Silent Water (& Dream Books) Productions
Honoring the Difficult & Divine
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Our Mission
We will bring some of the most dynamic writers, artists and activists from diverse backgrounds to uplift books/art and spark change. The Diversity Project is a creative outlet dedicated to female and BIPOC voices, and a consulting agency supporting stores and venues looking to incorporate diverse representation to their customers and communities. The primary goal of The Diversity Project is to use various media platforms and promotional pieces to elevate unique BIPOC and female issues and stories.
Our Focus
Topical issues and relevant books will be presented by writers, other artists and agents of change. For too long BIPOC and women have been marginalized in the literary and activist circles, but recently their stories have become more appreciated and sought after. Now more than ever as the world is facing unique challenges and changing drastically on several levels, people need the healing aspect(?) of diverse and inclusive communities. As such, SWP will creatively and effectively connect the writers/artists with the targeted audiences and merchants.
Our Values
Educate I Entertain I Engage I Inspire
Honoring the Difficult & Divine
_____________________________________________________
______________________________________________
___________________
Our Mission
We will bring some of the most dynamic writers, artists and activists from diverse backgrounds to uplift books/art and spark change. The Diversity Project is a creative outlet dedicated to female and BIPOC voices, and a consulting agency supporting stores and venues looking to incorporate diverse representation to their customers and communities. The primary goal of The Diversity Project is to use various media platforms and promotional pieces to elevate unique BIPOC and female issues and stories.
Our Focus
Topical issues and relevant books will be presented by writers, other artists and agents of change. For too long BIPOC and women have been marginalized in the literary and activist circles, but recently their stories have become more appreciated and sought after. Now more than ever as the world is facing unique challenges and changing drastically on several levels, people need the healing aspect(?) of diverse and inclusive communities. As such, SWP will creatively and effectively connect the writers/artists with the targeted audiences and merchants.
Our Values
Educate I Entertain I Engage I Inspire
At SWP, we curate, promote and moderate live and lively topical interviews and other type of events with authors, artists and activists. We do so by using various media platforms, such as Instagram, Facebook and other virtual outlets. Be it for our own SWP events or on behalf of our clients, we provide full service curation. From more simple one-on-one discussions, book promotions and launches, to complex special panel events, we bring all the necessary elements together. Whether virtually or in-person; whether intimate or larger functions, it all matters to us, and these presentations allow us and our clients to engage our audience.
Series Curator/Moderator
PAULA FARMER is a buyer and event host/moderator for Book Passage bookstores, having overseen hundreds of author events during her tenure there. In recent years, she’s been known for curating special panel events such as “Race in America” and “Immigration in America.” Additionally, she was selected to chair the Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee for the California Independent Booksellers Association (2019- present). Her background is as a news journalist/producer for outlets such as CBS Radio, ABC Radio, and a film and theater reviewer for the Detroit Metro Times, and Culture Vulture online arts magazine. After growing up in Detroit, and spending several years in New York, she now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area where in addition to holding positions at Book Passage, she continues work as a freelance journalist and website writer. For more information on Paula go HERE.
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UPCOMING EVENTS
_____________
SPECIAL AUTHOR INTERVIEW EVENTS FOR Book Passage
Ruby Bridges - Paula will be in-conversation with Civil rights icon Ruby Bridges—who, at the age of six, was the first black child to integrate into an all-white elementary school in New Orleans—inspires readers and calls for action in this moving letter. Her elegant, memorable gift book is especially uplifting in the wake of Kamala Harris making US history as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian vice president–elect. Her new book is written as a letter from civil rights activist and icon Ruby Bridges to the reader, "This Is Your Time" is both a recounting of Ruby’s experience as a child who had to be escorted to class by federal marshals when she was chosen to be one of the first black students to integrate into New Orleans’ all-white public school system and an appeal to generations to come to effect change.
