Conversations Book Club

Conversations Book Of 2012: "New From The Inside Out" by Kim Vazquez

2012-01-04T05:51:00.001-08:00

Find out more about Kim and the book by visiting www.kimvazquez.com.

(REVIEW) Sheryl Mallory-Johnson Returns To Her Roots With LOVE & REGRETS

2012-01-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

REVIEW BY CYRUS WEBB

For those of us who fell in love with author Sheryl Mallory-Johnson's powerful characters and story lines in SENSE OF LOVE you will be very pleased at her adult follow-up LOVE & REGRETS. We are introduced to men and women who are grappling with what it really means to love, be in love and commit to someone unconditionally. As in SENSE OF LOVE we find this is a novel of equal opportunity offenders who aren't completely satisfied with what they have, but realize that the complications they are bringing into their worlds are sure to destroy them if they aren't careful.

For Carmen, we see that not being satisfied with what she has at home leads her into a situation that threatens not just her home but her life as well. Tempest has to understand that not all relationships will be the fairytale that you read about or dream of and that you have to be willing to look out for yourself and love yourself in spite of everything else. Then there is Dana, a woman who hears the clock ticking on her dreams and what she wants from her man and decides to move forward with her own agenda---only to find that the grass is not always greener on the other side.

In LOVE & REGRETS Johnson takes into the worlds of these individuals who are trying to balance their idea of what romance is, how you stay committed and faithful when tested and more importantly how you love yourself enough to know that you deserve better than just to settle. This is not your typical "chic-lit". It's a book that men and women can read, enjoy and find themselves discussing with family and friends.

Sheryl Mallory-Johnson is back with what she does best: delivering a book that is good to the last page and leaves you definitely wanting more.

Start The New Year Off With Great Authors In 2012!

2011-12-24T09:14:00.001-08:00

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce its first authors of 2012 that will be visiting readers in Central Mississippi: Dr. Greg Little and Glenda Hunter!

Conversations Book Club's Online Chapter Announces 1st Quarter Selections For 2012

2011-12-12T02:27:00.000-08:00

(Monday, December 12, 2011) Since November 2006 Conversations Book Club and its founder Cyrus Webb have worked to promote the importance of reading and discussing exciting books as well as highlighting the authors who write them. In 2012 that mission will continue and grow with the online chapter holding monthly discussions with the author and YOU can join the conversation!

To give everyone time to read and enjoy the selection before each discussion, we are pleased to announce the choices for our book club for the first quarter of 2012. These are book personally chosen by Webb as fascinating reads, and he is sure you will find them to be the same.

The online chapter will "meet" online every second Saturday of each month beginning @ 6p.m. et (5p.m. ct/3p.m. pt) for the hour. Each discussion will be moderated by Webb and the author will be present to answer questions and provide extra insight. Joining the book club discussion is easy. Simply visit www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive at the time of the book club meeting and enter the chat room. There you can ask questions of the author and get involved with others who are a part of the book club.

Here is the schedule for the first quarter of 2012:
* JANUARY 2012 BOOK SELECTION: "New From The Inside Out" by Kim Vazquez (discussion with the author will be Sat. January 14th)
* FEBRUARY 2012 BOOK SELECTION: "Chasing Butterflies" by Frieda Barnes (discussion with the author will be Sat. Feb. 11th)
* MARCH 2012 BOOK SELECTION: "Pharmacology" by Christopher Herz (discussion with the author will be Sat. March 10th)

Make plans to join the conversation today! Get your copy of the books by visiting Amazon.com or ordering from your favorite bookseller.

Have questions of suggestions for future selections? Contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. For current events and other important announcements make sure to bookmark www.thebestbookclub.info. CONVERSATIONS: Feeding your love of life!

REVIEW: "In Her Sights" by Robin Perini

2011-11-28T16:26:00.000-08:00

Jazz Parker is a woman who is good at her job as a female sniper as well as creating a new life for herself. Thanks to the support of an unlikely source she has been able to make over her world and do good in an attempt to bring some good from a troubled past.

Once she catches the attention of Luke Montgomery, a journalist who stumbles upon her true identity, there are demons from the past that resurfaces and threaten to destroy not just Jazz's life but those she loves as well.

IN HER SIGHTS by Robin Perini is a multi-layed adventure that tackles not just the quest of one individual to renew her life and her purpose but understand and appreciate her worth as well. In the process we learn that Jazz is not the only one dealing with issues from the past, and when both individuals come face to face it is a real battle of wills and a moment of truth when it comes to will they allow the troubles of their past to shape the lives they can have today.

This is one of those book that men and women will be able to find something they can enjoy and discuss together. That is what makes IN HER SIGHTS a read that well worth the time and the journey the writer takes you on.

Conversations' Presents Its Top 150 Books of 2011

2011-11-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

It is one of Conversations' most anticipated events of the year: the revealing of its picks for Top Books. Book Club President and Founder Cyrus Webb always looks forward to sharing his list, however, this year he ran into some challenges.

"Normally we do the Top 100 Books of the year," says Webb, 36. "I just couldn't do it this time around. There were so many great titles that we had to expand the list to 150." Webb personally reads each title and has interviewed almost every author on his radio show Conversations LIVE, making the list even more personal. "It's a privilege to talk with the authors and get to share what they hope readers take away from their work," he says. "It also helps me to introduce individuals to authors they may have only heard or read about."

This year's list like each before it features books that have been released by major publishing houses, small presses and even self-published outlets. It has been Webb's goal to give everyone the same treatment as he gathers this listing, and he hopes it will also shine a light on books that are worthy of exposure but may not get alot of attention.

Conversations' Top 150 Books of 2011 will be featured in the Dec./Jan. issue of Conversations Magazine coming out Mon. November 28, 2011. Enjoy and make sure to add as many as you can to your own reading list.

