Walter Dean Myers
Walter Dean Myers was born in 1937 in West Virginia but grew up in Harlem.
He began writing as a child and published his first book in 1969.
Walter Dean Myers went on to write over 70 books for children and young adults, earning numerous awards including five Coretta Scott King Awards and two Newbery Honors.
He was known for visiting schools and leading writing workshops.
Myers' work often explored themes of urban life, race, and identity.
He was a prolific and influential figure in young adult literature until his death in 2014 at age 76.