Wednesday, Dec. 16th at 4:00 PT/ 7:00 ET. Register for this free event at bookpassage.com
Speaking Of ..." series - Paula Farmer on Instagram Live in conversation
@paulawritesreviews
Lenny Duncan - "Just another Black queer writer trying to survive “America”. Lenny is the author of "United States of Grace" and "Dear Church." Lenny is a nationally recognized writer, speaker, preacher, thinker, and agitator who has centered most of his theological work in the task of dismantling White Supremacy. Buckle up, get ready to be inspired, and join us for what is sure to be a dynamic talk about his writings, preaching, politics and social justice.
Join the discussion - Tuesday, Jan. 26th at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
Linda Gonzales - New Year, Same Sh*@, Better Perspective - Linda is a successful and passionate bilingual life coach, writer, and speaker, I draw on many years of fruitful experience working with diverse individuals and groups in the creative arts, non-profit, educational, health care, corporate, and government sectors. Grounded in multicultural wisdom, my purpose is to inspire people to embark on a creative journey of balance and healing for this and future generations. Her new book, "Breaking Through Your Own Glass Ceiling," offers simple, proven prosperity practices to address power dynamics faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous,and People of Color) and other underrepresented communities. You can begin today to identify and uproot unhealthy patterns and replace them with consistent thoughts and behaviors to embrace a full-hearted life—even in environments that do not support your well-being.
We'll be discussing transitioning into the New Year that may seem very much the same as last year, or worse, but with a different and broader perspective. Whether you're tackling personal, professional or political/social challenges, Linda will help us navigate the best and most realistic course for growth and success.
Join the discussion - Wednesday, Jan. 13th at 4:00 PT/ 7:00 ET
Anna Malaika Tubbs - I will be in conversation with advocate, scholar and debut nonfiction author, Malaika Tubbs as she introduces readers to Alberta King, Berdis Baldwin and Louise Little, three Black women born at the beginning of the 20th century. Much has been written about their famous sons, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. Precious little has been written about the women themselves, their families and early childhoods, the men they loved and lost, the joys and pains of raising their children in a cruel and violent country, and the resilience and the resistance of being black women in America. THE THREE MOTHERS represent a piece of history left untold and a celebration of Black motherhood long overdue.
Join the discussion - Tues. Feb. 2nd at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
Pam Grady - President, SF Bay Area Film Critics Assoc. - We're talking diversity in Hollywood, industry controversy and our "Top Ten" films of 2020 just before the awards season kicks off. On the heels of the Academy of Arts & Sciences implementing diversity and inclusion guidelines for Oscar Award consideration, the studios and industry pivoted to streaming platforms. The moves quickly made all involved the target of controversy. Pam and I will discuss these issues, along with our top picks in the year that was especially challenging to even determine a criteria.
Pam Grady is a San Francisco freelance writer who contributes to the San Francisco Chronicle, 48 Hills, and other publications. She is the president of the San Francisco Bay Area Film Critics Association. Her website is cinezinekane.com.
Get out your popcorn and join the discussion- Rescheduled- TBD
Anita Gail Jones - Writer & Organizer, Anita's Peach Corp (California Volunteers for Ossoff and Warnock) - On Tuesday, Jan. 5th all eyes will be on the Georgia Senate race. Helping to flip the state to blue, is tireless volunteer organizer and Georgia native, Anita Gail Jones. She is a resident of the SF Bay Area, but continues to monitor and help in their elections. As such, she rallied up some of the California troops to help her home state send Democrats to Congress in their special election. We may not know the winners by the time of our talk, but Anita will give us her predictions and share her insights. You don't want to miss this spontaneous by exciting event!
Join the discussion - Tues., Jan. 5th at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
_____________________________
ARCHIVED EVENTS
Past events include the dynamic speakers and topics below. You can access the recorded versions on the Instagram page @paulawritesreviews. Just click on the IGTV icon on the homepage.
Lisa Ludwinski - Sister Pie Bakery owner/co-founder - Sister Pie is a bright corner bakery in Detroit’s West Village on the east side of town. The menu at Sister Pie is nontraditional in flavor combinations, rustic in execution, and constantly changing to honor the local agriculture of Michigan. Sister Pie aims to celebrate the seasons through pie; to provide consistently delicious, thoughtful, and inventive food; to foster a welcoming environment for employees and customers through transparency, community engagement, and education.