Nonfiction Titles --- (Listed in no particular order)
1. "Never Give Up", Ruthe Rosen (Cypress House)
2. "The Playful & Powerful Warrior Within You!", GJ Reynolds (Beachlifestyle Publishing)
3. "Instant America", Lawrence Salone (LSS Publications)
4. "Spiritually Rich & Sexy", Pamela Jo McQuade (DreamSculpt Mindful Media)
5. "Practical Glamour", Constance Dunn (RLD Publications)
6. "Teddy Bear: Stolen Innocence", Loren Due, Ph. D. (JL King Publishing/Dr. Due Books)
7. "Georgia Justice," Jackie Carpenter (Xulon Press)
8. "The Handbook of Love", Bruce L. Thompson, Jr. (unknown)
9. "The Warmth of Other Suns," Isabel Wilkerson (Random House)
10. "Raised Right", Alisa Harris (Waterbrook Press)
11. "Rise Above", Greg Little (Dog Ear Publishing)
12. "The Life and Times of Willie Holloway", Minister Willie Holloway (Christian Services Network)
13. "Miracle Man: 100 Days with Oliver", Robert B. Haas (Bascom Hill)
14. "I Beat The Odds", Michael Oher (Gotham Books)
15. "Lost Edens", Jamie Patterson (Beaver's Pond Press)
16. "Irrepressible: The Life & Times of Jessica Mitford", Leslie Brody (Counterpoint Press)
17. "The Inspired Life," Susyn Reeve (Viva Editions)
18. "Enlightenment of Evil", Don English (unknown)
19. "Death & Oil", Brad Matsen (Pantheon Books)
20. "Moxie For Managers", Ann Tardy (Fishhead Publshing)
21. "Walking In The Deep End", Susan Parker (Silver Threads)
22. "Beyond Success," Jeffrey L. Gitterman (Amacom)
23. "Chili Pimping In Atlantic City," Michael "Mick-Man" Gourdine (Strategic Media Books)
24. "Who Is She & What Is She To You?", Pretty Tony (World Movement Records)
25. "Let My People Go," Lynn D. Cawthorne (Inkwater Press)
26. "Where Am I Going?," Michelle Cromer (Balboa Press)
27. "Smarter, Faster, Cheaper," David Siteman Garland (Wiley)
28. "Le Freak," Nile Rodgers (Spiegel and Grau)
29. "Straight From The Hood," Ron Chepesiuk & Scott Wilson (Strategic Media Books)
30. "Gridlock," Pardis Mahdavi (Stanford University Press)
31. "Evel," Leigh Montville (Doubleday)
32. "The Veil of Victory," Yorli Huff (Engendering Strength, Inc.)
33. "All I Know About Management I Learned From My Dog," Martin P. Levin (Skyhorse Publishing)
34. "How Could My Husband Be Gay?," Ondrea L. Davis & J'son M. Lee (Foresight Publishing)
35. "The Disease of More," Eleanor R. (Take Charge Books)
36. "Theology For A Violent Age," Woody Carter, PhD. (iUniverse)
37. "The Available Parent," Dr. John Duffy (Viva Editions)
38. "Once Upon A Recesssion," Selwa Hamati (3L Publishing, LLC)
39. "One Isley Brother's Daughter," Elizabeth Ann Isley (Xlibris)
40. "Start It Up," Kenrya Rankin (Zest Books)
41. "One Minute Mindfulness," Donald Altman (New World Library)
42. "A Book Of Miracles," Dr. Bernie S. Siegel ( New World Library)
43. "The Soul Solution," Jonathan Parker (New World Library)
44. "The Paper Garden," Molly Peacock (Bloomsbury)
45. "The Long Hello," Cathie Borrie (Nightwing Press)
46. "Bad Dog (A Love Story), Martin Kihn (Pantheon Books)
47. "It's OK To Tell," Lauren Book (Prospecta Press)
48. "The Stovepipe," Bonnie E. Virag (Langdon Street Press)
49. "The Persistence of the Color Line," Randall Kennedy (Pantheon Books)
50. "Arrival City," Doug Saunders (Pantheon Books)
51. "Manufacturing Hysteria," Jay Feldman (Pantheon Books)
52. "One Bowl: simple Healthy Recipes For One," Stephanie Bostic (CreateSpace)
53. "New York Fashion Week," Eila Mell (Running Press)
54. "Pervis Principles," Pervis Taylor III (Right Angle Entertainment)
55. "Sharing The Victory," Jill Ewert (Summerside Press)
56. "The Neelys' Celebration Cookbook," Pat & Gina Neeley (Knopf)
57. "The Third Wave," Alison Thompson (Spiegel & Grau)
58. "Rise & Fall of a Track Star," Omegia Keeys (Passionate Writer Publishing)
59. "Passion = Success," April Pickering (Two Harbors Press)
60. "Something Inside of Me," Chitoka Webb (Emerald Book Co.)
61. "Life Is What You Make It," Carl Mathis (Tate Publishing)
62. "Equal Verdicts," Antonne M. Jones (Clear Vision Publishing Co.)
63. "Mr. Date Night," Cary Farley (3L Publishing)
64. "It's Always Personal," Anne Kreamer (Random House)
65. "Love Shrinks," Sharyn Wolf (Soho Press)
66. "What A Wonderful World," Ricky Riccardi (Pantheon Books)
67. "Be Different," John Elder Robison (Crown Publishing)
68. "Expand This Moment," John Selby (New World Library)
69. "I Had Every Excuse To Fail, But I Chose None," Sebastian K. Young (Skybash)
70. "How I Broke My Addiction To White Women," Skip Masters (Masterful Books)
71. "Master of Disguises," James Benjamin (Authorhouse)
72. "Breakthrough," Shea Vaughn (Health Communications, Inc.)
73. "Eat Naked," Margaret Floyd (New Harbinger Publications)
74. "Kiss Me Quick Before I Shoot," Guy Magar (Sea Script Co.)

