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Matrix Controversy...What's the deal?

Posted by Yolanda Hollingsworth on February 21, 2010 at 3:46pm
Can anyone fill me in on the deal concerning true ownership of the script (or charged "theft" of it) by a black woman sci fi writer? What is the scoop? Most importantly, what are the opinions and facts by some of our members on this site. Last I read, the author filing for the charge did not show in court and the case was dismissed contrary to other reports saying she won the case. What is the deal? Thanks
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Gems of Memory (Revisited)

Posted by Antony Kamau on February 21, 2010 at 6:30am

It was not so long ago that I posted this poem, but I wish to revisit it because it represents something special.

Loss of a loved one can be sorely devastating, and it may take years to come to terms with it. Someone once told me that the pain of a loss doesn't diminish, but rather someone develops the strength and endurance tobear it. Jewelery can sometimes seem to possess a part of a loved one;a little piece of their soul. The wedding band, engagement ring, familyheirloom; these hold such significance to our lives in relation tothose who have gone before us.

Theevents in this poem are based on truth, something that happened. Ittells of the journey of two loved ones who experience an incrediblebond, as the life of one of them nears the end. The other has to musterall the courage they can to watch the one they love pass on. It is truesome bonds can never be broken, their substance undiluted even untodeath.




upon six gems we struck a covenant,
to be as one among the chaos of our youth
to bond our hearts of jade and azure,
to an unlikely perfect graft

a mystic of sentiment you were
a chestful of gold-lings and shinies
the sparkle at the summit of passion found
the gentle whisper of a diamond brook

but your brilliance hid the crack in your refraction
a weakness you hid to preserve my integrity
and as you slowly splintered,
I motioned you make house with me

you slowly lost your luster
and I shuddered in silence
as deep down I knew,
the Gem Maker was calling you home

at the failing of shines,
we made our vows
the imprint of our eternal memory,
and the band of six jewels a testament to our union

you were broken and I could not mend you
and I tried to shine brighter for the both of us
but I could not fix your center
and you gave up your last light in mine hands

image created by Antony Kamau

Originally posted at:

http://gladysmoore.blogspot.com/2009/11/gems-of-memory-revisited.html
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Book Review on Shadow Valley

Posted by Malcolm Dylan Petteway on February 14, 2010 at 7:10pm

By Steven Barnes

Del Rey Books

Hardcover: 272 pages

Publisher: Del Rey (May 5, 2009)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 0345459032

ISBN-13: 978-0345459039

Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 6.6 x 1 inches

Steven Barnes is probably one of the best science fiction writers of our time. His poetic mastery of the written word paints a beautiful worlds and characters that charge a story for the reader into a fantastic fantasy. Mr. Barnes has ignited African folklore with his Great Sky Woman, into the main stream and continued the explosion with his book Shadow Valley.

Shadow Valley picks up where Great Sky Woman left off. A majority of the Ibandi people wander north from Mount Kilimanjaro, hoping to escape the mighty spear of the Mk*tk. They are led by Great Sky Woman and Frog Hopping, the two people who survived the climb up the mountain to speak with their god. The trek is trek is long, perilous and very arduous. Many turn back, and some of those that remain, are full of doubt. Meanwhile, a new leader rises from those who remained in the shadow of the Great Mountain…a leader full of anger and power, just the right potent mixture for revenge. What he believes he brings to the Mk*tk is death, but in reality, he brings the devastation to what is left of the Ibandi people left at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. Eventually, the two strands of Ibandi survivors meet and a struggle for power consumes them, while their enemy the Mk*tk approach. The survival of their people rests on their decisions and actions. Do they fight amongst themselves and let the victor lead, or do they band together to fight a common foe?

Mr. Barnes writes with such vivid realistic detail that the reader feels they are there, witnessing history unfold in front of their eyes. Mr. Barnes makes the Ibandi become family, pushing buttons of fear, love and hate. I have become a fan of African folklore science fiction.

I recommend Shadow Valley as a must read. But you must start with Great Sky Woman to really appreciate this read.


Malcolm “RAGE” Petteway
Rage Books LLC

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PRODIGAL DROPS on the 24th

Posted by Geoff Thorne on February 11, 2010 at 9:30pm
It's coming, folks.

WIRED! magazine gave us an awesome review.


We've started actually building our official website.


