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Angie Thomas

Angie Thomas[1†]

Angie Thomas is an American young adult author, best known for writing the critically acclaimed novel "The Hate U Give" (2017)[1†][2†][3†]. Born on September 20, 1988, in Jackson, Mississippi, Thomas has quickly risen to prominence in the literary world, using her powerful storytelling to shed light on important social issues such as racial injustice and police brutality[4†][1†][5†].

Thomas's debut novel, "The Hate U Give", debuted at number one on The New York Times bestseller list, launching her to international fame[5†]. The novel, which was later adapted into a successful film, tackles volatile and timely subjects with authenticity, insight, and hope[5†][6†]. Beyond her acclaimed debut, Thomas has continued to captivate readers with her subsequent works, including "On the Come Up" (2019) and "Concrete Rose" (2021), further solidifying her status as a literary force to be reckoned with[7†][5†][6†].

Early Years and Education

Angie Thomas was born on September 20, 1988, in Jackson, Mississippi, where she was raised[1†]. Growing up, Thomas was subject to multiple instances of gun violence at a young age[1†]. She grew up near the home of assassinated civil rights activist Medgar Evers, and her mother claimed to have heard the gunshot that killed him in 1963[8†][1†]. When Thomas was just 6 years old, she witnessed a shootout in her neighborhood[9†][1†].

Despite the challenges and trauma of her early life, Thomas found solace and inspiration in literature[7†]. She has cited Mildred D. Taylor's novel "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" as a formative influence, as it centered on the experiences of a Black girl and her family, which was an uncommon sight in literature at the time[10†]. These early literary experiences would go on to shape Thomas's own writing and her desire to give voice to underrepresented perspectives[7†][4†].

Thomas was a former teen rapper, and her greatest accomplishment in that realm was having an article about her published in Right-On Magazine, which included a photograph[11†][12†]. She later went on to earn a BFA in Creative Writing from Belhaven University, and she also holds an "unofficial degree" in Hip Hop, demonstrating her diverse creative interests and talents[13†].

Career Development and Achievements

Angie Thomas's journey as a professional writer began swiftly after her graduation from Belhaven University, where she obtained a BFA in Creative Writing[7†][14†]. Her early career was marked by her experience as a former teen rapper, with her greatest accomplishment being an article about her in Right-On Magazine that included a picture[13†][15†][16†].

Thomas's literary contributions have been widely recognized and celebrated[7†]. Her debut novel, "The Hate U Give", published in 2017, debuted at number one on The New York Times bestseller list, launching her to international fame[5†]. The novel, which tackles volatile and timely subjects such as racism, privilege, and police brutality, has won numerous awards, including the 2018 William C. Morris Award[3†][17†].

Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, "The Hate U Give" has been praised for its powerful commentary on systemic racism in America[18†][19†][20†]. Thomas's ability to make the political personal has earned her recognition as an activist, as she encourages her audience, especially young people, to find and use their voices[21†][22†].

In 2019, Thomas released her second young adult novel, "On the Come Up", which was also a critical and commercial success[1†][23†][24†]. The novel, set in the same fictional neighborhood as "The Hate U Give", explores themes of identity, ambition, and the power of self-expression[25†][26†].

Thomas's literary contributions have continued to evolve, with the 2021 release of "Concrete Rose", a prequel to "The Hate U Give" that focuses on the character of Maverick Carter[13†][14†][7†]. The novel debuted at number one on the New York Times bestseller list, further solidifying Thomas's status as a literary force to be reckoned with[5†].

Throughout her career, Thomas has demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft engaging narratives that tackle complex social and political issues. Her work has been praised for its authenticity, nuance, and emotional depth, resonating with readers across the globe.

First publication of his main works

• The Hate U Give (2017): A powerful and timely novel that explores the complexities of race, police brutality, and social justice through the eyes of a teenage girl[3†][5†][27†].
• On the Come Up (2019): A captivating story of a 16-year-old aspiring rapper's journey to make her dreams a reality, despite the odds stacked against her[28†][25†][24†].
• Concrete Rose (2021): A powerful exploration of Black boyhood and manhood, revisiting the world of The Hate U Give seventeen years earlier[29†][30†]. A 2021 Goodreads Choice finalist in Young Adult Fiction[31†][32†].
• Blackout (2021) - A captivating anthology of interconnected short stories by acclaimed YA authors, celebrating the beauty of Black love during a New York City blackout[33†][34†][35†].
• Nic Blake and the Remarkables: The Manifestor Prophecy (2023): A captivating middle-grade fantasy debut from acclaimed author Angie Thomas, following a young Manifestor's quest to clear her father's name and uncover a mysterious prophecy[36†][37†][38†].
• Find Your Voice: A Guided Journal for Writing Your Truth (2020): A guided journal by #1 New York Times bestselling author Angie Thomas, offering advice and best practices for developing a true-to-you writing project[39†][40†][41†].
• Whiteout (2021) - A captivating anthology of interconnected stories about Black teen love, each as unique and sparkling as Southern snowflakes, from the bestselling, award-winning authors of Blackout[42†][43†].

