Underground Books: Home
Ruthie Bolton “From Pain to Power”
Discussion and Book Signing
Underground Books
2814 35th Street
(916) 737-3333
Brandon Hughes: The Absent Father, The Wayward Son
Guild Theater (2828 35th Street)
A one-man play
Written, produced and performed by Brandon Hughes
For Tickets and to Watch Trailer visit
Tickets also available at Underground Books (2814 35th Street)
Children’s Storytime
Books, games and activities for kids ages 3-10.
Sponsored by River City Road Runners
Underground Books (2814 35th Street)
12pm-1pm
(916) 737-3333
Tracy Sanders “Natural Hair in the Workplace”
Discussion and Book Signing
If you have natural hair, transitioning to natural hair, or interested in natural hair topics, this book is a must read. This book provides an overview of federal and state employment discrimination laws in the United States. You will learn more about rights and obligations related to natural hair as an employee. You may gain added knowledge and awareness as an employer. You may be inspired through real-life stories. Hypotheticals, case studies, and practical tips help you navigate natural hair in the workplace.
Pamela Samuels Young “Abuse of Discretion”
Discussion and Book Signing
Kid’s Curiosity … A Parent’s Nightmare
The award-winning author of “Anybody’s Daughter” is back with an addictive courtroom drama that gives readers a shocking look inside the juvenile criminal justice system.
Sheryl Lister “A Touch of Love” Book Signing & Discussion
Lexia Daniels can’t deny that her café’s most loyal customer is as tempting as any of the delicious treats she bakes. Burned by a bitter divorce, she tries to keep her desire in check around Khalil Gray, but the gorgeous ex-model is intent on seduction. Then a devastating accident reveals the complicated man behind the perfectly sculpted body… A man she can’t seem to resist.
Art Talk: Clay West “Shades of Blackness”
With Clay West and Moderated by Milton 510 Bowens
Underground Books (2814 35th Street)
From a beginning as a source of relaxation while attending Dental School to a way of connecting with his people, “Shades of Blackness” by Clay Wilson is only a small portion of the works created by this local artist and dentist. Come and see this vibrant and thoughtful exhibit!
Children’s Storytime
Books, games and activities for kids ages 3-10.
Sponsored by River City Road Runners
Underground Books (2814 35th Street)
12pm-1pm
(916) 737-3333
Janay Brown Wood “Grandma’s Tiny House”
Discussion and Book Signing
Underground Books (2814 35th Street)
(916) 737-3333
Pepper Von “From God Through Me to You”
Discussion and Book Signing
Underground Book (2814 35th Street)
Indigo Moor “In the Room of Thirsts & Hungers”
Discussion and Book Signing
Underground Books (2815 35th Street)
In the Room of Thirsts & Hungers Publication Date: July 2017
Current Poet Laureate of Sacramento, Indigo Moor is also a playwright and author. His second book of poetry, Through the Stonecutter’s Window, won Northwestern University Press’s Cave Canem prize. His first book, Tap-Root, was published as part of Main Street Rag’s Editor’s Select Poetry Series.
Face 2 Face
By Lula Brown
Many of us are hurting and struggling through life’s storms. It can sometimes feel as though we are experiencing the wilderness alone. Circumstances arise suddenly and unexpectedly in life that can bring us to our knees. It is there where we have a deep desire to pray and seek God in prayer, but it’s hard to find the words and how to say them escapes us. Even if we are familiar with how to pray, devastating trials can take away thought patterns and leave us longing for the right words to say to our Lord.
We Were Eight Years in Power: An American Tragedy
By Ta-Nehisi Coates
In these “urgently relevant essays,”* the National Book Award–winning author of Between the World and Me “reflects on race, Barack Obama’s presidency and its jarring aftermath”*—including the election of Donald Trump.
Defining Moments in Black History / Reading Between The Lies
By Dick Gregory
With his trademark acerbic wit, incisive humor, and infectious paranoia, one of our foremost comedians and most politically engaged civil rights activists looks back at 100 key events from the complicated history of black America.
Sing, Unburied, Sing – Ward, Jesmyn
“The heart of Jesmyn Ward’s Sing, Unburied, Sing is story—the yearning for a narrative to help us understand ourselves, the pain of the gaps we’ll never fill, the truths that are failed by words and must be translated through ritual and song…Ward’s writing throbs with life, grief, and love, and this book is the kind that makes you ache to return to it.” —Buzzfeed
The Origin of Others
By Toni Morrison and Ta-Nehisi Coates
America’s foremost novelist reflects on the themes that preoccupy her work and increasingly dominate national and world politics: race, fear, borders, the mass movement of peoples, the desire for belonging. What is race and why does it matter? What motivates the human tendency to construct Others? Why does the presence of Others make us so afraid?
You are a Badass How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness And Start Living an Awesome Life
By Jen Sincero
In this refreshingly entertaining how-to guide, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author and world-traveling success coach, Jen Sincero, serves up 27 bite-sized chapters full of hilariously inspiring stories, sage advice, easy exercises, and the occasional swear word.