Fiction Titles (Listed in no particular order)
1. "Half-Past Dawn," Richard Doetsch (Atria Books)
2. "Just Wanna Testify," Pearl Cleage (Ballantine Books)
3. "Aloha!", Stephen A. Enna & Dennis J. Wootten (Authorhouse)
4. "Now You See Her," Joy Fielding (Atria Books)
5. "The Kitchen Daughter," Jael McHenry (Gallery Books)
6. "Allegro," Adora Bennett (Genesis Press)
7. "Split Second," Catherine Coulter (G. P. Putnam's Sons)
8. "Money Can't Buy Love," Connie Briscoe (Grand Central Publishing)
9. "Contrary Creek," Tom Walker & Mary Walker Baron (Wheatmark)
10. "Damned," Chuck Palahniuk (Doubleday)
11. "Caught In The Middle," Jennifer Luckett (nHouse Publishing)
12. "Come Sunday Morning," Terry E. Hill (Urban Renaissance)
13. "Strategic Moves," Stuart Woods (G. P. Putnam's Sons)
14. "Blood On The Pen," David Huffstetler (Wild Child Publishing)
15. "Feed Me," Nigel Barto (unknown)
16. "Bridge of the Single Hair," Candida Pugh (Langdon Street Publishing)
17. "A Good Excuse To Be Bad," Miranda Parker (Kensington Books)
18. "The Stormchasers," Jenna Blum (Plume/Penguin)
19. "Beneath The Surface," Roy Glenn (Escapism Entertainment)
20. "Aleron," Kane (Passionate Writer Publishing)
21. "The Safehouse," T. Thomas Ackerman (Outskirts Press)
22. "Pimpin Ain't No Illusion," Mississippi Slim (Struggle 4 Mine Publications)
23. "Justify My Thug," Wahida Clark (Cash Money Content)
24. "Witches Of East End," Melissa de la Cruz (Hyperion)
25. "The Murderer's Daughters," Randy Susan Meyers (St. Martin's Griffin)
26. "The Revelation Gate," Brian L. Thompson (Great Nation Publishing)
27. "The Hum & the Shiver," Alex Bledsoe (Tor Paperback)
28. "Murder Mamas," Ashley & JaQuavis (Urban Books)
29. "The Butterfly's Daughter," Mary Alice Monroe (Gallery Books)
30. "A Dream Before Dying," Tony Scott Macauley (Dancing House Publishing)
31. "Riding The Corporate Ladder," Keith Thomas Walker (Genesis Press)
32. "The Kykuit Bunker," Steven Janke (Landgon Street Press)
33. "The Last of the Good Guys," Ernesto Patino (L&L Dreamspell)
34. "Survivors," James Welsey, Rawles (Atria Books)
35. "Family Storms," V. C. Andrews (Simon and Schuster)
36. "Finding Frances," Janice M. Van Dyck (Winston Higgins Press)
37. "The Collectibles," James J. Kaufman (Downstream Publishing)
38. "The Albuquerque Turkey," John Vorhaus (Crown Publishing)
39. "Exposure," Therese Fowler (Ballantine Books)
40. "Chain Reaction," Ross E. Goldstein (unknown)
41. "The Robbin' Hoods," Ericka Williams (E-Sharan Publications)
42. "More Boy Than Girl," Tony Lindsay (Penknife Press)
43. "Scattered Lies 3," Madison (Influential Writers Publishing)
44. "Journal of a UFO Investigator," David Halperin (Viking)
45. "He Beat Past My Skin," Jessica Green (iUniverse)
46. "Soul Trapper," F. J. Lennon (Atria Books)
47. "The King Of Diamonds," Simon Tolkien (Minotaur Books)
48. "I Take This Woman," Chamein Canton (Genesis Press)
49. "Transitions," Cathy Jo (Twisted Word Publishing)
50. "Dancing Her Dreams Away," Alretha Thomas (Diverse Arts Collective)
51. "The Dog Who Knew Too Much," Spencer Quinn (Atria Books)
52. "Water's Edge," Robert Whitlow ( Thomas Nelson)
53. "Good Graces," Lesley Kagen (Dutton)
54. "The Winters In Bloom," Lisa Tucker (Atria Books)
55. "The Dawn Country," Kathleen O'Neal & W. Michael Gear (Forge)
56. "The First Law," Richard L. Ragle (MedArt Publications)
57. "Postcards From Nam," Uyen Nicole Duong (Amazon Encore)
58. "The Disgruntled Wives Club," Portia A. Cosby (Distinct Publishing)
59. "Blitz," Ebonee Monique (Peace In The Storm Publishing)
60. "Altamont Augie," Richard Barager (Interloper Press)
61. "Later With Myself: The Misadventures of Millie Moskowitz," Sheryl Sorrentino (unknown)

Top Books Designed For Our Youth
1. "Growing Pains," K. P. Smith (Doin It Publishing)
2. "Of Thee I Sing," Barack Obama (Alfred A. Knoff)
3. "Stuck," Rhonda Martin (Jabberwocky Books)
4. "Hunka Chunka Monkey Shapes Up," Sam E. Bromley (Jabberwocky Books)
5. "Before There Was Mozart," Lesa Cline-Ransome (Schwartz & Wade Books)
6. "The Sons Of Liberty: Death & Taxes," Alexander & Joseph Lagos (Random House)
7. "Baby Barbells," Joshua Levitt, ND (Running Press)
8. "Mr. Pish's Woodland Adventure," K. S. Brooks (Cambridge Books)
9. "The Fenway Foul-Up," David A. Kelly (Stepping Stones Books)
10. "Of Mouse & Magic," Allan R. Gall (Two Harbors Press)
11. "Trouble In Troublesome Creek," Nancy Kelly Allen (Red Rock Press)
12. "Hothead," Cal Ripken, Jr. (Random House)
13. "The Berlin Boxing Club," Robert Sharenow (Harper Collins Publishers)
14. "The ABC Field Guide to Faeries," Susanne Alexander-Heaton (Friesens Corp.)
15. "Teen Girls Need L.O.V.E.," S. Dodson (Mahogney Ink Publications)

For more information about Conversations' Top 150 Books of 2011 make sure to visit www.thebestbookclub.info. Have questions about titles or interested in getting your book on an upcoming list? Contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. CONVERSATIONS: Feeding your love of life!

