< Browse > Home /
Free Artist Registration

-G- Speed Drawing Part One

Detailed Sci-fi / fantasy drawing done strait in ink by comic book Artist George Todorovski

[ Watch Video ] March 11th, 2010 | Comments: 2 | Channel: Art

Why Most People Sell Comic Books After ...

What do you usually do with your old comic books when you are done reading them? Many of us usually just leave them lying around to wither into old age and then we probably trash it. Other people will probably return them into their original paper seal and keep them stored as collectables and probably sell them later when they are worth more than they are now. If you sell comic books you would be surprised at how much money and demand that is out there.

Most people who sell comic books know the value that comes from owning old comic books, having been maintained like an old vintage car. What you need to do with the comic is put into a clear plastic sleeve, or you can even sell it to someone who is interested. The comic books that sell the most are usually the first series kind and they usually go for a lot of money compared to the new ones that is why you will find that it is collectors who buy such comics. The hard covered comic’s books also have value.

There are also places where you can go and see these comic books, especially at the conventions they usually have people bringing their comic books and showing them to everyone as well as some people selling them. The internet is another good place to find people that are willing to sell comic books or if you are looking for rare comics you can try an auction where you can look for the comic you want. Be sure to leave your comic in good condition and makes sure it’s in mint condition if you intend to sell it one day.

Peter Gitundu Researches And Reports On Comics. For more information on sell comic books, Visit His Site At SELL COMIC BOOKS

[ Watch Video ] January 24th, 2010 | Comments: 1 | Channel: Art

Marvel Comic Books: The Industry ...

It’s no secret that Marvel comic books are the best selling comic books in the American market. Marvel holds the highest percentage of the market share as it has for many years, just above main rival, DC Comics. But does this really mean that Marvel comic books are the standard for the industry? Are they the best written and best illustrated? Are they diverse and varied enough? Do they really captivate readers that much, or is it mainly due to diehard fans of their characters or creators buying up books just for that reason alone?

Of course, that’s not something that can be easily discerned, if it even can at all. Things like this are largely subjective, and no study in the world could possibly gauge the reasons behind all the buyers of Marvel comic books purchasing the books. But one can look at the market, and look at the books being produced by Marvel and by other companies and develop their own opinion.

Naturally, though, opinions are completely polarized between fans of Marvel comic books and fans of DC comic books, each despising the other. There are plenty of fans that enjoy books from both companies, mind you, but generally even these fans have their loyalty to one company or the other. Then there are those fans who hate superhero comics altogether and choose to make all their purchases in the indy market. But marginally, this is a small group compared to those who are fans of the Big Two. Even the market shares of the two largest indy companies, Image Comics and Dark Horse Comics, while competitive, are still far below the massive shares Marvel and DC claim.

But listening to the complaints of fans, at least on the internet, and sometimes in the local comic shops, there are many dissatisfied customers with many of the books from both companies. But since the topic is Marvel comic books, the major crossover events of the past few years bare mentioning, as they have gained equal amounts of acclaim and disdain by Marvel fans and non-fans alike.

Many are sick and tired of the massive crossover storylines that, because of the problems of the 90s, feel like they are merely thinly veiled marketing ploys to force readers into buying more books than they normally would to get the full story. Others enjoy their superhero comic universe being united and the effects of world events materializing throughout all the Marvel comic books. But most agree, outside of these crossovers, and of course the main books (the Spider-Man books, X-Men books and Avengers books) not much else is that great right now, nor has it been for sometime. There are exceptions, like Runaways and Thunderbolts, but by and large it’s substandard fare. Even the major books, like Uncanny X-Men and Amazing Spider-Man, weren’t that great a couple of years ago by the standards and opinions of many.

So why do Marvel comic books outsell all others and remain the dominant brand in American comics? We may never know for sure, but one can guess that it’s a combination of all the reasons mentioned above.

Not much different than African Americans felt not too long ago, or even how Native Americans felt when their land was stolen from them. Wolverine and The X-Men suffered the same type of bigotry, abuse and segregation from the get go. But despite their tribulation, they still helped anyone they could. Some, like Wolverine, became bitter for a time. But by and large, they lived their lives the best way they could, proving humans wrong in the process.

Over the years, the X-Men became more accepted by society for a time, but eventually it would all come crumbling down. A radical church group would crucify some of their ranks, then the majority of the mutant population suddenly became powerless and normal. This reignited the hatred for mutants, because most had just come to accept their existence, not like it. With the possibility of “no more mutants” a reality, closet hatred came to the forefront again.

