Literary Works of Dena Tyson

Today at Waldenbooks Fox Valley Mall-Aurora Illinois 1pm-4pm
I will be signing copies of my new release “Black Beans ‘N Rice”
Y’all come on down and holla at-’cha gurl I would love to meet
some of my blog fans!

I hope you can make it!
~Peace

Black Beans ‘N Rice- is about my life at 17 with a man 15 years older than I was who gave me a place to live when I otherwise didn’t have a place to go. Unfortunately during the time we lived together he began to abuse me both verbally and physically, and even after I got a place of my own I was still afraid to leave him. Later on in my life at 22 I finally found the strength to walk away and the courage to let go so you journey with me as I struggle to overcome the scars of low self esteem and lack of self worth, one day finding real love for the very first time at 25 years old. This story touches all and teaches something that is very important… we are worthy.

Synopsis:
Spooney was old enough to be her father but he didn‘t care. It made him feel like he still had it and that made him feel good. It‘s not all about how you do what you do because Binx was young and didn‘t know any better. She had fallen head over heels for him because he was different. As Binx applied the finishing touches to her face, her mother walked in and stood next to her, a questioning look in her eyes. She glared from the mirror and said something Binx would never forget. “You too pretty of a girl to be with such a old man. You‘re young and smart… he‘s just taking away all of your youth.” She was quite solemn in the way she spoke.What her mother didn‘t understand at that time was the damage had already been done, and she stayed not because she wanted to, but because she had to. She suffered Spooney‘s abuse both physically and mentally, and walking away wasn‘t easy because she was afraid.

