
Authors On
Lock
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Greetings!
Welcome to our June newsletter and our third edition of our
Authors On Lock feature. We are focusing on the growing
population of authors that have discovered their talent in the least
likely of places - prison. The number of incarcerated authors
continues to grow. OOSA would like to share just a few of their
stories.
Have you wondered what the talented group of authors we featured
last year have been up to? Stayed tuned for an update soon.
And you know how we do - book giveaway! See contest details
below.
Enjoy, and as always, happy reading!
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Real Live |

Real Live
is the author of Money, Sex & Murda. A native of
Washington D.C., he's bringing the streets to readers for a
bird's eye view. In addition to his passion for writing, Real
Live hopes to also break into the music industry. He currently
resides in Pennsylvania and is working on his next novel.
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What were
you convicted of?
Armed robbery and carrying an illegal firearm.
What is your sentence?
My sentence was seven years, which will be up at the end of next
year.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you're being given a chance to make amends?
Most definitely. Every chance that I’m blessed with the
opportunity to wake up in the morning, I give or do something to
make all of the wrong that I’ve caused somehow go away, a little at
a time.
If it wasn’t for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
Yes, but in a different artistic form. Prior to my confinement I
was just starting to pursue my career as a rap artist; therefore my
writing would’ve come into fruition. With the type of lifestyle that
I was living I would’ve never sat down to write a book, but I did
have time to hit the studio and compose 72 bars for a song relating
to my struggles and experiences.
How did you come to be a published author?
Let me first say that it was a lot of work, with very limited
assistance. Before this case that I’m currently serving I was
acquitted on another charge and had started to pen a novel before my
acquittal. I went home, played with it and eventually came back in.
I also lost a dear friend (rest in peace Man-Man) and took it as a
sign that I needed to really get on top of legit business.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you are incarcerated?
Not at all, but there are certain parts that can be linked to me
and individuals whom I have ran the streets with.
As an incarcerated author, do you think that you're seen in
the same light as other authors?
Once again, not at all. With me being incarcerated I have to
depend on others to handle my business for me, and at times, it’s
very frustrating. But I wholeheartedly look forward to the hard work
that I’m going to put in upon my release to be seen in the right
light, my own.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
The only struggle that I have faced is putting out my novel while
I’m incarcerated. What I’ve learned is that it’s not how you start,
but how you finish.
Have other authors reached out to you?
A few have reached out to me via MySpace. Others that I have
previously had contact with would be Eyone Williams, Robert Booker
and Anthony Fields. Those are my comrades. I appreciate all the
love.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
My opinion would be that some authors just wish to not go through
the long drawn out process. It’s not like you write a book today and
it comes out tomorrow. It may take months, or even years to drop a
book. Others don’t have the resources and some just want the quick
money.
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more “street credibility” because of it?
I honestly don’t feel like my book is successful. I’m not there
to market, promote, or advertise it; therefore it’s not successful
in my eyes. When the time comes, I do believe that more people will
gravitate towards me, not only because of my credibility and them
knowing that I have indulged in the streets, but from my
personality.
Will you explore other genres besides street fiction?
I have plans to. I would love to do a few biographies, thrillers,
children’s books and who knows what else? I’m actually in
negotiations at this moment for a movie script that I have
completed. I place no limits on my creativity.
What do you think of the current state of urban literature? Is
it a fad? Are too many people jumping on the bandwagon? Is there
more quantity over quality? Studio authors?
I believe that it’s wonderful. If you have a story, who’s to say
you can’t produce it? To some degree, it is a fad. There definitely
is more quantity over quality. Stories need substance. Studio
authors? :) I leave the readers to answer that one.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Maya Angelou’s son, Guy Johnson.
I really appreciate his work. Our collaborating would be on some
straight gangsta shit, with a positive twist. Also, James Patterson.
He’s the best on that thriller tip.
Is there a book that you’d really like to write that you just
haven’t been able to?
My life story, but I have a lot more living to do before I reach
to accomplish that goal. Trust me; it’ll be worth the wait.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one’s
perspective, how do you think that you've been changed?
I’ve changed because I no longer have the lustful desires for the
streets, or the “game.” Being away from the real world can do that
to you. I want real success now and my options are limitless.
Once you're released, would you consider speaking with at risk
youth?
Naturally. I think about it quite a lot. See, when I was younger
and getting into all kinds of trouble, they always had way older
dudes preaching to us. But we could never relate to them. With me,
still being relatively young and having faced some serious
situations, I think it will play an important role that can steer a
few at risk youth away from the streets. They just need someone to
be real with them and believe in them.
Do you believe that you will continue writing when you're
released?
I have to answer in the affirmative.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers
or those that are where you once were, what would it be?
The top is so much better than the bottom. Always strive to be at
the top. Hey, I’ll be waiting…
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Cash |

Cash was
born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, but lived most of his life
in Atlanta, Georgia. He decided to start writing fiction while
incarcerated at a state prison in Georgia. His first novel,
Trust No Man, was the first release of Wahida Clark
Presents. His style is street, raw, and he has an imagination
that's in overdrive. Cash now resides in Hardwick, Georgia.
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What were
you convicted of?
I was convicted of trafficking cocaine, manslaughter and
other related offenses.
What is your sentence?
I was originally sentenced to "life with parole eligibility,"
which was reduced to football numbers.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you're being given a chance to make amends?