Omegia Keeys' Visit To Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2011-10-25T04:16:00.000-07:00

On behalf of all of those who supported award-winning author Omegia Keeys' visit to Mississippi on Saturday, October 22, 2011 Conversations Book Club says thank you.

The day began with "Breakfast with Books" at Subway Crossgates in Brandon, MS where book club President Cyrus Webb met the author for the first time.

From there it was on to the Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS where Keeys was able to meet patrons, discuss her titles and give them the opportunity to purchase the books she had available.

The last stop of the day was at Appetizers Restaurant in Pearl, MS where Webb interviewed Keeys for the November/December issue of Conversations Magazine and where others had their final opportunity to meet the author and take home autographed copies of her books.

To find out ore information about Keeys and her titles visit www.passionatewriterpublishing.com. Want to see what is next for Conversations Book Club? Visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Rankin County Uses Book Discussion To Address Hate Crimes, Death Penalties During Racial Reconciliation Month

2011-10-17T12:54:00.000-07:00

(Pearl, MS)Conversations Book Club President and Rankin County native Cyrus Webb will be hosting a book signing and moderating a free discussion of Mississippi native John Grisham's book A TIME TO KILL on Wed. October 19, 2011 at the Pearl Public Library ( 2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS). The meeting, which will begin at 6p.m., is geared towards sharing thoughts about the book but how it ironically addresses two of the big issues on the national stage right now: hate crimes and the death penalty.

Webb, 36, decided to use the book as the club's monthly selection because of the national attention that has been brought to Mississippi once again due to the death of a black man in Jackson, MS in June 2011 allegedly committed by a white teen from Rankin County strictly because of his race. After the recent execution of Troy Davis in Jackson, GA, however, Webb knew that the book club would be one of the best ways to not only address the issues but give individuals a structured place to have a real conversation.

For Webb, A TIME TO KILL was just the right book. "It has more than just the elements of good against evil," Webb says. "There are real moral issues that the book addresses, and it does it in a way that makes you question how you really feel about the issues. In some cases there is no clear definition of right and wrong."

Before the discussion begins Mississippi native Alean Adams will be signing her book WAY BEYOND PISGAH beginning at 5p.m. Her book chronicles her own fight with racism in the state and what she and others did to combat it.

Admission to both events is free and open to the public. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

(Sat. Oct. 22, 2011) Award-winning Author Omegia Keeys Visits Mississippi

2011-10-12T09:57:00.000-07:00

(Saturday, October 22, 2011) Shadow Play Entertainment, Conversations Book Club and their literary partners are pleased to announce that award-winning author Omegia Keeys will be visit Mississippi on Saturday, October 22, 2011.

"I've had an oportunity to work with Omegia over the past couple of years," says book club President Cyrus Webb. "She's a talented author and a great advocate for literacy." This will be the author's first literary visit to the state.

After serving two terms in the military Omegia went on to apply her strategic planning to the publishing industry for the past five years. She has garnered numerous awards and praise to include the Scribe Award for the National Black Book Festival and ranking in the top 100 books of 2010. She is currently on tour promoting her memoir Rise and Fall of a Track Star and finishing up the sequel entitled Single, Black, and Government Owned. Her titles incldue Passionate Playmates, Seduction.com, Can You Keep a Secret, Unloved, The Baby Girl, and Rise and Fall of a Track Star.

Here is her public schedule for Saturday, October 22, 2011 while in Mississippi:
* 9-10:30a.m. --- Breakfast with Books (Subway Restaurant Crossgates * 112 Service Drive * Brandon, MS)
* 1-3p.m. --- Booksigning @ Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Rd * Pearl, MS)
* 5-6:30p.m. --- Meet & Greet @ Appetizers Restaurant (3000 HWY 80 E * Pearl, MS)

Admission to all events is free, and Omegia will have copies of all of her books avaialble for purchasing. For more information feel free to contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. Additional information can be discovered about Omegia at http://fromthemindofomegia.blogspot.com/.

Conversations Book Club Presents The "Sylvester Stephens Trivia Contest"

2011-10-01T17:01:00.001-07:00

Just in time for playwright and bestselling author Sylvester Stephens' return to Mississippi for the JSU Homecoming Booksigning Event on Fri. October 7, 2011, Conversations Book Club is pleased to announce that the author is sponsoring a "Sylvester Stephens Trivia Contest" for those who attend the event at Book-A-Millon (4950 I-55 N * Jackson, MS) that day from 5-7p.m.

It's very simple:

Answer the trivia questions about the author and his books below and qualify for a gift card prize! Three winners will recieve a $50 gift card provided by Stephens. Print the questions, get your answers and prepare to win something special from one of your favorite authors.

Sylvester Stephens Trivia Contest Questions
a. What was the name of Sylvester Stephens' first book?
b. What year was it published?
c. How many novels have Sylvester written and what are their titles?
d. Name the four generations of the Chambers' family in the novel, "OUR TIME HAS COME"?
e. In the novel, "The Office Girls", what was Ms. Virginia's real first name?
f. In the novel, "The Office Girls", what was the name of Michael's lifelong imaginary friend?
g. In the Novel, "The Nature of a Woman", what disorder did the psychologist, Johnny, suffer?
h. In the novel, "The Nature of a Woman", what prestigious award did the old recluse, "Patient Number Five", once win?
i. In the novel, "The Nature of a Man", what was Alicia's former and dream profession?
j. Here are six of the office girls' names, Alicia, Pam, Ms. Virgnia, Valerie, Susan and Wanda what are the names of the remianing office girls?

Remember you have to be present to win! Do your research today, bring your answers join the fun at Books-A-Million.

