Walter Dean Myers

Walter Dean Myers was an acclaimed author known for his prolific contributions to children's and young adult literature. Born in Martinsburg, West Virginia, in 1937, he was raised in Harlem and began writing in childhood. His career took off in 1969 when he won the Council on Interracial Books for Children contest, leading to the publication of his first book, "Where Does the Day Go?" Over his lifetime, he wrote more than seventy books, earning numerous accolades, including five Coretta Scott King Awards, two Newbery Honors, and the inaugural Michael L. Printz Award for his groundbreaking novel "Monster."

Myers's work often explored themes of identity, urban life, and the struggles of young people, drawing from his own experiences growing up in Harlem. His writing spanned multiple genres, including realistic fiction, historical fiction, and poetry, with notable works such as "Autobiography of My Dead Brother" and "Monster" receiving widespread acclaim. Beyond his published works, he was deeply involved in education, conducting writing workshops and speaking at schools to inspire young readers and writers.

A lifelong advocate for literacy and representation in literature, Myers left an indelible mark on young adult fiction. He resided in Jersey City, New Jersey, with his family until his passing in 2014 at the age of 76. His legacy continues through his enduring body of work, which remains influential in children's and young adult literature.