CHOICES: Milwaukee’s Black Festival of Books, to be held Saturday, September 14, 2013 , will feature three signature events.
The Public Forum features Madison-based author, business owner, and consultant, John Y. Odom, Ph.D. Dr. Odom is the author of Saving Black America, and will address the significance of this year’s festival theme: Read for Your Life.
The task of the ‘Response panel’ is to identify and apply ideas presented by Dr. Odom, as possible solutions to critical issues facing our community.
Panel respondents are individuals in positions to effect change through legislation, public policy, and community organizations.
Panel members are Eyon Biddle, Mandela Barns, David Bowen, Milele Coggs, and Willie Johnson.
The panel will be moderated by Polly Williams. This event is free and open to the public.
Before the street festival opens, pre-registered children for the CHILDREN’S BOOK TIME BREAKFAST will be treated to a pancake breakfast at the YWCA, lower-level ( 1915 N. MLK Drive ).
The featured author for the breakfast is musician and author, Eddie Rutledge. Mr. Rutledge is the author of a series of books based on the travels of his niece, Amani.
His presentation, based on his first book, Amani Goes to Washington , D.C., is highly interactive and musical. Children will learn of the historic buildings, monuments, and government functions.
He will be assisted by Karen Wiesner Peterson. Ms. Peterson is degreed from Howard University , with a major in Fine Arts. She has also studied theater at Oxford University in England.
She has worked as a full time teacher and performs throughout Milwaukee as an actress.
Ms. Peterson serves as curriculum consultant, choreographer, and vocalist for the company. Seating for this event is limited, and a ticket is required.
The Dine & Sign, also a signature event, features the popular Chicago , best selling author, Earl Sewell. Six of Milwaukee ’s most popular and best selling authors will also serve as Table Hosts, they are: Teresa Butler, James Causey, Bobbie Edwards-Ford, Marrian Efua, Kwabana A. Nixon, and Sheila Payton. Diners will be treated to a delicious box lunch prepared by the catering staff of HeartLove Place, while visiting up- front, close, and personal with four different authors in a ‘round robin’ manner.
Reservations and tickets required ($15).
For more information on any event or opportunities for participation, contact Carla Allison at (414) 265-2003.