Still, the X-Men maintained their cool, for the most part, and proved to be better people than those spreading their messages of hate with words and weapons.

The X-Men are a symbol in comics, and in society as a whole. They show how hatred and ignorance can be overcome, and how being different can be a great attribute and not a flaw that we need to expel or feel sorry about. There is strength and power in being unique that those who allow fear and hate to run their lives will never understand. Maybe they should crack open an issue of X-Men from time to time. Maybe seeing their ignorance and stupidity displayed in full color will somehow enlighten them. Maybe, just maybe, by reading the stories of how these unique and wonderful beings are harassed and persecuted on a nearly daily basis will make them think twice about their own actions. One could only dream.

Follow the exploits of rockers DEMON TWEAK and the racing clan HARD DRIVING HEROES, as they battle the evil trickster Loki at http://www.classic-comic-book.com . Also read articles on your favorite classic comic book heroes written by our resident historian VIRGIL THE STORYTELLER.

[ Watch Video ] January 21st, 2010 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art

-G- Speed Drawing Part Two:straight in ...

Detailed Sci-fi / fantasy drawing done straight in ink Part Two by comic book Artist George Todorovski … Britains Got Talent 2009 Susan Boyle Interview Great Voice Cool stuff here George Todorovski Drawing Sci-fi Art Comics comic book books Animation fantasy women illustration fine art nice awesome detailed picture Artist Comic

[ Watch Video ] January 17th, 2010 | Comments: 5 | Channel: Art

Buy Comic Books From Comic Book Stores ...

While you can buy your favorite comic books from various book stores you will find more of a selection when you visit comic book stores. These delightful stores are usually packed with many different types of comics. You will be able to find new comic book series as well as your current and old time favorites.

In many cases you will be able to get a good value for your money when you buy your comic books from comic book stores. When you are buying the various comic books that you want from these stores you should be able to see if the comic book is in good quality and if you are buying an undamaged comic book.

In some cases comic book stores can also have posters of favorite comic superheroes and super villains for sale. There will also be times when you will be informed of the upcoming releases of comic book action movie release like those of Spider Man and Superman.

As many people have a variety of interests in comic books you will be able to see various comic books on the shelves of the comic book stores. These comics will include Superman, Spider Man, Batman, Archie’s, Josie and the Pussycats, the Fantastic Four, the Incredible Hulk, Star Trek and Star Wars and many others.

In some comic book stores you will be able to find vintage comic books like Lulu, Betty Boop, Spawn, Wonder Woman, Phantom and lots of others. Some of these comic books will be in a very good condition as they may not be very well known by today’s comic book readers. In some instances you may be lucky enough to find some comic series early editions.

As these comics are difficult to find always you may want to see what the condition of the book is like. When you have checked the condition of the comic book you will need to see the price that your comic book store will charge you for these comics.

With first edition type of comic books you will have the chance to own a piece of comic book history. These are the reasons why buying your comics from different comic book stores is a great idea.

Besides these wonderful facts you may find other people who share your tastes. From these people you can broaden your horizons and see what other comic books you might like to read. The next time you have run out of reading material you might want to head over to your local comic book stores and see what you can discover in these different stores.

Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on comic book stores, visit his site at COMIC BOOK STORES

[ Watch Video ] January 12th, 2010 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art

Photography Books: Enjoy Capturing the ...

Informative and valuable books have been the best friends, for forever. Book plays the important role of guide and teacher, which entertains and enlightens the readers from time to time. As per the interest of the reader, he or she can opt for desired books. The market is flooded with various books ranging from fiction and non-fiction to romance, adventure and action to photography. These specialised books enhance the knowledge of the users in their field of interest. Therefore, it can be said that these informational books fill up the mind with innovative ideas.

Photography Books, as the name specifies are meant for the people who are looking to improve their photography skills. These books not only explain the ‘technical’ information about how camera works but they also stress on the setting/things which need to be done for a perfect image. “The digital photography” by Scott Kelby is one of the best selling book in this domain.

The best photography book is the one which gives answers to all the queries regarding the photography. The phenomenal growth in the field of photography has increased the demand for books with the subject line “photography”. Usually, the topics which are covered in these books are related to various issues regarding the night photography, Black & White photography, infrared based picture capturing tips, setting up of studios and many more.

As a matter of fact, these books are very helpful for the people who do not know much about capturing of good quality pictures. The photography books are even helpful to those who want to buy a professional or digital camera. A lot of tips and guidelines are given in these books, which help the readers in making better purchasing decision.

