Angie Thomas

Angie Thomas is an American author whose debut novel, The Hate U Give, inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, has become a New York Times Bestseller. The novel has since been adapted into a feature film, starring Amandla Stenberg, and has cemented Thomas as a powerful voice in contemporary literature.

Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Thomas attended historically black college Alcorn State University, where she majored in mass media. After completing her degree, she moved to Los Angeles, California to pursue a career as an entertainment writer at a major advertising agency. It was in LA that Thomas’ debut novel, The Hate U Give, was born.

The Hate U Give tells the story of sixteen-year-old Starr Carter, a black teenager from the inner city who witnesses a fatal shooting at the hands of a white police officer. The story follows Starr as she navigates a world of racial injustice, dealing with violence and prejudice in both her neighborhood and upscale high school. It is at once heartbreaking, inspiring and thought-provoking, and has earned Thomas numerous accolades for its sensitive and powerful exploration of these issues.

Since the success of The Hate U Give, Thomas has written three more novels: On the Come Up, Concrete Rose, and The Awkward Silence of Growing. Like her debut, these works also examine the complexities of racism, identity and family through unique stories set in urban environments. Thomas’ writing evokes a deep emotion and understanding of the human struggle, while also staying true to her affection for rap and hip hop culture.

Thomas has also become an advocate for both young adult literature and marginalized communities. In various interviews and public appearances, she often speaks out against censorship, and encourages publishers and authors to create diverse, honest content that reflects the reality of her young readers. She routinely visits classrooms and meets with young people, in order to offer guidance and impart her knowledge – while wrestling with the difficult subjects of race, identity and justice.

Today, Thomas is one of the most popular YA authors, and her work is celebrated around the world. In addition to making powerful strides in the film and publishing industry, Thomas continues to push for change in her community, and stands as an inspiration for readers everywhere.