This month, I’m reading a 2020 debut.
Debuts definitely have a hard time right now, as we learn to operate in an online-only world. Authors have missed release parties and in-person readings—special writing firsts they’ve dream of for a lifetime. And while the writing community has rallied around each other to uplift debuts, there’s still an understandable sadness that comes with the sudden loss of a celebration.
I’m reading Ghost Squad by Claribel A. Ortega, which released early April. I follow Ortega on Twitter, which is how I discovered this wonderful book. It’s thrilling to watch an author promo their book during pre-release. It’s unbridled and well-earned excitement. (And it’s often filled with dog and cat pictures!)
As you support your favorite indie booksellers during isolation, consider buying a debut author’s title. You can browse Twitter and Instagram using the tags #Roaring20sDebut and #debutauthor; view a publisher’s current catalog; or ask your bookseller what they’re looking forward to.
And keep an eye on the UNG Press’s social media for some upcoming debut announcements.
Haven’t started the Year of the Books challenge yet? Don’t worry; you still have time. View the full prompt list now.
Interested in more great content? Follow UNG Press on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and find our complete catalog on our homepage.
