And the Nominees Are…
The Indiana Authors Awards honor the best books written by Indiana authors in the previous two years. From non-fiction to drama, local authors are acknowledged and highlighted for their contributions to the literary arts. This year’s awards are for books published between 2018-2019.
We are proud to announce that our own Chantel Massey is a nominee for the emerging author category for her 2018 book Bursting at the Seams: A Collection of Poetry! The emerging category recognizes the best book by an early career writer.
From the moment I heard Chantel perform at the Artsgarden in 2016, I became an instant fan. She is both enthusiastic and grounded. Her work illuminates the experiences of Black girls and women with care, intention and urgency. You’re compelled into advocacy.
Bursting at the Seams is a coming of age story that explores the complexities of our relationships, priorities, and identity. I recall reading the earlier drafts and crying my heart out at the poems that told my own story almost word for word.
Since publishing her book in 2018, Chantel founded UnLearn Lit Arts to transform how we engage with literature by Black writers while also nourishing a community of contemporary writers. Her work has been featured in FAFCollective, IndianapolisReview, and other publications.
Winners will be announced on Sept. 1, and will be awarded prizes as well as given the chance to designate an Indiana public library to receive a donation. See all the shortlists and sign up to receive the announcement here.
