The Booksellers Association names OPEN WATER by Caleb Azumah Nelson as its Fiction Book of the Month for February 2021

The Booksellers Association has chosen Open Water by Caleb Azumah Nelson as its Fiction Book of the Month for February (#IndieBookoftheMonth). Open Water is the story of two young Black British artists, one a dancer, the other a photographer, who fall in love, only to be torn apart by violence and fear. Exploring what it means to be a person in a world which views you only as a Black body, Open Water is a potent study of race and masculinity, and how it feels to find safety in love, only to lose it. 
 
Nelson said: “Independent bookstores have been integral to my journey. As a reader, I have spent many afternoons browsing, being offered recommendations which have shaped and moulded me. As a writer, I'm thankful for the support they have shown. In both instances, I am grateful for the community and kindness afforded by independent bookstores, big and small.”

Independent bookshops around the UK and Ireland will be promoting Open Water throughout February on social media.

Find out more about the BA #IndieBookoftheMonth here.