If your local comic book shop owner won't order it, you can order PRODIGAL online.
Here are some places you can get issue one


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Among the Rubble

Posted by Antony Kamau on February 11, 2010 at 6:33am



silence
silence in the heart of a thousand cries
all alone among those whose hearts cry out in agony
the silent pitch gains volume
and she has to press her hands to her ears

she wakes up and stumbles along through the rubble
her dress is tattered, she is covered in white dirt
she is numb and feels no pain in the wound on her left leg
the picture of her mother laying motionless...
she blanks it out and now limps among wailing souls

she feels a hand upon her shoulder but walks on
half unconscious, her arms hanging loose at her sides
she can hear her heartbeat now in this virtual silence
someone dressed in white steps in front of her and stops her
holding her by the shoulders

she stops walking, she stops thinking
she longs to stop breathing; mother...
and she is in front of her, her mommy
her smile comforting as she looks into her eyes
she involuntarily hiccups a stifled sob; oh mother..

it will be all right, her mother says
mom, she calls out
and the lady in white embraces the little soul
as her body is rocked by sobbing; mother..
and she will be all right in time, mother is now with God

Originally posted at:
http://gladysmoore.blogspot.com/2010/01/among-rubble.html


Image: Roosewelt Pinheiro/Abr, Haiti earthquake camp Creative Commons License
This image is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 Brazil License.
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War Made Easy

Posted by Wamuhu Mwaura on February 6, 2010 at 11:30pm
After watching A People's History of American Empire by Howard Zinn (which was shared by Djeli) and then sharing the video with my older brother, he recommended that I watch War Made Easy. I tend to put off reading or watching the things my brother recommends, but with A People's History... so fresh in my mind, I simply couldn't bring myself to offer up the usual set of lame excuses.I'm honestly glad I took the time to watch War Made Easy as well.The below video is the first of an eight part series.
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Blue Light for Quinton Veal

Posted by Valjeanne Jeffers on February 6, 2010 at 11:00am
Let your tongue fingers open my gardenwhat you find there is yourstaste my blackberriesnibble my datetheir sweetness is unparalleledjuicy enough to satisfy your cravingand quench your thirstI surrender…my mouth hands open your gardenwhat I find there is mineripe plums to savorpapaya aplentyto feed my hungerlarge enough to mountas we ride into Eros's realmrocked by wavescradled in cries,whispers long and deepthrough moist cavernsdark snug tunnelswet sugared valleysbetween caramel vinesJourney with me‘neath the blue light of my dreamsamid sunset/sunriseWhat we'll find there is oursThis is one of the poems that was supposed to appear in in Little Black Book Vol II. My BSFS family gave me so much support when I first posted it -- and I was scared to death (laugh). Ya'll are the best!!Copyright Valjeanne Jeffers 2008, 2010 all rights reserved
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Darkess and the Elder Soul - Battle Cries

Posted by Antony Kamau on February 2, 2010 at 10:08pm
paenae, speako mistress of the shadows,our master has struck upon a comely endeavorhis constitution, I fear, will not withstand the challengeand what say you vaelera?the master's soul pines for amelioration,o dark onea fair one has caught its contemplationmaestra, influence on my sovereign wanes,speak his mindalas, o spirit of our hostonly a vestige of my reach is allowed thereinhe hides his designs in cahoots with the old soulaelira, my pun - is his laughter ours or of that alien?downcast, I abase myself before your eternal duskmy tickles he no longer feelsadora, a fairy, nests upon his heartbeat and her wings,fanned me away from my domain - ticklistamy patience wears thin, and where is aerotika?aerotika is mine, nowtogether we shall deliver the master from your mischiefand with adora, we shall give the master delectationwhich you have endeavored to keep for yourselfhow dare you! you may be the elder soul but I am his spirityou shall not succeedadora prevailed upon my person,o obscure oneI only seek to serve the masterhis passion is my very existenceyou have betrayed me for the last time aerotika,behold, paessionada!o mistress of the hidden,I shall battle for the sovereign's benevolence and ecstasyadora will be broken and aerotika will be rendered unto dustthis I sweardepart, my minions and protect your master from desolationhis pain is my agony, the elder soul cares not for thisdarkess, selfish symbiontyou only serve the master to feed yourselfI, the elder soul shall defeat you this timethe temptress is my ultimate weaponso be it, ineffectual fool, my shadow will be your downfall,my sword, desira shall neuter you!Originally posted here: http://gladysmoore.blogspot.com/2009/07/darkess-and-elder-soul-battle-cries.html
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"Epitomizing the Black Panther"

