Sharon Draper was born on August 21, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio. She spent her childhood in Ohio before later settling in Cincinnati. Draper developed a love for reading and writing at a young age, which would ultimately lead her to a successful career as a novelist.
After completing her primary and secondary education in Ohio, Draper went on to attend Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. It was during her time at university that she honed her writing skills and began to pursue her passion for storytelling.
Draper's early writing career saw her establish herself as a talented author with a knack for capturing the voices and experiences of young people. She gained recognition for her work, including her successful Jericho Trilogy and the popular Ziggy series.
In 2001, Draper released her critically acclaimed novel "Darkness Before Dawn," which remains one of her most well-known works to date. The novel explores themes of love, loss, and redemption, showcasing Draper's ability to tell powerful and poignant stories.
One of Draper's most significant achievements was winning the 1997 Coretta Scott King Award for her novel "Forged by Fire," solidifying her place as a talented and impactful writer in the literary world.
Draper is happily married to Larry Draper, and they have built a life together in Cincinnati. Their partnership has been a source of support and inspiration for Draper throughout her writing career.
As a respected author and speaker, Draper has made a lasting impact on the literary community. She has been a featured speaker at events such as the National Book Festival, where she shared her insights and expertise with audiences from around the world.