POETRY & LITERATURE

On November 18 and 19, 2011, legendary Oscar Award-winning actor Louis Gossett, Jr., actor-turned-activist Isaiah Washington, actor Taye Diggs, and daughter of reggae icon Bob Marley, Cedella Marley, will headline the inauguration of The Soul of South Florida Book Expo. The Expo is the premier event in the Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach area specifically targeting authors and readers of color. This family-oriented event will be held at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale.

The Soul of South Florida Book Expo will begin with a star-studded kick-off gala on Friday, November 18, 2011 featuring “An Evening with Isaiah Washington” from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets will be sold for this event, and the price will include a signed copy of Isaiah Washington’s latest book "A Man From Another Land." For more information, call the Oracle Group International, a literary event production company, at 954-793-6401.

On Saturday, November 19, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., patrons will enjoy a day-long expo which will host authors, music, vendors and children's activities. This free event is produced by The Oracle Group International and co-sponsored by the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Friends of the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, a facility that houses research, special collections, a cultural center, museum and a public library all under the same roof. The Expo is free and open to the public; however, due to the expected crowds, prior registration is encouraged.

In addition to Cedella Marley and Louis Gossett Jr., authors slated to appear at the Expo on Saturday include best-selling author Victoria Christopher Murray, and highly acclaimed young adult author L. Divine. Speaking on behalf of the publishing side of African-American and Afro-Caribbean literature is Haitian-born Yona Deshommes, publicity manager at Atria books who works with best-selling authors like Zane, TD Jakes, Nicola Kraus and rapper/actor Common. Expo participants can meet and hear first-hand from their favorite authors, get books signed and have photos taken.

Vendors are encouraged to register for this event and give the public an opportunity to buy food, books and music and provide activities for children. For more information, call 954-357-6224. The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center is located at 2650 Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, phone 954-357-6282.