(April 15-17, 2010) Rapper/Author Jacki-O Returns To Mississippi To Promote Reading

Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and their literary supporters* are pleased to announce that Recording artist and Bestselling author Jacki-O will be returning to Mississippi April 15-17, 2010 as the headliner for Hip Hop and Books events held throughout the state.

"It's great to be coming back to Mississippi," says Jacki-O. She was last in the state in 2008 promoting her book GROWN & GANGSTA with Conversations Book Club. "The people showed me so much love, and I'm glad to be meeting my fans again and talking about the importance of reading.



Cyrus Webb, President of Conversations Book Club and the founder of Hip Hop and Books, is glad to be working with the artist and author again in the Magnolia State. "Jacki-O and I are not just business associates," says Webb.

"She is a friend, and it has been great to see how people have responded to the message in her first book as well as her journey as an entertainer." Webb was chosen by platinum-selling recording artist C-Murder---the publisher of Jacki-O's first book---to coordinate her first book tour. The two have worked together ever since.

Since her last visit to Mississippi, Jacki-O has been busy on her music, doing shows across the country and working on her autobiography called RELENTLESS. She has also been giving back to the community, becoming an Ambassador for the non-profit group Community Options which works with those with disabilities and becoming the national spokesperson for the Hip Hop and Books Literacy Campaign which encourages reading among the urban community.

During this year's visit, Jacki-O will be visiting schools and libraries talking about her own experiences, the messages she hopes people get from the book GROWN & GANGSTA as well as the importance of reading and using books to better yourself. "I think one of the most important lessons I have learned from C-Murder and Jacki-O is that you can never judge a book by its cover," says Webb. "Both of them have used their celebrity to empower others and show how you don't have to let your circumstances determnine what you can accomplish in life." Joining Jacki-O will be Texas authors Jermnine Demouchette (JAMES DEMOUCHETTE VS. THE STATE OF TEXAS) and Mr. Mean Mug (TATTOO TEARS).



Here is the authors' public schedule for Mississippi:

THURSDAY, APRIL 15, 2010
* 8:30-10:30a.m., Peeples Middle School (Jackson, MS)
* 11:30-12:30p.m., Morrison Academic Center (Jackson, MS)
* 2-4p.m., Meet and Greet/Signing @ Medgar Evers Library (4215 Medar Evers Blvd *Jackson, MS)
* 6-8p.m., Meet and Greet/Signing @ Appetizers Restaurant (3086 HWY 80 E * Pearl, MS)

FRIDAY, APRIL 16, 2010
* 1-3p.m., Meet and Greet/Signing @ Pearl Public Library 2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS)
* 6-8p.m., Meet and Greet/Signing @ Appetizers Restaurant (3086 HWY 80 E * Pearl, MS)

SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2010
* 12-3p.m., Hip Hop and Books Rally at Smith Park (Downtown Jackson, MS) --- musical performances by independent recording artists, art exhibit by C. A. Webb and others as well as a meet and greet/signing with the authors and a special tribute to recording artist C. Watts aka Playa Connected.
* 8-10p.m., Celebrity Entertainment Complex (3349 Hwy 51 S * Winona, MS)--- Meet & Greet/Signing

* Literary supporters include Jackmove Entertainment, For The People Productions, Real Deal Entertainment, Mugumental Inc., D.I.G.M.E., Hype Magazine, S.T.I.L.L. Magazine, Blacklight Publishing, Vitaminwater of Louisville (KY) courtesy of Herschel Dixon and the Read or Die campaign, HHH Magazine and Hunidracks Energy Drinks.

For interview requests, more information about Jacki-O's visit or any of the events associated with it, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Details can also be found at www.hiphopandbooks.com.

(Sat. Feb. 20, 2010) Conversations Welcomes Author H. Michael Harvey

Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club are pleased to welcome author Harold Michael Harvey (H. Michael Harvey) and his dramatic Southern novel Paper Puzzle to Mississippi, the land of  Evers, Till and others on Saturday, February 20, 2010.  Harvey says, "Paper Puzzle is very much about the mindset that allowed those murders to take place."

Led by President Cyrus Webb, Harvey's visit is part of Conversations Book Club's promotion of reading and conversation among book lovers of all ages and backgrounds.

Paper Puzzle introduces dual protagonists, one white, Clay Moore managing editor of the town's daily newspaper and Jimmy Royal editor of the local black weekly tabloid. Both men as cub reporters covered a gangland styled murder and were pulled off the story by their publishers before anyone was brought to justice.

As time passes the two men kept thoughts of it in the back of region of their minds. Suddenly, Clay Moores' life is interrupted when he discovers news clippings from the gangland styled murder in his bed each morning. When Clay's security and career is threatened by a powerful federal judge he is forced to turn to the only other person who can help him solve the paper puzzle laying in his bed. He turns to Jimmy Royal and together the two reporters in the spirit of Woodard and Bernstein uncovers decades of injustice hidden neatly under the guise of the social mores of the times.