Posted by Ture on January 31, 2010 at 5:54am
Before I go into my topic I want to weigh in on the animated series. After viewing the first four episodes I want to say job more than well done. Everything about it feels right. The theme music is excellent, the casting is superb and to my surprise the animation works as it uniquely stylizes the Panther. Reggie your dialogue works better in the cartoon than in the comic. The characterizations and guest appearances were well chosen (especially replacing the Rhino with Juggernaut). A final note, the politics you have seamlessly interwoven into the story gives the Panther a depth that no other cartoon or film has yet to achieve. Congratulations!!Now my topic. In order to achieve the subject heading, "Epitomizing the Black Panther," the writers of Black Panther must be able to fictionalize Afrakan culture. This means detail must be given to the defining aspects of an Afrakan people who have never been conquered. It means creating a neo Afrakan centeredness. This can be extremely challenging for many Afrakan writers as we are taught to view ourselves as slaves, criminals and helpless victims. This too speaks to non Afrakan writers. (I use the word Afrakan instead of black, colored or negro etc.). Here are some specific examples of what I mean.The Wakandans are a sovereign and unconquered people. No writer stated this more emphatically than Reggie. He along with team Hudlin gave BP readers an Afrakan conurbation in Wakanda. They showed us the Wakandan Space Program, which to my knowledge is the only fictitious Afrakan nation in Marvel maybe even in comics to have such. Team Hudlin is also responsible for advancing the aesthetics of Afrakan women. Shuri and the Dora Milaje are excellent examples of diversifying the beauty of Afrakan women. Priest's contribution during his tenure produced something extremely important to successfully fictionalizing Afrakan culture. He gave the Wakandans their own language. These are a few but exemplary examples of what must be done in earnest. Fictionalization of Afrakan culture should be imaginative in its Afrakan centeredness, creative in its countenance and responsible to the icons and images of the culture it represents.Other factors to be addressed in "Epitomizing the Black Panther," are consistency, continuity and rationale. For this I examine the following.Wakanda has often been depicted as a village or group of villages as opposed to a country of numerous diverse regions and multiple cities. I site JA vol. 1#8,1973; Marvel Atlas #2,2008 for proof of the latter. Its political structure implies an all too easy vulnerability to coup de tats and one man take overs. Could one conceive of such events occurring in the US? These take over stories are more appropriate to WDG, an international corporation, than to the country of Wakanda. This would have worked well for the arcs "Deadliest of the Species" and "Power." Since there was already a "queen," Shuri being made CEO of WDG and confronting a hostile take over would have been a great way to introduce her as a novice Panther with aspirations to the throne. Thus the sidelining of Storm and T'challa could have been greatly reduced.The political structure should have a council, regional representatives and city administrators in addition to a king and queen. Elaborations on the sophisticated fail safes in case of death or take over of the king or other royals. No more of the Achebes or Rosses being enthroned.This will render a greater sense of community and nationhood. Showcase Wakanda's antiquity as it compares to Kemit, Atlantis, Sparta and Subterrania to name a few. Embellish Wakandan explorations into the oceans, deep space and alternate dimensions. The Wakandans should have been exploring space perhaps a century before the US and Russia. They should have moon bases from Earth to Saturn. Colonies and defense satellites through the solar system. One could tell the tales of Khanata (BP vol. 1#13,1978) a great Wakandan adventurer and his crew traveling in an N'yami cruiser. Their trek through the stars in search of the source of the vibranium meteor leads to chance encounters with the Shi'ar, the Kree, The Skrulls and the Brood. The exploits of these Wakandans are sung even in the hallowed halls of the Klingon empire.Visually depicting the military power of a nation bred for war was something Priest, Valutto and Almond excelled at. A cursory examination would yield N'yami battle cruisers and Prowlers. It would be advantageous to highlight its special forces like the Hatut Zeraze and the Dora Milaje. I think the Hatut Zeraze should answer to the king and the Dora Milaje to the queen. The separation of the two could give rise to the rites of passage that separates males and females in Afrakan culture. The most exceptional two Dora Milaje being candidates for queendom and the rest the most desirable and sought after women in the nation.The same could hold true for the Hatut Zeraze. Both would be second only to the scion of the Bashanga clan. One of the best things Reggie and John did was to give the Dora Milaje a distinct cultural appearance. Storm as queen should reflect this. Storm should have cut her head bald and defeated the best Dora Milaje in combat as part of the marriage ritual. She then could have grown her mohawk back to show some solidarity and to distinguish herself.The Wakandans should be the physical and mental pinnacle of humanity. The average Wakandan should be far superior to the average person. T'challa and his family are the pinnacle of the Wakandan people. Nuff said. T'challa should be bald as are all the great warriors of Wakanda exemplified by the Dora Milaje and Hatut Zeraze. Storm being the notable exception gets a pass due to her foreign birth and exceptional power.Wakandans are not xenophobic as much as they are "Wakandan-centric." They are long lived averaging about 150 yrs of age due to their environment and diet. Focus can be on their highly developed healing arts, medication and healthcare to all its citizens. Mental and physical disciplines based in the evolved traditions of Afraka. There shouldn't be a need to kill or domesticate animals due to their advanced agriculture and robotics. No combustible engines and fuel exhaust from tail pipes or engines. Let us delve deep in the spirituality of a people whose religious practices have not been imposed upon by Christianity or Islam. The BP animated series (episodes 1-3) is canon for this. Lets go to school with the children of Wakanda without the need to superimpose American values and failings such as teen pregnancy, drug use, graffiti or gang violence. Illustrate an education system that graduates student into the community as functional members never having to leave and prostitute themselves outside of it. Show us examples of what we could be if we reached our potential and if need be create new and original challenges for these children. Give us a new sense of commerce, business and trade. Show us what a debtless society looks like. Wakandans should be immune to the shifting patterns of global economics yet still be able to greatly influence it if they chose to. Let's not look at contemporary Afrakan societies that are failing but focus on the Afrakan societies that are succeeding. Meld the triumphs of the Afrakan diaspora into a myth of epic proportions.The rogues gallery… How about reinterpretations of Killmonger? Imagine him more along the lines of having the business acumen and political savvy of a Lex Luthor, Tony Stark and Bruce Wayne. He could be founder and governor of the N'Jadaka region and some mayoral like title for N'Jadaka city, building on BP vol. 2#16,2000. I would have Killmonger take control of the Desturi, his answer to the Hatut Zeraze. Combine this with Luke Cage level strength and durability and you may have the ideal antagonist for T'challa. Solomon Prey, a eurocentric aristocrat and drug lord who transforms into a gargoyle like creature, is an expatriate who operates out of Paris (cue the Goth). Achebe, no brainer. An Afrakan version of the late great Heath Ledger's Joker. Man-Ape,(who I think was vastly improved under the aegis of Priest) could have a new name i.e. Silverback and a new costume without the gorilla head. The Jabari tribe from which he hails should be Hulk-like in size and stature as they live in one of the harshest environs in Wakanda, the Crystal forrest, home of the white gorilla from which their ancestors based their religion. Another reinterpretation would be that of Sombre (JA vol. 1 #13, 1974) as he or she is the charismatic religious leader of a cult (think classic Brother Blood from Teen Titans) that worships at Resurrection Altar delivering salvation to adherents through exposure to those "hellish rays." The Supremacist (BP mini series #2,1988) evolves into a Hydra/A.I.M. like organization with advance technology and super human agents. Their particular brand of centuries old eugenics creates a new kind of mutant who sees their antithesis in the Wakandans.Finally we come to T'challa himself. Synthesizing his physical and martial prowess, intellectual acumen, technological propensity, spiritual evolution and psychological cognizance with challenging and innovative quandaries is the foundation upon which everything rests.Special attention should be paid to his personal habit and weapons. He should always wear the morphing vibranium microweave costume (BP vol. 2 #1,1998). It can resemble any of the styles Black Panther is known for and makes him bullet proof (BP vol. 2 #7,1999), impact resistant (BP vol. 2 #40,2002), immune to magnetism (BP vol. 2 #48,2002) and vibration (BP vol. 2 #49,2002). His cowl should be equipped for underwater respiration (Defenders vol. 1#84,1980). T'challa cowl should also include special lenses (BP vol. 2#4,1999) and chemical gates as filters to prevent inhalation of toxic gases and other substances (BP vol. 2#16,2000). Further adding to an already impressive personal defense we now move to offense. His gloves have the anti-metal vibranium claws (BP vol. 2#14,2000) which arguably could cut or damage adamantium or even Cap's shield. His footwear comes with special "vibranium powered active phase resonator" soled boots (BP vol. 2#14,2000).These allow the Panther to scale walls and leap from great heights. They also rob projectiles of their momentum (BP vol. 2#15,2000) and allow T'challa to stand or run on the surface of a body of water (BP vol. 2#29,2001). Let us not forget a retractable cape (BP vol. 2#16,2000).Last but far from least is the light armor that transitions out of the above mentioned costume (BP vol. 3#19,2006). This would be extremely useful against more powerful opponents, say the Hulk for example. He may not be able to beat him physically but it's infinitely superior to spandex, thus giving T'challa the necessary time to strategize and out think the Hulk. The armor would be useful in hostile environments say the moon for example. While visiting the Inhumans he morphs it off indoors and it instantaneously comes on outside the comfort of the blue area. Since T'challa was kind enough to give the gift of flight to the Falcon, it would be ignorant for him not to have it. Thus this armor would also include glider wings like those used by Shuri (BP vol. 4#11,2010). This would be helpful if T'challa is thrown out a plane (Black Axe vol. 1#6,1992) or falling from a rocket (BP mini series #3,1988).Throw in an energy dagger and Kimoyo card for good measure and you have well outfitted, ready for anything Black Panther. To be a prep master you gotta be a prep master. For transportation and operations outside of Wakanda he has a specialized T'chaka heavy cruiser. Think N'yami battle cruiser only bigger and deffer. It comes complete with all the standard amenities plus limos and sky cycles.I neglected to mention that the Black Panther can cloak…think about it.The Panther has had the fortune of the creatively intrepid vision of Lee and Kirby, the mature lyrical prose and composed raconteur of McGregor. The politically evolved continuity based and definitive T'challa from Priest. The holistic cultural and conscious expansion coupled with an unprecedented marketing campaign culminating in an animated series from Hudlin. As we await to see the affect Mayberry will have, I leave you with this.The great writer who does Black Panther faces insurmountable odds with a confidence and demeanor that beguiles his detractors. He inspires admiration and devotion from his team. Why? Because the great writer knows that the Black Panther may simply be the most complex, diverse character in comics. The great writer knows it is their honor and privilege to present him well.
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Alina and the Ice Jewel (The Meeting at Engrund)