Excerpt:
Binx was early to rise and eased out of bed. Spooney was still asleep and this
gave her a running start. She stuffed four pillow cases with her favorite things,
quickly loading them in the car she parked in front of the building.
“I get the dog and I’m home free…” she thought, stepping inside the apartment
door.
“Good morning lady… you up early.” Spooney greeted as she walked in. He
was standing in the middle of the hallway, his back facing the bedroom door.
“So where you headed to so early?” he asked, a suspicious look in his eye.
She held her nerve trying to remain as normal as possible. “I thought I would
go to the laundromat early, beat the crowd you know?” she said impulsively. “I
just came up to get Moosie since he hadn’t been out.” she told him locking the
leash on his collar.
“Aw I could’ve walked him for you this morning. That way you can go on and
get up to the laundromat and come on back here.” he glared toward her
rubbing his hand between his legs, sending a message.
Spooney stood about six feet and weighed two hundred pounds. He was
fifteen years her senior and Binx was twenty-two and very petite. He pulled the
last straw the night before the way he treated his mother at the dinner table.
His behavior replayed over and over in her mind, and made her sick to her
stomach feeling she couldn’t spend the rest of her life in fear. She recalled the
day he struck her face solely based on his speculation that she was seeing
another man much younger than he was, and this took him over the edge.
She smiled back at him taking Moosie in her arms. “That’s ok, I can walk ‘em it
won’t take long.” she said, keeping in mind he never liked the dog in the first
place.
“Well let me help you take your stuff to the car then.”
She quickly replied, “I’ve already done it.” Making her way toward the door.
He turned up his face nodding his head. “I see… I guess you did wanna get
there early.”
“Yeah…” she replied, reaching for the door knob.
He tried to speak through the big yawn he gave.
“What…?”
“I said I don’t get a kiss?” he repeated, squinting his eyes.
She gave a short sigh and stepped toward him. Moosie couldn’t stand him and
defended Binx as she moved in growling, then showing his teeth.
“That little joker sumthin else.” he laughed, slightly irritated by his behavior.
Binx held Moosie to her side as she kissed him on the lips.
“You’d better hurry up and come on back here girl.” he grinned, easing one
hand between her legs.
She pulled away giving a polite smile. “It should only take a few hours. Then
we’ll have a wonderful day.” she said, shutting the door behind her. She stood
for a moment releasing a big sigh, her legs shook as she headed down the
stairs, and her heart beat nearly out of her chest. “This is it Moosie…” she
said, holding him tightly. “This is it… I can’t believe how easy that was.” she
grinned, giving a sigh of relief as she left the building.
Spooney stood from the window watching as she led Moosie across the street.
“Don’t give him a reason; just stick to the plan… just stick to the plan.” she
reminded herself, seeing him from the window. She waved as they continued
around the corner on foot, and waited five minutes before heading back to the
car.
She made her move taking a quick glance toward the window, noticing he was
nowhere in sight. She put Moosie on the front seat and quickly shut the door.
She sat behind the wheel and began to panic unable to locate her purse with
her keys inside. She felt beneath the front seat and ran her hands across the
back frantically hoping to find them. She hung her head over the steering
wheel in utter disappointment, her eyes began to swell and she cried hard.
“Oh my god what did I do…? How could I have been so stupid, how could I
have been so stupid.” she repeated in disbelief. She turned toward Moosie,
sitting in the passenger seat, and he hopped over wagging his tail, licking the
tears from her face.
“We gotta go back up there…” she spoke softly trying to pull herself together.
She took a deep breath and stepped out of the car, heading back up stairs.
She knocked on the door and he opened it.
“Oh… you decided to come on back up here and take me up on my offer
huh?” he grinned.
She took hold of her nerves putting her best foot forward. “I forgot my purse
and my keys.” she told him.
“Ok…” he paused, “Now you can stay for a minute if you want too.” he tried to
convince her, giving a boyish grin.
“Old ass fucker!” she screamed inside, wanting to slap him in the face. “Nah I
gotta make it up there before the crowd comes you know?” She grabbed her
purse with keys now in hand, and she stepped toward the door with Moosie by
her side.
Spooney gave her a questioning look. “I thought you walked the dog already?”
“Yeah I did.” she said without thinking.
“So why you taking ‘em with you now?”
She paused for a second trying to think.
“You ok lady?” he said becoming suspicious.
She popped her lips shrugging her shoulders. “I guess I wasn’t thinking I can’t
be walking up in the laundromat with a dog.” she laughed, trying to play it off.
Her heart sank as she led Moosie back into the apartment. She kneeled in
front of him unsnapping his collar and squeezed him gently with her left hand.
The tears pressed hard against her lids but she refused to allow one to hit her
face, she couldn’t at this point she felt her life depended on it.
Spooney stood behind her watching as she came to her feet.
She didn’t turn around sensing he’d notice something was wrong so she
headed straight out and down the stairs. “I have to go but I’ll be back in a few
hours.” she called.
“Alright baby.” he grinned, shutting the door.
Binx took her seat behind the wheel, tossing her purse on the floor. “Moosie I’
m so sorry… I’m so sorry Moosie.” she cried out, starting the ignition. She
headed down Chicago Avenue and noticed a pay phone at the corner of Lake
Street and stopped, parking her car on the side of the road.
“Lord what am I gonna do…” she thought aloud, rocking back and forth,
holding her hand to her mouth. “I can’t go back there… I never wanna see that
man again. I can’t do it…” she shook. She caught her nerve and stepped out
of the car, running across the street to the pay phone, deciding to give her
best friend Hershey a call. Her wallet was empty and she had to call him collect.
“Please answer Hershey… please be there.” she muttered.
The phone was answered by the forth ring.
“This is the operator with a collect call from Bianca, will you accept?”
“From Binx…? Yeah I’ll accept the call.” he replied feeling she’d better have a
good excuse for calling him collect.
“Thanks Hershey.” she immediately spoke trying to keep her composure.
“Aw honey what’s the problem?” The sound of her voice made him nervous
fearing the worst had happened.
“Hershey I need you to do me a favor.” she stated, trying to catch her breath.
“Girl what is it… what’s happened?”
“I don’t have long Hershey I’m scared… I’ll tell you all about it later and I’ll pay
you for this call—”
“Don’t worry about that.” he interrupted.
“I’d like to know if you could three way this call to my house.”
“You mean call you at home?” he listened carefully trying to make sense of it
all.
“Spooney is at the house right now and I want you to please three way me to
him but not say anything on the phone, you can’t say anything Hershey you
hear me?” she warned.
He dialed the number without hesitation, keeping his promise of silence.
Binx swallowed hard feeling the knot in her throat.
“Hello…” Spooney answered.
“Yeah it’s me.”
He grinned taking a seat on the sofa. “You missing me already girl?”
Hershey had a great distaste for Spooney, feeling he was old enough to be her
father. Spooney never liked him because he was gay. He held on strong
trying to keep his lips sealed.
“Spooney I have something I need to tell you.”
“Oh yeah… I love you too.” he said, feeling a bit full of himself.
“No Spooney I want you to leave. I want you to leave my apartment.” she said
modestly, trying not to upset him.
Hershey’s mouth flew wide open and he took a seat at the dining room table.
Spooney took a short pause, thinking about what she’d said. “Now say that
again? No wait a minute…” he stopped in mid sentence. “Where are you, let
me come up to the laundromat.”
Hearing this, her heart raced fearing he’d catch her out on the street and beat
her to death. Her hand began to shake and she held the phone tightly. “I’m
not at the laundromat, I’m at a pay phone.”
“A pay phone where?” his voice deepened to a harsh tone.
Hershey came to his feet pacing back and forth in the room, a complete wreck,
hoping she wouldn’t disclose her location.
“I—I just wanted to call you and tell you that I want you to leave. I want you to
take all of your stuff and I want you out of my house and out of my life forever.
I don’t want to see you again, I don’t ever want to be in the same room with
you.” she told him.
“I don’t understand where this is coming from…” he shook his head trying to
wrap his mind around what he was told. “Have you been talkin ‘ta that mutha-
fucker Hershey?!” he lashed.
Hershey squeezed his eyes clinching his teeth together tightly, raising his hand
to the heavens above. “I can come ovah there and cut ‘yo dick off right now
you old fool…! Lord you’d better help me.” he thought, taking a deep breath,
clutching his chest.
“I can’t believe—why are you doing this? You are calling me from a pay
phone, let me come where you are so we can talk about this… please.” he
begged, trying to lower his tone.
“I don’t want to see you because I’m afraid–”
“Am I that big of a monster?” he said, raising his voice.
“Spooney if you don’t leave I’ll call the police and have them get you outta
there. I mean for you to go, please.”
“…humph, so you would actually call the Oak Park Police on me…? Have
twelve got-damn cars out there waiting to take my ass to jail? You know how
they do out here, this ain’t no Chicago.”
“I’m sorry Spooney I just want you to leave and leave me alone.” she took a
short pause, “If you don’t want to leave the apartment just stay and keep
everything… I don’t want it. Just let Moosie out and he’ll find me.”
He could see Moosie lying across the front door waiting for her to return. “Why
don’t you come and get the dog?”
“No, I won’t be back.”
“Well what’s going to happen to ‘em?” he asked, cutting his eyes in his
direction.
“I won’t be back for a few days that should give you enough time to leave. You
don’t have to worry about Moosie, feeding him or anything he’ll be alright.”
“So you just goan leave ‘yo dog huh?”
“He’ll be fine until I can see ‘em, I won’t be back to the apartment though.” she
explained, hoping he wouldn’t harm him.
“I don’t have much here just a few clothes…” he sighed deeply, taking a long
pause. “You don’t have to leave your apartment, I’ll go ahead and leave.” his
voice weakened and he began to weep, feeling his back was against the wall.
“I wish you would let me see you though, I love you. I wouldn’t do nothing to
hurt you.” he said, then changing his words. “I mean I know I hit you before, but
all I’m trying to say is that’s something I would never do again, if you could just
please…”
“It’ll never work Spooney, I’m too afraid of you and I don’t want to spend my life
in fear like this.

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Check out the trailer for Black Beans ‘N Rice!
Trailer for Black Beans N Rice

Such a talented genius. As I think back to a time in my life when I was much younger, a pre-teen in fact, back in Memphis. The buzz around town was quite interesting because the Jackson Five were in Tennessee and actually in my neighborhood. We had seen them on television earlier that day talking about a show they were doing and later that evening I got wind that they were going to be at the Southgate Shopping Center. I lived within walking distance and told my dad and we all piled into the big tan striped Winnebago aka. Camper and headed for the shopping center.

Oooo… I cannot tell you how excited I was as my father drove in anticipation of seeing them up close and personal. Honey I thought I was sumthin else you hear me? I was in the back of the camper lookin outta that window grinning like bucky beaver hoping to meet the Jackson Five!