Some of the famous photography books include”The Digital Photography Handbook,” and “An Illustrated Step-by-Step Guide” by Doug Harman. To add more, the “How to Shoot Great Photographs with a Film or Digital Camera” by Bryan Peterson is also very much popular among the passionate photographers. These books include various techniques of shooting the moving objects as well as usage of flash while capturing the beautiful moments of the life.

Know more about books price comparison at rupiz compare and get discount shop for cheap books and magazines subscriptions here.

[ Watch Video ] January 12th, 2010 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art

Finding Cartoon Books

For those who are real cartoon fans, finding cartoon books is another hobby in which they may participate. Many people who are fans of cartoon books chose to go to flea markets so they can find cartoon books related to characters that are no longer available or because they enjoy the old cartoon characters. You don’t hear much today even on the Cartoon Network about Porky the Pig, Casper, or Mighty Mouse yet they were very popular in their time. That doesn’t mean they are no longer on television anymore but rather they just aren’t as popular as they were in the middle part of the 20th century.

 

Cartoon books reflect all of the periods involving cartoon characters including any that may have been prominent prior to their introduction to television. Cartoons were reading material before the introduction of television—you could go to the store and find hundreds of different comic books many of which were upgraded to television when that media was introduced. It drew in even more people and cartoon books became popular. Over the years different characters have come and gone, but quite a number of the original characters are still on television today.

 

What can you do to find more cartoon books? There are many places that are likely to carry cartoon books including second hand book stores, flea markets, and the only line community. Knowing where to go for cartoon books is a start in the right direction and will help you space your time and plan where you want to go. Of course, you can also stay home and look online for all the cartoon books you want to purchase. Make a list of the cartoon books you want and then begin looking online until you find them. Cartoon Bank has many different cartoon books in additional to a variety of other cartoon-related things as well.

Jordan Travis writes about cartoons. Read more about cartoon books at www.cartoonbank.com

[ Watch Video ] January 11th, 2010 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art

What are the Main Facts to Remember When ...

When many of us buy comic books we frequently read them and place them on a pile of old comic books or our book shelves. This attitude changes when we are collecting these comic books. In these cases we take great steps to preserve our comic book collection. There are instances where we may decide to sell comic books that we have doubles of or ones that we feel are bringing the value of our collection down.

To ensure that you are able to sell comic books that you have no need of there are certain steps that must be seen to. As many people want to have good quality comic books whether it is just for reading pleasure or for serious collecting you will need to make sure that both the inside and the exterior of the comic book are in excellent condition.

To sell comic books you will need to preserve the appearance of your comic books. You can store them in clear plastic sleeves with a piece of acid free cardboard at the back of the comic book to give the comic book a strong support. With the help of the supporting cardboard you should store your comic book upright on your book shelves.

This way you can be sure that your comic book will not develop any creases in the cover from the pressure of the other comic books. Besides storing your comics in an acid free plastic cover sleeve if you want to sell comics books you should know what are the types of comic books that are very popular.

These comic books will help you to gain a profit from selling them but these popular comics should also be in excellent condition. The other types of comic books that sell well are the first series comic books. There are many people who love buying these types of rare comic books.

When you sell comic books like these and they are in mint condition you can be sure that you can get a very high price for these early edition comic books. The best places to sell comic books that you have no need of or ones that you are expecting to get a profit from is your comic book store.

The internet and auction houses are also good places where you can sell comic books. There are many comic book collectors who attend these places so they can see what sort of comics are for sale and hope to buy a rare or coveted comic book. When you are looking to sell comic books the main facts to remember is that the various comic books must be ones that are in demand and the condition of the comic books should be excellent.

Muna wa Wanjiru is a web administrator and has been researching and reporting on internet marketing for years. For more information on sell comic books, visit his site at SELL COMIC BOOKS

[ Watch Video ] January 10th, 2010 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art

Investing in Comic Books

In a tough economy, we find ourselves looking to make a buck. We act like superheroes trying to fight this volatile economy. Well, why not look to the superheroes themselves? Comic books make for a great investment. They are lucrative and can be worth a lot of money. However, investing in comic books may not bring a big payoff right away. It can take fifteen to twenty years for a comic book to be valuable. Who would’ve thought that a childhood pastime would make you some money, and at the same time you get to have fun while purchasing comic books that bring some joy into your life.

