Walter Dean Myers was born on December 12, 1937, in Martinsburg, West Virginia. He was raised in the vibrant neighborhood of Harlem in New York City, where he discovered his love for writing at a young age. At just seventeen years old, Myers made the bold decision to enlist in the U.S. Army, beginning his journey into a world of conflict and camaraderie.
Myers' debut work, "The Life of a Harlem Man," was published in 1968, marking the beginning of a prolific writing career that would span over five decades. One of his most acclaimed novels, "Fallen Angels," earned him the prestigious National Book Award for Young People's Literature. This groundbreaking book set itself apart from others in the young adult genre with its raw depiction of war and use of adult language.
Throughout his career, Myers continued to captivate readers with his powerful storytelling and compelling characters. Two of his other notable works, "Hoops" (1981) and "Fast Sam, Cool Clyde, and Stuff" (1975), also gained recognition, with all three novels appearing on the American Library Association's list of banned books at some point.
Despite achieving great success as a writer, Myers remained grounded in his roots and family. He eventually settled in New Jersey with his wife and son, Christopher Myers, who followed in his father's footsteps as an illustrator and author. Myers' impact on young adult literature was profound, leading him to be appointed as the National Ambassador for Young People's Literature by the Library of Congress.
His influence extended beyond his own works, as he was even referenced in Sharon Creech's poetic novella, "Love that Dog." Myers' legacy continues to inspire future generations of writers and readers alike, cementing his place as a trailblazer in the world of young adult literature.