Lesley Younge
Lesley Younge is a writer, mother, and educator currently teaching middle school English and math in Washington D.C. Originally from Southern California, she graduated from New York University and Bank Street College of Education. Lesley has developed curriculum with a wide range of organizations such as the Central Park Conservancy, the Museum of Art and Design, the Montgomery County Lynching Memorial Project, the Zinn Education Project, and the National Museum of Asian Art. Now she is the author of two books for young people, Nearer My Freedom and A-Train Allen. A fellow of the Hurston/Wright Foundation and Anaphora Literary Arts, Lesley blogs regularly at teacherlesley.com.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
Mufaro’s Beautiful Daughters by John Steptoe
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“It is not often that someone comes along who is a true friend and a good writer. Charlotte was both.” Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Ibi Zoboi, Marilyn Nelson, and Andrea Davis Pinkney
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
I write the books I wish existed, the ones I want to have in my home and classroom libraries. These are stories that deserve to be out in the world.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Each of our voices makes an important contribution to the literary choir—sing your part with joy!