Comic books are rising in value because of the increased popularity of them. Hollywood producers are making recognizable comic books heroes the stars of their movies. For people who are not familiar with the characters, they soon find themselves becoming more interested in them. Or people are reminded of characters they loved as a kid after seeing movies such as Ironman, Wonderwoman, and Superman. They are inspired to buy the comics after watching the movie.

Investing in comic books requires some work and dedication from the collector. They keep their value when they are in good condition and stored properly. There is also researched involved. How popular is the comic, what is the initial cost, what is the current value, how rare is the comic? You also have to decide what type of collector you want to be. There are different types of ways to be an investor for comics.

Investors simply care about the bottom line. They don’t have an emotional side attached with the comics and look to see how much money they can make from selling the comics. Another form of the investor is the person out to make some quick cash. This comic collector buys and sells in bulk tying to make fast money. Usually they are selling the most popular comics, not rarities. The EBay investor is closely related to the person trying to make some fast cash. They auction off their comic books on EBay. Usually they read the comics first and then sell them to get money back, but of course at a higher rate. Unlike the other investors they enjoy reading the comics and have some emotional attachment. Excitement not only comes from the comic but also the auctioning off of the book. Another type of investor simply looking at the bottom line is the inheritor. There is no sentimental value for the comics that were passed on to them. They want to get rid of the comics, but at the same time make a profit.

On the other hand, there are the emotional types of investors. To these types of people, there is sentimental value to the comics and they invest, trade, and purchase comics with value. The reader has the comics for their traditional purpose, reading. They don’t care about preserving the comic and enjoy the superheroes come to life as they read through the colorful pages of a comic. A step down from the reader is the part time reader. They enjoy comics but pick up and leave the hobby when it suits them. Last but not least, are the obsessive collectors. They dream, live, and breathe comic books. They categorize their comics, preserve the comics, and are the go-to guys for comic information.

Investing in comics has its rewards. Those rewards come in the form of money, joy, or excitement. Which collector are you and will you invest in comic books?

 

 

Krystle Green is a freelance writer. Mycomicshop.com is one of the largest retailers of comic books in the world. Mycomicshop is the online presence of Lone Star Comics, a leading retailer of comic books with seven stores in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. For more information please visit: www.mycomicshop.com .

[ Watch Video ] January 9th, 2010 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art

Do Copyright Laws Need Updating To Cope ...

Internet search giant Google has been found guilty of copyright infringement by a court in Paris. French publisher, La Martiniere, was awarded 300,000 Euros ($ 430,000) in damages and interest. Google was also ordered to pay the sum of 10,000 Euros ($ 14,000) each day until it withdraws the book extracts from its database. The court hearing was initiated by the French Publishers’ Association, La Martiniere and SGDL – an author’s group – who demanded that Google be forced to pay 15m Euros ($ 21m).

The size of the final settlement is not important for Google. However, the ruling may impact upon Google’s plans to scan, and make available online, as much of the world’s literature as it can. Google is currently in the process of scanning and storing as many books as possible. Books which are out of copyright are made available in their entirety, books still covered by copyright either have “snippets” made available or have the whole book made available under a previously agreed licensing scheme.

Google’s project to establish a worldwide digital library has seen it in court before. In 2001, a class action was filed by the Authors Guild, the Association of American Publishers and a number of individual publishers and authors who alleged that Google had breached copyright law by failing to seek the copyright holder’s permission in all instances prior to scanning books from university libraries.

At the time, Google claimed that it was operating under the “fair use” principle as only short snippets of books scanned without the permission of copyright holders were made available.

In 2008 an agreement was reached with Google establishing a $ 125 million fund to provide compensation for authors who had their works made available online. However, the deal covered North America only and there were still concerns regarding books which, whilst out of copyright in America, were still bound by copyright law in other parts of the world.

As well as opposition from Europe, including both the German and French governments, Google faces competition from Yahoo, Microsoft and Amazon – who all support the “Open Book Alliance” run by the Internet Archive. The Internet Archive is a non-profit organisation which is also in the business of scanning and digitising books. Over half a million books have been scanned and stored by the Internet Archive to date, all of which are available free online. The founder of the Internet Archive, Brewster Kahle, is concerned that Google is attempting to monopolise the library system.

Google points out that their project will make millions of currently out of print books, which otherwise be inaccessible to readers, available. It’s probably also worth noting that Amazon Kindle users can also download out of copyright ebooks for the Kindle direct from Amazon’s website. There are a number of other projects which make out of copyright books available online free. It seems probable that our reading habits are about to undergo a major change. The current methods of book storage and delivery will be brought up to date using the internet. However, in order for this to succeed, it will first be necessary to put a legal framework in place which protects the interests of authors and copyright holders.