Bestselling Authors Ashley & JaQuavis Visit To MS: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

2011-09-24T19:03:00.000-07:00

(Sat. September 24, 2011) Thanks to the members of Books and Beignets Book Club, Savvy Book Club and supporters of Conversations Book Club for making the first visit of New York Times Bestselling authors Ashley and JaQuavis to Mississippi a success.

The special day began with a booksigning/meet & greet at Books-A-Million in Jackson, MS. There fans of the husband & wife duo were able to get their own personal copies of books signed, purchase the books they were missing and chat with two of their favorite authors.

From there the two had dinner at Appetizers Restaurant in Pearl, MS where they discussed their journey with book club president Cyrus Webb and gave some sage advice to up-and-coming author Mississippi Slim.

Thanks goes out to Donna Terrence, Cash Money Content, Books-A-Million Bookstore, Appetizers Restaurant, Sonya Ward of Books and Beignets, Rose Wright of Savvy Book Club and all of those who made the day one for the literary history books.

To find out more about Ashley and JaQuavis visit www.ashleyjaquavis.com.

Mississippi Prepares To Welcome Some Of The Literary Best

2011-09-23T07:13:00.000-07:00

Since November 2006 Conversations Book Club has worked with literary partners from across the world to bring the state of Mississippi some of the best authors in the industry and encourage the importance of reading. Over the next couple of weeks the Magnolia State will have two more opportunities.

On Saturday, September 24, 2011 New York Times Bestselling authors Ashley and JaQuavis will be making their first visit to Mississippi in two events that are sure to bring out fans from across the state and beyond.

From 1-4p.m. the Cash Money Content couple will be at Books-A-Million (4950 I-55 N) in Jackson, MS signing copies of their books and meeting readers. Then they will travel with Conversations Book Club to a meet and greet held at Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E) in Pearl, MS from 5-7p.m. Bring your copies of their books to get them signed and to take your pictures.

And if that wasn't enough bestselling author and Jackson State University Alum Sylvester Stephens will be back in Mississippi on Friday, October 7, 2011 signing copies of his books at Books-A-Million (4950 I-55 N) in Jackson, MS from 5-7p.m. This will be perfect for those Jackson State fans who are in town for the Homecoming weekend.

As always, the events above are free to the public and all reading groups. For more information, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also viait www.thebestbookclub.info.

Conversations Book Club's Online Chapter Returns In Oct. 2011

2011-09-14T04:41:00.000-07:00

When Conversations Book Club began in November 2006 it was with three members and a telephone. The co-ed reading group started in Mississippi by Cyrus Webb and founding member Stanley Clark was designed as a place where readers of all backgrounds could come together and discuss books directly with the author present either on a conference call or in person. It quickly grew from there to meetings in Memphis, New Orleans and Montgomery, all following the same pattern.

Cyrus Webb is pleased to announce the return of such book discussion with the re-launch of the online chapter of Conversations Book Club in October. The weekly meetings will be Saturdays @ 7p.m. et(6p.m. ct/4p.m. pt) beginning Sat. October 1, 2011, and will be open to anyone who would like to join the conversation. At the scheduled time interested parties will simply visit www.blogtalkradio.com/conversationslive to talk with the author via the message board or join the discussion over the phone by calling 347.426.3645. The author of the book will be a part of the discussion the entire hour and answer YOUR QUESTIONS with Webb serving as the moderator.

The first book the reading group will discuss is GEORGIA JUSTICE by author Jackie Carpenter. Below are the books and authors joining this special book club in the upcoming weeks:

10/01 --- "Georgia Justice" by Jackie Carpenter
10/08 --- "Destined To Live, Despite Me" by Yolanda Shanks
10/15 --- "Something Inside Of Me" by Chitoka Webb
10/22 --- "Teenie" by Christopher Grant
10/29 --- "My Daddy The Devil and Me" by Debra Ann Brown-Davis
11/05 --- "The Playful and Powerful Warrior Within You!" by GJ Reynolds
11/12 --- "What A Wonderful World" by Ricki Riccardi
11/19 --- "Incognito" by Michael Sidney Fosberg
11/26 --- "Manufacturing Hysteria" by Jay Feldman
12/17 --- "Louisa" by Richard Emmel

Make plans now to attend these special meetings either online or by phone. It is the hope of Cyrus Webb and Conversations Book Club that each week will be an opportunity for you not only to get your questions answered but to introduce those who "attend" to new authors and fellow readers.

For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Meda Personality Cyrus Webb Named Top Amazon Reviewer

2011-08-21T20:24:00.000-07:00

Out of the tens of thousands of reviews posted by individuals on Amazon.com each day, media personality and Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb has been named one of the popular site's Top 1000 Reviewers.

"This honor is just a testament to how serious I take the sharing of books," says Webb, 36. "I don't just read for myself. I read so that I will be able to share what I am learning and enjoying with others."

Webb has posted over 600 reviews of books and music on www.tinyurl.com/cyruswebbreviews, and people of all walks of life are finding his thoughts both helpful and intrumental in sparking discussions. Amazon.com has also helped Webb in being able to find guests that he can feature on Conversations LIVE Radio, through Conversations Magazine as well as for his book club.

"People notice those that are recognized on Amazon," Webb says. "They reach out to us because our opinions are respected, and they know that others are paying attention to what we have to say."

Webb hopes that he can continue to introduce the world to new books as well as give a different perspective to books that might not normally catch the attention of readers.

For more information about Webb and the work he is doing to promote literacy through Conversations Book Club visit www.thebestbookclub.info. If you would like to contact Cyrus Webb directly you can reach him at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

(Sat. August 27, 2011) Conversations Book Club and Cyrus Webb Host "Breakfast With Books"

2011-08-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

(Saturday, August 27, 2011 *Brandon, MS) Conversations Book Club and its founder Cyrus Webb are committed to promoting the power of books and self-esteem when it comes to today's youth. They are also intersted in promoting a healthier lifestyle. For this reason on Saturday, August 27, 2011 from 9-10:30a.m. Webb and members of the book club will be enjoying the delicious breakfast memu at Subway Restaurant Crossgates (112 Service Drive * Brandon, MS) but also giving out 50 free copies of the entertaining children's book TOO TALL ALICE written by author Barbara Worton.