Posted by Antony Kamau on January 29, 2010 at 7:30pm
Queen Thaelea walked on the holcus mollis l, her feet barely leaving a mark on it. The flowers seemed to smile at her presence and sing at her touch."My children," she purred, her wondrously enchanting voice drawing the butterflies to her. She knew them all by name, even though their beautiful lives were fleeting. For that moment, she forgot her sorrow, her sadness at the loss of a lifelong friend.She walked to where she had left her oaken staff, its upper third studded with rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Tiny branches spiraled up and inward from its tip to encircle the Eye of Wonder, a diamond of unmatched value. Her transparent wings, catching the sun-rays in an ever-changing rainbow sheen, spread out and she took flight. As she approached the grand tree, home to her subjects, she saw what she surmised to be a spectacle."Leave me please!I mean none of you any harm!" The plea came from a distressed human child, slightly taller than the queen. She had been restrained to the ground with silk thin threads, strong as any rope man can weave.Var, dressed appropriately as the queen's guard--a snug black leather coat, fastened onto him by three large belts from which depended the large dagger sheathed on his back, and red cotton leggings tucked into petaled black leather boots--explained."We found her trampling our precious daffodils. She has dared to come to our forest unannounced, uninvited."The queen seemed not to be listening to Var. Instead she considered the child for a spell, the large dark eyes shining out in sincerity, and fear."Untie her," she said, her order clear, leaving no room for contention. Var, determined to keep true to his charge, hesitated. "The threads are tight and sharp, they are bruising her skin. Undo them. Now."As some of the fantastic creatures helped Dyvelin to her feet, the ornament bequeathed her tumbled out from the folds of her dress. In an instant, the queen had her staff at the child's throat. "How come you by this ornament, human child!?""Your majesty!" Var exclaimed, meaning to come to his queen's aid. She however warded everyone off, knowing they did not fathom the potential danger that had just presented itself.Dyvelin, startled by the queen's sudden change in temperament, involuntarily stepped backwards, lost her footing and fell, landing on her backside. She tried to speak, but fright had rendered her dumb. It was then that the queen saw the tattoo on her skin and slowly lowered her staff. A bewildered Dyvelin watched as Thaelea's fingertips slowly traced the winding black curves of the tattoo, glowing as they touched it; the tattoo itself glowed in tandem with her touch."Amars!" she exclaimed softly. The queen knelt next to the child, her wings outstretched in excitement. Tears streamed down her face as she looked softly into Dyvelin's eyes with her own deep sapphire blue ones. "I must apologize, child... I had no idea." This as she cradled the young girl's face in her palms.Despite her confusion, Deyvelin could not help but feel the Fairy-Queen's sorrow; then understanding--like a glow in her heart, deep and profound-passed between the two. Thaelea helped the child to her feet and turned to address her winged subjects. "This is Dyvelin, heir to the Grand Sorcerer." She paused to let the emotion of the moment pass. "she shall come with us to Engrund Circle."
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Alina and the Ice Jewel (The passing of the Grand Sorcerer)