Download free Kindle ebooks direct from Amazon and make your Amazon Kindle reader pay for itself in no time.

[ Watch Video ] December 27th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

Kinetic paper sculpture

These are more things I made out of paper.

[ Watch Video ] December 18th, 2009 | Comments: 17 | Channel: Art

Beatles Recording Engineer Geoff ...

Geoff Emerick’s Here, There, and Everywhere is ikely my very favorite Beatles connected book. Why? Because it offers such a fascinating and lifelike perspective on the recording of The Beatles classic records.

I enjoy that the book is focused on what was occurring within the studio rather than what the guys were doing personally. Comparatively other Beatles books are far too targeted on the biography of The Beatles and not enough on the music. It is as a result of of their albums that anyone is concerned about their biography.

The book is not entirely regarding The Beatles, it’s more of a Geoff Emerick biography (with an obvious focus on his time working with The Beatles) however if you’re thinking that that may make it less interesting, I really do not think that it does. I truly think it helps make his stories about The Beatles appear more “real.”

The book’s “realness” is one of my favorite things about it. I’ve read a ton of books on the Fab Four however many of them seem quite clinical in comparison. They’re often like a bunch of trivia pieced together. With Here, There, and Everywhere I felt like I was really there at Abbey Road Studio in the ’60s. Like a fly on the wall, taking it all in.

This book provides a nice look into The Beatles as musicians there’s actually a series of books called The Beatles as Musicians which goes into that more indepth.) We get a glimpse of Paul McCartney working tirelessly to get his bass guitar parts just right and we see Harrison improve his guitar playing talents through the decade.

Emerick was a very vital part of the band’s sound throughout their psychedelic period. Amazingly on his first full day as lead recording engineer he came up with ideas which helped make “Tomorrow Never Knows” sound so revolutionary.

If you are interested in buying this book you are not stuck with buying it on old fashioned paper, you’ll also buy it for your Kindle. If you don’t have a Kindle yet then I suggest shopping for the Kindle DX Digital Book Viewer because of it’s larger size, it makes it more easy to read. If you live outside of the US, you will need to purchase a Kindle with Global Wireless.

As much as I like reading about the recording of The Beatles music, I enjoy listening to their albums even more. And I think it is a fantastic idea to have the new remastered versions of The Beatles back catalog around to hear to while you’re reading this very interesting book. In particular I recommend getting The Beatles in Mono Box Set because Emerick mentions several times in this book how he thinks the mono mixes are superior (specifically in relation to Sgt Pepper.)

Harold Maxwell Quesenberry also recommends buying The Beatles Stereo Box Set and The Beatles USB

[ Watch Video ] December 16th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

Suspense Fiction Books Are Imaginations ...

Reading is relaxing and opens our minds to imagination. Settling in with one of the newest suspense fiction books will keep you on your toes till the very end. There is nothing better than finding a book that keeps you wondering all the way to the end, who really done it.

In fiction the characters are not real people. The entire story is made up towns, people and situations. The characters are meant to scare us witless and wanting more. Writing a good suspense is exciting and a chance to let your imagination free. If you have considered writing, why put it off, grab a pencil and your imagination and get started.

If you are just considering writing as a hobby, you can take your time. Start off slow and let it happen as it does. You do not have to rush out and write the best seller in a day. Read the following pointers and let your imagination do the rest.

Start with a general idea of where you want your story to take place. Choose a place that you were afraid of as a child and build on that. Make it a place that will be predominant through out the story. It could take place in a town early in the story and develop into returning later. Just remember your childhood fears and make them adult fears.

The character is the next step. It is best to have a few main characters that interact through out the story. Remember there are also a good guy and a bad guy and many others in between. Make your characters come to life by describing them in full detail. Include their hair color, eye color and even what they are wearing if necessary. They point is to make them appear real. If the reader can picture the way they look they will come to life.

Each chapter should incorporate more and more suspenseful scenes. The more you build the suspense the better. Try and make the reader guess what will happen next. The best part is when the reader thinks they have it figured out only to find they were totally wrong. This will make them want to continue reading until they find the next possible answer. If possible make two or three suspects seem like the perfect answer to the puzzle and then switch it up to keep the readers guessing if maybe they were wrong again.

The ending should be a complete aha ending. Something the reader never saw coming. A good suspense will leave the writer as scared as the reader. If you get stumped on how to start or finish a book visit the library and read a couple of the best suspense novels you can find. Sometimes inspiration can be found in the place you would least expect it.

