Educator. Poet. Activist. Best-selling and award-winning author.
Although, it could seem unlikely that all these titles could apply to one person, you’ll be happy to find out that they all apply to the author Renée Watson!
She has written over 20 books for children and middle-grade readers, sold over 1 million books, and topped several bestsellers lists.
She grew up reading the works of Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou, feeling a connection to their poetry. Renee knew from a young age that she wanted to be a writer and started writing short stories and plays in grade school.
She hasn’t stopped writing since.
All the Blues in the Sky (2025), winner of the 2026 John Newberry Medal, is about 13-year-old Sage struggling with grief after her best friend dies. All the Blues in the Sky takes the reader on Sage’s emotional journey as she tries to cope with her friend’s death and learn that it’s OK to keep living.
In Ways to Make Sunshine (2020) – the first book in the popular Ryan Hart series – tweenager Ryan Hart goes through some significant changes in her life – but still finds a way to remain optimistic.
The picture book, Summer is Here (2024), is a love-letter to summer, and all the sun-drenched fun summer brings.
Click on the title to place a hold:
If you’re interested in reading any of Renee Watson’s books, come to DeKalb Public Library and step into a new world of emotions. Place a hold online or give us a call at 815-756-9568 ext. 3350.