Join us for an inspiring Heart & Hand Book Talk celebrating the Freedom to Read with award-winning author and producer Abdi Nazemian. Explore Abdi's literary journey and his insightful approach to representation in literature and media, particularly in the context of rising book bans and challenges across the U.S. Abdi's dedication to authenticity and representation shines brightly in his work, making it both impactful and relevant.
Abdi's storytelling is shaped by a rich tapestry of experiences from his childhood in vibrant cities such as Tehran, Paris, Toronto, and New York. This eclectic background informs his diverse body of work. Abdi is the author of Only This Beautiful Moment, winner of the 2024 Stonewall Award and 2024 Lambda Literary Award. He is also the author of Like a Love Story, a Stonewall Honor Book and one of Time Magazine’s Best YA Books Of All Time. Abdi’s young adult novels include Desert Echoes, The Chandler Legacies, and The Authentics. His novel The Walk-In Closet won the Lambda Literary Award for LGBT Debut Fiction.
In addition to novels, Abdi has a prolific career in entertainment. His screenwriting credits include the films The Artist’s Wife, The Quiet, Menendez: Blood Brothers, and the television series Ordinary Joe and The Village. He has been an executive producer and associate producer on numerous films, including Call Me by Your Name, Little Woods, and The House of Tomorrow. Don’t miss this chance to hear from a passionate voice in contemporary literature as we discuss the essential themes of reading, representation, and the fight against censorship.
Register now for a captivating evening that celebrates the power of stories and the freedom to read!