The system does not allow you to make amends; that must come
from within yourself. There is no such thing as rehabilitation in
the prison system - they don't even attempt to offer such programs
in Georgia. A man must be motivated by his own regrets and remorse
in order to make amends for the wrong that he's done.
If it wasn't for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
I believe so because even as a snot-nose I wanted to become a
writer. I used to win writing contests in school. I had supreme
academic game until the hood thing reeled me in. Still, I never lost
the passion to write, or my passion for books. So, had I not came to
prison, and had I avoided the cemetery, yeah, I believe that I would
have somehow, some day, penned a book anyway. It was my destiny to
become an author.
How did you come to be a published author?
I have been writing on notebook paper ever since I got popped
eighteen years ago, before the genre was coined "street lit." I was
a legend behind bars, here in Georgia, for my writing. Cats kept
urging me to do something with my manuscripts. But until eight to
nine years ago, there was no place to go with it. Three years ago, I
self-published and my joint caught Wahida Clark's attention. We got
connected and now we 'bout to bubble.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you are incarcerated?
Nah, I don't write about that shit. Too many people were hurt
behind that incident; too many lives destroyed. I owe the victims
and their families too much to fictionalize their pain. Besides,
that story will get told down the line, when there's a market for my
autobiography. But I do need to point out that when I write, I don't
write "make believe" - stories that can't happen. I write it in the
way it pops off.
As an incarcerated author, do you think that you're seen in
the same light as other authors?
I can't say how I'm seen in relation to authors who aren't on
lock. I hope I'm seen as an individual. A dude who writes from what
he knows. Trust, the real streets know whose official and who's
frontin'. I write fiction but it's real, not Hollywood.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
Similar struggles to other authors; tryna get signed, tryna
get the publisher to see our vision. For real, though, the only
struggle is one in which you can never prevail. This shit (the book
game) ain't no struggle. Ain't no lives being lost. I'm good with
it; my struggle is for my freedom. Compared to that, this is
nothing.
Have other authors reached out to you?
Yeah, other authors have reached out. The ones that have can
recognize what's real. I'm sure more will holla once my name becomes
more known. I have been hollerin' at Kwame Teague (Dutch)
since '03. My dude Mike Sanders (Thirsty) shows love; he's
down with WCP too. Other cats in the game hollered, and a couple of
boss sistaz, but I won't name drop.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
See, niggas doing a bid are like drowning men. I guess they
grab the first rope they are thrown. Me, I would rather drown than
get played. Like DMX said: 'Either let me fly, or give me death!'
But, to each his own.
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more "street credibility" because of it?
I'm pleased with the success of Trust No Man, and I'm
appreciative of the support I've gotten from readers. I imagine that
if I was out there to do book tours, radio interviews - the whole
nine - things would be even sweeter. But since I deal with reality
and not the what ifs, I'ma make it happen in spite of being on lock.
If your pen game is official, it doesn't matter where you at. My
incarceration probably affected initial sales, but the word is out
now. As far as a cat having more "street credibility" cause he
writes from behind bars, I suppose a lame would see it that way. But
know this, there are plenty fake niggas on lock, and a few of them
can write hella shit. Don't be fooled! Credibility ain't something
you get just because you doing a bid. The question is: How were you
living on the streets? How you living on lock?
Will you explore other genres besides street fiction?
Yeah, I will. But under a pseudonym cause Cash is about them
streets.
What do you think of the current state of urban literature? Is
it a fad? Are too many people jumping on the bandwagon? Is there
more quantity over quality? Studio authors?
I'm happy that there's a market for our stories, and I don't
think it's a fad. Street lit is here to stay, just like the rap
game. Yeah, there are too many whack authors dropping whack shit.
But you can't deny them their right to try to eat. However, they
won't eat well. It's easy to peep the studio authors. See, if you
been deep in the game, you know what you know. And you recognize
when the next cat don't know it. It's the minute things that tell on
a perpetrator.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Wahida Clark or Mike
Sanders. Yeah, I'm partial to the WCP team! I can envision a hot
joint if I collabed with Kwame Teague, Kwan, Al-Saadiq Banks, Kiki
Swinson, even Sister Souljah - mad props to her, always.
Is there a book that you'd really like to write that you just
haven't been able to?
Nah, I write what I want, and then it's just a matter of when
the time is right to drop it.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one's
perspective, how do you think that you've been changed?
I haven't been changed at all. I notice a change in people
around me, female C.O.'s in particular. I get more mail since my
book dropped. But I'm still the same. Trust, cats in here don't bow
down case I got published. They not on that type of time. I'm
respected the same as before.
Once you're released, would you consider speaking with at risk
youth?
I would speak to at risk youths, but for real, I'm more hands
on. When I touch down, I'll find one or two youngins and try to
positively affect their lives - individual lives. That's how I wanna
roll.
Do you believe that you will continue writing when you're
released?
I will absolutely continue writing once I'm released. I will
broaden my horizon by doing other things, too. But I won't abandon
the genre.
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Jorge Landrian |

Born in
Havana, Cuba, Jorge Landrian came to the United States in the
early 80's, where he learned English at a Technical Vocational
Institution in Saint Paul, Minnesota. While incarcerated, his
first novel, Criminal Code, was published in 2005.
Jorge vows to continue to write after he's released from
prison in the near future.
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What were
you convicted of?
