1. Write what they've been waiting to hear, not your doctoral dissertation or theoretical diarrhea. That may be easy formula to you but consequently boring to them;2. Remember how it felt when you turned 14 and society no longer considered you cute and safe;
3. The ones you need to impress are the young males themselves, not your agent and not your ego;
4. Pitch to all publishers, not just African Americans. Because sometimes water is thicker than blood;
5. Consider the frustrations of a single mother with limited resources and funds;
6. Don't forget the fathers who do pay child support but are still not allowed to see their children;
7. Don't forget to bring up Africa because self-esteem begins at the Gold Coast, not at the American car show;
8. Always carry a few copies on you to give away;
9. Choose a cover design that speaks their language, not yours;
10. Use your personal copy when life coaching students, doing workshops and mediating;
(Artwork by student, Jacquie Torres)
