Walter Dean Myers

Date of Birth: August 12, 1937

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: July 1, 2014

Biography

Walter Dean Myers was an acclaimed American writer of children’s books and young adult literature. Born on August 12, 1937, in Martinsburg, West Virginia, Myers was adopted by Florence and Herbert Dean and grew up in Harlem, New York City. His upbringing in Harlem significantly influenced his writing, which often dealt with issues of race, identity, and urban life. Myers’ career as a writer began after he won a contest sponsored by the Council on Interracial Books for Children in 1969. His first book, “Where Does The Day Go?” was published in 1969. Over the next several decades, Myers wrote more than 100 books, including picture books, novels, and nonfiction. His works have been praised for their realistic portrayals of African American youth and their exploration of complex social issues. Some of his most notable works include “Monster,” a groundbreaking novel that won the Michael L. Printz Award and was a finalist for the National Book Award, and “Fallen Angels,” which won the Coretta Scott King Award. Myers also received the Margaret A. Edwards Award for his significant and lasting contribution to young adult literature. Throughout his career, Myers was a passionate advocate for literacy and education, frequently visiting schools and speaking to young people about the power of reading and writing. He served as the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature from 2012 to 2013. Walter Dean Myers passed away on July 1, 2014, leaving behind a legacy of impactful and transformative literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Walter Dean Myers

1. Walter Dean Myers was adopted by Florence and Herbert Dean and grew up in Harlem, New York City.

2. He won the Council on Interracial Books for Children contest in 1969, which led to the publication of his first book, “Where Does The Day Go?”

3. Myers was the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature from 2012 to 2013.

4. He wrote more than 100 books, including the award-winning “Monster” and “Fallen Angels.”

5. Myers was a three-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Award for African American authors.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Walter Dean Myers

1. “Reading is not optional.”

2. “We all need to have a place where we feel safe.”

3. “Once I began to read, I began to exist.”

4. “Books transmit values. They explore our common humanity. What is the message when some children are not represented in those books?”

5. “The journey of a lifetime starts with the turning of a page.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Walter Dean Myers’ net worth was estimated to be around $2 million.

Children

Walter Dean Myers had three children: Michael Dean Myers, Christopher Dean Myers, and Karen Dean Myers. His son, Christopher Myers, is also a notable illustrator and author.