Tuesday, January 1, 2013

New Book Release: Black Firsts

Black Firsts: 4,000 Ground-Breaking and Pioneering Historical Events by Jesse Carney Smith

A testament to a rich but often overlooked part of history, this work captures the stories of barrier-breaking African American pioneers in all fields—arts, entertainment, business, civil rights, education, government, invention, journalism, religion, science, sports, and more. With hundreds of illustrations and a daily calendar of firsts, this chronicle reveals stories of those who overcame adversity to emerge triumphant and celebrates those who have won personal victories against the forces arrayed against them. A vital collection of more than 4,000 entries, this book is proof that the celebration of African American accomplishments is ongoing.

New Book Release: Perfect Homecoming

Perfect Homecoming by Sandra Sookoo

Sometimes the future meets us when we’re not looking.

Andrew Grabel is a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air and Space Force. It’s tradition for his family, so is never being home for Christmas. Though he longs to celebrate the holiday with all its feel good nostalgia, the reality of space travel doesn’t make that possible. Neither does an R & R stint on a far-flung space station since Christmas is unique to Earthlings.

Mira Nisirian is on Epsilon station for one reason only—to steal anything of value then get out for her next destination. She’s a thief and a criminal, and though she might dream of fitting in with Earth people and their culture, nothing can erase her Neptune origins or her real alien form. Choosing Andrew as her first victim is her first mistake…

…falling for him is the next. What’s more, Andrew’s constant talk of Christmas fascinates Mira. She covets the home she sees in his eyes. Andrew’s future outlook is shaken as he finds himself trying to convince her the Earth holiday is a state of mind, but Mira’s compulsion to share her truth might damage their budding relationship.