Bad Boy : A Memoir
Author(s): Walter Dean Myers
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.
Review(s):
“[A] superb memoir. Young writers will find inspiration here.”
“Myers paints a fascinating picture of his childhood growing up in Harlem in the 1940s.”
“Many of the individual scenes have power…and the author’s voice and heart are consistently heard and felt throughout.”
“A powerful read. Will make the reader laugh out loud & sigh with satisfaction.”
“A thoughtful, cautionary and inspiring tale.”
“This memoir joins the ranks of stellar literary autobiographies, such as Fleischman’s Abracadabra Kid and Zindel’s Pigman and Me.”
Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children’s Book Award Masterlist (Vermont), Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies (NCSS/CBC), ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults, Parents' Choice Gold Award, Notable Children’s Book in the Language Arts (NCTE), New York Public Library Books for the Teen Age
ISBN: 9780060295233