We are thrilled to announce that New York Times bestselling author Roxane Gay will serve as the 2021 spokesperson for Indies First, ABA’s national campaign in support of independent bookstores that takes place on Small Business Saturday, November 27. “Independent bookstores have been the foundation of my writing career but more importantly, they have also been the foundation of my reading life,” said Gay in a statement. “Stepping into a bookstore where the books are carefully curated and enthusiastically recommended is an unparalleled experience.” Independent booksellers are passionate about books and community, she continued. “And it is because of their work that I am thrilled to serve as this year's spokesperson for Indies First. This vital initiative features independent booksellers and authors during the busiest book buying time of the year, culminating with Small Business Saturday. Independent bookstores are a place to find connection, to celebrate books, and to nurture a diverse community. They are a place where we can imagine and contribute to a better future. I am excited to work with the ABA to raise awareness of the importance of independent bookstores, now more than ever.” Roxane Gay has a new imprint at Grove Atlantic, called Roxane Gay Books, coming in 2023. Her writing appears in Best American Mystery Stories 2014, Best American Short Stories 2012, Best Sex Writing 2012, A Public Space, McSweeney’s, Tin House, Oxford American, American Short Fiction, Virginia Quarterly Review, and many others. She is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times. She is the author of the books Ayiti, An Untamed State, the New York Times bestselling Bad Feminist, the nationally bestselling Difficult Women, and the New York Times bestselling Hunger. She is also the author of World of Wakanda for Marvel. She has several books forthcoming and is also at work on television and film projects. She also has a newsletter, The Audacity. If you’re wondering how to celebrate this year’s Indies First, join a ShopTalk on October 5, which will include an Indies First brainstorming session. And, take a look at special Indies First promotions from publishers. Watch Bookselling This Week for more details to come. |