"Too Tall Alice is just the kind of book to encourage our youth that they are special just the way they are," says Webb, 36. "When I started Conversations Book Club in November 2006 I wanted it to be a place where everyone could find something that fit their lives no matter where they are. For young people I think Too Tall Alice accomplishes that and more."

There is no purchase necessary to get your free copy of this great book, however, Webb invites anyone to join the book club and him in having breakfast and socializing with the group. For more information contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or at 601.896.5616. To foind out more information about other events hosted by Conversations Book Club visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

CONVERSATIONS: Feeding Your Love Of Life!

NYT Bestselling author Wahida Clark's Visit To MS: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2011-06-29T12:34:00.000-07:00

On behalf of Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club, thanks to everyone who made the visit of New York Times bestselling author Wahida Clark to Mississippi a success.

The historic event on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 began at Subway Restaurant in Brandon, MS with "Breakfast with Books".

There Conversations President Cyrus Webb and book club member Jacque Jones met Ms. Clark and her team and talked about the day's activities and, of course, books!

"I have been waiting for this day for quite a while," says Webb. The 35 year old began Conversations Book Club in November 2006 as a co-ed reading group for people of all backgrounds and walks of life. After interviewing Wahida Clark on his radio show Conversations LIVE in December 2007, he knew she was someone he was going to remember for some time. This visit was the first time the two had met in person.

Jones, who was with Conversations Book Club in Jackson, MS back in January 2007 when it hosted its first author (New York Times Bestselling author Carl Weber) was thrilled to be with the group again as it hosted its 100th author Wahida Clark. "I'm a big fan," Jacque told the prolific author. "It's such an honor and a privilege to be here with you." During the event, she was also able to get her books signed.

After the official kick-off the group headed to Wal-Mart Supercenter in Pearl, MS to sign their stock of Clark's new title JUSTIFY MY THUG. The store was sold out.

Conversations and Clark then headed to Target in Flowood, MS to sign their stock. After doing so the books were placed at customer service where they began to sell before Clark could even leave the store.

From there it was on to Books-A-Million in Jackson, MS where Clark signed what stock the store had left and even met with members from other book clubs who had heard the news about her visit.

Also in attendance at this event was Conversations Book Club co-founder Stanley Clark and Mississippi authors Jerome Cooper and Mississippi Slim.

Leaving Books-A-Million was not easy, but with a jam-packed schedule the group had to move on. Next stop was a sit-down interview with Christian Vance of The Jackson Advocate Newspaper in Jackson, MS. There Ms. Clark shared pieces of her story, and Cyrus Webb presented Christian with a copy of JUSTIFY MY THUG to read and review for the newspaper.

The next stop on the trip was a meet and greet at Medgar Evers Library in Jackson, MS.

When the touring group arrived there were almost a dozen avid readers waiting to greet the bestselling author. After hugs were given and books signed, Wahida Clark sat down amongst the group and discussed the books that they loved so much. Joining this group were authors Felita McElroy, Linda Stokes and Latesha W. Thomas.

The last event of the day was held at the host bookstore for the visit: Borders Bookstore in Flowood, MS.

Thanks to General Manager Judy Wolf and the staff, this was the perfect ending to a productive day. Wahida was met with waiting fans who had books in hand and more than half of the books in the store bearing her name flew off the shelves and the signing table.

For Webb, this was more than welcoming his group's 100th author. It was able recognizing the talent of an amazing woman. "There is really no one else like Wahida Clark," he says. "Mississippi was fortunate to have her, and I know this is something that readers will be talking about for quite some time."

For more information about Wahida Clark and her upcoming events, visit www.wclarkpublishing.com. To see what is next for Conversations Book Club, visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

(Tues. June 28, 2011) Mississippi Welcomes NYT Bestselling author Wahida Clark

2011-05-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Conversations Book Club is excited to announce that New York Times Bestselling author Wahida Clark will be visiting the state of Mississippi for the first time on Tues. June 28, 2011. This is in association with the author's JUSTIFY MY THUG tour and is a one day only event!

Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb has coordinated the schedule for Ms. Clark and welcomes all readers from books clubs and reading groups from across the state and beyond to support this historic visit.

Below is the public schedule:

--- 9:30-11am., "Breakfast with Books" (Subway Restaurant * 112 Service Dr. *
Brandon, MS )
--- 1-3p.m., Meet & Greet/Signing (Medgar Evers Library * 4215 Medgars Evers Blvd *
Jackson, MS)
--- 5-7p.m., Booksigning (Borders Bookstore * 100 Dogwood
Blvd * Flowood, MS 39232

The host bookstore for Ms. Clark's visit is BORDERS BOOKSTORE (100 Dogwood Blvd * Flowood, MS 39232).

For questions about any of the events, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info or www.wclarkpublishing.com. JOIN THE ADDICTION: Get hooked on books!

Conversations' 50 Summer Reads of 2011

2011-05-11T04:45:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb for Conversations Book Club/Conversations Magazine

What does it take to be a great Summer read? For me the book has to be entertaining, educational and worth my sharing its message with others. In the past, Conversations has recognized 25 titles that I think would be perfect to take along with you during the Summer months and enjoy during your down time. Since I am celebrating my 36th birthday in July of this year, I then thought it would be fun to extend the list to 36 titles worthy of your consideration. So how did I end up with a list of 50? To be honest, the roster of authors I have had the pleasure of reading over the past year have made it much too difficult for me to narrow it down any further.

Here you have the titles that I have personally read and enjoyed and believe you will as well. For the first time in the 4 years I have compiled this listing, I am also including the publisher's information. Why? Because I think they deserve credit for producing what I consider to be amazing books. As is my custom I put all books on a level playing field, meaning you will find self-published authors here as well as established authors. This is important, because I think it shows how the world of publishing has changed and that what matters is not how you are published but what you are publishing.