Analysis and Evaluation

Angie Thomas's debut novel, "The Hate U Give", has been widely acclaimed for its powerful and nuanced exploration of the complex issues of racism, police brutality, and social justice[44†][19†][45†]. Drawing from her own personal experiences and the contemporary societal landscape, Thomas crafts a captivating narrative that resonates deeply with readers.

Thomas's writing style is both authentic and evocative, immersing the reader in the world of the protagonist, Starr Carter. The novel's first-person narration allows for a deeply personal and intimate portrayal of Starr's experiences, emotions, and internal struggles as she navigates the aftermath of witnessing the police shooting of her friend, Khalil[46†][47†]. Thomas's use of realistic dialogue, colloquial language, and code-switching effectively captures the cultural and linguistic nuances of Starr's community, lending a powerful sense of authenticity to the story[48†][49†].

The Hate U Give draws heavily from the themes and literary traditions of the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Era, reflecting Thomas's deep engagement with the rich legacy of African American literature[7†]. The novel's exploration of identity, race, and social injustice echoes the works of influential authors such as James Baldwin, Langston Hughes, and Toni Morrison, while also speaking to the contemporary realities of the Black Lives Matter movement[50†][18†].

Through Starr's journey, Thomas skillfully weaves together the personal and the political, demonstrating how individual experiences are inextricably linked to broader societal issues. The novel's nuanced portrayal of the complexities of race, class, and privilege challenges readers to confront their own biases and preconceptions, fostering empathy and understanding.

Thomas's literary style is further enhanced by her masterful use of narrative techniques, such as the incorporation of flashbacks, multiple perspectives, and symbolic imagery. These elements work in tandem to create a rich and multilayered narrative that delves into the psychological and emotional impact of Starr's experiences, as well as the broader societal implications.

The Hate U Give has been widely praised for its ability to engage young adult readers while also resonating with a broader audience. Thomas's authentic and unapologetic voice, combined with her skillful storytelling, has cemented her place as a powerful new voice in American literature, one that is poised to make a lasting impact on the literary landscape.

Personal Life

Angie Thomas was born on September 20, 1988, in Jackson, Mississippi, where she was raised[1†]. From a young age, Thomas experienced the harsh realities of gun violence firsthand[1†]. When she was just 6 years old, she witnessed a shootout in a local park, an event that would have a profound impact on her life and future work[9†][1†].

Growing up near the home of assassinated civil rights activist Medgar Evers, Thomas's mother recounted hearing the gunshot that took his life[8†][1†]. These early experiences with violence and injustice shaped Thomas's worldview and fueled her desire to use her writing as a platform to address issues of racism, privilege, and police brutality[5†][51†][3†].

Despite the challenges she faced, Thomas found solace and inspiration in the local library, where her mother took her in the aftermath of the shooting incident[9†][52†]. This exposure to the power of literature and storytelling would ultimately guide Thomas towards her calling as a writer.

While Thomas keeps much of her personal life private, it is known that she was once an aspiring teen rapper, though her music career was short-lived[1†][8†][53†]. Her greatest accomplishment in this realm was an article about her that was published in Right-On Magazine, complete with a photograph[54†][55†][13†].

Today, Thomas calls Atlanta, Georgia her home, though her roots remain firmly planted in the state of Mississippi[13†][14†]. She continues to draw inspiration from her upbringing and the community that shaped her, using her platform to amplify marginalized voices and advocate for social justice.

Conclusion and Legacy

Angie Thomas's literary achievements have been widely recognized and celebrated, cementing her status as a trailblazing voice in contemporary young adult fiction[7†][56†]. Her groundbreaking debut novel, "The Hate U Give", has had a profound impact on both the literary landscape and broader societal discourse[57†].

Published in 2017, "The Hate U Give" immediately resonated with readers, debuting at number one on the New York Times bestseller list[5†][3†]. The novel's authentic portrayal of the experiences of a young Black girl witnessing police brutality against her friend struck a powerful chord, prompting readers to confront the harsh realities of systemic racism and the Black Lives Matter movement[18†]. Thomas's ability to make the political personal through her well-developed characters and emotionally resonant narrative has earned her widespread critical acclaim.

The Hate U Give was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the 2017 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Fiction and the 2018 Coretta Scott King Honor Book designation[5†][58†]. Additionally, Thomas's subsequent works, such as "On the Come Up" and "Concrete Rose", have continued to garner significant recognition, further solidifying her status as a literary force to be reckoned with.