We get to the shopping center and so many others had already arrived.
As my dad pulled into the parking lot there they were… The Jackson Five, on top of the roof waving at everyone that was standing in the lot. My dad didn’t park the camper immediately instead he paused and he and my mom laughed at the way myself and all of the other people were carrying on. They only stayed on the roof for about 10 minutes and then they disappeared. My dad drove around back of the shopping center and no one was back there at all except a limo that eased out of the lot. I knew they were in there, they had to be right…? Well as the limo drove away some of the crowd made their way to where we were and someone yelled… “there they are inside the camper” and everyone ran toward us! I couldn’t believe it and my dad drove off as fast as he could because we were being bombarded by these people… the same folks we had just seen moments before in the front of the lot!! A few people ran behind that camper for at least a few blocks finally giving up. We laughed about that much later on but I remember that as if it were yesterday.

Michael I thank you for inspiring me back then that like yourself I could reach higher than I could ever imagine and achieve my god given talent and dream. I thank you for all of the memories both then and now, as I continue my journey through life.

Michael you will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers to your famly.

~Dena

They say that love doesn’t hurt but why does it always seem to leave a large sting across my face or blackened my eye.

To love is to encourage, and most times I have found none.

Love should be felt from the moment we’re born no matter how we were conceived, life is a blessing.

Each day that I live and breathe I know I am not alone.
I put myself out front and I stand among so many that have suffered hanging our heads in shame, but no longer will I hold myself to these types of methods.

No longer will I allow my life to be chosen by anyone except the one for which I pray to each morning when I open my eyes giving thanks for a day that I have to make a new start.

I choose to make the most of this day for which I have been given for now and for always.

Make the best of your day people and live for many others to come because we are worthy… trust me I know.

My best to you always and
“Continue to Greatness!”

Written for the Novel Black Beans ‘N Rice
A novel about escaping an abusive relationship and finding love for the very first time.
*In Theatres Soon!*

©2009 Written/Created by Author: Dena Tyson

I extend my hand as you turned away
tossing the last few pieces of my possessions

I quickly fell to my knees grabbing hold of each
piece stuffing them into the green duffel bag
that once belonged to a man most claimed was
my father

Still I am lost, but one day I hope to find him

I am broken as I journey the streets unknown

You used the power to turn my life, my world
upside down, and today you’ve won

Time heals all wounds but we never forget

Today I am woman
I stand proud completely unashamed of the
world I left behind

I hear a knock and find you at my door on
bended knee calling out my name

Once again I extend my hand
as I open my heart, my soul
only this time you bear no resistance

You stare into my eyes with shame on your face
as I help you to your feet.

You ask me why…

In my humble response
I face you, and I smile

The “Glory” is mine to give.

Written/Created by Best Selling Author:
Dena Tyson 12/21/08

This describes the day I was thrown on the
streets to survive at 14 with no place to go and
no one to turn to. It only made me stronger in my
journey to survival, and I held no hate in my
heart. I learned I am worthy and that all things
are possible when we believe.

For the short list of those that cared and have
always had my best interest at heart, I thank you
and wrap my arms around you with tears of joy.
For those that still hate and try to tear me down,
and that list for sure would extend from where I
live to the Himalayan Mountains, …know that it
only gets better from here.
See you at the movies!
*In Theatres Soon!*

As I turn the key, I feel my journey has just
begun…

Today for the first time I am free

I make my way pass the doors of the
crowded room

I see your face… I notice your lips, your
smile

As I make my way in your direction you smile

I Take your arms reaching out to hold me,
drawing you near

The room becomes silent as we lose
ourselves over come with the emotion we
feel inside

Today for the first time I am free

We pause, taking a moment to find our way
beyond the corners of the back room, then
up the stairs

We meet again, this time your legs wrapped
around my waist As I gently hold your thighs
in my arms, wanting you, needing you…

My heart compels me to think that I had a
right to be here

death was not my sentence.

A prisoner no more, locked within the walls
of my soul yelling, pleading, trying to get out!

Dare I question the man that I once was,
would be the man that I am before
but I am determined, and now I surrender-

“Father I stretch my hands to thee”

and then it happened,

this day I know…

Today for the first time I am free

Written/Created by Author Best Selling Author:
Dena Tyson
11/19/08

*This is actually a revelation from a man that
was once in a coma. He lay with his body
frozen in time, locked within the walls of his
soul, trying to get out, wanting to be free. He
remembers his life, his love and longs to be
with her once again… to feel her, to touch
her. He had much to learn during his time of
departure, and renewed his beliefs,
surrendering himself to the heavens above.
Finally he awakens… a chance to start his
life once more, now much stronger and
wiser he realizes
“Today For The First Time I Am Free”

Based on the novel “Give Me the Strength” which is also based on a true story
*In Theatres Soon!*

Back when I first got married, we lived on the south side of Chicago for a short while.
It was Easter Sunday “our first” and Zion Lutheran Church was three blocks away, so we decided to walk.

I had on my Sunday best. A beautiful knee length cream colored dress, with shear long sleeves that slightly belled at the wrist. It was tapered at the waist with a silk tie, and although I can’t recall the true fabric the dress itself was made of, it just flowed with the wind and every step I’d make. It reminded me of one of those glamorous dresses you’d see on tv, that just danced behind you when you walked. Oh… that dress was so beautiful. Made me feel extra good when I was in it ‘cuz y’all know I thought I was lookin cute that day right…?

I made one last pit-stop before we headed out the door and we were on our way. We walked hand in hand yuckin-it-up the whole time grinning like buckey- beaver. Tony (my husband) had on this suit and y’all know that man was lookin good and smellin good too. ‘course he always smelled good any way, but it was sumthin about that suit that brought out all the senses!

Further down the block we came across other couples that had the same idea. I smiled and spoke, making eye contact with each one. The men blushed as they spoke and for some reason the women pulled them along cutting their eyes in my direction as if I were a church hussy or some type of heathen. I thought to myself; I don’t want ‘yo man… I got this fine brotha right here by my side… “my husband” so goan ‘bout ‘yo long-head, heifers! (you know folk can make you lose your religion)

The church was in clear view and this woman paused next to me for a moment before she passed. “Excuse me…” she pointed to the side of my dress. “You have something on your dress.” she continued, now making her way to the church steps. I thanked her and immediately began brushing the side of my dress. Y’all know I was about to panic, because I just couldn’t imagine a spot on that beautiful dress, and not one that I myself had missed!