Often times the words will come to you when you are trying the least. If you have an idea of where you want your story to take place or simply the type of character you want to create, the rest will come. Try to not over think your idea. Your imagination is a powerful tool, let it go and write the words as you think of them. If you have to delete and rewrite, you will still have a general starting point. Suspense fiction books are imaginations coming to life in print. You can imagine your character as horrifying as you want and you can put them in any town, house or site. They are your imagination; let them be whoever you want.

Looking to find the best deal on suspense fiction books, then visit www.dennisclarknovels.com to find the best advice on suspense novels for you.

[ Watch Video ] December 16th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

Buying For The Suspense Fiction Books ...

If you have a serious mystery suspense reader on your Christmas list this year, you have no time to waste. This article will go into some of the best books that you can get your avid enthusiast that are sure to bring about some smiles come Christmas morning. Suspense fiction books are pretty easy to come across, and that’s part of the problem in finding one that really grabs the reader start to finish.

It is not always as easy as saying one book is better than some other choice. You will likely have to rely heavily on reader rating and critique. However, the novels listed below are what many have voted among the very best in suspense fiction.

First on the list is A Stranger Is Watching, which a book that came roaring out of 1977. This was written by a household name in suspense books: Mary Higgins Clark. It describes the story of a man who is trying to pick up the pieces a couple of years after the murder of his wife. Not long before the convicted killer is to be executed, the man comes to find that his son and girlfriend have both been abducted. Now the race is on to determine who, how and why.

Another hit is the 1992 classic Along Came A Spider by James Patterson. In this gripping novel, Patterson pens the first of his series of books with Detective Alex Cross as the protagonist. The story follows the pursuit of a maniacal genius who has abducted two different children from two reputable families in the Washington D. C. Area. Will Cross be able to apprehend the criminal? Will he save the children in time?

The next book is considered the best selling suspense novel of all time, and that is: And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. This book was first released in 1939, and it has seen some facelifts for the cover’s sake many times (the most recent in 2001). The story depicts ten very different people stranded on an island. They begin to die mysteriously in accordance with an old, wicked nursery rhyme. The question is: can you peg the murderer?

Another brilliant novel upon this listing is A Simple Plan from Scott B. Smith which was brought out in 1993. It depicts the lives of 3 acquaintances that bechance over a destroyed airplane. Within this airplane are a pulse less pilot and a traveling bag chockfull of money… 4 million bucks to be precise. Rather than notifying the police, they prepare a plan to hide the money underground and hold off an entire year prior to splitting it evenly. The best laid plans… And so forth. This novel is powerful and absorbing, and a great read for just about anybody upon your list.

The final addition to the list is Lemon in the Basket by Charlotte Armstrong. This book was published in 1967 and it details the dark secrets of the Tyler family. The whole book seems to rest on the premise of bringing to light the hidden flaws of what appears to be a perfect family. When a stranger shows up seeking a place to stay and mend for awhile, the Tyler family soon begins to notice chaos and terror stirring in the secrets they have kept. They will not remain secrets, and that might cost some of them everything.

You are likely to make the reader on your list very happy with any of these additions to their library. These are considered to be among the greatest suspense fiction books of all time and therefore are sure to be a pleaser. The best part for you is, you can find all of these books for as low as one cent online with sites like Amazon. Now that’s a great gift for everybody!

Want to find out more about suspense fiction books, then visit Jeremy Carden’s site on how to choose the best novels for your needs.

[ Watch Video ] December 14th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

Must-Read African American Novels

African American novels have been making an impact on the world for a very long time, and while most African American novels are great, there are a few that are simply incomparable, and these books by black authors are definite must-reads.

The Color Purple was written by Alice Walker and is a book that is a definite read for anyone who is interested in good fiction books. The story is about a young black woman named Celie who has a very difficult life, the story follows Celie and her sister, Nettie, as they live in a world that is not designed for people of their color. Celie goes through tremendous changes in the book. The strength and substance in this book is why it is always listed as one of the best African American novels of all time.

Zora Neale Hurston took the world by storm and garnered plenty of attention and controversy when she wrote Their Eyes Were Watching God. This novel follows Janie Crawford and tells the story of her life thanks to a very long flashback that is told by her best friend, Phoeby. The story of her life has three major periods, and each one corresponds to a marriage with a different man. While this novel did not receive the praise that it deserved when it was written, it has now become one of the best and most well-loved African American novels to exist.

