Lorenz graham biography sample

1902-1989

Author

In the 1930s, when Lorenz Graham began writing stories, black characters in children's literature were typically portrayed in negative stereotypes.

Graham changed that. In a writing career that spanned more than 50 years, Graham introduced authentic black characters into literature for children and young adults.

Lorenz graham biography sample pdf

His collection of biblical tales, How God Fix Jonah, written in West-African English, has become a classic of the genre. His "Town" series of novels for young adults—among the first in this genre to confront racism when they were published beginning in the late 1950s—have been rediscovered by a new generation of students and educators.

Graham's dual careers as a social worker and educator inspired his writings on racial issues, black adolescents, and parent-child relationships.

Grew Up amidst Racial Prejudice

Lorenz Bell Graham was born on January 27, 1902, in New Orleans, Louisiana, the son of David Andrew and