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| Press Releases |
First-Time Novelist Amber Lehman Aces The Next Generation Indie Book Awards in the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) Category With Her Novel “TORN”Newport Beach, CA - May 20, 2010 – Amber Lehman’s novel TORN explores the often taboo topic of teen sexuality. Following the journey of a 14 year old girl who is faced with experimentation, bisexuality and losing her virginity, TORN thoughtfully and honestly explores the delicate topic of sexual orientation. Established to recognize and honor independently published books, The Next Generation Indie Book Awards is presented by The Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group. Amber Lehman, a first-time novelist has been named the winner of the 2010 award for the Gay Lesbian Bisexual and Transgender (GLBT) category. Although TORN has received rave reviews Lehman says “When I received notification that TORN was selected as the winner of the GLBT category I was shocked and excited. It’s important to me that TORN become more visible to promote understanding and support for questioning teens. I am honored to be recognized for this important work.” The Midwest Book Review gave TORN 5 stars and had this to say about it: A radical shift in environment changes one's world. "Torn" is the story of Krista McKinley, a Catholic school student who is sent to a public high school by her family. As she finds new friends, her world and her values will still be roughly tested. "Torn" is an intriguing coming of age story that many teenagers will relate to. Donner Coomer of Between the Lines Reviews, says of TORN, “Amber Lehman’s first novel is enthralling.” The 2010 Next Generation Indie Book Awards catalog will feature winners and will be distributed later this month to thousands of attendees including book buyers, library representatives, media, and industry professionals at Book Expo America ("BEA") in New York. TORN is Lehman’s first novel. She focuses mainly on writing and especially enjoys writing for the GLBT community. Lehman is working on a sequel to TORN. Lehman is also a finalist in the 2010 Lambda Literary Awards in which the winner will be announced later this month. TORN is available directly from the publisher at www.ClosetCasePress.com and through www.amazon.com, and www.barnesandnoble.com. ISBN 13: 978-0-9795933-6-9 as well as select independent booksellers. Closet Case Press is a publishing company founded by Amber Lehman and is dedicated to providing literature for the young adult, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning community. The website provides links to helpful sites for Young Adults who are trying to reach out to others or need help. www.ClosetCasePress.com Contact: # # # Teen Sexuality Explored in Young Adult Fiction Novel, Torn, by Amber LehmanMany parents make the mistake of NOT discussing the topic of sexuality with teens. Keeping silent will not keep teens from experimenting with heterosexual activities and even homosexual activities. Studies show that more teens are questioning their sexuality and most likely parents will be the last to know. It is estimated that in the U.S., a teen takes their own life every 5 hours because they are gay, bisexual, transgender, or lesbian, and cannot deal with the added stresses that society puts upon them. Oftentimes there are limited resources for teens to relate to during this difficult and confusing time in their life. Literature is a major outlet for teens to turn to find ways to relate to the issues of sexuality that they are experiencing. (PRWEB) September 1, 2009 -- In Amber Lehman's new novel, Torn, Lehman explores teen sexuality in its many different facets, from homosexuality, bisexuality, and teens who are simply questioning themselves. Heterosexual relationships are not overlooked either. The novel centers around Krista, a 14 year old girl who was raised in an all-girl's Catholic school in Ohio when she suddenly finds herself facing school in the public system in California. A culture shock for anyone. Throughout the novel she makes many friends, each with diverse lifestyles. But on one occasion Krista will be forced to make her own decision once she is presented with a dare that ultimately has life altering repercussions. This is the catalyst of the story and where the journey of all the characters truly begin. The main message in the book is that being a teen who is questioning your sexuality is okay. Torn provides a platform to show teens they are not the only one struggling with issues of sexual identity. There is a focus on individual choices, decisions and sexual preferences. These situations are often not remedied or understood overnight. Exploring sexuality is often a process and it's important that teens and parents alike understand this. No answer is better or worse than the alternative, and your true friends will be there for you during this challenging time. In the book, Torn, different people come to different conclusions on their own; just because they have a gay experience doesn't necessarily make them gay. For example: While Krista experiments with Carrie she ultimately decides she's more attracted to boys. While Nick who has previously had a girlfriend finds himself attracted to guys and is ultimately gay. Brandon who has been mainly gay throughout the story finds that he's closer to being truly bisexual. Being open to diversity is what is key. The goal is to make people more sympathetic to people going through this stage in their life. Closet Case Press is dedicated to helping teens find support through the LGBT community. Facts and helpful links can be found on our website at www.closetcasepress.com. Amber Lehman is a full time author and enjoys writing for the LGBT community. You can learn more about her by visiting the web address above. To order Torn visit http://www.closetcasepress.com/buynow.htm
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