Toni Morrison is a name that is familiar to anyone who enjoys books by black authors, but Beloved is likely her most-well known book, probably due to it winning a Pulitzer Prize. This story is based loosely on the life and case of the slave who was named Margaret Garner. The story is a complicated one and is all about learning one’s identity and how motherhood affects us all, with undertones of slavery and even voodoo.

And This Too Shall Pass, written by E. Lynn Harris, is a story that takes readers into the heart of Chicago, where four lives intersect in romance and scandal. The story follows Zurich, a gay rookie quarterback who winds up being sued for sexual harassment by a female sportscaster who has her sights set on fame. This interesting tale is one that is a definite must-read for anyone who is interested in unique African American novels.

For more on must-read African American novels, as well as a variety of other books written by black authors, visit 21blackstreet.com

[ Watch Video ] December 11th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

Black Expressions – 5 Tips To Make ...

The Black Expressions book club has been around for a number of years. Its mission has been to bring amazing books by African American authors to the masses. Using the book club is very easy – you simply sign up and then select which books you want to have delivered to your house. Making the most out of the book club, however, is a bit different. Here are five tips to help you to make the most of Black Expressions.

1. Look for older books. Many people who sign up for the Black Expressions Book Club look for books that were written by authors who live in today’s world. Some of the best books, however, were written by African American authors who lived a long time ago. These books focus on the struggle to find one’s identity, and on what it was like to live as a second class citizen so many years ago. These books are a great way to learn about history.

2. Read biographies. Many people don’t read biographies because they believe that they’re boring, but the lives of many African American authors, especially the authors that lived a very long time ago, are fascinating reads.

3. Check out the kids books. The Black Expressions Book Club carries a wide array of children books. These books are written by African American authors and while many of them focus on the same ideals that the books that are written for adults focus on, some of them are classically written children books. Getting Black Expressions children books is a great way to introduce children to books by African American authors.

4. Check out the heritage and culture section. The heritage and culture section of the Black Expressions club is a great way to learn about the history of this culture. These books are all written by African American authors who are able to touch on the past in a respectful and truthful way.

5. Exclusive editions is a great section to go to for books that you will have a hard time finding anywhere else. These editions are great books for people who enjoy books written by African American authors and who like to have unique pieces that they can’t find anywhere else.

There are many ways that you can make the most of the Black Expressions Book Club, but the best tip is to look in sections of the club that you wouldn’t generally think of looking in, as it allows you to find great books that you might not have heard of before.

The Black Expressions Book Club is a great way to learn about African American authors. Find out more at 21blackstreet.com.

[ Watch Video ] December 7th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

African American Authors – Reading ...

When we’re young we get a lot of information about the world through books. The first thing that most children remember from their childhood is reading books either with their parents or while they were a school.

Grade school children are constantly cracking open a book to learn about what happened in the history of the nation as well as the history of the world. There is, however, one problem with this: most of the books that children are given to read were written by people who came out on top. For instance, students rarely read a book that was written by the loser of the wars that they read about.

The same concept holds true to the writers of the books. Most of the novels that were written when slavery existed were written by white people. This is because they were the most educated people and were the ones who were considered to be first class citizens. Black authors, at this time, did not really exist. This is because most of the would-be African American authors weren’t taught how to read and write, and so the stories that they made up simply weren’t put down on paper.

There are a few instances, however, which were the exceptions to the rule. The first is Phillis Wheatley. Phillis Wheatley was taken from Africa as a child and was sold to the Wheatley family. It was through their kindness that she was taught to read and write, and she used her learning to publish a book of poems. Another more controversial story is that of Fredrick Douglass. Fredrick Douglass actually wrote a book about himself, which now can help readers understand who he truly was and what he was all about.

There are many stories out there that children, as well as adults, can read to learn about history, but very few pieces of work that were written by African American authors. It is actually extremely important that we show our children these pieces of work, as it helps them to understand the full scope of what it was truly like living many years ago, back when slavery was considered normal and when blacks were considered to be second degree citizens. Most historians claim that only by knowing about the past can get a true understanding of ourselves as a people.

J.D. Theis has long been interested in sharing information about African American authors and black authors with the masses, and does so through 21blackstreet.com

[ Watch Video ] December 6th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

Heroes Of Comic Books

Do you read comics? Then you probably know what a wonderful world it can be. Deep and rich characters, some of which who have been around longer than many of us with compelling stories.

However, these characters still are criticized for being too nerdy. On the other hand, all of us know and love them despite this since we are aware of how easily they compete with anything that’s being read by the “literary specialists”. In any case, there are a few graphic novels in Time Magazine’s Top 100 Novels.