I asked Tony if he saw anything and he said he didn’t. You know how men are, they don’t see stuff like we do, so I stopped this woman as we approached the steps, and asked her if she saw anything on my dress. I told her what the other woman said that I had something on my dress and wanted to know if she saw anything. (I’m country folk and we don’t mind stopping and asking stuff)

The woman was nice and seemed down to earth, an old skool sistah ‘ya know. She looked at me and said… “Ain’t nuthin on ‘yo dress and I don’t know why that woman would say that, but the whole back-ka ‘yo dress is inside ‘yo pantyhose.”

‘Y’all can imagine the look I had on my face right? I was completely mortified!! There we stood pulling the back of my dress outta my pantyhose! I had walked for 3 blocks, only to discover at the church steps, my ass was showing the whole time!

The woman told me not to worry and thanked the heavens above that I was at least wearing a pair of cute “little pannies”.

Tony stood behind me raising my dress once more… “Aw yeah, those are nice…” referring to my pannies like a nutt!! I took hold of my dress and cut him a mean look…

“Now you notice!”

Mmmmmmmmmm…. yesssssss-s-s-s…
You explore my body touching every inch of my soul,

From the moment I enter you waste no time
Making your way down my spine,

I take a deep breath and bare no resistance
I put on a girlish grin as you tap-tap drip-drip
Making your way across my body

I quickly shut the door
My eyes held tightly as I surrender myself to a place of no return
Lifting my arms high in the air I feel your touch,
You’re warm as your tongue lashes every piece of my soul

I can’t stop myself from wanting more, needing more
And then it happened—

“Aw hell… I done ran outta hot water ya’ll! I gotta git up outta this shower. We’ll have to pick this up tomorrow- You did know I was talkin ‘bout the shower right…? Ya’ll so n-a-s-t-y!

Created By: Dena Tyson 11/23/08

The one thing I learned in my journey as an Author was to help my fellow writers/authors with as much knowledge as I could. Knowledge that I found was very hard to come by simply because so many were unwilling to give.

I guess I could understand that in some way so I’m not here to bad mouth any one, but am about to extend a free hand. I probably won’t be able to cover my whole journey in one blog so this will more than likely extend over a few. I will ask that others please extend your hand as well with whatever information you are willing to give.

Please note… in this forum we are not here to judge or be judged but simply here to gain and share knowledge. My journey may not be your journey but I am here to share and to learn as well.

With that said, let’s get ready to rock ‘n roll people!

So your book is published, where do you go from here?

Please know the success of your book starts with “you” . If you don’t believe in your product 200% no one else will! Not only do you have to believe but you must also be willing to work and work extremely hard to move closer toward your success, and don’t allow anyone to take away your momentum! You’ll have some good days and bad days but stay encouraged.
After I self published my book I sought many markets to put them in, starting with the bookstores. Numbers count and that’s how we make the best seller lists by the “numbers.” Soliciting the book stores may pose somewhat of a challenge especially for the self published Author, so you must educate yourself before you solicit those types of markets because they are not there to coach you along or teach you anything, after all you’re the Author, so be ready for that type of response, especially if your book is self published through a print on demand publisher aka POD Publisher, but know this…
If you worked with an online publisher make sure the deal you signed included Baker and Taylor as one of the warehouses used to carry your books as well as Ingram, and that you are also listed with Bowkers Books in Print. Most if not all of the bookstores and libraries will be able to get copies of your books and stock their shelves if they are available through those ware houses. If you didn’t publish through an online publisher and still self published your book then you will have to register with each warehouse separately and work out a deal. Be sure that your deal does include a return policy so stores will feel comfortable ordering your books and having the ability to return them if they overstocked their shelves etc., as long as the books are returned in saleable condition.

Read your contract information, compare notes and chose wisely! Again no one (meaning those industries) is there to teach you anything, so do your homework and be prepared. Even after you have paid for and signed to have your books carried in the warehouses still doesn’t mean that they will go ordering your books to fill their shelves and that’s where your foot work come in. Know that in this industry everybody is in it to make money and warehouses stocking books on their shelves for the possibility of a store calling them to order your books are not great. Unless you are among one of the greats i.e., Harry Potter, etc., so be prepared for that as well. The warehouses will begin to stock your books based on the need/popularity. They will not stock your books on their shelves if only a few books are being ordered so get out there and make those calls, solicit the stores, the independent stores as well because they order from the warehouses as well. Increase the popularity of your books by exposing them on the websites, your personal websites, other sites you’ve joined. Relentlessly get the word out about your books and make sure they are being purchased. Solicit your family and friends, make a book trailer for your book, print/create flyers to pass along to everyone that crosses your path in the grocery stores, shopping malls,doctors office hospitals, dentist office, parking lots, bus stops, train stops, the cleaners, coffee shops, your neighborhood, schools, car dealerships, the post office, just to name a few. It can be done and your books will sell in addition to your getting a following and people with begin to know you and your work and they will pass the word along as well.

When you want to have a signing at a book store call the store up and tell them you are an Author and you’d like to have a signing in their store and for them to order your books. Please be sure and tell the store just how many books you think they should order because remember that store has a budget to adhere to and even though they can return books that were unsold from your signing some stores will order a very small amount and there is nothing quite as embarrassing as having a signing without enough books on hand.

Don’t be the Author that sits behind the table waiting on people to come by and notice you, you be the enforcer and approach them. After all you have a product that they need and cannot be without so make sure they have it!
I like to make sure I have my crew in order for every signing especially when I do a signing in the bookstores in the malls. When I arrive people are already waiting for me outside the store because of the hype and can’t wait to see me, hug me, kiss me, have me meet their family friends, husband’s wives and children! And all because of my crew. They already know about me and my books and have decided which one or both they want me to sign. I love it when I see people walking in the malls with my flyers in hand or when I approach them and they tell me they got my info (and show me) from two or three other people and they were coming in to meet me. I love it!!

