Kwame Alexander (born New York, New York, 1968) writes children’s books and poetry. His verse novel The Crossover earned him the 2015 Newbery Medal. That book also received a Coretta Scott King Author Honor Award. He also earned a 2020 Newbery Honor Award for The Undefeated. Children can learn more at: Kwame Alexander.
William “Count” Basie (born Red Bank, New Jersey, 1904; died Hollywood, Florida, April 26, 1984) was a composer, pianist, and bandleader who loved jazz.
X. J. Kennedy (born Dover, New Jersey, 1929) writes poetry and novels for both adults and children. His children’s books include Elefantina’s Dream and Uncle Switch: Loony Limericks.
Arthur Yorinks (born Roslyn, New York, 1953) writes and directs plays and operas. He has also written at least 40 books for children. he wrote Hey, Al, which earned illustrator Richard Egielski the 1987 Caldecott Medal. Older children can learn more at: Arthur Yorinks.