Myers, Walter Dean, 1937-....

Walter Dean Myers was born August 12, 1937, in Martinsburg, WV. After a series of jobs he became a full time writer in 1977. Today he is considered one of the best contemporary American writers for children and young adults. An African American, he helped to redefine the image of blacks in juvenile literature. He has written in several genres and for different age groups, but is perhaps best known for his books for junior and senior high school readers, books that range from lighthearted and farcical to powerful and moving. Many of his books are especially appealing to boys. He has received many honors and awards for his work, including two Newbery honors and the 2008 Kerlan Award.

Biographical Sources: Something About the Author, vols. 27, 41, 71, 109 Something About the Author Autobiography Series vol. 2 Children's Literature Review vol. 35

From the guide to the Walter Dean Myers Collection, 1999-2007, (University of Minnesota Libraries Children's Literature Research Collections [clrc])