On Saturday, March 7 I had the privilege of sharing the spotlight with two power-house authors at the WNBA-Charlotte Authors’ Showcase. Tamara Jackson, a Certified Group Exercise Instructor through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) who has appeared on the Dr. Oz TV show was a tough act to follow!
In her book, 265 Point, Tamara shares her heart-wrenching journey from a 265 lb. junk food addict to a 155 lb. fitness fanatic. On her website she says:
“265 POINT is a powerful and energizing book that hits the glamorization of the BBW (Big Beautiful Woman) head-on. Tamara advocates that African American women stop embracing this term, understanding that it is a contributing factor to the alarming statistic that four out of five black women are overweight or obese.
265 reveals some touching moments where Jackson endured ridicule and prejudice at her high weight of 265 pounds. Tamara also shares the emotional and environmental challenges often faced in the quest to develop a healthier lifestyle. Women are sometimes sabotaged by their own family and friends who derail their weight loss efforts and criticize their healthier menus. Fueled by a new-found passion for health and fitness, Tamara delivers a realistic plan to reach a healthy weight including a practical food plan and doable exercise regimen.”
I have to add that not only does she talk the talk but she walks the walk! She looks great and exudes abounding energy. This book will encourage anyone struggling with weight and/or health issues, no matter the color of their skin.
Unfortunately for me, I was wedged in between two authors with national acclaim. Carin Siegfried, former book editor at St. Martin’s Press, runs her own business (creative editorial services) and holds the office of national president of WNBA. She has also found time to share her wisdom in her first book, The Insider’s Guide to a Career in Book Publishing. Here is what she says about her book:
“So you want to work in publishing? Publishing is a hard industry to get into and the first few years involve a lot of work for no pay. Through this book you will gain the information you need to enter the world of books with your eyes wide open.
The vast majority of people who want to go into publishing want to be editors, which is the path with the least pay and most work (at least in the bottom ranks). But do you know what the other jobs in publishing even are? You might be more ideally suited and enjoy working in a completely different department that you’ve never thought of before. This book takes you through all the major career paths in book publishing and explains the advantages and disadvantages of each, so you can match up your personality and skills to find the perfect job for you.”
Carin speaks from years of personal experience, and I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to break into the publishing world or just understand it’s intricate workings better.
If you would like to enter the drawing to win either of these books, leave a message and indicate if you want to try for one or both. Drawing closes this Saturday, March 14.
Thanks for the blog; now I know what you did on Saturday! DOn’t enter my name for the giveaway, but it’s good to hear you’re getting such cool exposure!
Sounds like a fascinating place to be, wedged in between such power house authors. I’m sure you learned a great deal from both. They are two great reasons for doing author showcases and book fairs. You never know who you’ll meet.
I’d love to be entered to win both or either books. Tamara’s hits where my husband and I are right now; vowing to lose the weight we’ve packed on over the winter. And the book Insider’s Guide to a Career in Book Publishing is sure to have tips that all authors can use.
Thanks for an interesting post.
Thanks, Carol. Yep, I missed you at the event, as did other members who remember you fondly!
Thanks, Sandra. Your name is in the hat for both. As you and I know, these kinds of events can be so enriching and full of fun surprises.
Both books sound amazing and I would love to have either one on my book shelf. Thank you so much for posting the giveaway! I think I am ready to read both right now!
Both sound like great books. Please enter me in the drawing What a treat for you to get such wonderful exposure.
Linda,
I think you were fortunate to be surrounded by power house authors. I imagine they thought just as highly of you and your writing! Please enter my name for either giveaways. I love winning books and both sound very interesting. I’m on a fitness kick of my own.
Thanks for your interest, Deb. You’re in the hat for both!
Thanks for your comment, Judy. These types of things are so fun because of the people you meet on both sides of the presentation. Your name is in the hat for both!
Thanks for your kind comments, Linda. Your name is in the hat for both!
I agree, you were edged in between two outstanding women – making quite the trio. I am very interested in both of their stories (you already know I am interested in yours)! Please throw my name in the ring! Thanks, Linda