When you do the big arenas like the huge convention centers, the one here I did was the McCormick Place which had thousands upon thousands of customers I had my crew hitting the escalators, stairways, doorways, main entrance, major walk ways through the center, I mean they covered all basis. That was a huge event and people like Les Brown were there (his booth was right next to mine) and other big name Authors and speakers but I’ll bet you half of the people that were there in attendance had my information. The reason only half had it was because I ran out of flyers!

Stand out among the rest of the Authors. I’m not saying block their sales because that’s not polite because you want to always be respectful, but create your own uniqueness in such a way they have to stand back and take notice of you! Always go over and introduce yourself to the Authors around you and give them a flyer/brochure of what you have and take one of theirs. And please don’t go to any event looking drab! Ladies become more of the glamorous beauty inside you and smile at the fellas and approach them they love it!! Make sure you don’t leave out their wives or girlfriends but make that first approach. Fellas same thing. Accent what you have working for you and I mean that literally and make them want to come on by and holla at you and buy ‘dem books! Stand out in the sharpness of your appearance that people will want to know “who is that movie star?” and will flock to your table to find out. You ever go to something and notice something else going on and wondered what it was…? And you found yourself making your way to the action. You have to be that person at your signing. I’ll tell you there were so many people taking pictures of me at McCormick place that knew me they had people walking by taking pictures just because. This one guy cracked me up. He didn’t even wait to talk to me he just smiled and was like I’d better take this picture because she must be somebody! …hahahaha

First time Authors I know you’re afraid and maybe even shy but that don’t make the book sell so dive in! practice in a smaller avenue like the grocery stores approaching people/shoppers. Have your biz cards in hand or book marks or flyers. There’s a way to do anything so make it work for you and get the word out. Never miss an opportunity to sell. When you are lucky enough to reach a mainstream publisher with your books they will love your willingness to work!

One of the most important things I’ve learned in my journey is realistically you have less than a minute to attract attention to your story and gain their interest.
We writers/artists are so excited and have so much we want to say especially when it’s our turn at the mic. (you know what I mean…?)

The flip side to that is for the most part, the agent, mainstream publisher or whatever powers that be you’re trying to reach have heard it all… get hundreds if not thousands of queries and are looking for, craving for something to jump out and bite them on the ass!
Make ‘em holla people! Make your work count! Keep it short but powerful so you are not forgotten among the pile.

Here’s an example of my book “Xceptance” since its release in July 08 it has done exceptionally well and still climbing the charts:

In the 1960’s, Mississippi born Loraine would take Chicago by storm. This gal was built (as they would say), like a coke-a-cola bottle and could belt out a tune that would make Aretha Franklin stand up and take notice. Chicago wasn’t the only place. The folks down in Memphis gave her praise and would come from miles just to listen.
All that glitters ain’t gold and after having six children, she would eventually have a lot of explaining to do, particularly to Walter her husband at the time in Chicago. If the Panama Limited could talk a lot could be said, especially about Stigg who worked the 57 line from Chicago to New Orleans.
She walked away from her children more than 13 years before, and now has to face her lies and deception head on struggling to seek forgiveness.
So many lies had been told about who Augie’s father really was, Loraine didn’t have a clue and Walter wasn’t about to claim ownership and didn’t give no never mind about the situation either, and would not be moved.

This tells a lot about the story, gains interest, zooms right in on the main characters and forms a strong foundation for the basis of the story.

What makes it different is the time line and the nostalgia. It projects the “All hell naw” factor because you already know its goan be some mess and it’s about to be on! You know the author would not disappoint as you travel through time in this story because you were given a taste of some of the references all ready. Even though the characters are black it projects a universal story. That being drama, family dysfunction, and destruction at its best. And y’all know ‘erbody like drama and getting all up in somebody else’s business! Shameless but true! This also sparks curiosity and they will want to know more. Once you have their attention bring it home and seal the deal!

Like I said… stand out, keep things short, gain interest, keep yours at the top in the “contact Author folder”!

Useful sites:
http://www.absolutewrite.com/
www.vistaprint.com (get your free flyers,biz cards etc) so check them out!
Wordhustler.com (seeking a mainstream publisher they can help with your submission)
www.authortreehouse.com
www.booktour.com
www.bookcatcher.com
www.ifreelance.com
www.jiffyshirts.com

So you self published your book, now what?

All of the hard work from pen to paper to computer, etc., is finally complete and your new “literary BC (aka- brain child) is born!” Wheeeeew…! Those last few months were the hardest push moments of labor you ever imagined, and now it’s over. You hold that book in your hands for the first time and you stare at that book off and on, long bouts at a time, some longer than shorter. (only an Author would understand this), but there you are… grinning like a bucky beaver, as your heart begin the rapid beat as you envision that very first book signing.

You remember that…? Couldn’t nobody tell you nuthin! And they didn’t need to because that was “your” moment. You deserved it so enjoy every minute.

For me I put my book on the coffee table in the family room. As we watched a program on tv every time a commercial came on I jumped up and grabbed my book! I am not ashamed, yes I did. I got my book and stared at it the whole time the commercials were on and returned it to the table once the program started again.

Well that was my first book. There’s nothing like the feeling of publishing your first book. Now that I’ve published my second book I still get excited but now I find myself just amazed at how many pages the books have and all of that was created by little ole me.

Isn’t that amazing Authors…? How our words come together and inspire. You began to have a following and people recognize you and just want to embrace you for the story you’ve created, the things you’ve said, the characters you brought to life.

For me, the hardest part of my journey as an Author is the marketing. The writing I’ve learned was the easy part! Each and every day I seek to discover and explore new ways to get my material out there. Not just book signings but craft fairs, libraries, book fairs, independent book stores,schools,churches,bus stops,train stops,grocery stores,doctors office,the pharmacy, hospitals, the parking lot, the internet. I could go on and on. I’m a book marketing beast! ..hahahahah

But that’s how I do my thing… I would like for you to share your experiences as an Author and let me know what it be like out there for you.

I wanna hear from you!