Possession of a fire arm.
What is your sentence?
Fifteen years and eight months.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe that
you're being given a chance to make amends?
No, there were no victims in my crime to make amends with, other
than the three children I had to leave behind ten years ago. In
truth, the system is not designed for us to make amends or get
rehabilitated - as falsely advertised. This is a human warehousing
enterprise, from which only the companies with interests vested here
profit from.
If it wasn't for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
Honestly, no. I was too busy trying to get nowhere fast.
How did you come to be a published author?
Well, I've read hundreds of books. One day I woke up thinking I
could write one and gave it a shot. It was more like a challenge to
myself than anything else. But a couple of guys read what I had,
liked it, and encouraged me on. When I finished the manuscript, I
had it copyrighted and sent copies out to a few publishers. I had
three book offers, but of course, I picked the wrong one.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you are incarcerated?
Not directly, but I do believe it is virtually impossible to
write a book and not incorporate some of your own life experiences
and attach some of your personal beliefs to one or more of your
characters.
As an incarcerated author, do you think that you're seen in the
same light as other authors?
By some yes, because they believe we have more street credibility
than someone who has not lived the life we speak of; but not by
society as a whole, no.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
The first company that I signed with breached our contract in
more than a thousand ways, robbed me, etc, etc, etc. I won't even
mention their name because it will be free advertising for them.
Have other authors reached out to you?
Yes.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
Financial problems. As quiet as it's kept, there are a lot of
good sons, fathers and husbands here who would sacrifice to help
their people out there. There are also those who need attorney money
to get out of here.
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more "street credibility" because of it?
Being in prison keeps you from attending book signings, book club
meetings and parties. It keeps you from getting out there to push
your work. I know for a fact that if I were out there, my books
sales would have tripled. I am a great salesman. As far as street
credibility is concerned, the real crooks are out there doing what
they do. We're mostly a bunch of dummies bragging about the little
things we've had for a little time, before it all got taken away,
including us, for a very long time.
Will you explore other genres besides street fiction?
I already have. I have written two mainstream novels, one of
which will be in stores soon.
What do you think of the current state of urban literature? Is it
a fad? Are too many people jumping on the bandwagon? Is there more
quantity over quality? Studio authors?
I believe urban literature is NOT a fad, and I refuse to think
that too many people are jumping on the bandwagon. I do believe that
there are thousands of people out there who have stories to tell and
the God given right to tell them. Some will tell them better than
others, but that's what makes writing an art form, a craft, and some
artists better than others. Yes, there is more quantity than quality
out there, and that's the ugly side of any business. Studio authors?
Why not? Studio rappers are making a killing. I went to the
Minnesota State Prison for selling drug years ago. If a man can
write a book about selling drugs, although he never actually sold
any or went to prison for it, more power to him.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
Two personal friends - Mike Sanders, author of Hustlin'
Backwards, Snitch and his latest work, Thirsty. Newcomer
Drako Sullivan, author of a recently finished novel titled At All
Cost. Not just because they are my friends, but because they're
gifted writers.
Is there a book that you'd really like to write that you just
haven't been able to?
Yes. My twelve-year-old daughter, Aleja, asked me to write a
children's book, and I promised I would.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one's perspective,
how do you think that you've been changed?
I have learned to be more patient, because like the Bible says:
"And this too shall pass." I have also learned to look for the
beauty within people, as opposed to the distracting, deceitful
surface.
Once you're released, would you consider speaking with at risk
youth?
I have made a commitment with myself to do so, and I am looking
forward to it. I believe my story will have a positive impact on at
risk youth.
Do you believe that you will continue writing when you're
released?
Yes. Make no mistake about it.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers or
those that are where you once were, what would it be?
I like a Chinese proverb that says: "A journey of a thousand
miles begins with one step." Continue to dream big, and pursue your
dreams with perseverance. Remember that things that come easy are
probably not worth a damn.
To all those who read my first novel, CRIMINAL CODE, I want to
thank you for your support. I also want you to know that I have
written part two titled THE CUBAN CODE. It will be available soon. I
have also written two other novels which will come out soon after -
DEAD CENTER and STREET TALES.
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Kareem Tomblin |

Kareem
Tomblin, a.k.a. Soojah, is currently incarcerated in a Federal
correction institution, located in Bennesville, South
Carolina. He has been incarcerated since 1992. He has never
allowed his present confinement to stop him from accomplishing
his dreams of bringing the ghetto gospel of truth to those who
have eyes to read and ears to hear. Kareem lets readers know,
in his first street story, Death, No Exceptions, that
the warning he is ultimately delivering is simple; whatever
decision one chooses to make in life, do it with wise
direction. Because in this world of sin, motivated by
dividends, one slip, or wrong turn could lead to Death, No
Exceptions! Bottom Line.
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What were
you convicted of?
I was convicted on a laundry list of charges. Among the charges I
was convicted of were Conspiracy to Commit Violent Crimes in Aid of
Racketeering Activity, all connected to the West Charlotte Posse
case of which I was a "juvenile."
What is your sentence?
I was given forty-five years. I have done seventeen years.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you're being given a chance to make amends?
I have made amends for what I did. I did this through the avenue
of coming to my senses and recognizing that I am a human being who
was made in the image of God. I now understand that I cannot go
through life "thuggin'" without a consequence. However, the prison
system itself had nothing to do with this decision. Prison is far
from being about rehabilitation anymore.
