The first Black Children's Laureate was Malorie Blackman.
Malorie Blackman: A Trailblazing Laureate
Malorie Blackman is a highly acclaimed British author, renowned for her captivating works in children's and young adult fiction. Her writing often explores complex themes and diverse characters, resonating with a wide readership.
A Landmark Appointment
In 2013, Malorie Blackman made history when she was named the UK's Children's Laureate. This appointment was particularly significant as she became the first Black person to hold this prestigious position since its inception. Her tenure as Laureate was marked by a commitment to promoting reading for pleasure and advocating for greater diversity within children's literature, ensuring that all children could see themselves reflected in the books they read.
Key Facts About Her Laureateship:
- Appointment Year: 2013
- Historical Significance: First Black individual to be appointed UK Children's Laureate.
- Focus: Championing diversity in books and encouraging children to read widely.
The Role of the Children's Laureate
The Children's Laureate is a distinguished role awarded every two years to an eminent author or illustrator of children's books. The laureate acts as an ambassador for children's literature, promoting reading and the importance of books and libraries to children and young people across the UK. The position aims to celebrate the power of stories and encourage a lifelong love of reading. You can learn more about the role and its impact on the official Children's Laureate website.
Malorie Blackman's groundbreaking appointment not only recognized her immense literary talent but also paved the way for increased representation and inclusivity in the world of children's literature.
