Essence Magazine February 2009: Tyler Perry

CULTURE 57 Breaking Out: Is Taraji P. Henson on the verge of a mainstream breakthrough? 58 Gazette: The life and legacy of Biggie Smalls finally comes to a theater near you; Keri Hilson grabs the mic 62 Black History Month Special: Relive and discover moments from the past, both legendary and little known 66 The Arts: A new orchestra changes the bounds of classical music; a gospel spin on a Broadway standard; Africa in pictures 68 Books: The return of the prisoner's wife; hot reads for a cold winter; Patrik's Obama lit picks and more WORK & WEALTH 79 Your Master Plan for Prosperity: Our step-by-step manual to getting debt-free, securing a rainy day fund, building a nest egg, and ensuring your family's welfare 90 Succeed in the Workplace: A corporate giant explains why failure is not an option BLACK MEN, SEX & INTIMACY 97 What Men Think: Who needed an extra boost to reach satisfaction? 98 On His Mind: A pro baller risks his career to save his daughter 100 Oh, Brother: Finesse's guide to finding the right brother for you 102 On Her Mind: Dating younger men OUR NEWS 105 Ten Things We're Talking About 106 Leaders of the New School: Beyond the presidency, recent election results signal a dynamic change in the political arena; White House timeline 108 State of Emergency: Haiti sends out an international S.O.S. HEALTHY LIVING 150 Fit & Fab: Three women reveal the secrets to their big weight loss success 158 How She Does It: A working mom shares her tips for balancing career and family 160 Why Black Therapists Want You to Talk to Them: Four questions to ask yourself 166 Take 5: Show yourself some love 168 Sexual Health: Birth control update 170 Healthy Food Fast: Five quick and easy-to-make entrées