'Heartfelt' novel on homelessness to Firefly

Indie press Firefly has acquired a “moving and heartfelt" YA novel about teenagers facing homelessness by Miriam Halahmy.

The publisher acquired UK and Commonwealth rights to Behind Closed Doors, from the Anne Clark Literary Agency. It will be published in June 2018.

A Firefly spokesperson said the title is a “moving and heartfelt novel about the precarious nature of home life for teens teetering on the edge of homelessness, and the relationships that can bring them back from the brink".

Behind Closed Doors follows 15-year-olds, Tasha and Josie, who are “near-neighbours” who find themselves as unlikely allies in a battle against homelessness. The book explores "what it means to be loved and how to find meaning in life when there is no love at home". 

Firefly publisher, Penny Thomas, said: “We're delighted to sign such a talented and accomplished author as Miriam Halahmy. Behind Closed Doors is a sensitive and involving novel with characters readers can love and identify with.”

She added: “We're proud to be publishing this title in 2018 on our growing YA list."

Miriam Halahmy has published novels, short stories and poetry for adults and young people. Her 2011 novel, Hidden (Meadowside Children's Books), was nominated for the 2012 CILIP Carnegie Medal.