Congratulations to Aimee Herman, author of EVERYTHING GROWS, and Aaron Hamburger, author of NIRVANA IS HERE, who both earned medals in the prestigious FOREWORD INDIES 2019 Book Awards. And considering these are both LGBTQ-themed books, and that it is 2020 PRIDE Month, the awards are even sweeter.

Aimee’s debut novel, EVERYTHING GROWS won the Silver Medal for YOUNG ADULT FICTION. It received ubiquitous high praise from critics, who noted:

“Awkward, affirming, and compassionate, this story about coming into one’s identity will win over the hearts of its young adult audiences.” —Foreword Reviews

“An epistolary love song to queer coming-of-age.” —BOMB Magazine

“An emotional yet ultimately uplifting journey of self-discovery, acceptance of others, and learning that life is better than the alternative.” —The Advocate

Aaron’s novel, NIRVANA IS HERE, netted the Bronze Medal for LGBTQ+ FICTION. This brilliant novel had critics raving about plot and character, saying:

“A deft characterization of a person who seeks to close the space between the past and present self.” —Lambda Literary Review

“A tender self-reckoning, Nirvana Is Here brings the past full circle. Hamburger deftly reveals how incidents  recede—even if they leave their mark—to bring new hopes into focus.” —Foreword Reviews

“The sensitive and observant prose is a pure joy to read on every page.” —Electric Literature

Congratulations to both authors! We are so proud to publish your outstanding work!