Join the discussion - Thurs., Dec. 17th at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
Terrence A. Reese - Chicago-born Terrence A. Reese (“Tar”) has always had an eye for capturing the essence of his subjects, letting his images tell the story. His "Reflections" photography book is a black and white… documentary-style photography series, which captures the personal living spaces of renowned African Americans whose lives and careers have addressed the fundamental political, economic, and social realities of the 20th century and beyond. In each photographic image, a mirror is strategically placed and, the subject is reflected in it.
Join the discussion - Tuesday, Dec. 8th at 4:00 PT/ 7:00 ET
Our Favorite Books 2020 - Paula Farmer & guest Tyrinne Lewis (Dec. 9th show)- For this special edition show, Paula and bookseller, Tyrinne Lewis discussed their personal favorite titles of 2020 and previewed a few to look for in early 2021. As promised and about time, here are their lists in alpha order by title:
Tyrinne's Favs
Fiction:
All My Mother's Lovers - Ilana Masad
The Duke Who Didn't - Courtney Milan
Luster - Raven Leilani
Memorial - Bryan Washington
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Saving Ruby King - Catherine Adel West
Such a Fun Age - Kiley Reid
Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
Nonfiction:
Hood Feminism - Mikki Kendall
Magical Language of Others - E.J. Koh
White Tears/Brown Scars by Ruby Hamad
_________________________________________________________
Paula's Picks
Fiction:
Death of Vivek Oji - Akwaeke Emezi
Homeland Elegies - Ayad Akhtar
Interior Chinatown - Charles Yu
Leave the World Behind - Rumaan Alam
Memorial - Bryan Washington
Migrations - Charlotte McConaghy
Searcher (mystery) - Tana French
Vanishing Half - Brit Bennett
Water Dancer - Ta Nehisi Coates
Winter Counts (mystery) - David Heska Wanbli Weiden
Honorable Mention:
Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick (short stories) - Zora Neale Hurston
Deacon King Kong - James McBride
Confessions on the 7:45 (mystery) - Lisa Unger
Nonfiction:
Begin Again - Eddie Glaude, Jr.
Caste - Isabel Wilkerson
Dirt (memoir)- Bill Buford
Hood Feminism (memoir) - Mikki Kendall
How to Argue with a Racist - Adam Rutherford
Intimations (memoir/essays) - Zadie Smith
Our Time is Now - Stacey Abrams
Purpose of Power (memoir) - Alicia Garza
Stakes is High - Mychal Denzel Smith
We Keep Us Safe - Zach Norris
Caleb Zigas - is Executive Director of La Cocina nonprofit, which supports businesses by providing an affordable commercial kitchen space, industry-specific technical assistance and access to market opportunities. We focus primarily on providing resources to women from communities of color and immigrant communities. We discussed the accomplishments of La Cocina and goals, as well as the incredible challenges they have faced this year due to the pandemic.
To send the gift of La Cocina and support a worthy cause as discussed during the interview - GO HERE
Amelia Ray - is a writer, composer, singer, multi-instrumentalist, arranger and the creator and host of "Up, Up & A Ray" - a weekly variety show. From March-May 2020 she organised The Quarantuned Music Festival - a series of 24-hour, worldwide, virtual music festival to benefit artists affected by COVID-19 cancellations. Her latest single "Hambone Says" uses contemporary past aesthetic to explore racism, rage and role reversal in the U.S.
Watch The Making of "Hambone Says" - HERE; "Up, Up & A Ray" - a weekly, half-hour, live-streamed variety show - http://www.upupandaray.com
Calvin Crosby
Brian Copeland
Ian Haney Lopez
Julie Rubio
Margaret Kimberly
Zack Norris ____________________________
CALIBA "Virtually Speaking" series -
Mychal Denzel Smith - Paula Farmer will head up the conversation with writer, television commentator and author of the 2016 released book, "Invisible Man, Got the Whole World Watching" They'll be discussing Smith's dynamic and timely new nonfiction book, "Stakes is Hight: Life After the American Dream." Find out why he's a major voice for his generation.