Enjoy this roster of non-fiction and fiction titles, and make sure to let the authors know that you appreciate what they are doing for the world through books.

NON-FICTION TITLES (Listed in no particular order)

"The Paper Garden", Molly Peacock (Bloomsbury)
"A Happy You", Elizabeth Lombardo, MD (Morgan James)
"Pharoah", DaPharoah69 (KOE Publications)
"Lord Jennings", DaPharoah69 (KOE Publications)
"Sue Ellen's Girl Ain't Fat, She Just Weighs Heavy" , Shellie Rushing Tomlinson (Penguin)
"The Warmth Of Other Suns", Isabel Wilkerson (Random House)
"Miracle Man", Robert B. Haas (Bascom Hill)
"Black and Bulletproof", Marcus Hardie (New Horizon Press)
"Evel", Leigh Montville (Doubleday)
"I Had Every Excuse To Fail, But I Chose None", Sebastian K. Young (Skybash Publishing)
"Running Scared", Robert Leon Davis (Kregel Publications)
"Soulshaping", Jeff Brown (North Atlantic Books)
"Life Is What You Make It", Carl Mathis (Tate Publishing)
"Year Of Our Lord", T. R. Pearson (Mockingbird Publishing)
"What Every Fat Girl Wants", Roxanne Harris (Unknown)
"Expand This Moment", John Selby (New World Library)
"Bad Dog (A Love Story)", Martin Kihn (Pantheon Books)
"The Way Of The Happy Woman", Sara Avant Stover (New World Library)
"Incognito", Michael Sidney Fosberg (Incognito, Inc.)

FICTION TITLES (Listed In No Particular Order)

"The Loss Of Certainty Series (Jackson/The Gamble/River Rising)", T. P.Jones (Synergy Books)
"Journal Of A UFO Investigator", David Halperin (Viking Publishing)
"Soul Trapper," F.J. Lennon (Atria)
"In The Shadow Of Swords," Val Gunn (Errant Press)
"More Boy Than Girl," Tony Lindsay (Penknife Press)
"The King Of Diamonds", Simon Tolkien (St. Martin's Press)
""Heartbreak Of A Hustler's Wife," Nikki Turner (One World/Ballantine)
"Private Sessions," Nigel Barto (I Universe)
"The Kitchen Daughter," Jael McHenry (Simon & Schuster)
"The Disgruntled Wives Club," Portia A. Cosby (Distinct Publishing)
"Dancing Her Dreams Away," Alretha Thomas (Diverse Arts Collective)
"Come Sunday Morning," Terry E. Hill (Urban Renaissance)
"Diary Of A Stalker," Electa Rome Parks (Urban Renaissance)
"Witches Of East End," Melissa de la Cruz (Hyperion)
"The Map Across Time," C.S. Lakin (Living Ink Books)
"Suspicions," Sasha Campbell (Dafina)
"Killing Them Softly," Roy Glenn (Escapism Ent.)
"The Butterfly's Daughter," Mary Alice Monroe (Simon & Schuster)
"Just Wanna Testify," Pearl Cleage (Ballantine Books)
"L. A. Summer," Sheryl Mallory-Johnson (Wanasoma Books)
"The Murderer's Daughters," Randy Susan Meyers (St. Martin's Griffin)
"Contrary Creek," Tom Walker & Mary Walker Baron (Wheatmark)
"Exposure," Therese Fowler (Ballantine Books)
"Caught In The Middle," Jennifer Luckett (nHouse Publishing)
"Split Second," Catherine Coulter (G. P. Putnam's Sons)
"Finding Frances," Janice M. Van Dyck (Winston Higgins Press)
"Now You See Her," Joy Fielding (Simon & Schuster)
"Stalina," Emily Rubin (Amazon Encore)
"Southern Discomfort," LaTonya Jones (Plenary Publishing)
"The Dawn Country," Kathleen O'Neal Gear & W. Michael Gear (FORGE)
"The Sandalwood Tree," Elle Newmark (Atria)

Our Summer Reads Of 2011 will be included in our Summer Issue of Conversations Magazine that is being released on June 13, 2011. Find details at www.conversationsmag.com.

To find out information about past titles featured on Conversations' Summer reading list, visit www.thebestbookclub.info. CONVERSATIONS: Feeding Your Love Of Life!

Conversations Presents 20 Must-Read Books For Young Readers

2011-05-07T16:00:00.000-07:00

by Cyrus Webb (appears in the May/June Issue of Conversations Magazine)

When it comes to books for children and young readers, Conversations and company Shadow Play Entertainment are committed to celebrate titles that both entertain as well as inform. As summer approaches, this issue seemed as good of a time as any to recognize some of the books we have enjoyed and recommend as well as the authors and publishers that made them possible.

These are what we consider must-reads, and it is our hope that you will give them some consideration as you make plans for this summer's "To Do" list (Listed in no particular order):

* "Let's Get Ready For First Grade!" by Stacey Kannenberg (Cedar Valley Publishing)
* "Ella B. Jenkins Meets President Barack Obama" by Eve Lynne and Desiree Thomas Gordy (Robijo Publishing)
* "Too Tall Alice" by Barbara Worton (Great Little Books, LLC)
* "Of Thee I Sing: A Letter To My Daughters" by Barack Obama (Alfred A. Knopf)
* "Mr. Browne and the Rose Show" by M. Beatryce Shaw (Schooner Publications)
* "The Chip: A 21st Century Superhero" by George Jack (Langdon Street Press)
* "Rico The Seagull, Making The Best Out Of A Mess" by April Mahoney (A Good Person Publishing)
* "Color Struck" by Pamela & Joel Tuck (Joechel Books)
* "The Rivalry" by John Feinstein (Alfred A. Knopf)
* "Louisa" by Richard Emmel (Parson Place Press)
* "Be Real And Great Now" by Zenaida Roy-Almario (BRAGN)
* "Adventures of Rusty & Ginger Fox" by Tim Ostermeyer (Synergy Books)
* "The Sons Of Liberty" by Alexander Lagos and Joseph Lagos (Random House)
* "Hairy Harry" by Debra Christenson (Publish America)
* "The Skinny On Bullying" by Mike Cassidy (Rand Media Co.)
* "Before There Was Mozart" by Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome (Schwartz & Wade Books/Random House)
* "The Fenway Foul-Up" by David A. Kelly (Stepping Stones Books/Random House)
* "Trouble In Troublesome Creek" by Nancy Kelly Allen (Red Rock Press)
* "The Young Professionals" by Models For Success (Rathsi Publishing)
* "Miracle In Sumatra: The Story Of Gutsy Gus" by Jeanne McNaney (Ovation Books)-