If it wasn't for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
No one could have ever told me while I was out in the streets
"thuggin'" that I would one day become an author or be asked to
write something for a newspaper. That was something I definitely
didn't see in my future.
How did you come to be a published author?
I was reading the East St. Louis Monitor newspaper and
came across an article written by Rose Jackson-Beavers of
Prioritybooks Publications. At the end it stated that the company
was accepting manuscripts. I decided to send them the first three
chapters of Death, No Exceptions! Prioritybooks Publications
later contacted me, blessing me with the opportunity to become a
part of their family. I appreciate Mrs. Beavers, the owner, for
that.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you are incarcerated?
When I write, I usually do so from what I have experienced. You
know the fruit doesn't always fall too far from the tree that
birthed it. Me and the crew that I was involved with were robbers of
so-called big drug dealers. That's why it's no coincidence that a
drug dealer is getting robbed in my first novel, Death, No
Exceptions! I keep it real.
As an incarcerated author, do you think that you're seen in
the same light as other authors?
If I'm not seen in the same light as other authors, I'm
definitely seen as being a part of the same profession. We all are
uniquely different in what we do, and how we do it. Some of us are a
little more real than others because of our real life experiences.
We have lived what we write. In that vein, it is what it is.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
The main struggle that I face is the inability to participate in
the promotion of my book and to meet those who have read my work. I
hate the fact that I am not out promoting my work like I know I
could if I were not behind steel doors and concrete walls. I'm very
serious in my renouncing "thuggin'" and committing crimes. So, if I
was out, I would really be hustling.
Have other authors reached out to you?
Other authors have reached out to me. To name a few: Kevin
Bullock (In the Cut: Train to Go, Court in the Street),
Marcus Massey (Creepin' on the Come Up), and Monique Hall
(Two Tears in a Bucket). But the greatest author that I have
heard from is the One who created the Heavens and the Earth. I'm
speaking of none other than Almighty God. Absent Him reaching out to
me, I would still be slumbering in low- living and thuggism.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
A lot of authors in prison sell their stories because sometimes
CIRCUMSTANCES dictate the agenda. A lot of brothers and sisters in
prison are hungry. Some of us need lawyers to help us get back in
court, so we do what we have to do. It's basically called survival.
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more "street credibility" because of it?
I feel good about the success of Death, No Exceptions!
People are reading it and giving me feedback about the story. My
readers tell me they like the story. They tell me that they only
wish that it was a little longer. I believe that incarceration has
actually helped in my book becoming a success because had I not been
incarcerated first and foremost I never would have put pen-to-paper
for the purpose of writing a book. The first step in being
successful is, believing that you can be. Another step is making
what you believe and see in your mind a reality. I would love to
sell many more books and I know that I will. My "street
credibility?" Well, excuse my language, but fuck "street
credibility!" I just want to be viewed by all who encounter me or my
work as a real genuine dude. The streets and the mentality that it
gave birth to misled and misguided me as a youngster. I'm older now
and much wiser. I'm now ready to live in the spirit of "Truth," not
an "Illusion."
Will you explore other genres besides street fiction?
Yes, I do plan to explore other genres besides street fiction. I
want to write a true story based on the life of my mother, my number
one heroine. My mother is a woman who taught me to be strong.
What do you think of the current state of urban literature? Is
it a fad? Are too many people jumping on the bandwagon? Is there
more quantity over quality? Studio authors?
I think it's great that so many authors are getting a chance to
put words on paper and seeing their books on bookstore shelves. I
enjoy reading urban literature as well as other genres. Do we need
to grow as better writers and better storytellers? Yes, we do. But
with experience comes growth. Never before have publishers been
interested in what we had to say; now we have a platform. I admire
writers for getting out there and hustling. I admire them for
working toward their dreams. It is my hope that we will all seek to
write work that is flawless because we have a whole generation of
readers watching, reading and wanting to be just like us. So our
work must be of a high standard. Anytime there is something popular,
people are going to try to emulate. Nothing wrong with that, but we
should all do our best in putting our best foot forward.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
I would love to collaborate with Wahida Clark. I think she is a
beautiful and talented writer. I love her work. I am currently
collaborating with the writer of Sex on the 2nd Floor, Jazz
Catrell. Also, my next novel, Father Forgive Me, will be
released later this year.
Is there a book that you'd really like to write that you just
haven't been able to?
I can't wait to write the sequel to Death, No Exceptions!
In the sequel, readers will begin to understand Monica and the
choices she made. You will see the effects from her actions
involving her best friend. I have been extremely busy writing,
responding to interviewers, and trying to market my book.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one's
perspective, how do you think that you've been changed?
Coming to prison has changed me because it afforded me an
opportunity to really take a long, hard look at my life. I needed a
rest from the street way of life. I also needed the restoration that
came from God when I decided it was time to humble myself and submit
to His will for my life.
Once you're released, would you consider speaking with at-risk
youth?
My goal is to encourage teens to deter them from being
incarcerated and to get an education. Once I am blessed to be
released from the belly of the beast, I am going to do everything in
my power, talent and ability to reach my young brothers and sisters
who are caught up in a life that leads to nowhere fast. I must do
this. It is my God-given duty and assignment.
Do you believe that you will continue writing when you're
released?
I will definitely continue to write even when I am released.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers
or those that are where you once were, what would it be?