Posted by Antony Kamau on January 28, 2010 at 6:00pm
"I have waited for so long, and now it seems that my mortality will be my undoing." the man, dressed only in a white bed garment said, his voice still strong even in his last hour. The little girl, hardly ten years old, standing next to his bed shook her head, while tears streamed down her pale cheeks. "It is true, my child. I shall go to the Wonderlands upon my passing, but it shall not be by the Celestial Chariot."Amars, Grand sorcerer of Sentilla, stretched out his feeble shaking hand and the little girl took it."Teacher..." she started, but the old man hushed her with a squeeze of her little hand."Elur -vith adanvantil.. enua!" Amars whispered the incantation, almost unable to say the last word. At that moment, there was a faint rattle, and an ornament the young girl had never seen before tugged at her neck as the pendant settled on her chest. She looked at the old man to inquire of this feat, but only an empty white garment remained where he had lain. His hand had turned to mist, which now wrapped itself along the length of her sleeveless arms, then branded upon her brown skin a black, winding mystical tattoo.She had been passed the reins of the Celestial Chariot.It took a moment for the young Dyvelin to grasp the enormity of the great responsibility-nay, burden-that had been conferred upon her. Softly she collapsed on the bed, clutching at the empty white garment, and wept her heart out.
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Alina and the Ice Jewel (Intoduction)

