Walter Dean Myers: Master Children's Writer (1937 - 2014)

There are few writers who have contributed countless stories and books for the benefit of children's literacy.  Walter Dean Myers, one of my favorite children's writers passed on July 1, 2014.  I was overcome with sadness upon hearing of his passing.  I immediately felt the sense of loss for his family, and also for the many children, librarians, teachers and literacy advocates who have read, taught and participated in book clubs and conferences surrounding Walter Dean Myers notable and award winning books.  Walter Dean Myers wrote with "us" in mind.  There is currently a great discussion and debate, asking why aren't there more diverse children's books?

Writers have argued that the great publishing companies in America do not widely publish children's writers of color or books that are about diverse children and ethnic groups.  Others believe there aren't enough writers who write to present diverse characters and themes for students of all backgrounds.  I am of the belief that is the job of all of us to share books featuring diverse characters and content for all children.  The writers cannot be the only ones to do it.  Walter Dean Myers achieved the purpose of writing and sharing high quality, diverse books for all children. 

Walter Dean Myers set his mind to write for children, many years ago and never swayed from his commitment.  We have benefited from his care, dedication and genius creativity.  As a literacy specialist, I have always included Walter Dean Myers books in book orders for classrooms and school librarians.  When you teach children of diverse backgrounds, you have to provide them with book choices that are high interest and ones in which they can "see themselves" within the books. 


Walter Dean Myers beautiful and inspiring books include Hoops, Monster, Slam, Bad Boy, 145th Street Stories, and Blues Journey.  I recently added Blues Journey to my book collection.  Walter Dean Myers son Christopher created striking illustrations for this book filled with poetic language.

I have shared Walter Dean Myers books with countless middle and high school students.  His books have high interest themes and characters that students can relate to.  I used Walter Dean Myers books when I was faced with boy readers who were not excited about reading.  But when I gave the students Slam, Hoops or Monster, they boys would always get into the books and slowly become motivated to read.  145th Street Stories is another book my boy readers loved and I could equally engage male and female students in activities and discussion around the book.

Thank you Walter Dean Myers for your contributions.  We will continue to cherish and share your works.

- DuEwa
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