I Can’t Make This Up: Life Lessons
By Kevin Hart
Superstar comedian and Hollywood box office star Kevin Hart turns his immense talent to the written word by writing some words. Some of those words include: the, a, for, above, and eveneven. Put them together and you have the funniest, most heartfelt, and most inspirational memoir on survival, success, and the importance of believing in yourself since Old Yeller.
The question you’re probably asking yourself right now is: What does Kevin Hart have that a book also has?
The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarcerration in the age of colorblindness
By Michelle Alexander
“As the United States celebrates the nation’s ‘triumph over race’ with the election of Barack Obama, the majority of young black men in major American cities are locked behind bars or have been labeled felons for life. Although Jim Crow laws have been wiped off the books, an astounding percentage of the African American community remains trapped in a subordinate status — much like their grandparents before them.”
I Like Myself!
By Karen Beaumont
High on energy and imagination, this ode to self-esteem encourages kids to appreciate everything about themselves–inside and out. Messy hair? Beaver breath? So what! Here’s a little girl who knows what really matters.
At once silly and serious, Karen Beaumont’s joyous rhyming text and David Catrow’s wild illustrations unite in a book that is sassy, soulful–and straight from the heart.
The Mothers: A Novel
By Brit Bennett
A dazzling debut novel from an exciting new voice, The Mothersis a surprising story about young love, a big secret in a small community—and the things that ultimately haunt us most. Set within a contemporary black community in Southern California, Brit Bennett’s mesmerizing first novel is an emotionally perceptive story about community, love, and ambition. It begins with a secret.
Food, Health and Happiness – Winfrey, Oprah
Oprah Winfrey will be the first to tell you, she has had a complicated relationship with food. It’s been both a source of delight and comfort for her, but also the cause of an ongoing struggle with her weight. InFood, Health, and Happiness, Oprah shares the recipes that have allowed eating to finally be joyful for her.
Between the World and Me
Ta-Nehisi Coates
“In a profound work that pivots from the biggest questions about American history and ideals to the most intimate concerns of a father for his son, Ta-Nehisi Coates offers a powerful new framework for understanding our nations history and current crisis.”
Student Spotlight: Rayonna Thompson, ASB President
Meet “Ray” this year’s Sac High ASB President and Student Representative to the SHPS Board of Directors.
How long have you been at St. HOPE?
This is my fourth year. My sister went to PS7 and that’s when Sac High really caught my attention. The schools are not for everyone, but the focus on A-G requirements at Sac High really excited me and got me thinking about life after high school.
Why did you want to be the ASB President?
New Garden Mural Created by Dragon Alumni Aizik Brown
Edible Sac High sat down to get to know more about muralist, Aizik Brown, a 2012 Sac High graduate who also studied Studio Art at Humboldt State University. Aizik was inspired at a young age by his father, who was a graffiti artist. He remembered his father showing him how to draw and was totally stunned by it. “I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” said Aizik. “Once I found graffiti I did not want to stop doing it. I have to say that my father was the main influence and inspiration in me becoming an artist.”
St. HOPE Scholars Excel at College Track
HOPEsters participating in College Track ended the 16-17 school year with a bang and are off to a great start as they head back to school this August. Joining the Oak Park neighborhood in 2014, College Track’s mission is to remove the barriers that prevent students from earning their college degree by providing them with comprehensive academic support, leadership training, financial and college advising, and scholarships. Like us, they teach our scholars the skills necessary to succeed in college and beyond.
New clothing and accessories shop opens in Oak Park
Marcy 31, 2017
It’s not a men’s clothing store. It’s not a women’s boutique. Strapping is introducing Sacramento to androgynous apparel and accessories at its new shop, which soft opened Wednesday in Oak Park’s Broadway Triangle District.
“It’s a new concept,” says shop owner Susan Stewart, a retail veteran who lives in Tahoe Park and began her online company Strapping Fit in January 2016 with clothing and accessories she designed to fit her own body type and lifestyle.
Six great new restaurant patios to check out this summer
June 28, 2017
A hot summer night. A cool Delta breeze. Flowing conversation and wine (or beer). From a tropical oasis in midtown to a pastoral terrace in Sloughhouse, these six new restaurant patios have it all.
Burgers & Brew
Now coming to Oak Park – startups in shipping containers
July 13, 2017
A funky new concept is coming to ever-changing Oak Park.
Architect Ron Vrilakas has a plan to construct a mini startup campus on an empty lot at 34th Street and Broadway, across from the Broadway Triangle retail and housing development he built.
But this new venture comes with a twist: Up to 30 work and retail spaces in the building would be made out of shipping containers.
Meet Malcolm Brown
Malcolm Brown joined the St. HOPE Family this summer as the Managing Director of Operations. Learn more about Malcolm and his journey to St. HOPE in the brief interview below.
Malcom, tell us about where you come from and what’s prepared you for your new role?