I want my young readers to know that with GOD ALL THINGS ARE
POSSIBLE. And that just because you are a first-class thug today,
doesn't mean you will be a first-class thug tomorrow. Submission to
the Almighty God brings about a positive change. Whatever you do,
you must not give up! I had an individual tell me once that I
wouldn't live to see the age of eighteen. But God is the greatest.
I'm thirty- five years old and my life is going according to God's
most merciful plan. Don't listen to haters, but listen and submit to
your Creator. Lastly, to all of my strong conscious brothers, stay
focused. And to all the beautiful black sisters, stay strong!
Blackband Brotherhood Clan for life.
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R. Trent Rose |

R. Trent
Rose is a native of Fort Worth, Texas. He is a single father
of two daughters and one son. At the age of 28 he was tried
and convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to 20 years in
federal prison. Since that time he has developed a love for
poetry and writing street romance novels, a style of writing
that he calls "lawless love stories." His first release was
Love Lost Da Game. He is now waiting patiently for the
day that he comes home in order to experience life again.
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What were
you convicted of?
I was convicted of drug trafficking and given a two-point
enhancement for having several guns.
What is your sentence?
My sentence was originally 240 months (20 years). But in ’07 a
crack law amendment was passed, which lowered my sentence to 192
months (15 years, 10 months).
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you're being given a chance to make amends?
I’m going to answer this question with a simple yes and leave it
at that. I really don’t want to go into details.
If it wasn’t for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
I would love to say yes. But if I said that I’d be a damn lie. If
someone would have told me before my incarceration that I was going
to be an author, I would have told them to move around and not to
bring such foolishness to me ever again.
How did you come to be a published author?
I’ll try to make a long story short. A few years back my mom
would send me three to four urban novels at a time. Well, one day I
read this book that wasn’t good to me at all. I called her and asked
her if she liked it, and she was like it was okay. I told her it was
some garbage. She asked why I would say that. I told her that the
book didn’t have a plot nor did it sound realistic. Moms explained
to me the reason I probably didn’t like it was because the person
who wrote the book was speaking on something she knew nothing about
and by you knowing the streets like the back of your hand, her story
sounded foreign to you, which caused you to hate what you don’t
understand. I thought what if someone knew the streets like the back
of their hand and wrote a novel about the streets but made it more
realistic. I asked her how she thought a book like that would do.
She thought it would turn out to be a damn good book. And the rest
is history. I read a how to write a novel book and took off.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you are incarcerated?
I would say no comment, but I’m going to keep it one hundred with
you, yes it does.
As an incarcerated author, do you think that you're seen in
the same light as other authors?
I really don’t know because I’ve been incarcerated for over a
decade and I’m not sure if I and other authors are even compared to
one another. But if I had to make a guess, I would say yes.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
Man…the list goes on and on, but I’ll share with you just a few.
I can’t be hands on. I got to always get someone to do for me
because I can’t do it myself. I can’t go to book signings. I can’t
promote my book like I want to. I can’t interact with certain people
who I know can help me better my career. I have to wait until
opportunities come to me, and we all know that opportunities don’t
always fall in our lap.
Have other authors reached out to you?
I don’t know but one author and that’s Curtis Smith and I talk to
him from time to time. But no other authors have reached out to me.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
I think because they don’t have the resources to put it out
themselves. Like I said before, you got to have someone do
everything for you, and its hard finding someone to believe in you
when you are incarcerated. You tell someone about your dream of
putting out your own book and you need their help and they think
you’re trying to sell them some penitentiary dreams, so your only
option is to try to get a book deal with a publishing company who
feels they can screw you over because they know you are in jail.
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more “street credibility” because of it?
I feel really good about the success of my book and it’s not
because of the book sells, but because of the wonderful reviews I
have gotten. So far, I haven’t gotten anything close to a bad review
and you can’t imagine how that feels to a cat that is locked up. And
as far as me being incarcerated helping or hindering my success –
I’m going to say yes it has because again I can’t be hands on. I
feel my book would do a lot better if I were out of prison. And the
street credibility thing – I really don’t know if I have street
credibility or not. I just know the people that are around me love
me for me, and I really believe they could care less about my street
credibility, so why should I care?
Will you explore other genres besides street fiction?
Yes, I’m going to get into a couple of things when I get out. I
got this play I’m going to write that’s floating around in my head.
I’m also reading some court documents on some high profile cases
down here in the South and I’m going to write a documentary on them.
I’ve come to realize that writing is my life, so I might as well get
used to it.
What do you think of the current state of urban literature? Is
it a fad? Are too many people jumping on the bandwagon? Is there
more quantity over quality? Studio authors?
Man, this is a question I really don’t want to get into because I
hate to offend anyone, but I’m going to keep it one hundred. I feel
it’s a lot of studio authors out there with the same old unrealistic
plots, talking about the rise and fall of some drug dealer or some
promiscuous woman who glamorizes being a gold- digger. I believe
because of these studio authors it’s causing true readers of urban
literature to shy away from street fiction. That’s one of the
reasons I call my style of writing “lawless love stories.” My plots
are based on the essence of love and the wickedness of the streets.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
It would be an honor to collaborate with Eric Jerome Dickey,
although our writings are different. He’s an author who focuses on
his plots.
Is there a book that you’d really like to write that you just
haven’t been able to?
