Author, Illustrator. He is remembered as an American author for his works on children's books such as "The Dancing Granny," "Beat the Story-Drum," "Pum-Pum," and "Beautiful Blackbird." Most of the subjects of his writings are from an African American experience. When he was a 19-year-old, he was drafted into the army during World War II, landing at Omaha Beach on D-Day, where other soldiers encouraged him to draw. He would later teach art at Queen's College, Philadelphia College of Art, Lafayette College, and Dartmouth College. He was a nominee for the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2006, he received the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award for his contribution to American children's literature in 2009, his book "Freedom Over Me" was short-listed in 2016 for the Kirkus Prize, he was presented with the Coretta Scott King Award four times, and he received a Newbery Honor. In 2013 his collections, books, and art are preserved at the Ashley Bryan Center to promote his legacy.

Author, Illustrator. He is remembered as an American author for his works on children's books such as "The Dancing Granny," "Beat the Story-Drum," "Pum-Pum," and "Beautiful Blackbird." Most of the subjects of his writings are from an African American experience. When he was a 19-year-old, he was drafted into the army during World War II, landing at Omaha Beach on D-Day, where other soldiers encouraged him to draw. He would later teach art at Queen's College, Philadelphia College of Art, Lafayette College, and Dartmouth College. He was a nominee for the Hans Christian Andersen Award in 2006, he received the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award for his contribution to American children's literature in 2009, his book "Freedom Over Me" was short-listed in 2016 for the Kirkus Prize, he was presented with the Coretta Scott King Award four times, and he received a Newbery Honor. In 2013 his collections, books, and art are preserved at the Ashley Bryan Center to promote his legacy.

Bio by: Luke