Posted by Antony Kamau on January 24, 2010 at 1:07pm
In the days preceding the coming of the Comet, Alina had taken possession of the coveted 'Ice that Never Thaws'. Frozen at the heart of the forever cold pendant was believed to be an inter-dimensional pixie.For the wearer, the comet was their chariot to a world of magic and wonder that would never be seen by those who did not possess it.She walked the enchanted woods of Tharkin alone, her dark-chocolate complexion glowing a dark blue in the misty moonlight, which made her look like she was gliding in her white dress. As she approached the clearing where her grandmother had finally been laid to rest, she saw Veruna seated on the tombstone, dressed all in black."That did not take long..." the witch smirked in a gravelly voice, crossing her legs. She did not move from the tombstone, looking squarely at Alina, gauging her reaction."I see you have made a pastime of profaning tombs, Veruna of Elkior," Alina said, in perfect calm."Come, come now." Veruna pushed herself up off the white marble tombstone and approached Alina, eyes on the coveted jewel. "What is a tomb to you who are not destined to rot like the rest of us?"Alina involuntarily covered the pendant with her hand; almost too late she caught the gleam in Veruna's eyes. The motion of the dark witch's hand was fast and sudden, and the ball of blue fire singed her lace sleeve as she moved sideways to dodge it. She was unaware that the movement was a feint, a diversion-until she saw the biggest wolf she had ever seen, charging out of the woods straight at her.She gasped, her hand tightening around the pendant, which was now glowing, brighter and brighter...
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My Flow

Posted by Valjeanne Jeffers on January 23, 2010 at 6:30pm
How do you flow?What's your copesthetic?I churn like rivers rich and muddypast a southbound railroadthe smell of molasses,honeysuckle and fatbackin my nostrilsI move angry and gentlefloating on a peach horizonthat wakes the day and kissesit goodnightRotate with an R& B bassBlues not far behind -- the jazz androck n roll it spawned in my earLike the rich, black soil of Georgiaa sponge giving and receivingfantastic creatures thatgyrate in your nightmareswhisper in your dreamsLove-doings hot,funky, savoredflavor my flowand I dare to speaketernity to my manI leap on the sceams of my ancestorsa drumbeat pounding in my spiritthat will not be deniedLet me strain and give birthto those riding under my skin --these fierce, hot beingsthat yearn to awakenWhat's your flow?What's your essence?Tell the story....Copyright Valjeanne Jeffers 2010 all rights reserved
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Skin Magic - Part I