Ok, so some of you may already know that I recently lost by beloved little doggie Boscoe right? Well, I thought this time instead of getting another dog from a breeder I would save a dog’s life at the animal shelter instead. So today my husband and I went to the A.D.O.P.T Shelter in Naperville Illinois (630)355-2299, to get another dog.
On their website they use the term “donation” as another way of saying they charge $200.00 for you to adopt a dog. I noticed they also advertised a “Fee Assistance Plan” so ya’ll know I had to ask about that right? So in order to meet the guidelines you had to basically be poor and your new addition to your family wouldn’t cost you a dime. I was cool with that. Shoot, right now I am poor, my unemployment ran out a few weeks ago, so I was happy to comply with what ever information they needed. After I completed this long application requesting proof of current income, current pay stub, provide a copy of your tax return, etc., I thought I was good to go. I stopped in yesterday and dropped off my application so today all I had to do was take a look at a doggie they had available. Or so we thought…
A Rep from the shelter walked us into a room and began her interrogation… literally! She took her time looking us over as she began to speak. She explained she had checked out our references and they all checked out but was concerned if we were poor enough to qualify for their plan seeing as how she wasn’t able to determined how much money we had in our bank account!!!!!!! I explained to her ( keeping my composure), that first of all my bank account was none of her business and that was not a requirement on their application. She said she knew that but still… she would have no way of knowing if I was in fact truly poor or not. She explained this was the first time any one had EVER challenged them in making an inquiry to receive a “Fee Assistance” and she really didn’t know how to go about it. I said to her, so in other words you’re just sitting here makin up stuff as you go along. She said she honestly didn’t know what to do. I said to her why would you advertise something that you would have no knowledge on how to pursue if someone inquired. She said she never thought about that.
See ya’ll Naperville is hoity-toity rich so they just don’t know what to do with people like us regular working class folks! She told me I didn’t qualify for the program they offered even though she couldn’t clearly explain why. Ya’ll she even brought in a lawyer that was in the facility, that she took in a separate room to try and decipher their Fee Assistance Policy and she didn’t even have a clue either! See they acted this same way when we first moved out here in the area and they didn’t have collard greens or chit-lins in the grocery stores! I’ll have to tell ya’all about that another time.

So where does that leave me…? This organization would lead you to believe that they were in the business of placing the dogs in their overcrowded facility in good homes. They feel that they do not want to do this “free” as they advertise based on their Fee Assistance Policy, and would instead ask that you pay $200.00 for a dog in need. When she came back I challenged her policy once more and stated, this was all a mis-leading crock— and I told her that, if someone were to truly come in here dirt poor as they would have you think, barely able to put food on the table how the hell would they feed a dog… and even more importantly why would you allow them to adopt a dog? She said I was right and they would not want that to happen to the dog going into a situation like that but they would allow it. And yet she denied me when I met the requirements of their application. I told her that I couldn’t wait to get home and post this information. I told her that I would have people come in and actually provide documented proof that they were poor and see if they would be allowed to walk out of the door with a dog for free as they advertise on their website and see what happens. She said she would happily send the dog home with a person that she knowingly knew would not be able to feed it! What kinda crazy mess is that? I guess she had an “oops” moment and said how about we do this… I give you a dog, one of the oldest dogs we have in this facility that has been hard to place and you pay me $75.00? (So in other words not only do I not get a dog of my choice you wanna make me pay for one even after I qualified based on your application…?) Aw hell naw!

I can’t believe I was denied a dog today because I wasn’t poor enough not to be able to feed the dog!

What’s-up everybody…

Wow what a great signing I had at Waldenbooks in the Fox Valley Mall in Aurora Illinois on Saturday! I met with so many that were familiar with my novel “Xceptance” and couldn’t wait to meet me and get their book signed. There were so many supporters that came from far and near bringing their little children to share in the experience. Some of my friends stopped by to show their support as well. Friends I had not seen in years! My husband Tony and I feel truly blessed to have so many supporters and we cannot thank them enough. I signed their copy of “Xceptance” that was being purchased and treated everyone with a free tote bag to take along. The store was a huge buzz and the signing was a big success!

My next stop on the book tour will be at Waldenbooks in the Louis Joliet Mall December 6th from 1pm-3pm. I hope to see you all there!

Check out the video/pictures I made from the book signing on my website www.denatyson.com and click on the “My Fans” tab and enjoy!
Holla
~Dena aka “Boots”

What a phenomenal experience I had with the students during my seminar at Evergreen Park Community High School. The teachers should stand proud because their hard work certainly comes through in the students. The students should continue to stand proud because of the positive image they reflect within themselves, each and every one of them. Their respect for literature simply knocked me off my feet! I say to them and other students alike continue to greatness, and no matter what you may be going through now in your lives good or bad let NOTHING stand in your way Ever… no matter who or what it may be, always remember you have yourself to answer to in the end. Make the right decisions and follow your dreams. Trust me they do come true!

I thank you for the experience and Tony and I will cherish our gathering for a lifetime!

Enjoy the pics below. To see more pictures go to www.denatyson.com and click on the “My Fans” tab

Warmest regards
~Dena aka “Boots”

Thanks everyone and continue to “Greatness!”

Kuckabug Collection Dolls @ Azizi

I hope everyone is able to see this video! If not please view it from my webpage www.denatyson.com and click on the Literary Shop Online tab.

Thanks and enjoy!

Oh my goodness… I have been out of the loop for a minute y’all and I apologize but a sistah has been busy out there promoting and signing copies of my books! Trust me I’m not complaining, I am truly blessed.

My book signing at Azizi Books in Matteson Illinois was a great success! I met with so many people who shared their stories of inspiration, we laughed, we talked, we hugged. It was just a love fest of sorts! (..hahahah) I want to thank the young brotha’s that came on out and showed me their support as well. Keep standing tall, I’m so proud of you and it was truly an honor! I looked out among my fans waiting in line to meet and talk with me and I cannot tell you how happy I was to see our young black men standing there waiting in line to meet and talk to me as well. That really means a lot.

I have some more good news… Azizi Books is a black owned book store and one of the largest in Illinois. They will be carrying my books in their store as well as the dolls from my Kuckabug Collection of Dolls! I am so very excited about that! It was great seeing my dolls on their shelves. I want every one to get on out there to Azizi Books in Matteson Illinois and support their store. The dolls from My Kuckabug Collection are very beautiful, unique hand made and one of a kind, no two are alike and will never be duplicated! The hair is dread-locked (inspired by my own) and will make a great addition to your home decor. Add to your collection or start a new one today! I have a video that I made featuring the dolls at Azizi Books so be sure and take a look on my website www.denatyson.com because I don’t know how to upload the video on my blog here. Just go there any way and look at the updates I’ve added to my website.