"History has shown," Harvey says, "that the men who committed those brutal acts knew they could get away with them because the local courts and local press would not allow the truth to come out.   What the white supremacist did not count on was the persistent will of the people, honestly seeking the truth."

Here is the public schedule for Harvey while visiting Mississippi:

10-12p.m., Meet and Greet/ Booksigning @ Medar Evers Library (4215 Medgar Evers Blvd. * Jackson, MS)

1-3p.m., Meet and Greet/Booksigning @ Pearl Public Library (Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS)

______________________________________________

All events are free and open to the public. For details, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

ABOUT PAPER PUZZLE  

What does a five year old black boy do when his grandmother warns him he cannot play behind the sales counter with the grandson of the white shop owner in the mid 1950s? If he is Harold Michael Harvey he embarks upon a lifetime journey to understand social mores and how to overcome them.

For the 58 year old Harvey the end result is the publication of his first novel Paper Puzzle. The novel released in the southern fiction genre, is set in Harvey's hometown of Macon, Georgia, by the largest traditional publishing house in the nation, Publish America. He draws on his past experiences as an award winning journalist and award winning trial lawyer to spin a tale of mystery cloaked in the traditions of the South. Visit www.paperpuzzle.net for details about the author and the book.

To find out more about Conversations Book Club and its commitment to literacy, visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Literary Texas Takeover In Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

(NOTE: Missed day one's events? Click here to catch up!)

(Fri. Feb. 5, 2010) With no rain in sight and the sun trying to show itself, day 2 of the literary Texas Takeover in Mississippi began with a visit to Morrison Academic Advancement Center in Jackson, MS. Thanks to the warm invitation by the Principal (Mrs. Sherry Sterling) and the support of recording artist and poet Blak Jewel, authors Jermnine Demouchette and Mr. Mean Mug were able to share once again their story of missteps, redemption and the lessons learned.


The students listened intently during the entire presentation, but it was during the final moments of the visit that Blak Jewel, who also has a son at the school, revealed how Mean Mug and Demouchette had inspired them to share something personal about herself. She went on to tell the students that she had been molested growing up, and how she went on to make decisions that weren't the best. "I am now a single woman with four kids," she said, "and it's hard." Blak Jewel went on to say that it was possible to learn from your mistakes, and she thanked the authors again for being willing to help others.



From there, Demouchette and Mr. Mean Mug returned to Peeples Middle School to share their final thoughts with some of the students in Mrs. Bolden's class.

It was during this visit that retired Professor Charlie Gaulden met the gentleman and had a chance to share the work that he was doing to help those in the Jackson area that were in need.



It was a successful first tour stop for the Texas Takeover, but it is only just beginning of what will be an incredible adventure for the authors, the experiences they have to share and the good they will be able to do.

"The two of them met each other because of books," says Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb. He works as the publicist for both authors and is scheduling the tour stops. "They have been living in the same state for all this time, but it was their books that brought them together to help others."

Webb is now working to get organizations in Texas to see the benefit of such a pairing. "They compliment each other well, and I think it will be a win-win for them and their state."

Find out more information about the Texas Takeover and upcoming events at www.shadowplayent.com.

C. A. Webb Weaves Supernatural Tale To Discover Who Is Really BLESSED

For years Mississippi native Cyrus Webb (known as C. A. Webb) has been a supporter of the power of words. Now in 2010 he prepares to deliver his own through the serialized novel BLESSED.

Released as four e-books and novellas beginning in February 2010, BLESSED will take readers into the intricate worlds of religion and politics, asking them do they really know where success and good fortune come from. You will meet Pastor Ezekiel James, who has enjoyed a historic legacy that is amplified by the remarkable success of his family. For almost 40 years he has been one of the most recognizable faces and names of faith around the world, and that favor seemed to be passed on to his seed, fraternal twins Rebecca and his namesake Ezekiel.

Born with the world seemingly at their feet, Ezekiel continued in the example of his father while Rebecca chose politics, a course that would introduce her to Jeremiah Reynolds. He wants to see a change come to the country. With the support of the James family, Jeremiah would gain influence that leads him to the offices of Mayor, Governor and even the White House, becoming the first man of color to become President.

As Reynolds enters his second year in the Oval Office, two wars are waging around the world; however, the United States is more worried about a mysterious flu that is targeting the elderly and youth with deadly consequences. When it threatens the youngest of the James family and even the First Family, a secret is revealed that threatens to destroy not just the trust of a family and The White House but the safety, security and souls of the entire world...

IN THE BEGINNING, the first book of the series, will be released as an e-book in February 2010 and in print form in March 2010. Details about BLESSED can be found at www.arewereallyblessed.com.

