DuEwaWorld News! by DuEwa Frazier

Bestselling novelist Connie Briscoe has been at the top of her publishing game for a long time. You've probably fallen in love with many of her stories, as they are reminiscent of the lives you, your best friend, sister, mother, or aunt has lived. She is the author or co-author of many books including: You Only Get Better(Feb 1, 2008), Jewels: 50 Phenomenal Black Women Over 50 (April 2007), Can't Get Enough (April 2005) and P.G. County (2004). Briscoe currently posts a wealth of information for writers on her blog. Just this week she added "Tips for Finding a Literary Agent." Writers take note from this heavyweight author. Do your research, utilize the tips, and be faithful that this will get you closer to your goal! Taken from Connie Briscoe's Website: In an earlier post I suggested that fiction writers find a book agent before submitting to publishers. Naturally someone asked the logical question: OK, so how do I find a book agent? I’ll try to answer that h...

It came to my attention, via email a week ago that the chain of Maryland-based bookstores known as Karibu Books will be closing. It saddened me to hear of this as I had a great event at Karibu Books-Security Square Mall (in Baltimore), back in December 2006 for Check the Rhyme: An Anthology of Female Poets & Emcees with several contributors. The managers at the store took care of us very well, and we were widely supported at the event by folks in the area just passing through the mall, fellow poets, and old friends. Many, many great authors have passed through Karibu Books and I know that they will be missed within the literary community and the greater community. Hopefully, they are transitioning into something else great that will serve their interests. Here is the letter to supporters, which was posted on Karibu's website: January 22, 2008 Dear Karibu Customers, After 15 years of service within the Washington, DC metropolitan area, Karibu Books, a Black bookstore chain will...

I recently interviewed author, freelance writer and editor Michelle Goodman on my radio show, Rhymes, Views & News . Michelle’s latest book The Anti 9 to 5 Guide: Practical Career Advice for Women Who Think Outside the Cube , is a valuable resource guide for writers and other creatives seeking to leave an office 9-to-5 gig to strike out on their in on. Michelle’s interview with me lasted 30 minutes, but I know the advice she gave will help freelance writers for a long time to come. Some of the tips Michelle gave during the interview were: • If you don’t already have writing clips, do a few freelance assignments for free until you get enough samples to lead you into getting paid work. • Network with others, give out your business card and use the internet to promote your writing. ( Michelle recommends writing a regular blog as well). • Have some kind of an income coming in, whether through part-time work or temp work, while you are getting started in the freelance market. • Conta...

Most of us were taught by family members and mentors, at a young age not to be a quitter and to “Finish what you start!” In our highly fast paced society, whether we’re facing burnout from a job we hate, an unsatisfying relationship, or distancing ourselves from a toxic friend, we often freeze, feeling mentally and emotionally stuck and at a crucial crossroad as we ponder hurting (or dissapointing others) versus hurting ourselves. As adults we try to be diplomatic in difficult relationships and on our jobs. We try to say the right thing and do the right thing at all times, sometimes weighing the consequences (and the benefits) of walking away from something or someone. Often times we just end up staying way too long and we have our reasons: “I don’t want to be without a job (you’re afraid to look for a new one or lack the confidence that you can receive a new one)” and “What would my parents think if I leave this job/position/career?” and “I don’t want to hurt his/her feelings if ...

Inspirational author, editor, and activist Susan L. Taylor recently announced that she is leaving her post as Editorial Director of Essence Magazine to devote more time and energy to her youth service program, Essence Cares (National Cares Mentoring Movement). Ms. Taylor was the driving force behind Essence Magazine for over thirty years, the iconic beauty had interviewed hundreds of dignitaries and influential people in the arts, politics and entertainment while at Essence . She rose through the ranks at Essence starting as a Beauty Editor, and then becoming Editor-In-Chief. Ms. Taylor is the author of three books: In the Spirit , Lessons in Living and Confirmation (with her husband Khephra Burns). She also wrote the inspirational column, "In the Spirit" which has featured in Essence Magazine for many years. In 2004, Black Issues Book Review featured a wonderful interview with Ms. Taylor (with Malaika Adero), titled " Black publishing's inspirational godmother: ...