Enjoy and I’ll holla back soon!
~Dena aka “boots”

Hello Everyone…

Please join me in a booksigning on October 3rd thru the 5th at The Cavalcade of Authors.

This year’s Cavalcade of Authors, co-sponsored by the South Shore Cultural Center, is hosted by national best-selling author, Naleighna Kai, NAACP Image Award Nominee, J. L. Woodson, and Sesvalah showcases a range of literary and performance talents featuring: national best-selling authors: Suzetta Perkins, Marissa Monteilh, Jewell Parker Rhodes, Deborah Gregory Ken Brown, Sister Claudette Muhammad, Theresa Gonsalves, Gloria Franklin, Michelle Moorer and Dena Tyson , spoken word artist C.C. Carter, and Eusonia recording artist Maiysha.

Friday, October 3, 7:00 – Until
South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Soft Sheen-Carson presents Live Performances hosted by Sesvalah (THEATRE): Author readings, spoken word by C.C. Carter and other artists; Maiysha performs hits from her debut album “This Much Is True.” Macro Marketing & Promotions Group presents a Steppers Set hosted by J. L. Woodson and DJ Chuck (DINING ROOM); AZIZI Books presents Come Out and Play with Naleighna Kai & Friends hosted by DJ Don (SOLARIUM). Guests meet the authors, get autographs, enjoy card games, board games, dance lessons, and much more.

Steppers Set and Theatre events are FREE and open to the public. RSVP by joining the mailing list and reserve your gift bag compliments of TriCom Publicity, Naleighna Kai, Jump at the Sun, Soft-Sheen Carson, Dafina, Kensington Books and One World/Ballantine. VIP Tickets for Solarium event includes specifically reserved seating in all three events, premium Jump at the Sun gift bags and light refreshments; $15 in advance, available online at www.thecavalcadeofauthors.com or at Azizi Books.

Go to www.thecalvacadeofauthors.com and view the 2008 Cavalcade of Authors event trailer

Saturday, October 4
Avalon Park Library Seminar
11:30am to 1:00pm
8148 S. Stony, Chicago, Illinois 60649

2:00 to 3:15pm
Discussion and signing
Azizi Books
134 Lincoln Mall Dr., Matteson, Il 60443

6:30 – Until
Books Ink Author Reception & Discussion featuring this year’s participating authors
RSVP to booksink@msn.com

Da Book Joint presents: the Cavalcade of Authors Book Fair for Children & Teens
Saturday, October 18, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
South Shore Cultural Center,7059 S. Shore Dr.

Jump at the Sun presents their latest books for children ages 5-17 and Deborah Gregory, author of Catwalk and The Cheetah Girls Series, talks about her wildly successful Disney series and discusses and signs the first book in her new Random House “tween teen” series, Catwalk, for ages 10 and up. RSVP to Contact 888.854.8823. Tickets are $15 and includes a free copy of Catwalk or visit www.thecavalcadeofauthors.com for details.

The weekend also consists of a free writer’s workshop, bookstore signings at Borders and Waldenbooks, and a Sunday brunch. Visit www.thecavalcadeofauthors.com for the full schedule of events

I hope to see you there y’all come on out and holla at-cha gurl!
Warmest Regards,
Dena Tyson

I just want to say that Saturday night was kinda special. My friend Camille and her sweetie pie Fred invited me and Tony bologna to come out and spend some time among friends and I just want to say thank you! Didn’t we have a great time y’all…? We had some down home good eating… I’m talkin ’bout finger lickin good ribs just fallin off da-bone! Our thanks to the cooks, the food was fantastic! We laughed and some of us had to duke-it-out at the card table ‘cuz you know you don’t mess around in a good game of bid-wiz! (…hahahah). I can’t tell you when the last time I was able to kick back and just be. Unfortunately for me I’ve never had much going on in the way of family of my own, but God has a way of extending our family and our hearts among friends. I wrap my arms around each and every one of you, I love you and I thank God for bringing you into my life and Tony’s. I thank you for all of your support and I hope you enjoy your books as well as your dolls from my Kuckabug Collection. I cannot tell you how much this gathering of love meant to me, and I feel truly blessed.

Big computer hug-g-g-gs & kisses y’all! Enjoy the pics you all look absolutely fabulous!

Holla!
~Dena aka “boots”

What an incredible experience it was at my book signing at the Chicago Carifete, and what a success! I met with so many wonderful people and we all had a great time! My Tony bologna and I really enjoyed all of the festivities and the parade was fantastic! I was still shakin it up like those beautiful women wearing their feathered crowns. They reminded me of a scene from the movie Coming To America when they did that African dance! Oh I can’t tell you what an experience it was for us. I really tried to take as many pics as I could but please keep in mind I was so very busy and it was hard to get away. I want to thank Ms Sherilee for inviting me to be there as the featured author, dear-heart I wrap my arms around you and am ever so grateful for your kindness!

For those of you that couldn’t make it out hopefully I will get a chance to see you at my next signing coming up in October.

In September date TBD, I have been invited to speak on WVON talk radio with Ms Dorothy Tillman. I have also been invited to speak with some of our young adults of the future in Evergreen Park and another book signing in October at Azizi Books in Matteson, Illinois. Can you tell I’m a busy Author?

Thanks again to everyone who came out to show their support. I have attached some of the pics below.

One more thing… be sure and check out my website www.denatyson.com Due to the popularity of my novels I now have
T-shirts, Tote bags, and yes more of the dolls from my Kuckabug Collecton available to purchase so please be sure and check out my Literary Works Shop Online tab on my website. You asked for these things and I’ve heard you so stop on by and help a sistah out! (…hahahah)

Stay well everyone… talk soon
Warmest regards,
DenaTyson

Ok so by now, I’m sure you’ve figured out I’m a country girl. “Pot-liquor and koan- bread and all!” (…hahahah) Now see, some of y’all may not even know about that so I’ll give you a minute to go run and ask Big-Moma.

You know time sure does fly… I cannot believe my Tony bologna and I have been married 19 years! We were talkin ‘bout that and I was like –whoa… It seems like maybe about five but not 19, can you imagine?