But the thing about reading comics is that, readers often like to discuss what is happening in the world of comics and well…at times that can be difficult. Your friends may be ready to talk about a movie or sports team but maybe not a comic book.

I swear it, when all I ever wanted to talk about was the rebirth of Hal Jordan, almost everyone would look at me like I was some kind of nut. It was a shock to me that no one had ever heard about Hal Jordan or his rebirth. Those Philistines! All of them are Philistines!

Perhaps you have been in comparable circumstances. There’s a pretty big chance that no one you know has interest in any comics. The only people you will meet who loves comics as much as you do are the ones who are in the stores you go to for buying your comics. Chances are if you’re like me, that this simply won’t cut it! Well, you’re in luck my friend, for today there is a place where anybody can get their comic book talk fix.

A place online where you can share your stories about your favourite comic book heroes, without feeling like noone understands you. Just come over and join our community which consists of others, just like you. I’m sure you’ll love it. And don’t forget, spread the word about this community, if you know others like you that enjoy the world of Comic Books and Comic Book Heroes.

COMIC HEROES is the newest blog on the scene for people to read about more than the usual release date and book review jazz on the other sites. Funny minutiae, must buy books, a starter guide for readers, and of course fan boy blab about everyone’s favorite comic book characters. So what’s the hold up? Your Comic Heroes are waiting…

[ Watch Video ] December 6th, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

The African American Author in History

The impact of the African American author in history is one that can be discovered simply by doing a little bit of research. The impact can be felt, however, almost anywhere you go. Great African American literature has helped us as a people to see what it is like to live in another culture and in another skin. This work is all thanks to many an African American author in history.

One of the first authors to make a name for themselves was Phillis Wheatley. Phillis was brought from Africa when she was a small child and was sold in Boston, Massachusetts to the Wheatley family. At the time she came to America she spoke no English. After some time with her owners she mastered the language and, as a bound slave published Poems on Various Subjects in 1773. This was the first literature that was written by an African American author that is written in the history books. It took almost 100 years before another work of African American literature was published, which was the Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass, published in’45.

With the turn of the 20th Century, education began leading to a new black culture in America. Many different groups were created in order to help get African American literature noticed by the public. It is because of these groups that people began to realize how much they could learn from African American literature.

One of the biggest things that many people get from older pieces of African American literature is what it was like being labeled as a “second class citizen” in the nation. Most of history was written by the ones who were in charge, but literature from an African American author who lived during the time can help us to realize what it was like to truly live in that society, and to live as a person who was not considered an actual person.

African American literature is very important in history, especially the literature that was written by people who were slaves or who were descendants of slaves. The next time you think about picking up a book, you may want to take a look at the many different type of African American literature that are often written by black authors, especially the older pieces, as they can help you to see a piece of history.

Information about the importance of African American literature, and the history of the African American author, can be found at 21blackstreet.com.

[ Watch Video ] December 3rd, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books

What We Can Learn From Black Authors

The world is filled with millions of books. These books range from ones that were written hundreds of years ago to ones that were written just yesterday. In all of these books there are a few specific types of tales, and while the themes generally stay the same, it is the variety in the themes that makes them interesting and informative to read. Novels and stories that were written by black authors are generally books that are very interesting to read for people who do not share the same skin color, for a variety of reasons.

The first thing that most people do not realize is that African American literature has a style and cadence of its own, most especially novels that were written by black authors who lived a hundred years ago. This is because the culture has its own identity and the majority of the people who live in it have a different way of speaking and a different dialect. These people are able to use their dialect and to put it into the stories that they’ve written, which, at first, makes for a confusing read but which helps to truly immerse oneself into the story.

One of the biggest lessons that people who are reading African American literature can glean from it is what it is like to live in another person’s skin. We live in a world surrounded by people of different color, but for the most part we only know what it is like to live in our own color of skin, not what it is like to live in skin that is colored something differently than our own skin is colored.

Black authors help us to see what it is like to live in a world wearing someone else’s skin. While many of the themes of these stories are the same as stories written by people in all colors and cultures, the simple fact that these stories are written by people who live in a different world, even if it is only different in a very slight manner, is enough to help us to see a piece of what it is like to live in a different culture.

Reading books by black authors gives us the experience that we would not be able to get otherwise – to live in the skin of someone else, even if its only for a few hundred pages.

For more information about black authors, and African American literature, you can visit 21blackstreet.com

[ Watch Video ] December 1st, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Channel: Art Books