Walter Dean Myers (1937-2017): Author Insights

Where was Walter Dean Myers raised?

• Harlem

• Brooklyn

• Queens

• The Bronx

What did Walter Dean Myers discover about his father after his father passed away?

• His father was a secret poet

• His father couldn't read

• His father had written a book

• His father was a famous artist

What special role does Walter Dean Myers hold for young people's literature?

• National Poet Laureate

• National Ambassador for Young People's Literature

• Chief Librarian of Congress

• Presidential Advisor on Education

What is one reason Walter Dean Myers writes books?

• To become famous

• To make a lot of money

• To tell kids their lives are important

• To teach adults how to read

How many books has Walter Dean Myers authored?

• More than 10

• More than 50

• More than 100

• More than 500

Why does Walter Dean Myers believe reading is so important today?

• It helps people get jobs in factories

• It is a nice hobby

• It is essential for success in society

• It helps people become famous writers

What challenge did Walter Dean Myers face when he was young that made him turn to writing?

• He was very shy

• He had trouble speaking

• He couldn't read well

• He didn't like school

What kind of issues does Walter Dean Myers often write about in his books for young people?

• Fantasy and magic

• Historical events

• Tough issues like prison and poverty

• Science fiction and space travel

What is Walter Dean Myers' mantra (something he believes and likes to say)?

• "Neither a borrower nor a lender be."

• "Reading is not optional."

• "I like cookies."

• "The early bird gets the worm."