Book Launch Recap: “Soul Cry” by Deanna Cooper Mohammed at The Fresh Press Factory
Greetings, fellow book lovers!
On 27th July 2024, we had the pleasure of attending an incredibly enchanting event: the book launch for Deanna Cooper Mohammed’s debut work, Soul Cry. The venue was none other than The Fresh Press Factory in South, a locale that proved to be a perfect backdrop for this memorable evening.
From the moment we stepped into The Fresh Press Factory, it was clear that this was no ordinary book launch. The ambiance was infused with a sense of creative energy that mirrored the essence of Mohammed’s writing. The space, with its chic industrial design and artistic flair, felt like a natural extension of the pages of Soul Cry itself—vibrant, sophisticated, and deeply engaging.
The event kicked off with a warm welcomes. Deanna Cooper Mohammed’s presence was as captivating as her writing. She greeted each guest with genuine warmth and enthusiasm, making everyone feel like they were a part of something special. Her passion for her work was evident, and it was clear that Soul Cry is not just a book to her but a piece of her heart.
As the evening unfolded, we were treated to an intimate reading from Soul Cry. Mohammed’s voice, both soothing and powerful, brought the words to life in a way that left the audience spellbound. The pieces she chose were rich with emotion and insight, reflecting the profound themes of the book. This was complemented by local jazz singer performances and interpretative dance that beautifully echoed the sentiments of the readings. It was a harmonious blend of song, movement, poetry and prose that enhanced the emotional depth of the evening.
Following the book launch, we had the opportunity to catch up with Deanna Cooper Mohammed. When asked about the event, she shared, “Personally, it feels like purpose being fulfilled. That’s the only way I can think about it. I believe I accomplished that which I set out to because of the response I got. Even though the event wasn’t a large-scale event, those who were in attendance told me that it wasn’t like any book launch they’ve ever been to and people meeting me and saying that I’ve inspired them to step out of their comfort zone. So that is a success to me.”
Deanna also offered insight into the heart of Soul Cry: “My book, though one of poetry and narrative essays, touches on the themes of faith, fear, ownership, and so much more. People should read my book if they want to be inspired to function with faith even in the face of fear.”
Looking ahead, Deanna revealed an exciting future: “Well, a lot of people may not know that I’m a certified chef. So my next book is actually going to be a cookbook. Thereafter, I have two others lined up—one on self-love and the other is a devotional.”
The celebration didn’t end there. Scribbles and Quills’ CEO and Founder, Radeyah H. Ali, also shared her thoughts on the event and the book: “🌟 Finished reading Soul Cry by Deanna Cooper Mohammed, and WOW! This collection is a burst of passion and truth. My fave? ‘Ode to Helios’—the sun as a metaphor for love is pure genius. 🌞✨ Had to read it twice! The book launch was an absolute vibe with song, dance, and pure artistry bringing every word to life. Can’t wait for more from this incredible voice! 📚🎉”
For those who couldn’t make it to the launch, we highly recommend picking up a copy of Soul Cry. Deanna Cooper Mohammed has crafted a narrative that is as deeply affecting as it is beautifully written. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to her work, this book promises to be a moving and unforgettable read. Of course, you can find her book on our shelves at Scribbles and Quills!
In conclusion, the launch of Soul Cry at The Fresh Press Factory was a celebration of literature, creativity, and community. It was a night filled with inspiration and joy, and we are grateful to have been part of it. Congratulations to Deanna Cooper Mohammed on the release of her remarkable new book, and here’s to many more literary successes to come!
Happy reading, everyone!
The SQ Team