Posted by Djeli on January 22, 2010 at 7:00pm

“Skin Magic”DjeliDecember 2009Makami stumbled, almost falling. The orange-colored cat he had nearly run over went still, the hair on its back raising. Its eyes reflected in the night, seeming to ask what bit of chance had caused their paths to cross in the sand-ridden backstreets of this small town, which only rats and shadows should have called home.The answer came at the sound of heavy footsteps from somewhere far too near. Makami resumed his run, turning a corner while daring a glance back. The empty streets did not fool him; he was still being hunted. Who his pursuers were and their purpose in this mad chase was what baffled him.He had noticed them earlier, like two jackals creeping after prey. They kept their distance, but their intent was too obvious. Makami had been a thief once—in fact, a rather good one. He had followed those he marked whole days, tracing their routines until he could predict their every move, waiting until they were most vulnerable and distracted to take his prize. It was done so seamlessly, most were not aware of the theft until he had long departed. Others however were not so artful—choosing to cudgel their victims senseless or leave a blade between their ribs, before seizing what they wanted.Still, wrapped in torn and tattered clothing, Makami could find little to mark him as worthy prey. Unless these thieves were so desperate they now took to robbing paupers and beggars, these men hunted something more. But what? Had some merchant gotten wise to food he daily snatched at market? Unlikely. He could manage such simple sleight-of-hand in his sleep. Besides, the scraps were barely noticeable--certainly not enough to keep his belly from crying to him each night. No, these jackals were after more. He only wished he knew what.The pain was sudden. One moment he was running, the next he was on his back. Bits of light danced before his eyes and he scrambled to get his bearings. Lifting a hand to his brow he felt something warm, trickling from where he knew a wide gash had opened upon his dark skin. Blood. Something had struck him as he rounded a corner, right across the face, with enough force to send him crashing down.Dazed, a dark form took shape in front o him. It was a man—a very big man. His rounded head was cleanly bald, making it look as if his entire body were covered in one sheet of ebony. He gazed down with a scowl, pulling his spread out features closer. Bulbous and stocky, he had shoulders like an ox and meaty arms that Makami guessed were just as strong. In one hand he held a misshapen staff of wood crowned with a thick knot. Long dark cloth encircled his waist, covering his legs and coming to his ankles. His torso was left bare—save for two hide straps that crossed his chest. Up to three knives were tucked inside, their blades gleaming like sharp teeth. Little doubt about it, Makami thought grimly, this was definitely a jackal.“Stay down,” he growled, lifting his cudgel threateningly. His breath was labored and his massive chest heaved with considerable effort. “Should hit you again for putting us on such a chase.” He looked up at the sound of approaching footsteps. “Over here! I have him!”Still too dazed to turn around, Makami waited until the new arrivals came into his field of vision. Two more men. The jackal pack was complete. One was muscular, dressed much like his larger companion. He paced the small space, dull yellowish eyes threatening danger. The third man bent to his haunches, his dingy tunic parting just below the knees as he balanced his slight weight. He ran a hand across the triangular patch of hair atop his scalp, smooth brown forehead furrowing in thought. His bright inquisitive eyes remained fixed on Makami—as if trying to discern something. After a moment he broke into a grin, displaying perfect white teeth unnaturally large for his wiry frame.“Now that wasn’t so hard,” he said. “Good thinking Ojo, leaving you out here ahead.” He continued to grin at Makami, which seemed even brighter than the gold-hooped earrings he wore in each ear. “Didn’t know there were three of us eh?”Makami didn’t answer. This was gloating, not a question. These men were decidedly not thieves. They all spoke trader’s tongue, each tinged with differing accents. So they weren’t locals either.“Still say we should have waited,” the big man grumbled. Makami noted something in his voice. Was it…worry? “We were warned—”“Oh stop your old woman talk Ojo,” the smaller man said impatiently, coming to his feet. “Doesn’t look like much to me and we took him easy enough. We’ll keep him locked tight for the next few days.” A new light came into those bright eyes, reminding Makami of a ferret. “Or, maybe we might get more for him ourselves….”Makami frowned. Get more for him? Were these men slavers?“I don’t know Matata,” the big man said. Yes, there was definite worry there. “What do you think Jela?”Their silent companion only shrugged, those yellow eyes trained on Makami. “Matters not to me.” His accent was so thick it was obvious these lands were foreign to him. And for the first time Makami glimpsed his teeth—each of them filed to sharp points, giving his mouth the appearance of a shark. “Whichever one brings us the greater payment.” He pulled one of the knives strapped to his chest, aiming a deeply curved blade directly at Makami. “You. Show it to me.”Makami stared up at the man perplexed. Show him? He shook his head, not understanding.“I will not ask you again,” the man warned, his voice betraying an edge as sharp as his cruel-looking blade. “Show me what lies beneath, what is on your chest—I want to see it myself.”The blood drained away from Makami’s face at the man’s words. How could these men know about what he had taken such great effort to conceal? And if they did, to ask such a thing, were they mad? Beads of sweat broke out across his skin as for the first time, he truly became frightened.The man scowled deeply, displaying his sharpened teeth. With his free hand he delivered a blow, snapping Makami’s head back and filling his mouth with fresh blood. Suddenly numerous hands were upon him. A blade flashed and there was the sound of cutting cloth. Summoning what strength was left in him Makami attempted to twist away from his attackers. But the big man was true to his earlier threat, rapping the back of his skull once with the cudgel. The blow crumpled him, leaving his head dizzy with new pain. Listless, he felt as the shirt that covered him was pulled and ripped until it lay at his waist in tatters. He was left on his knees, chest now bare as his captors stepped back to admire their handiwork.“Oja!” the big man exclaimed in his native tongue. “Curse my eyes! Are they moving?”Makami closed his eyes, not needing to look down at his chest to know what the man was talking about. They were markings, crimson lines and arcs etched into a circle upon his dark skin. And like always, they were moving—sliding across one another in a chaotic dance, spinning about a hollow center as if searching for order. He could feel them, whether awake or in slumber, always moving just beneath his skin. They had become a part of him—his own never-ending curse.The muscular man, the one they called Jela, came forward, pointing the edge of his blade directly at the markings.“No,” Makami pleaded. “Please. Do not….”“See here Jela,” the smaller Matata laughed. “He thinks you will gut him like a goat.”The muscular man grunted. “He is worth more alive than dead. Only wanted to see what all this trouble was over.” His dull yellowish eyes followed the crimson markings that continued their peculiar dance. Grabbing Makami by the chin, he lifted his head until their gazes met. “How did you come across such a thing?” he asked. “How do you make them move?” Getting no answer his tone became derisive. “Cease your trembling. We are not the ones you should fear.”Makami glared back at the man. Fear them? No, he did not fear these men—he feared for them.
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Book Review: Great Sky Woman

