Award-winning author Joey Pinkney signing The Soul of a Man Anthology at Southeast Regional Library during its African American Book Club meeting dedicated to the author (Garner, NC)
The book signing/ book discussion was special to me for a couple of reasons: 1) It was one that I organized by myself for the first time. 2) It was going to be in my hometown of Garner, NC. (I have collaborated with some of the other contributors on a book signing/discussion in Atlanta.)
Left to Right: DeJah Jones, Joey Pinkney and Don’Tay Jones (Joey’s children)
The gathering was small, about 10 or so people. The room in the Southeast Regional Library has a wonderful set up. I’m going to hold more meetings there in the future.
Author Joey Pinkney with new fan
After the brief introduction, I asked if anyone had a chance to read the book. I kid you not, I think I really did hear crickets…and they are out of season right now. That was cool with me because it gave me a chance to cover all the talking points that I had been practicing in the shower, on the way to work and while I washed dishes.
Author Joey Pinkney with new fans
I talked about my story, the step-parent aspect and the novel I plan to write as a followup. Then I asked it there were any questions. Maybe the crickets were asking me something, I don’t know. Then I started talking about how I got involved with the anthology, my author interview series and how we work together to spread the word about this book. That’s when the crowd started to open up. One lady was asking a bunch of good questions to humor me. She was trying to get her friend to help me out to. Then a gentleman started getting insightful with his questions, eventually asking me to read my favorite part.
Author Joey Pinkney with new fan and winner of Body Works prize for the evening
I read that. For me, the first couple of paragraphs set the poetic tone of the main character’s, Terrence Greene, perspective. Then thought about it: this is a group effort. I told about the “Soul Brothers” aspect to our family and ran it down the line. I didn’t know that I knew so much about each and every one of the other contributors of The Soul of a Man Anthology. I guess all those sleepless nights browsing through thesoulofaman.net were for a purpose.
Author Joey Pinkney with JoeAnne Stephens, Reference Librarian and Facilitator of the African American Book Club at the Southeast Regional Library (Garner, NC)
After that, an hour had passed. I wrapped it up, and let them know two things: you don’t have to look towards L.A. or New York for an award-winning author, there is one right here in Garner, NC, and that I was going to donate a book for every two books sold.
JoeAnne Stephens presenting Author Joey Pinkney with a gift from the Southeast Regional Library (Garner, NC)
The librarian that facilitated the event told me she was retiring soon and wanted to add this to her scrapbook. A couple of the attendees said that they had other speaking events that they wanted me to be a part of. I’ll see that when I see that. Sold six books, so three will be donated.
Author Joey Pinkney with attendees of The Soul of a Man Book Signing/Discussion at the Southeast Regional Library (Garner, NC)
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You clean up real well my brother,, keep looking good and spreading the good news of this wonderful book.. God Bless Brother.. I am proud to alongside you on the pages of this great work..
KL, it is an honor and a blessing to be in a book with a wise man such as yourself. The conversations we’ve shared have definitely shaped by future in more ways than one. I’ve got the books you suggested and am working to make reality out of the ideas you have inspired in me.
I hope to meet you in the hear future, so we can sit down and fellowship. Until then, we will stay in contact the best way we can.
Watch out Tarheel State, Joey Pickney is bringin’ it real. Good Job Joey!!!!!!! Lookin’ suave too brotha man.
Thank you, BG. I learned a lot from you. I’m applying it bit by bit. I appreciate you stopping by, and I know your upcoming book on Peace in the Storm will be a hit.
Congratulations Joey! This is awesome!
Thank you, Barbara! It’s so refreshing to be officially in the ranks of other published authors. I got a long way to go to catch up to you.
Hey Joey… thanks so much for stoppin in and sharing your story. Great piece, I am truly proud of you. Keep doing what you do and let “NOTHING” get in the way of that. I laughed when you mentioned you practiced what you would say in the shower or while you’re washing dishes, reminded me of myself. lol Always give your guests the heart of your story, how it effected you and why you felt it needed to be told. Only ask the questions that directly connect your guests to your story and they will feel as if they know your book and cannot wait to read it. As far as questions… oh my goodness they will pour in and you will actually go over the time you have because they will have so many things they want to share, because of the way you made them relate. lol… just a little something I wanted to share. You take care Joey, be safe and “continue to greatness!”
Tyra, I really appreciate the quick lesson in Book Discussion 101. Everybody can take something from that. I am so happy to make your acquaintance on so many levels. I look forward to continuing working with you in the future.
Dear Joey,
I am very proud of you! You are making it, and it is awesome!
Continued success to you.
Cendrine
Very Nice, Joey!!
I wish you much continued Success!
Hey Joey,
Don’t know how I missed your stop in Atlanta, we’ll definitely meet next time. You are workin’ it.
Peace,
Jean
Many congrats Joey !!…I can’t wait to get my copy !!…I will be ordering mine after the holidays !!..My rugrats and their desire for electronic units will keep my pockets empty until then..!!??!!..Or maybe I should add this to my Christmas wish list ??….hmmmm…either way,,I can’t wait to read it !!