Author Vanessa Rodriguez wanted to write about something she knew, which was being a latchkey kid. That idea catapulted into the new fantasy series A Key to Home (Priceless Publishing, October 31, 2023), which follows a diverse group of four friends, who are all latchkey kids. When asked if she looks at her characters solely as that or as people, here is what she had to say:
“They’re like my … Read the rest
As we know, book store owners and booksellers are a big part of the publishing community and/or book world. We know them to give book recommendations—among other things. But what advice do they have for readers aside from what to read? Sherrele Goloversic, founder and owner of The Book Readers Venue, based in Humble, Texas, offered her perspective in a recent interview on SBC.
In addition to being kind … Read the rest
When Emmy-winning television host, marketing executive, and bestselling author Markette Sheppard returned to SBC in support of her new children’s book Ninja Nate (Denene Millner Books/Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, September 26, 2023) illustrated by Robert Paul Jr., we asked if it starts with an idea or confidence.
It was during this topic that Sheppard revealed the success story of a book idea of hers that had gotten … Read the rest
Often, when people share that they have written a book, they are met with congratulatory responses. While the reason may seem obvious, let us unpack an author’s perspective on why this is common. New York-based entrepreneur, educator, and debut author Cheyenne Gadsden recently appeared on SBC in support of her children’s book Dream Big Young One: Believe it and It Will Come True.
“That is a milestone,” she says. … Read the rest
2022 marks the year that Hexael Rivera accomplished his dream of becoming a published author. The full-time educator and student, who idolizes J. R. R. Tolkien (Lord of the Rings), has loved storytelling and world-building since his youth. This past summer he released The Intricate Code, the first book in his steampunk fantasy series Mysteries of Sirlionheart (illustrated by Phrygian Bayona). His literature is targeted towards readers … Read the rest
The past can be painful, but it can also motivate. Entrepreneur and author of the bestseller Soul Beneficiary: The Good, Better, Best Guide to Success in Selling Insurance Jessi Park faced hardships during her childhood and later as a single parent. “I feel like whenever you experience choosing between paying a bill or eating, that you find yourself saying to yourself ‘I will never be in this position again,’” … Read the rest
Sometimes actors will seek books for craft, sometimes they will seek it for perseverance. Sheena Faust, star of the feel-good Another Christmas (Stacie Davis Films) and creator of the upcoming series WAISS (Why Am I Still Single?) can relate. “I really enjoy personal development books,” she tells SBC. “I think that this craft can be difficult at times. It is a journey. Actors, whenever we start … Read the rest
The phrase “Not all heroes wear capes,” coincides with the concept of the acclaimed Hero book series by award-winning author, educator, and sports journalist, Jerald LeVon Hoover.
“When people look at the books,” he tells SBC, “you’re not going to see one person with a cape on or a mask on or a uniform on—not unless it’s a basketball uniform. In other words, they’re going to be regular folk … Read the rest
What would you do if shortly after losing your job you receive an offer to hack into a computer for $5 million? This concept is explored in the new British heist film The Pay Day (Vertical Entertainment, November 11). The post-pandemic story was developed and written by award-winning actors Sam Benjamin and Kyla Frye, who co-star in the movie as Jennifer and George.
“It’s a working class tale about characters … Read the rest
From books and journalism to filmmaking, Stacie Davis Hamilton has been a storyteller for many years. The likes of Mildred D. Taylor (Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry), Lorraine Hansberry (A Raisin in the Sun), and Barbara Park (Junie B. Jones) were early inspirations, especially the latter who she credits for introducing her to writing. A pivotal moment in her journey came during her … Read the rest
