National Black Book Festival

Jill Krasny May 14, 2009 4:00AM

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If you live by the pen (or just pretend you do to impress chicks), hit the George R. Brown Convention Center for the National Black Book Festival this weekend. Hosted by bookseller Cushcity.com and the Houston Black Expo trade show, the second annual fest will feature readings and signings by dozens of writers, including CNN anchor Roland Martin, urban author Shbrone Mims, poet Karen Brown and novelist Laura Castero.

There will also be panels, performances and workshops with some of the brightest names in the field. Erotica mistress Mary B. Morrison and suspense kingpin Omar Scott, along with successful authors from several other genres, will be on hand to help aspiring authors to sharpen their skills. They’ll answer burning questions about the craft (yes, a ballpoint’s superior to a quill, and, no, never use a mechanical pencil).

Targeted seminars and workshops will also help authors navigate the marketing side of the business. Sunday’s spoken-word poetry slam is sure to get those creative juices flowing, but we’re guessing Mary B’s slumber party will be the hottest ticket at the festival. Get yours early. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and tomorrow. 1001 Avenida de Las Americas. For information, call 281-444-4265 or visit www.nationalblackbookfestival.com. $5 to $10.
May 16-17, 2009