Scholars Intern in Oak Park
While most students are sleeping in and hanging out with friends, a group of 12 scholars entering their senior year at Sac High participated in the new St. HOPE Oak Park Internship Program. The pilot program connects students with various nonprofit organizations all located in the Oak Park neighborhood for a 4-week volunteer internship of 12-15 hours per week.
Oak Park Prep Scholar Grows Over Five Grade Levels in Reading
Our Oak Park Prep scholars spend two years with us, and during each and every one of those days, all of them know our mission, which can be summed up in one word: growth.
We have always placed a special emphasis on literacy. Our scholars receive two specially designed ELA classes daily. One class focuses on rigorous, grade level content while the other meets them where they are, at their individual reading level. We believe this method enhances growth and promotes a culture of learning.
DeMarcus Cousins & VSP Global Host Basketball Camp at Sac High
New Orleans Pelican, NBA All Star, and 2016 Olympic gold medalist DeMarcus Cousins (DMC) has seen his share of successes. As a former Sacramento King, his impact was always a topic of debate. His on-court persona has been at odds with his off the court demeanor. Regardless of your opinion, one truth is evident; DeMarcus Cousins has kept his promise to the Sacramento youth who saw him develop as a professional into the superstar he has become.
Students excel at Sacramento High School
There’s been a dramatic turnaround at Sacramento High School.
Fourteen years ago, it was in danger of closing. Now, it’s a charter school with 800 students operating under St. Hope Public Schools. About 95 percent of all graduating seniors have been accepted into four-year colleges or universities for the second consecutive year.
One-third of all the students at Sacramento High School are from the surrounding neighborhood of Oak Park. But because it’s a charter school, Sacramento High must accept everyone who applies.
What is Cousins’ legacy? With Kings, it’s debatable. In Oak Park, it’s ‘everlasting.’
DeMarcus Cousins’ love for Sacramento did not end the day he was traded to the New Orleans Pelicans.
He’s still connected to the many friends he made in nearly seven years, and he’s still loyal to the children and families cared for as if they were his own. That’s why Cousins was at Sacramento High School on Wednesday, working up a sweat and having fun with over 200 children for the DeMarcus Cousins Elite Skills Camp, which was free to all youth who registered and included an eye exam from VSP and glasses for those who need them.
Senior Signing Day
Sac High seniors from the Class of 2017, joined by their families and other supporters, came together for the fifth annual Senior Signing Day Event on May 26th. This is one of Sac High’s showcase events and allows graduating scholars a platform to proclaim to the rest of the student body, as well as PS7 and Oak Park Prep students, where they will be attending college following graduation.
The Sacramento Black Book Fair
On June 2-3, 2017 Underground Books partnered with Blue Nile Press to present the 4th Annual Sacramento Black Book Fair!
Learning Beyond the Classroom
One of the many things that makes St. HOPE Public Schools special is having the nearby 40 Acres cultural center as an extension to school campuses. Following on the heels of a successful Best of Sac High student art exhibit, several Freshman Honors English classes visited 40 Acres as a field lesson to explore the artwork of their peers as well as tour the various St. HOPE Development Company projects.
Sac High Students Meet with NASA
On May 22nd, a few of our very own Sac High 9th graders had the amazing opportunity to Skype with astrobiologist, Shawn Domagal-Goldman, from NASA. Scholars filled Sac High’s Mel Lawson Theater, anxiously waiting to meet the scientist and converse with him about sustaining life on Mars. Students came prepared with a variety of questions pondered in the previous weeks of class.
Domina Stamas, educator working with NASA
This article was published on 05.18.17.
Domina Stamas has a question for her ninth-grade science students at Sac High: How would you make Mars a sustainable living space for humans? It’s a tall order, but with a wild payoff. When the school year ends, her kids will be presenting their best models to the NASA scientists working to get an American on the red planet by the 2030s. It’s not your everyday biology unit. But, then, Stamas isn’t your everyday teacher.
Staff Appreciation Week
St. HOPE Public Schools went all out in its celebration of teachers and staff during this year’s annual staff appreciation week May 1st through May 5th. The party began early as staff gathered for a day of what they thought was going to be serious work time, but were later surprised with activities like bowling and brunch, tours of the Crocker Art Museum and excitement at K1 Speed Zone. Overall, staff members were pleasantly surprised and enjoyed a fun day to kick off a week of appreciation.
Scholars Win Public Speaking Contest
On April 29, six dynamic Sac High Dragons competed in the inaugural Jack and Jill of America, Sacramento Chapter, Oratorical Contest, aimed at getting youth in the community to use public speaking as a way to showcase their leadership skills, as well as public speaking abilities. Founded in 1938, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2-19, dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty.
A Middle School Limo Ride to Remember
For Quarter 3 of the 2016-17 school year (January-March) PS7 Middle School implemented an incentive system to motivate scholars to work their hardest and try their very best. Scholars who achieved proficient or advanced on all four of their end of quarter exams in each of their core classes – Math, ELA, History and Science – were celebrated with a limo ride to Round Table where they enjoyed an all-you-can-eat pizza buffet!