Already enjoyed some of the titles we have listed? Share your thoughts on www.conversationsmag.com and www.amazon.com. Know of some great books that didn't make our list? Let us know of those as well! You can also contact me directly at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

Looking for some great adult books to add to your collection? You can find selections by visiting www.thebestbookclub.info. CONVERSATIONS: Feeding Your Love Of Life.
Get your May/June issue of Conversations Magazine by clicking here!

Conversations and Author Jerome Cooper: Mission Accomplished!

2011-04-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

Shadow Play Entertainment and Conversations Book Club would like to thank everyone who made the first booksigning for Mississippi author Jerome Cooper a success.

Hosted by Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb, the event took place on Thurs. April 28, 2011 at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS), and Cooper got the opportunity to share the premise of his book as well as interact with patrons.

Find out more information about the author and the book, visit http://tinyurl.com/adualblessing. To see what is next for Conversations Book Club, visit www.thebestbookclub.info or contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

CONVERSATIONS: Feeding your love of life!

(Thurs. April 28th) Conversations Hosts Author Jerome Cooper

2011-04-22T10:36:00.001-07:00

Conversations Book Club is pleased to invite you to an event taking place in Pearl, MS on Thurs. April 28, 2011 geared towards promoting reading and supporting Mississippi authors. It will take place at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS) from 4-5:30p.m. featuring Jerome Cooper, author of the book A DUAL BLESSING.

This event is free and open to the public, however, the author will have their book available for purchasing. For more information on this event, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

Author M. Beatryce Shaw's Visit To Mississippi: MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

2011-03-26T09:17:00.000-07:00

On Friday, March 25, 2011 children's book author M. Beatryce Shaw made her first trip to Mississippi from South Carolina to share the message of acceptance that is contained in the first two books of her Mr. Browne series. The result? Residents of the Magnolia State in Jackson, Pearl and Brandon were given the opportunity to meet the author, hear the story behind the books and share in the success of her visit.

The day began at Pearl Public Library in Pearl, MS where Shaw, accompanied by Conversations Book Club President Cyrus Webb of Mississippi and Harold Utley of South Carolina, was able to meet with patrons and discuss her books with them. The staff, led by Mara Villa, graciously welcomed the author and made her feel at home in her first stop in the Magnolia State.

From there it was on to G. N. Smith Elementary School in Jackson, MS where Principal Mathis Sheriff invited the author to share with the 4th grade students about what led her to writing and what encouragement she had for them in their own lives.

After a quick break, Shaw was on to Brandon, MS where she was welcomed at Visions Daycare by Ms. Bobbie Courtney. There the author once again shared the message of her books and Webb read her first book Mr. Browne's Roses to the kids.

The final stop of the day was at Appetizers Restaurant, a regular meeting place for Conversations Book Club. There members of the book club and patrons were able to meet the author and discuss what was next for her.

To find out more information about author M. Beatryce Shaw and her books, visit www.schoonerpublications.com. To keep in touch with Conversations Book Club, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

(March 25-26, 2011) Mississippi Welcomes Author M. Beatryce Shaw

2011-03-22T04:37:00.003-07:00

(March 25-26, 2011) Conversations Book Club and its partners welcome children's book author M. Beatryce Shaw to Mississippi. She will be signing her books MR. BROWNE'S ROSES and MR. BROWNE AND THE ROSE SHOW which deal with early childhood color awareness and dealing with individuals with disabilities.

"We are excited about Beatryce being with us," says Cyrus Webb, President of Conversations Book Club. "Her books give our children and us adults messages that we have to deal with on a daily basis."

Below is her public schedule:

FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2011
* 1-3p.m., Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS)
* 4-6p.m., Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E * Pearl, MS)

SATURDAY, MARCH 26, 2011
* 9:30-11a.m., Breakfast with Books (Subway Restaurant * 112 Service Drive * Brandon, MS)
* 1-3p.m., Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road * Pearl, MS)
* 6-7:30p.m., Appetizers Restaurant (3000 Hwy 80 E * Pearl, MS)

For more information about Shaw and her books, visit www.schoonerpublications.com. To find out more information about the schedule and Conversations Book Club, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616. You can also visit www.thebestbookclub.info.

EXCLUSIVE: Our interview with Reiko Brown, author of Product of My Environment

2011-03-17T17:00:00.000-07:00

(Sat. March 12th) Conversations Book Club Welcomes Author Jennifer Luc kett

2011-03-04T12:02:00.000-08:00

Join Jennifer Luckett, author of Caught in the Middle*, as she visits Pearl, MS with Conversations Book Club on Saturday, March 12th.

The first will be at the Pearl Public Library (2416 Old Brandon Road, Pearl, MS) from 1p.m.-3p.m. in the lobby. Then at 6p.m., Appetizers Restaurant (3000 HWY 80E, Pearl, MS) for a book discussion with book club members and others.

Books will be available for purchasing, however, admission is free. For more information, contact Cyrus Webb at cawebb4@juno.com or 601.896.5616.

* Luckett's book CAUGHT IN THE MIDDLE has been selected as one of the selections for the Best of Mississippi Book Club as well. For details visit http://www.best-of-ms.com.