2018 Black Authors and Readers Rock Weekend

Sharon Lucas has done it again! YES, the 2018 BARR weekend (September 14 – 15, 2018) at the Harborside Hotel in Oxon Hill, MD was a hit.

On Friday, I taught a workshop titled “Why Joining a Writing Group Makes You a Star!” I had a great group of folks who were interested in learning what to look for in a writing group and how to start one. I will share the tips in a separate upcoming blog post.

Later that evening, the audience tuned in to the Men in Literature Panel that featured Victor McGlothin and Black Topp. Both authors talked about their writing journeys and future plans. This was followed by a reception in honor of the BARR 2018 Literary Icon Tina McElroy Ansa.

On Saturday, there was a live taping of the “The Tea,” an online talk show for people who love books. Janelle Clayton, Deborah Franklin, Nigeria Lockley, and Dina Strachen discussed Barracoon by Zora Neal Hurston. It got very emotional at times. I made a note to put this book in my reading rotation.

Then this was followed by a panel (“Your Book – From Your Head to Print”) led by Cherrie Woods where she interviewed Tina McElroy Ansa, Victor McGlothin, and Renee Flagler. Great stuff!

A delicious lunch was served then it was followed by guest speakers Victoria Christopher Murray and ReShonda Tate Billingsley. They shared their writing joys with everyone and sold some books too.

Overall, it was a great event. It was also wonderful seeing fellow authors/friends Cherrie Woods, Denise Cuffie, Dr. Hattie Washington, V. Helena Yancey and so many more. Looking forward to 2019 BARR weekend and I hope to see you there too!

Until next time, here are some photos from the event:

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