So lemme tell ‘ya how it started…

We met in February, started dating in March, were engaged in April and married in May. (I know right…?) We eloped and got married in Las Vegas at the Candle Light Wedding Chapel. We actually planned to elope so that took place two weeks after we made the arrangements. We stayed in the Las Vegas Hilton, which wasn’t that far from the chapel, so the night before the wedding we stayed up running our mouth about some of everything, so needless to say the next morning when the limo driver showed up we had over slept. The phone rang and I answered half asleep. I was like hello…? He said, yes… this is the limo driver and I’m down stairs. Were you still getting married this morning? Y’all know I tried to play it off right? I said, “Oh yeah, we’re still getting married, we were on our way down in one minute.” He said well I’ve been waiting since nine-o’clock and its nine fifteen. I said ok, we’re on our way. I could not believe we had to rush and take a shower “together” throw on our clothes and run down to the limo! I had to put my make-up on in the car on the way to the courthouse! I was saying to myself every bride I had ever seen was simply beautiful, face just flawless, and here I was having to put my make-up on in the back seat of a limo! Thank goodness my little curly- Q’s were tight so I didn’t have to worry about my hair, although I was going to re-rod it the night before but we were talking and I fell asleep! I was so worried about my pictures y’all… So we make it to the courthouse and got the paperwork, then on to the wedding chapel. Since it was just us, the little camera man was our witness, and we were bestowed the honor of marriage by non-other than the “Pastor Love”, from the “Church of Truth”. For a minute I was a little nervous thinking is this real…? Like I said earlier, I’m a country girl so I was use to names like “Pastor Cleo Simmons” or something like that you know…? But it was the real deal, and the chapel was just beautiful.

After the ceremony we were driven back to the hotel and Tony bologna picked me up in front of our room door to carry me over the threshold… and we paused for a moment so I could throw my bouquet over my shoulder, and then he carried me in the room. As soon as the door closed I told him to put me down because I had to go back out there in that hallway and get my bouquet! There was no one out there any way when I threw it, so it was just for effect. Y’all know I’m a mess, but that bouquet cost too much money to be leaving in some hallway! (…hahahahah)

So we make it back home to Chicago and I have a confession… First off let me just say that what we say in this “blog” stay in the “blog” ok… so we can always just put it out there alright…? So, we get back home and for the first month I would get up early and ease my way out of bed and go in the bathroom and brush my teeth and put my make-up on, then ease my way back in bed next to my Tony bologna. Yes I admit it! I was perpetrating like I woke up beautiful all the time, and forget about morning breath, I was not having it. ( humph!) This was hard work getting up like that. Shoot, by the next month I just got up and put some eye-liner on! (..hahahah ) He told me I was beautiful without all that stuff so I guess I had been stressin myself out all that time for nothing.

I guess love is what it is, stank breath no make-up and all so just be happily in love people.

Holla!
~Dena aka “Boots”

I just want to send a blessed shout out to all of my Sisters and Brothers out there who have survived a “Stroke” and the Stroke Advocates/Caretakers that are out there doing their thing helping them along their journey as well.

Let me tell you something… a stroke is a very traumatic change. Not only to the person that has suffered the stroke directly, but everyone else around them. Can you imagine your life changing with a blink of an eye leaving dramatic results…? Can you imagine…?

As an Advocate myself, we not only have to be strong for ourselves but for the stroke survivor as well. And yes I said “stroke survivor” because they did survive. They are still here with us but this time around have to go about things a lot different to get the same results. Please pray for your strength and theirs, and always encourage. Say to them as I would say to my husband “the more you do the better you become” Yes, it may be hard right now for you to speak, or walk, eat and even write, but never allow the person to stop believing because with God all things are possible.

You are correct in trying to seek answers from others in your situation. The doctors will always give you a grim view. I guess it’s their job and they have to give the worse case scenario. Your so called friends will separate from you and your family as well. Initially they will try and tell you “just call me if you need anything and I will be there! Just let me know what ever I can do, what ever you need…” But they simply disappear and go on with their lives, leaving you to untangle yours “yourself” Aw, they come back long after the dust has settled, but what about all of that stuff they said…? I don’t know why things happen that way but they do.

At the time my husband had his stroke I had no one. It was just him and myself. I slept at the hospital in the chair next to his bed every single day and night and continued to speak with him when he couldn’t speak, feed him when he couldn’t eat, massage his paralyzed right side from head to toe, exercising his paralyzed arm and leg, washing his face and making sure to massage the right side of his face that was once mis-shapened from the stroke. I shaved his face every week just like he had when he was able. I mean I would shape up his goatee real nice around his mouth and everything! Y’all he was the best lookin guy up in the whole intensive care unit! ..hahahah. Yes believe it or not I did all of this as I continued to pray. My life at that point had to be put on hold because I knew how important it was to him, and for him to get back to himself.

One day he awoke and called for me as I was asleep in the chair next to the bed. I was so very tired and opened my eyes half way because I thought it was someone calling from the hallway or something. Then he called out to me again and when I focused my eyes in his direction he was sitting up in his bed and had removed his glasses from his face looking at them and he said “you know… when I get outta this place I’m going to need for you to call the eye doctor and make an appointment for me. I can see outta these glasses, but I think I need a new prescription.” I have to tell you at that very moment I couldn’t move from that chair and I sat eyes wide, mouth open thinking…”oh lord is this some kind of dream I’m having here?” I got up and walked over to the right side of his bed and stood next to him. He looked over at me and smiled saying that he had so much to tell me! I smiled at him holding back the tears in my eyes and held out my hand, and asked if he could take my hand. He gave me a strange look and his paralyzed hand opened and held on to mine, and I raised it to my face and kissed the back of his hand. I walked to the end of the bed and asked if he could wiggle his toes on his right paralyzed foot/leg and he had a puzzled look on his face and asked if I was alright, and repeated what I had asked him. He not only wiggled his toes but rocked his foot from side to side and moved his leg! At that moment I lost it and fell to my knee’s.

This was just a year ago today. He is a walking, talking, living, breathing miracle before my eyes, and I just smile every time I look at him, and thank the heavens above. God is so good when we truly believe, and I always have.

I hope I was able to encourage someone today. There are so many levels a stroke can have on our bodies but always remember… “you are still here to serve your purpose in life” Stay encouraged and never give up!

Warmest regards
-Dena aka “Boots”