During National Book Month, Malik Books hosted Cedric The Entertainer book signing of his debut novel, “Flipping Boxcars” on Saturday, September 30. The legend comedian and award-winning actor now turned author, Cedric Kyles presents an homage to his grandfather Floyd “Babe” Boyce, a charismatic family man trying to create generational wealth during the Depression and World War II. During the signing attendees were able to enjoy a live saxophonist, meet new people, and enjoy the company of the Malik Books staff upon Kyles’ arrival.
Known as one of the Original Kings of Comedy, Cedric Kyles has made an indelible impact on television, film, Broadway, game shows, and the comedy stage. With four NAACP Image Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, he now ventures into the world of literature with his debut novel, in collaboration with Alan Eisenstock, to deliver a captivating tale inspired by his family’s rich history of storytelling.
Related Links:
FLIPPING BOXCARS By Cedric The Entertainer – Cedric The Entertainer Official Website (iamcedric.com)
Taste of Soul Spotlight: Malik Books – Los Angeles Sentinel (lasentinel.net)
A Conversation With Malik Muhammad, Founder And Owner Of Malik Books – ESHE Magazine INC. ™
Despite ever meeting his grandfather, Kyles paints a vivid portrait of his legacy as the novel follows Babe’s audacious plans to transform a derelict mansion into a sportsman’s paradise and gambling haven. Partnered with his best friend, Hootie, and his steadfast associate, Karter, Babe embarks on a journey riddled with risks, aiming to provide a better life for his beloved wife, Rosie, and their children. With undertone themes of racism, the path to success is anything but smooth. Weaving a tale of family, community, and opportunity, Kyles captures readers’ hearts with his masterful storytelling.
While explaining the main message of the novel, the entertainer shared, “I try to tell the story of love, community, and what my grandfather represented to me. He was a man that dealt with life when there was oppression and segregation, yet he used his creativity and the desire to win with humor and gravitas which pushed him through.”
“I want readers to understand we all got that in us. Go back and talk to your elders and find out those stories of our past and meet those family members. I got more connected with my family when writing this book although its mainly fictional, I had to do enough research to help me grow during the process.”
Fans and family gathered at Malik Books in Culver City to take photos and get their book copies signed by the icon. Malik Books is a black-owned, independent bookstore that specializes in books, calendars, cards, and gifts full of cultural diversity. The bookstore is a rare gem that offers a unique experience to its customers and served as the official bookseller of the 2022 Leimert Park Village Book Fair.
“We want our bookstore to be a place where people can not only embrace their Blackness, but also educate and empower themselves to connect with their African American heritage. Without any censorship at all, a person can explore his, her or their own Blackness and be enlightened through the pages of hundreds of books at Malik Books,” said owner Malik Muhammad.
Flipping Boxcars is available for purchase online or in person at local bookstores. Follow Malik Books at @malikbooks on Facebook and Instagram for more events and new releases.
