A notable author of books for children and teens has now written about his own life in a memoir that offers an honest and intriguing look at his past, and a lively, forthright commentary on the challenges of growing up that will resonate for today’s young-adult readers. Walter Dean Myers was hungry to learn as a child living with his adoptive parents in the vibrant energy of 1940s and 1950s Harlem. But he kept his love of books a secret from most of his friends and classmates. He didn’t want to seem different. “As I approached my twelfth birthday I was six feet tall and physically aggressive. . . . I was also a reader. . . . I was completely comfortable alone in my room with a book, more comfortable than in any other situation.” Myers can laugh at the child he was, and he can also question many of his choices and actions without wholly condemning the boy who made them. Many readers will see themselves in young Walter Dean Myers, eager to be cool, lying without reason, disappointing loving parents for the lure of excitement on the streets. Hopefully those same readers will also see some aspect of themselves in the bright, curious, excitable boy and young man that Myers so engagingly presents. A collage of black-and-white photos of Myers as a child and teenager is the cover design beneath the dust jacket of a surprising and wonderful memoir. (Age 11 and older)

A classic memoir that's gripping, funny, and ultimately unforgettable from the bestselling former National Ambassador of Books for Young People. A strong choice for summer reading—an engaging and powerful autobiographical exploration of growing up a so-called "bad boy" in Harlem in the 1940s.

As a boy, Myers was quick-tempered and physically strong, always ready for a fight. He also read voraciously—he would check out books from the library and carry them home, hidden in brown paper bags in order to avoid other boys' teasing. He aspired to be a writer (and he eventually succeeded).

But as his hope for a successful future diminished, the values he had been taught at home, in school, and in his community seemed worthless, and he turned to the streets and to his books for comfort.

Don’t miss this memoir by New York Times bestselling author Walter Dean Myers, one of the most important voices of our time. 

How does a boy who is always ready for a fight become one of America’s most beloved authors?

• A Harlem Coming of Age: Experience the vibrant, dangerous streets of 1940s Harlem, where a kid’s reputation is everything.
• The Secret Reader: Discover why Walter carried his library books home in brown paper bags, hiding his love of reading from the other boys on the block.
• An Inspiring True Story: A powerful account of overcoming poverty, racism, and a debilitating speech issue to become a celebrated writer.
• For Teen Boys and Reluctant Readers: A raw and honest memoir that speaks directly to young men, showing them that it’s okay to be more than one thing at once.