What's Happening?
Kelly Quindlen's young adult romance novel, 'Her Name in the Sky,' is set to receive a traditional release 12 years after its initial self-publication in 2014. The novel, which follows the story of two teens, Hannah and Baker, navigating their romantic feelings in a conservative environment, was originally self-published due to the challenges of finding a place for LGBTQ stories in traditional publishing at the time. Quindlen, who was inspired by her own experiences and the limited availability of LGBTQ young adult literature, decided to self-publish to maintain control over the narrative. The book's re-release is part of a broader effort to reach a wider audience and is tied to Quindlen's forthcoming novel, 'This Must Be the Place,' which continues
the story of the characters as adults.
Why It's Important?
The traditional release of 'Her Name in the Sky' highlights the evolving landscape of publishing, particularly for LGBTQ narratives. Initially self-published due to the lack of representation and acceptance in traditional publishing, the novel's reissue signifies a growing acceptance and demand for diverse stories. This shift not only provides greater visibility for LGBTQ authors and stories but also reflects broader societal changes towards inclusivity. For Quindlen, this move into traditional publishing represents an opportunity to reach more readers and to have her work more widely accessible in libraries and bookstores, addressing previous limitations of self-publishing.
What's Next?
With the re-release of 'Her Name in the Sky,' Quindlen aims to engage a new generation of readers while also satisfying long-time fans. The novel's traditional publication is expected to increase its availability and visibility, potentially leading to further opportunities for Quindlen in the publishing industry. Additionally, the upcoming release of 'This Must Be the Place' will continue to explore the lives of Hannah and Baker, offering fans a chance to see the characters' development and the impact of their earlier experiences on their adult lives.