Regional booksellers and publishing insiders join the discussion by registering @ https://www.caliballiance.org/virtually-speaking.html;
Oct. 5th at 3:15 PT
Luvvie Ajayi Jones - Save the date for my talk with the vivacious and inspiring author, speaker and podcast host, Luvvie Ajayi Jones. She truly thrives at the intersection of comedy, justice, and professional troublemaking. We'll be getting early information about her upcoming book, "Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual," due out next spring.
Regional booksellers and publishing insiders join the discussion by registering @ https://www.caliballiance.org/virtually-speaking.html;
Oct. 13th at 2:00 PT
MERCHANDISE
Are you tired of seeing the same ol' faces on book totes? They are often dead and monochromatic, and usually men. Not here. With the "Mixed Bag" selection we are featuring diversity and contemporary, along with some classic figures. The project is in early days, with varying stages of production. As soon as the inventory increases, you will be alerted and encouraged to buy for yourself, for friends, family and fellow book lovers.
Series Curator/Moderator
PAULA FARMER is a buyer and event host/moderator for Book Passage bookstores, having overseen hundreds of author events during her tenure there. In recent years, she’s been known for curating special panel events such as “Race in America” and “Immigration in America.” Additionally, she was selected to chair the Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee for the California Independent Booksellers Association (2019- present). Her background is as a news journalist/producer for outlets such as CBS Radio, ABC Radio, and a film and theater reviewer for the Detroit Metro Times, and Culture Vulture online arts magazine. After growing up in Detroit, and spending several years in New York, she now lives in the San Francisco Bay Area where in addition to holding positions at Book Passage, she continues work as a freelance journalist and website writer. For more information on Paula go HERE.
____________________
UPCOMING EVENTS
_____________
SPECIAL AUTHOR INTERVIEW EVENTS FOR Book Passage
Ruby Bridges - Paula will be in-conversation with Civil rights icon Ruby Bridges—who, at the age of six, was the first black child to integrate into an all-white elementary school in New Orleans—inspires readers and calls for action in this moving letter. Her elegant, memorable gift book is especially uplifting in the wake of Kamala Harris making US history as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian vice president–elect. Her new book is written as a letter from civil rights activist and icon Ruby Bridges to the reader, "This Is Your Time" is both a recounting of Ruby’s experience as a child who had to be escorted to class by federal marshals when she was chosen to be one of the first black students to integrate into New Orleans’ all-white public school system and an appeal to generations to come to effect change.
Wednesday, Dec. 16th at 4:00 PT/ 7:00 ET. Register for this free event at bookpassage.com
Speaking Of ..." series - Paula Farmer on Instagram Live in conversation
@paulawritesreviews
Lenny Duncan - "Just another Black queer writer trying to survive “America”. Lenny is the author of "United States of Grace" and "Dear Church." Lenny is a nationally recognized writer, speaker, preacher, thinker, and agitator who has centered most of his theological work in the task of dismantling White Supremacy. Buckle up, get ready to be inspired, and join us for what is sure to be a dynamic talk about his writings, preaching, politics and social justice.
Join the discussion - Tuesday, Jan. 26th at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
Linda Gonzales - New Year, Same Sh*@, Better Perspective - Linda is a successful and passionate bilingual life coach, writer, and speaker, I draw on many years of fruitful experience working with diverse individuals and groups in the creative arts, non-profit, educational, health care, corporate, and government sectors. Grounded in multicultural wisdom, my purpose is to inspire people to embark on a creative journey of balance and healing for this and future generations. Her new book, "Breaking Through Your Own Glass Ceiling," offers simple, proven prosperity practices to address power dynamics faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous,and People of Color) and other underrepresented communities. You can begin today to identify and uproot unhealthy patterns and replace them with consistent thoughts and behaviors to embrace a full-hearted life—even in environments that do not support your well-being.
