Angie Thomas

Angie Thomas is a bestselling American author, particularly recognized for her work in Young Adult & Children's literature. She was born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, a place that has significantly influenced her writing and still serves as her home today. Thomas's accent is a testament to her deep-rooted connection with the region.

Before becoming a successful author, Thomas pursued a career in music as a teen rapper. Her greatest accomplishment during this period was an article about her in Right-On Magazine, complete with a photograph. This early foray into self-expression foreshadowed her future success as a writer. Thomas holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Belhaven University, further honing her literary skills. In addition to this formal education, she also boasts an unofficial degree in Hip Hop, which often finds its way into her writing. Her versatility extends beyond writing, as she has the ability to rap if the situation requires it.

Thomas's debut novel, "The Hate U Give," catapulted her to literary stardom. The book was acquired by Balzer + Bray/HarperCollins in a competitive 13-house auction and published in spring 2017. The novel's success was not limited to the page; it was also adapted into a major motion picture featuring Amandla Stenberg, Algee Smith, and KJ Apa. This cinematic adaptation further solidified the book's impact and Thomas's status as a prominent voice in contemporary literature.

Prior to the success of "The Hate U Give," Thomas was an inaugural winner of the Walter Dean Meyers Grant 2015, an accolade awarded by We Need Diverse Books. This recognition underscores her commitment to representing diverse perspectives in her work, a theme that resonates strongly in "The Hate U Give" and continues to be a hallmark of her writing.