Posted by Malcolm Dylan Petteway on January 22, 2010 at 12:43am
Great Sky Woman By Steven BarnesMass Market Paperback: 400 pagesPublisher: Del Rey; Reprint edition (March 24, 2009)Language: EnglishISBN-10: 0345459024ISBN-13: 978-0345459022Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.2 x 1.2 inchesSteven Barnes is one of my favorite science fiction authors. His mastery of story telling is phenomenal. Mr. Barnes has the noteworthy skill and the poise to write about a myriad of subject matters and plots, creating in them specific and believable worlds in which readers can throw themselves into. He has done this with his Aubrey Knight series, his Bilalistan Series, as well as with Blood Brothers, Iron Shadow and Charisma, just to name a few. And though I’m late to read, what he has done with Great Sky Woman (first published in 2006), raises the bar once again.Great Sky Woman is set in the heart of the African continent, at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, before recorded history. There, the Ibandi live as hunters and gatherers unaware of the manmade and natural disasters approaching their way.Great Sky Woman follows the story of two Ibandi members, T’Cori (the nameless one), an abandoned girl who was raised by the chief dream dancer; and Frog Hopping, a boy raised by his uncle to be a hunter and warrior. T’Cori, gifted with superior abilities than the other dream dancers, searches desperately for acceptance from the one who raises her as well as her sister dream dancers. Conversely, Frog, who isn’t the strongest or fastest amongst his age, competes with his brothers to be a man amongst the Ibandi. Their search for their own identity and place amongst the Ibandi ultimately brings them together in life and death struggles that eventually decide the fate of all the Ibandi.Mr. Barnes builds a world full of African folklore, legend and mysticism in such vivid realistic detail that the reader is sucked in wanting more. The characters are so strong and brilliant that they resonate in the readers mind long after completing the book. The power of this story opens the door for a growing new type of fiction that beckons for more.I recommend Great Sky Woman as a must read. I can not wait to read the follow on story Shadow Valley.Malcolm “RAGE” PettewayRage Books LLC
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Scouring for New Reads at Arisia 2010

Posted by Diane on January 17, 2010 at 9:16am
Cons aren't always where you will find a large amount of minority participation. However, some of us are making ourselves known at quite a few. This weekend we are attending Arisia '10 - billed as New England's largest and most diverse science fiction and fantasy convention. We came to check out just how diverse it really is and we've got a lot to share.Why should you consider attending a SciFi/Fantasy convention? I'll be writing more and posting pics from this weekend shortly. Stay tuned.
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Storycasting.com

Posted by Barry K. Nelson on January 16, 2010 at 10:07pm
So Who out there has read McKenzie Files?And Who out there is waiting for the McKenzie Files movie? While the fates decide that little detail Get ahead of the game and log onto Storycasting.Com to pick the actors and actresses who you think could play characters in a McKenzie Files movie. Go to Storycasting.Com and make your choice.
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Internet Theft

Posted by Kandake Brockington on January 12, 2010 at 10:32am
After months of self-promotion I finally have confirmation that the word is out about my novel. I discovered this after checking my website statistics. The hits are really picking up all over the world and right here in the States. Egypt, Europe, Sudan, Australia, Thailand, Belgium—the list goes on and I couldn’t be happier. However…with this new internet publicity I am already encountering internet theft. Just when I was starting to feel confident in my progress, I discovered that people are going to my website, taking copy written material, and posting it on the web!I admit that I am a novice author, so with experience comes wisdom. I hope. But I write this mini blog to warn my fellow writers and artists to be protective of your work. Do not assume that everyone is honorable. Guard your art carefully and look out for one another if you encounter copyright infringement. Support one another as only we can.I discovered a site that offers free copyrights. I plan to use it and I am passing the link on to anyone who is reading this.http://myfreecopyright.com
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What a way to start 2010!!

Posted by LaTreka Cross on January 5, 2010 at 1:53pm
What a way to start 2010! I received the 1st illustration from the artist working with me on my first book, Shades and Shadows. Chase Conley (http://saintchase.deviantart.com/gallery/) is on fire people!! He knows how to work with colors and use them effectively in art. Not to mention he is has a real eye for detail. I’m so excited to see my work coming to artistic life. This journey to publishing my first book has been a long, tedious one. I’ve written several versions, scrapped soooo many scenes that at one time I had to back away from my masterpiece and ask myself: what story do I want told?As a writer I have grown. I look at the first manuscript I wrote three years ago and it is a totally different piece. And that is a good thing considering I have been studying the craft for the last three years, learning my voice in writing and using tricks to have a more effective, thought provoking piece.These last couple of years, I’ve learned to trust my instincts and my judgments. I had to understand that not everyone will like my style of writing and not everyone will give a damn. Lol. I just hope I’m able to reach a small portion of people who will actually like my work. [Side note: I know I will shock a few people with my style of writing. Know that it isn’t for everyone and Shades and Shadows is an adult fantasy novel with strong sexual content. Not all my books will be written this way. I’m very versatile in my style. I’ll probably have something for you too in the near future if Shades and Shadows is not for you.]I’ve been told that my book is actually good from peers and family members. I guess the real test will be what people who don’t know me think about it. I’m looking forward to the moment when I see my book on the shelves in stores or online for purchase. Not that it’ll goad my ego, but because I actually accomplished something years from now my children can see the legacy I’ve left behind. I want my time here to mean something, have a true purpose. Hopefully my accomplishments will inspire my children to strive higher than anything that I’ve done or will do.
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