We'll be discussing transitioning into the New Year that may seem very much the same as last year, or worse, but with a different and broader perspective. Whether you're tackling personal, professional or political/social challenges, Linda will help us navigate the best and most realistic course for growth and success.
Join the discussion - Wednesday, Jan. 13th at 4:00 PT/ 7:00 ET
Anna Malaika Tubbs - I will be in conversation with advocate, scholar and debut nonfiction author, Malaika Tubbs as she introduces readers to Alberta King, Berdis Baldwin and Louise Little, three Black women born at the beginning of the 20th century. Much has been written about their famous sons, Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. Precious little has been written about the women themselves, their families and early childhoods, the men they loved and lost, the joys and pains of raising their children in a cruel and violent country, and the resilience and the resistance of being black women in America. THE THREE MOTHERS represent a piece of history left untold and a celebration of Black motherhood long overdue.
Join the discussion - Tues. Feb. 2nd at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
Pam Grady - President, SF Bay Area Film Critics Assoc. - We're talking diversity in Hollywood, industry controversy and our "Top Ten" films of 2020 just before the awards season kicks off. On the heels of the Academy of Arts & Sciences implementing diversity and inclusion guidelines for Oscar Award consideration, the studios and industry pivoted to streaming platforms. The moves quickly made all involved the target of controversy. Pam and I will discuss these issues, along with our top picks in the year that was especially challenging to even determine a criteria.
Pam Grady is a San Francisco freelance writer who contributes to the San Francisco Chronicle, 48 Hills, and other publications. She is the president of the San Francisco Bay Area Film Critics Association. Her website is cinezinekane.com.
Get out your popcorn and join the discussion- Rescheduled- TBD
Anita Gail Jones - Writer & Organizer, Anita's Peach Corp (California Volunteers for Ossoff and Warnock) - On Tuesday, Jan. 5th all eyes will be on the Georgia Senate race. Helping to flip the state to blue, is tireless volunteer organizer and Georgia native, Anita Gail Jones. She is a resident of the SF Bay Area, but continues to monitor and help in their elections. As such, she rallied up some of the California troops to help her home state send Democrats to Congress in their special election. We may not know the winners by the time of our talk, but Anita will give us her predictions and share her insights. You don't want to miss this spontaneous by exciting event!
Join the discussion - Tues., Jan. 5th at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
_____________________________
ARCHIVED EVENTS
Past events include the dynamic speakers and topics below. You can access the recorded versions on the Instagram page @paulawritesreviews. Just click on the IGTV icon on the homepage.
Lisa Ludwinski - Sister Pie Bakery owner/co-founder - Sister Pie is a bright corner bakery in Detroit’s West Village on the east side of town. The menu at Sister Pie is nontraditional in flavor combinations, rustic in execution, and constantly changing to honor the local agriculture of Michigan. Sister Pie aims to celebrate the seasons through pie; to provide consistently delicious, thoughtful, and inventive food; to foster a welcoming environment for employees and customers through transparency, community engagement, and education.
Join the discussion - Thurs., Dec. 17th at 4:00 PT / 7:00 ET
Terrence A. Reese - Chicago-born Terrence A. Reese (“Tar”) has always had an eye for capturing the essence of his subjects, letting his images tell the story. His "Reflections" photography book is a black and white… documentary-style photography series, which captures the personal living spaces of renowned African Americans whose lives and careers have addressed the fundamental political, economic, and social realities of the 20th century and beyond. In each photographic image, a mirror is strategically placed and, the subject is reflected in it.