I would like to write a book about my life, but I feel it’s not
time yet. I got to get out of prison and know what it feels like to
live again.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one’s
perspective, how do you think that you've been changed?
I believe my circumstances have changed me for the better. I
don’t consider myself as being perfect, but I will say I’ve come a
long way.
Once you're released, would you consider speaking with at risk
youth?
Yes. Marelyn Lewis is like my second mom and that’s a promise
that I made her; that’s a promise I plan to keep.
Do you believe that you will continue writing when you're
released?
Yes. Like I said before, writing is my life.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers
or those that are where you once were, what would it be?
Like my mother told me, ‘The journey of a thousand miles begins
with one step.’ If you ever want something in life, you must speak
it into existence.
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C-Note |

Born and
raised in Boston, C-Note, founder of Cold Blooded Books, has
always been a hustler. In 1999 he chose literature as an
escape from the harsh realities he faced serving a 10-year
sentence in federal prison. C-Note was able to turn a negative
hustle into a positive one. He never saw his incarceration as
the end. Instead it was his beginning; a chance to seek
change. C-Note always felt the life he and the people around
him once lived was like a movie. Now he's found a way to bring
the stories to life - not as a tool to glorify the game, but
as a tool used to educate, warn and help the next generation
see that if someone like himself could rise from out the
gutter, any one can. From a Thug to a Man is his first
novel.
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What were
you convicted of?
Possession with intent to distribute, a class A and B substance.
What was your sentence?
Ten years.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe that
you were given a chance to make amends?
Yes, I came home a different person. I feel each one must teach
one. If someone can learn from my story, then that’s one less person
that has to travel down the road I did.
If it wasn’t for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
Maybe sometime down the line when I slowed down but I doubt it…I
always thought my life was like a movie, even started a book with
two friends when I was 19 called ‘Non-Fiction.’ Only thing was I did
too much ripping and running around to focus.
How did you come to be a published author?
As I wrote books I also read books about the business. The
Writer’s Market was like my Bible. Then through networking with
people in the industry I learned on the fly. I soon started Cold
Blooded Books and dove in head first.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you were incarcerated?
My first novel, From a Thug to a Man, loosely mirrors my
real life. I say loosely because I drew from real life emotions,
adding things for the sake of excitement and subtracting things in
fear of new indictments.
Because of your incarceration, do you think that you're seen in
the same light as other authors?
Yes and no. Yes, because the body of work speaks for itself. No,
cause of my incarceration and newspaper articles about my team. It
gives my story a sense of legitimacy.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
I’d have to say getting the book in stores and the distributors
to play fair. It’s a dog eat dog world, so if you don’t stand for
something, you’ll fall for everything.
Have other authors reached out to you?
No doubt…Latifa Sanchez had my back even before I came home. I’m
always bugging LaShonda DeVaughn with questions that she answers
right back. Nishawnda Ellis holds me down. And Al Saadiq Banks
always lends a helping hand as well. These people are selfless…
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
I couldn’t tell you what exactly motivates the next person, but
if I had to guess I’d say because one, writing is not for them and
two, money…
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success?
And do you believe you have more “street credibility” because of
it? I feel the sky’s the limit… Anything you work hard at you’ll
prosper from. I never saw my time in the negative light. If I didn’t
stay positive, I would never have moved forward toward being a
better person and find a future for myself.
Is there a book that you’d really like to write that you just
haven’t been able to?
I have 21 outlines and only five books done. It’s an adjustment
for me to write on the streets.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one’s perspective,
how do you think that you've been changed?
I just stop thinking so much about today and prepare myself for
tomorrow. I’m older now; I don’t take life for granted anymore.
Since your release, do you still socialize with the people you
were friends with prior?
Yes. These are my childhood friends. We’re like FAM. I’ll never
turn my back on that. To their credit, a lot of them have grown as
well. Some are still knee deep, but everyone doesn’t grow at the
same pace. If I can be an inspiration for change…Let’s Get It!
Do any of the people you used to be down with treat you any
different now that you're an author?
No, I have nothing but respect! I went to federal prison and
didn’t bring no one else with me. I stayed true to friends and
myself. How can’t you love that?
Has it been hard to adapt back into society?
That first month was real for me. I tried to bust out the gate
running. That didn’t do nothing but land my ass back in jail, 26
days after my release. That quick, that easy…had to check myself.
Do you believe that your incarceration changed your life for the
better?
No doubt…I was definitely a work in progress…laying down all
those years gave me a chance to look deep inside and find my purpose
in life.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers or
those that are where you once were, what would it be?
Everything happens for a reason. Things are never as bad as they
may seem. God has a plan for all of us. Where ever you’re at in
life, know that he’ll never put anything in front of you that you
can’t handle.
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Randy "Ski" Thompson |

Randy
"Ski" Thompson is a new underground author making major noise
in the urban literary world. His first book The Ski Mask
Way/An original Joint was released in May and has been
getting great reviews and gaining more momentum everyday.
The Ski Mask Way is loosely based on his own personal
journey in the streets and its vividness and makes its obvious
that he's really been there before. His novels are fast paced,
humorous, and real. Randy found his talent for writing while
he was incarcerated in the FEDS and since has penned two more
novels. The Ski Mask Way was selected by Wendy Williams
as one of her book clubs book of the month.
Randy attended Ulser Community College and Queensborough
Community College and plans on returning to school to finish
up his associates degree in journalism.
