Late July Literary Notes

1. Southern Comfort

Ruthe(Rue)McDonald has just released her first novel, Southern Comfort. Available through Lulu.com, this southern-style family saga comes in hardcover or e-book. It's the story of Emma Jean Watson, called up north to Philadelphia to take custody of her grandniece. When Emma returns to South Carolina with the young girl, family secrets begin to spill.

If you purchase it through Lulu, you may use the following coupon until August 15th, 2010 for a 15 percent discount: BEACHREAD305.

2. GoneAway Into the Land Author Jeffrey B. Allen Announces National Media Campaign

Jeffrey B. Allen writes:

"On August 1st I am beginning a national media campaign to promote my new book, Gone Away, Into the Land. Gone Away has received over 250 reviews since its release in October. All but a few have been 4 or 5 star. My publicist, one of the most highly regarded book publicists in the country, believes the book, with its backdrop of spousal and child abuse, has the potential for wide appeal and possible movie rights. His reputation hangs in the balance when he chooses an author to represent, therefore, I believe his instinct for a successful campaign will be well orchestrated and well received.

"Today I am asking if you will do two things for me to aid in the promotional effort. First, visit my web site and join my mailing list. www.jeffreyballen.com. Secondly click on the 'Buy' Icon where you will be taken to Amazon and you will be able to choose the format for the book. The book just came out in Kindle and paperback so the cost has gone down considerably compared to what it was with only the hardback available. Next, if you have not read the book, you may purchase a copy, or if you have read the book please post a short 2 or 3 sentence review.

"If you do not care to do either of those things then I ask that you visit the Amazon page as often as you can. These hits to the page raises the Amazon rating, which will draw the attention of the media people we contact who watch that number and other indicators very closely.

"Thank you for your support. If ever you are beginning an initiative in your business and you need my assistance please do not hesitate to contact me. I will be more than happy to return the favor."

3. Festival of New American Short Plays Kicks Off Friday

The Festival of New American Short Plays begins on Friday, July 30, 2010 and run through Sept. 2. The location is 59 E. 59th Street, New York, NY 10002.

The amazing poet/novelist/visual artist Iyaba Ibo Mandingo will make his acting debut in "The Expenses of Rain," written by Deb Margolin.

4. Choice of 12 Free E-Books This Week at Barnes and Noble

Go to Barnes and Noble's website this week to start your B&N e-reader collection (you can also download these titles to smart phone or PC)--free!

The titles are:
Beowulf
Three Musketeers
Sense and Sensibility (but no sea monsters, though)
The Hunchback of Notre Dame
War of the Worlds
Last of the Mohicans
Phantom of the Opera
Great Expectations
Ivanhoe
Pygmalion and Three Other Plays by George Bernard Shaw
Emma
Cyrano de Bergerac