Take 5 with Black Writers Weekend founder Tamika Newhouse

What exactly is art; who defines it; who makes it, and where in Atlanta do poets, thespians, and artists congregate and create? We’ll use this space to catch up with a few for a few…some you may know; others we hope you’ll be pleased to meet their acquaintance.

Atlanta is know for many things: having the busiest airport in the world, the home of Waffle House, and being able to morph from Wakanda to the District of Panem through the magic of film and special effects. It’s s also a hub for up-and-coming writers and creatives in various disciplines.

The upcoming Black Writers Weekend , set for Aug. 1-3, is the brainchild of one of those creatives , Tamika Newhouse.

This festival, rooted in Black storytelling, could not have grounded itself in a better place than the home of Tayari Jones, Pearl Cleage, and the late Shay Youngblood Valerie Boyd.

When she is not reading, writing, or promoting books, Newhouse can be found hanging out in Smyrna or alongside the Chattahoochee River because she’s a “nature walk kinda girl.” Also be sure to check out Newhouse’s Spotify playlist below.

You’ve written at least 21 books, including your series like Suga Hill and Plain Jane . Could you share the story of one of your books, how you navigated the path from idea to publication, and any advice you would give writers working on their first book?

My favorite so far has to be The Words I Didn’t Say , simply because I am a stickler for love. I mean true love, the type of love you don’t mind being vulnerable to. This story sticks with me because it inspired me to share a story that would hit the reader hard. I wanted my readers to feel a wave of emotions when they closed the final chapter of this book and take with them the confidence to love fearlessly. Life is what you make it, so make it one with love, adventures, and risks.

For writers working on their first book… don’t think about who will read it, if it’s good, or even if it will sell. That part doesn’t matter if you don’t have a completed story yet. Write the story and just focus on that.

What inspired you to create this multi-genre book/art festival, and what is your favorite part?

In 2009, I was inspired to create experiences around books to get people from the cyber world back into each other’s faces. COVID-19 showed us we need human interaction, so I wanted to bring people together to discuss books. I led the way by placing myself on the stage and sharing that space with others. My work has pioneered dozens of events and concepts, and I am proud to say that I have influenced a culture around reading.

Tell us about Black Writers Weekend and what unique experiences or themes your festival offers to attendees.

Black Writers Weekend is rooted in Black storytelling. It features conversations, book signings, marketplaces filled with independent writers, film screenings, and live podcast conversations. I cater to authors seeking connections and opportunities and readers who want to be exposed to great stories. There’s something for everyone.

I noticed you have some sessions related to TV and film. If a production company could greenlight one of your novels for a film or TV series, which one would you choose, and why this particular story?

Ironically, it would be my memoir podcast, Traces of Mika . This is the story to tell because it’s unfiltered, funny, and emotional. It sheds light on so many issues within Black families. Stories like this shed light on those suffering in silence and begin to inspire and heal a generation.

In addition to books and writing, tell us something you are passionate about.

I am a huge advocate for mental health because life will simply kick you in the ass whether you’re rich or poor, young or old, and we have to have the mental skills to sustain this thing we call life. I dare you to dream; I dare you to be vulnerable. I dare you to take risks. Because at the end of the day, like Glorilla said, “that day gotta end.”

Listen to Tamika Newhouse’s playlist:

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