Pickens Public Library In MS Begins Year With New Books

(Sunday, January 10, 2010) Though many organizations are struggling during the difficult economic times, establishments like the Pickens Public Library in Pickens, MS are benefiting from the community and others helping out with their shortfall. In desperate need of books, the library that has been around for almost 60 years, received over $1,000.00 in brand new books to be used by their patrons in the New Year. The books were donated by Stanley Clark and Cyrus Webb of For The People Productions and Conversations Book Club, thanks to a book drive the two began in 2009.

"Pickens will always have a special place in my heart," says Clark who calls the city home. He personally delivered the books to the library. "I was glad we were able to do something to benefit so many."

Webb agrees. "Thanks to the partnerships we have made over the past few years, it was an easy assignment to get the books. The written word has so much power, and I know the books will be well used."

Many of the books were from clients that Webb represents through his publicity division of Shadow Play Entertainment, including national recording artist/author Jacki-O of Miami, FL and Mr. Mean Mug of Ft. Worth, TX, author of TATTOO TEARS. Jacki-O, who visited Mississippi while promoting her first novel GROWN & GANGSTA says that the new year is a perfect time to commit to making books a part of your daily life. "Even in my business, reading is important," she says. "I know some think it's just about the glitz and glamour, but education is the key to your success. I want young people especially to know that whether you are a rapper, athlete or a doctor you have to be able to read."

Saddie McDonald, who has worked at the Pickens Public Library for three years was grateful for the extra help the books will provide. "We have young people here all the time who are looking for something new, something that fits their interests. Donations such as this will help us keep them in a safe place and off the streets."

The book donation isn't the end of Clark and Webb's involvment with Pickens Public Library. They will also be volunteering during their summer program as well.

"We hope that individuals and organizations will take this example and use it wherever they are," says Webb. "It's not always about how much money you give. Your time is just as valuable."

To find out more about the Pickens Public Library, contact Saddie McDonald or Quincee Barton at 1.662.468.2391. For additional information about upcoming events hosted by For The People, visit www.forthepeopleproductions.com or contact Stanley Clark at 1.773.315.9286. To find out more about Conversations Book Club and its upcoming projects, visit www.cyruswebb.com or email Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com.

Introducing BLESSED; The upcoming serial novel by C. A. Webb with introduction by FTP's own Stanley Clark

Pastor Ezekiel James has enjoyed a historic legacy that is amplified by the remarkable success of his family. For almost 40 years he has been one of the most recognizable faces and names of faith around the world, and that favor seemed to be passed on to his seed, fraternal twins Rebecca and his namesake Ezekiel.

Born with the world seemingly at their feet, Ezekiel continued in the example of his father while Rebecca chose politics, a course that would introduce her to Jeremiah Reynolds. He wants to see a change come to the country. With the support of the James family, Jeremiah would gain influence that leads him to the office of Mayor, Governor and even the White House, becoming the first man of color to become President.

As Reynolds enters his second year in the Oval Office, two wars are waging around the world; however, the United States is more worried abotu a mysterious flue that is targeting the elderly and youth with deadly consequences. When it threatens the younest of the James family and even the First Family, a secret is revealed that threatens to destroy not just the trust of a family but the safety and security of an entire country...

BLESSED. The new serial novel written by C. A. Webb with a special introduction by Stanley Clark.

The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign Promotes Books, Discussions in 2009-2010

2009 has been a great year for promoting reading, and Cyrus Webb of The Write Stuff Literacy Campaign has been taking advantage of every opportunity to sound the alarm about the importance of books. Here are some of the announcements Webb wants you to be aware of...

ENLISTING IN THE WAR AGAINST ILLITERACY


WHAT'S COMING UP NEXT FOR CONVERSATIONS LIVE! RADIO...


HIP HOP AND BOOKS LITERACY CAMPAIGN RETURNS AND PREPARES FOR 2010!


Over the past six years, Cyrus Webb and Conversations LIVE! Radio have talked to some of the biggest names in arts and entertainment. Now at the end of 2009 and going into Season Seven of the show, they bring their listening audience conversations you don't want to miss...

SUN. DEC. 13, 2009 @ 7p.m. CST (6p.m. CST/4p.m. PT) --- Dr. Neal Hall talks about race, the state of the United States and his new book NIGGER FOR LIFE.


Mon. Dec. 14, 2009 @ 8p.m. EST (7p.m. CST/5p.m. PT) --- Constantine Markides is the host of the first blog-based reality show Fourth Fiction. He talk about the inspiration for the show, and some of the contestants from the first season will join him to share their experience.

Listen to the shows live at www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive.

CYRUS WEBB TALKS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING PROUD OF WHO YOU ARE, NOT WHERE YOU'RE FROM


CYRUS WEBB PRESENTS "BOOKS OF INSPIRATION 2009"


CONVERSATIONS BOOK CLUB'S TOP 100 BOOKS OF 2009

It is one of those lists that is a way of recognizing great books and also the authors who write them: Conversations Book Club's "Top 100 Books of 2009". Compiled by Cyrus A. Webb, this is just one way that the literary organization shows why it is one of the best for those looking for best in literature.