Join the discussion - Tuesday, Dec. 8th at 4:00 PT/ 7:00 ET
Our Favorite Books 2020 - Paula Farmer & guest Tyrinne Lewis (Dec. 9th show)- For this special edition show, Paula and bookseller, Tyrinne Lewis discussed their personal favorite titles of 2020 and previewed a few to look for in early 2021. As promised and about time, here are their lists in alpha order by title:
Tyrinne's Favs
Fiction:
All My Mother's Lovers - Ilana Masad
The Duke Who Didn't - Courtney Milan
Luster - Raven Leilani
Memorial - Bryan Washington
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Saving Ruby King - Catherine Adel West
Such a Fun Age - Kiley Reid
Take a Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert
The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
Nonfiction:
Hood Feminism - Mikki Kendall
Magical Language of Others - E.J. Koh
White Tears/Brown Scars by Ruby Hamad
_________________________________________________________
Paula's Picks
Fiction:
Death of Vivek Oji - Akwaeke Emezi
Homeland Elegies - Ayad Akhtar
Interior Chinatown - Charles Yu
Leave the World Behind - Rumaan Alam
Memorial - Bryan Washington
Migrations - Charlotte McConaghy
Searcher (mystery) - Tana French
Vanishing Half - Brit Bennett
Water Dancer - Ta Nehisi Coates
Winter Counts (mystery) - David Heska Wanbli Weiden
Honorable Mention:
Hitting a Straight Lick with a Crooked Stick (short stories) - Zora Neale Hurston
Deacon King Kong - James McBride
Confessions on the 7:45 (mystery) - Lisa Unger
Nonfiction:
Begin Again - Eddie Glaude, Jr.
Caste - Isabel Wilkerson
Dirt (memoir)- Bill Buford
Hood Feminism (memoir) - Mikki Kendall
How to Argue with a Racist - Adam Rutherford
Intimations (memoir/essays) - Zadie Smith
Our Time is Now - Stacey Abrams
Purpose of Power (memoir) - Alicia Garza
Stakes is High - Mychal Denzel Smith
We Keep Us Safe - Zach Norris
Caleb Zigas - is Executive Director of La Cocina nonprofit, which supports businesses by providing an affordable commercial kitchen space, industry-specific technical assistance and access to market opportunities. We focus primarily on providing resources to women from communities of color and immigrant communities. We discussed the accomplishments of La Cocina and goals, as well as the incredible challenges they have faced this year due to the pandemic.
To send the gift of La Cocina and support a worthy cause as discussed during the interview - GO HERE
Amelia Ray - is a writer, composer, singer, multi-instrumentalist, arranger and the creator and host of "Up, Up & A Ray" - a weekly variety show. From March-May 2020 she organised The Quarantuned Music Festival - a series of 24-hour, worldwide, virtual music festival to benefit artists affected by COVID-19 cancellations. Her latest single "Hambone Says" uses contemporary past aesthetic to explore racism, rage and role reversal in the U.S.
Watch The Making of "Hambone Says" - HERE; "Up, Up & A Ray" - a weekly, half-hour, live-streamed variety show - http://www.upupandaray.com
Calvin Crosby
Brian Copeland
Ian Haney Lopez
Julie Rubio
Margaret Kimberly
Zack Norris ____________________________
CALIBA "Virtually Speaking" series -
Mychal Denzel Smith - Paula Farmer will head up the conversation with writer, television commentator and author of the 2016 released book, "Invisible Man, Got the Whole World Watching" They'll be discussing Smith's dynamic and timely new nonfiction book, "Stakes is Hight: Life After the American Dream." Find out why he's a major voice for his generation.
Regional booksellers and publishing insiders join the discussion by registering @ https://www.caliballiance.org/virtually-speaking.html;
Oct. 5th at 3:15 PT
Luvvie Ajayi Jones - Save the date for my talk with the vivacious and inspiring author, speaker and podcast host, Luvvie Ajayi Jones. She truly thrives at the intersection of comedy, justice, and professional troublemaking. We'll be getting early information about her upcoming book, "Professional Troublemaker: The Fear-Fighter Manual," due out next spring.
Regional booksellers and publishing insiders join the discussion by registering @ https://www.caliballiance.org/virtually-speaking.html;
Oct. 13th at 2:00 PT
MERCHANDISE
Are you tired of seeing the same ol' faces on book totes? They are often dead and monochromatic, and usually men. Not here. With the "Mixed Bag" selection we are featuring diversity and contemporary, along with some classic figures. The project is in early days, with varying stages of production. As soon as the inventory increases, you will be alerted and encouraged to buy for yourself, for friends, family and fellow book lovers.