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What were
you convicted of?
I was convicted of the robbery of a jewelry store. My actual
charge was brandishing a weapon in relation to a robbery.
What was your sentence?
I was sentenced to 7 years.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you were given a chance to make amends?
My crime wasn't against any one particular person so there is no
one I have to make amends with, but the government does have me
paying a $175,000.
If it wasn't for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
If I never went to prison there is no way that I would have ever
been an author. Before my incarceration writing was the furthest
thing from my mind. And it's a shame because when I was in college I
could've taken journalism.
How did you come to be a published author?
I wrote my first book The Ski Mask Way while I was
incarcerated at Fort Dix, basically on a dare from two of my
co-defendants. While I was in prison I got hooked on street fiction
and thought that I would be able to write my own book. A close
friend of mine named Prince Wint read my book and asked me to type
it up and send it to his sister, who turned out to be Nancey Flowers
of Flowers In Bloom Publishing and the rest is history.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you were incarcerated?
The Ski Mask Way is loosely based on my life story and so
what's going on in my book is what I was doing previous to my
incarceration. I changed a lot of things (name, places, dates), and
flipped things around a little but for the most part The Ski Mask
Way was the life I was living.
Because of your incarceration, do you think that you're seen
in the same light as other authors?
I don't think I'm given the same light as authors for several
reasons. For one, the title of my book The Ski Mask Way was
used by K. Elliot and G-Unit Books. My book was written in 2005. So
a lot of readers get my book confused with K. Elliot's book and
think it's a re-print. Also, due to the fact of my probation I'm not
able to get out there and pound the pavement to promote my book like
I would like to. I believe I'm as talented as any author out there,
and with the right exposure I could be a best selling author.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
I believe that a lot of authors who are incarcerated sell their
books to publishers because they are naive about the business of
publishing. Others have long sentences and are just looking for some
money to make their situations more comfortable for themselves on
the inside. I can't fault them, but I knew early on that wasn't the
direction I wanted to take.
Have other authors reached out to you?
One thing that I was surprised about is the love that other urban
authors have shown me. I thought it would be real competitive but
it's really not. Some of the top selling authors have taken time out
of their busy schedules to help me out. I was incarcerated with J.M.
Benjamin at Fort Dix and I knew him fairly well. When I came home he
picked me up, copped me an outfit, and took me to the Urban Literary
Awards. We are on the same imprint but it was something that he
didn't have to do. He really went out of his way to show love and
it's rare that you run into people so genuine and not big headed.
Also, my publisher let Kwan read my book and he liked it so much
that he gave her a quote for the back of the book. I got the chance
to meet him and he gave me good advice and showed to be a real
humble dude. T.Styles, K. Elliot, Kwame Teague, and a host of other
authors that have slipped my mind.
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more "street credibility" because of it?
I don't think it helped or hindered me. And I'm not really
concerned with street credibility at this point in my life. People
from my neighborhood know what kind of dude I was. People who were
locked up with me know what kind of dude I was. My co-defendants
know what kind of dude I am. Most importantly, I know what type of
person I am. I stood up, kept my mouth shut, and took my time and
did it like a man. Nowadays it's a rare thing to see happen because
of all the snitching and what not; but I feel like I did what I was
supposed to do.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one's
perspective, how do you think that you've been changed?
I just think more. There was a time in my life where I didn't
care about anything or anyone, including myself. I basically learned
the value my freedom and my family. At the end of the day family is
the most important thing in the world. And by family I don't mean
just blood, I mean people who are really down for you and love you
unconditionally. I would never want to put my loved ones through
what I put them through during my incarceration.
Do any of the people you used to be down with treat you any
different now that you're an author? Do you still socialize with the
people you were friends with prior?
I still socialize with the same people. Hang out in the same
spots and everything. I've had the same friends since I was in grade
school so it's too late to switch up now. No one treats me
differently, they are all just extremely proud of me.
Has it been hard to adapt back into society?
For me it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be to adapt back
to society. It felt crazy the first week or so, but now sometimes I
feel like I never went away.
Do you believe that your incarceration changed your life for
the better?
My incarceration definitely changed my life for the better. I
went into prison a boy and came out a man. I found a career in
prison. I met my wife while I was in prison, and I just learned a
lot about people and life while I was in prison. Adversity builds
character and if I never went to prison when I did, it's quite
possible that I wouldn't be breathing right now.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers
or those that are where you once were, what would it be?
My message to anyone is that you can do anything you put your
mind to. We all have the power to change our circumstances, and just
because you are locked up it doesn't mean that your brain has to be
locked up. Make the most of every day you have on earth because
every day you open your eyes is a blessing.
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Leondrei Prince |

Raised in
the South Bridge and River Side Projects, the life of
hardships came early for Leondrei Prince. With a G.E.D.
education and a degree from the school of hard knocks, he
decided to tell the many stories of ghetto lives and ghetto
living. Leondrei is the author of Bloody Money I - III, Me
and My Girls, The Tommy Good Story I & II and Merry
F*ckin' Xmas. Through his trials and tribulations he uses
life experiences to pen realistic stories.
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What were
you convicted of?
Drug trafficking, second degree assault, possession with intent
to deliver, possession of a fire arm and first degree robbery.
What is your sentence?
Ten years for drug trafficking and three years for first degree
robbery.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you're being given a chance to make amends?
