknowledge my father’s presence as they shook his hand in passing standing to their feet showing a sign of respect. Some kissed him on the cheeks. I was in complete awe.
As we approached the table, my seat was pulled out for me by one of the bus boys. I sat down at the table along with my uncles, father, and the other two men present. There were a few more empty chairs at the table leading me to believe that more people would be joining us soon. There were fresh breadsticks and salad placed in the middle of the table. My stomach was growling. I didn’t want to be the first to dive into the salad. My uncle studied my face before reaching over and grabbing the bowl of salad and placing it beside me. Sitting my purse in my lap, I grabbed the fork that was in the salad bowl and made me a plate.
The guys made small talk as I ate my salad. Minutes later, the men at my table rose from their feet as a few more men dressed in black suits were led over to our table. I stood to my feet as well. Handshakes and kisses to the cheeks were made by everyone as my father introduced me as Lady V. This had to be something that they were all familiar with doing. The men seemed excited to see my Uncle Roderick. As they took their seats, dinner was brought out by a few waiters and waitresses. There was small talk amongst the men as we all indulged in the tasty food sitting in front of us. The food was amazing.
Once the table was cleared, I laughed at some of the conversations they were holding speaking about how afraid my father was when he first was passed down the leadership from his father. It was good to hear how my father grew up where I could learn more about him. We were the loudest group in the place. People didn’t pay us any attention. I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t enjoying the attention being the only woman at the table. The guys kept asking me if I was comfortable or if I needed anything. I could get used to this.
Two hours had passed and the place was half empty. I was ready to go but wouldn’t dare speak that out of my mouth. I had learned that the men sitting amongst the table were part of the cartel including Bernado, Filippo, Giorgio, Sonny, and Claudio. Each man head over their own men. To know that all these men would soon work for me was more than I could fathom. The night had gone smooth and it was a great way to end the evening.
“Giuseppe, che e questa bella donna?” Sonny asked. My eyes darted over in his direction. Why was he inquiring about who I was? I thought.
“Lei e mia figlia.” My father answered. “Lei e la signora in carica.” I smiled when my father acknowledged that I was in charge.
“Di cosa stai parlando? Sono il prossimo in linea. Una donna non puo eseguire eil cartello.” Sonny replied. I gave him an evil stare. What the hell did he mean that a woman couldn’t run a cartel? I would run it better than he could, I said to myself. He might’ve thought that he was next in line, but I was my father’s daughter. “Questa e una stronzata.” He said in anger.
“Calmati, Sonny.” My father spoke in a calm voice. Sonny cut his eyes in my direction.
“Lei e buona per il sesso. Questo e tutto.” Sonny stated with a sly grin across his face. This mother fucker was beyond disrespectful.
“Ti ammazzero!” I shouted banging my hand on the table getting everyone’s attention that was left in the restaurant. This idiot didn’t know that I would kill him. I bet he was surprised that I understood what the hell his disrespectful ass had been saying. As I stated, I didn’t know how to speak much Italian language, but I understood it.
Sonny challenged me by standing to his feet. He stood two seats away from where I sat. I stood to my feet as well along with the rest of the men at the table.
“Let’s not draw attention to ourselves. Lady V, it’s time for us to go.” My Uncle Roderick said. I reached for my purse that I had set on the table when I stood and started off following behind my uncle who was seated next to me.
Sonny grabbed my wrist with great force that I held my purse in. With my free hand, I forcefully drove the hell of my palm connecting it to his nose causing him to drop his grip from around my wrist and reach for his nose which was now leaking blood from it. I reached inside of my bun before the men could blink and realize what had just happened and pointed it underneath Sonny’s neck. He was in a state of shock as his eyes watered from the sting of the hit to his face.
“I am Lady V. I hold my own and bow to none. I don’t tolerate disrespect. You want to know about me? I am a fucking Lady, the daughter of Giuseppe Marino. I am the one who demands, commands, and is the cream of the crop. It isn’t lonely at the top. I AM VANNA MARINO.” I quoted before putting my gun back in place after Sonny had dropped down in his seat with his hands raised surrendering to me.
Bernado and Claudio went to his aide as we made our way to the exit. I could feel all eyes on me, but I wasn’t worried about that. He deserved what he got and should be grateful that I spared his life. To say that I was good for just a fuck was not only disrespectful toward me but my father as well. Someone had to teach his ass how to respect women. Before he thought about speaking ill on another woman, I was for sure that he would think twice about coming out of his face.
Who's Who In African American Literature 