(Biloxi, MS) – The Black Authors Rock Bookstore will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, January 30, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Keesler Base Exchange.
Operated by Dr. LaTracey Drux, founder of the Black Authors Rock networking, training and mentorship organization, the bookstore will feature publications written by local African-American authors and others from around the globe. Along with book signings, Drux said the store will also host regular book readings.
“I’m elated to bring this labor of love to fruition,” Drux said. “I hope that this bookstore will serve as an inspiration to those who have a unique story to tell but often struggle to break through traditional publishing barriers in connecting with readers. We hope everyone embraces this literary endeavor of hope and perseverance.”
One of the grand opening highlights will be a book signing by Purpose Copeland, a local young author who is also Drux’s daughter. The eight-year-old will debut her first publication “Manners My Grandma Taught Me.” Drux said she encouraged her daughter to write the book after struggling to get the youth to embrace reading aloud. The writing process, she said, bolstered her daughter’s confidence in reading and writing.
WHAT: Grand Opening of Black Authors Rock Bookstore
WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
WHERE: Keesler Base Exchange, 506 Larcher Blvd., Biloxi, MS 39534
The Black Authors Rock is an online community of more than 2,000 Black authors and those who identify with and/or support and encourage Black literary contributions. Dr. LaTracey Drux is the founder and CEO of the organization and owner of the bookstore.