Yes.
If it wasn't for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
No.
How did you come to be a published author?
Joe Joe Jones, my brother, and I started our own publishing
company, Street Knowledge Publishing, with Bloody Money.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you are incarcerated?
Most of my work is from real life experiences. Shit I've seen or
shit I've been through in one way or the other.
As an incarcerated author, do you think that you're seen in the
same light as other authors?
Yes because my brother, Joe Joe, grinded as if I was still free.
He kept my name alive.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
Just the constant everyday grind that it takes to get your work
out there as an independent without a major.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
A lot of people would rather take the easy route. It takes a bona
fide hustler to go out and get it. My brother and I have done that
our entire lives. We never relied on anybody for help. If we had to
cut grass, shovel snow or rake leaves, we did what we had to do.
Dealing with majors or selling your rights is sort of a cop out. You
dig? A security blanket for somebody's insecurities!
How do you feel about the success of your book? Has you
incarceration helped or hindered that success? And do you believe
you have more "street credibility" because of it?
Hindered it. It should.
Will you explore other genres besides street fiction?
Yes. I'm about to branch out into plays and things like that.
What do you think of the current state of urban literature? Is it
a fad? Are too many people jumping on the bandwagon? Is there more
quantity over quality? Studio authors?
I really don't think of the current state. I'm only worried about
my worth. It's becoming a fad. I'm not going to speak on that. It's
more quantity. Plenty of studio authors.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
Al-Saadiq Banks, Kwan or J.M. Benjamin.
Is there a book that you'd really like to write that you just
haven't been able to?
Yes, my biography.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one's perspective,
how do you think that you've been changed?
I've been forced to change.
Once you're released, would you consider speaking with at risk
youth?
Do you believe that you will continue writing when you're
released?
Of course.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers or
those that are where you once were, what would it be?
Stay true to yourself and don't change for
anyone.
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Wahida Clark |

Wahida
Clark was born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey. She is no
stranger to the hard work and sacrifices that breeds success.
This Jersey girl owned and operated multiple businesses in
Trenton, NJ and Decatur, GA. She decided to write street
fiction while incarcerated at the women's Federal Prison Camp
in Lexington, Kentucky.
When you read her novels, they are so real you are
convinced of one of three things: you know the characters, you
want to know the characters, or you a character. Her
Essence, Don Divas and Black Issues Book Reviews,
bestselling novels include: the trilogy Thugs and the Women
Who Love Them, Every Thug Needs a Lady, Thug Matrimony,
Payback is a Mutha, and Payback With Ya Life.
Wahida is the first Street Lit author to land multiple
publishing deals with two major publishers all while serving
an eight and a half years federal prison sentence. She says it
wasn't easy.
She is also Vice President of the non-profit organization,
"Prodigal Sons and Daughters," a re- entry program for those
previously incarcerated, as well as support group for at-risk
youth.
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What were
you convicted of?
Mail Fraud, Wire Fraud and Money Laundering
What was your sentence?
125 Months, meaning 10 ½ years. I served 9 ½ years.
For the crime that you were incarcerated for, do you believe
that you were given a chance to make amends?
Yes
If it wasn't for your incarceration, do you think your writing
would have come into fruition?
Not at all. I never planned on being an author. But when my back
was up against the wall, writing a book was my solution.
How did you come to be a published author?
I reached out to Carl Weber and he asked me to send him my
manuscript. After he received it, he wrote me back and said he
wanted to sign me to a 2-book deal with Black Print Publishing.
Is any of your work based directly upon the circumstances for
which you were incarcerated?
No. But those circumstances will be highlighted in my upcoming
book The Coin Toss.
Because of your incarceration, do you think that you're seen
in the same light as other authors?
No. I have a unique experience. Everybody does not go to prison
and become an author.
What struggles have you faced in the literary industry?
Financially, it takes a lot of money to run a publishing company.
In regards to the major publishing houses, no one wants to pay you
big money until you become big.
Have other authors reached out to you?
Absolutely. Nikki Turner, K'wan, J.M. Benjamin, Erick Gray, Endy,
Anthony Whyte, Kiki Swinson, Treasure Blue, T. Styles, Seven,
Allison Hobbs, to name a few (lol that's just about all of the heavy
hitters in the industry) of the authors that if I need any
assistance whatsoever all I have to do is pick up the phone or drop
an email.
Why do you think a lot of the authors in similar situations
decide to sell their story instead of putting it out themselves?
They need the money or it was the most feasible thing to do at
the time.
How do you feel about the success of your book?
I feel great. However, this is not the end. This is just Wahida
Clark's beginning.
Has you incarceration helped or hindered that success?
Helped. And do you believe you have more "street credibility"
because of it? Yes.
Is there a book that you'd really like to write that you just
haven't been able to?
I'm penning it now.
An obvious change in circumstances can change one's
perspective, how do you think that you've been changed?
From a negative person to a positive person. When I went to
prison my whole world as I knew it came to an end. But I found life
in that dungeon called prison.
Since your release, do you still socialize with the people you
were friends with prior?
My friends from then have moved away or are dead.
Do any of the people you used to be down with treat you any
different now that you're an author?
No.
Has it been hard to adapt back into society?
Not really. Still getting used to technology.
If you could drive across one message to any of your readers
or those that are where you once were, what would it be?
Find something that you love to do and make it your
career.
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