For my first formal book club meeting, I have to admit, I was on point…for the most part.
Omar and I arrived at Olive Garden in Smyrna, Georgia, the designated hot spot for the Urban Divas first meet-and-greet with this new author named James W. Lewis. I spotted a few of the lovely Divas at the bar, just chillin’, catching up with each other, having a few “dranks.” Although somewhat nervous, I met up with the head Diva Stacie and chit-chatted a tad. Then I mingled with a few other members, getting to know each one. In no time, my nerves went beddy-bye.
No, they didn’t – I’m lying. Would they tear me a new one because they hated the book? How would they react to remarks made about black women? Shoot, how would they react to me?
About fifteen of us eventually sat at a mile long table with me at the head feeling like King Jaffe Joffer from Coming to America. Then we engaged in a surreal moment–the dissecting of each main character in SELLOUT. Crazy, I’m telling you. Although I tried to stay cooler than a naked man in an igloo, I was a giddy twelve-year-old inside. I don’t think you heard me. They were talking about my book! Not just talking, but breaking it down! And I was cheesing it up as I watched each member discuss Terrell, Tammy and Penelope, my lead “children” of SELLOUT.
We read the book club questions (so glad I added them in there!). Some members had their issues with certain parts, but generally they really enjoyed my baby. One revelation shocked me, though: Several members did not want to read the book simply because of the title. Didn’t expect that at all. I guess “sellout” hits the gut hard for some people. Good thing is the members that chose to read SELLOUT were completely surprised at the plot. Guess you can’t always judge the book by its cover.
I had an excellent time with the Divas. Lot of suprises, laughs, smiles, pictures–all that. No criticisms either, just an honest discussion about race, dating and what they liked and disliked about SELLOUT. Mostly liked. 
Can’t wait for the next one.
