Award-winning journalist/author, Belva Davis, is in the Southland this weekend for a number of meet-and-greet-and-book signing events. As Black History month draws to a close, this is an incredible opportunity to meet a trailblazer, Davis, the first African American female reporter/anchor in the West, who covered some of the most significant news stories of the past few decades while fighting racism and sexism.
In her memoir, “Never in My Wildest Dreams: A Black Woman’s Life in Journalism,” Davis describes her fascinating journey, from a difficult childhood to a broken first marriage to becoming one of the top TV journalists in the country. It’s an excellent read without rancor or bitterness. Entertaining, insightful, humorous at times, and engaging from the first to the very last page.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I have to say I am a long-time fan of Davis. Growing up in the Bay Area, I watched Davis with awe and admiration on the small screen as she reported the news and co-anchored a newscast at KPIX-TV in San Francisco. The relationship became both personal and professional, when later I got my first real broadcast news job in the KPIX newsroom.
“Never in My Wildest Dreams” is an important book. It should be read by all who enjoy the against-the-odds triumph of determination and talent over adversity. Here’s a list of upcoming Southland appearances by Davis.
Sunday, February 27, 2011 — 7 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Agape International Spiritual Center — talk and book signing
- 5700 Buckingham Parkway
- Culver City, CA 90230
Monday, February 28, 2011 — 7 p.m.
- Vroman’s Bookstore — talk and book signing
- 695 East Colorado Boulevard
- Pasadena, CA 91101
Tuesday, March 1, 2011 — 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Eso Won Bookstore — reception, talk, and book signing
- 4331 Degnan Boulevard
- Los Angeles, CA 90008
All events are free and open to the public.