Beyond her literary achievements, Angie Thomas has also emerged as a prominent voice for social justice and activism[7†][4†]. Through her novels, she has given a platform to marginalized communities, amplifying their stories and experiences. Thomas's commitment to using her platform to drive meaningful change has earned her widespread admiration and respect, cementing her legacy as a trailblazer who has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape[7†].

As readers continue to discover and engage with Angie Thomas's works, her impact is likely to reverberate for generations to come. Her ability to craft compelling narratives that tackle complex societal issues with nuance and empathy has positioned her as a vital literary voice, one that will undoubtedly continue to shape the discourse and inspire readers to confront the harsh realities of the world around them.

Key Information

• Also Known As: Unknown[1†][59†]
• Born: September 20, 1988 in Jackson, Mississippi, USA[60†][8†]
• Died: N/A
• Nationality: American[5†]
• Occupation: Young Adult Author[1†][27†][5†]
• Notable Works: The Hate U Give (2017), On the Come Up (2019), Concrete Rose (2021), Blackout (2021), Nic Blake and the Remarkables (2023)[1†][19†]
• Notable Achievements: #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Inaugural Winner of the Walter Dean Myers Grant 2015, Acclaimed Debut Novel The Hate U Give Adapted into a Major Motion Picture[13†][61†]

References and Citations:

1. Wikipedia (English) - Angie Thomas [website] - link
2. The Charlotte News - Angie Thomas: Writing to make a difference [website] - link
3. Elevate Society - Who is Angie Thomas [website] - link
4. Bookey - 30 Best Angie Thomas Quotes With Image [website] - link
5. Britannica - Angie Thomas: American author [website] - link
6. Angie Thomas - Angie Thomas [website] - link
7. StudySmarter - Angie Thomas [website] - link
8. Kiddle Encyclopedia - Angie Thomas Facts for Kids [website] - link
9. Fandom - The Hate U Give Wiki - Angie Thomas [website] - link
10. THE DROP - Angie Thomas [website] - link
11. National Book Foundation - Angie Thomas [website] - link
12. The PEN/Faulkner Foundation - Angie Thomas [website] - link
13. Angie Thomas - About [website] - link
14. Library Guides at John M. Pfau Library - About the Author: Angie Thomas - The Hate U Give [website] - link
15. Open Library - Angie Thomas [website] - link
16. Risingshadow - Angie Thomas [website] - link
17. Young Adult Library Services Association - 2018 Morris Award [website] - link
18. Angie Thomas - The Hate U Give [website] - link
19. Angie Thomas - The Hate U Give [website] - link
20. Epic Reads - Real Talk: Black Lives Matter [website] - link
21. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation - Angie Thomas: Author, Activist, Inspiration [website] - link
22. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library - Angie Thomas: author, activist, inspiration [website] - link
23. SuperSummary - On the Come Up Summary and Study Guide [website] - link
24. Wikipedia (English) - On the Come Up [website] - link
25. Common Sense Media - On the Come Up Book Review [website] - link
26. ResearchGate - Self-Society Conflict in Angie Thomas' the Hate U Give: A Critical Discourse Analysis [website] - link
27. NPR - 'Concrete Rose' Is Angie Thomas' Follow-Up To 'The Hate U Give' [website] - link
28. SparkNotes - On The Come Up: Study Guide - link
29. Angie Thomas - Concrete Rose [website] - link
30. Goodreads - Book : Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas [website] - link
31. Goodreads - News and Interviews: Interview with Angie Thomas [website] - link
32. Mississippi Writers Project - Mississippi Author Angie Thomas – The Hate U Give [website] - link
33. Between the Shelves - Review: Blackout - ARC Reviews [website] - link
34. Goodreads - Book : Blackout by Dhonielle Clayton [website] - link
35. Entertainment Weekly - Six top YA authors are collaborating on one of 2021's most exciting books [website] - link
36. SuperSummary - Nic Blake and the Remarkables Summary and Study Guide [website] - link
37. Kirkus Reviews - Nic Blake And The Remarkables [website] - link
38. The New York Times - Book Review: "The Manifestor Prophecy (Nic Blake and the Remarkables, Book 1)", by Angie Thomas [website] - link
39. Angie Thomas - Find Your Voice [website] - link
40. HarperCollins Canada - Find Your Voice: A Guided Journal for Writing Your Truth - Angie Thomas - Paperback [website] - link
41. Epic Reads - Find Your Voice: A Guided Journal for Writing Your Truth [website] - link
42. Rich in Color - Book Review: Whiteout [website] - link
43. Google Books - Whiteout: A Novel - Dhonielle Clayton, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas, Ashley Woodfolk, Nicola Yoon [website] - link
44. Teen Think Tank Project - The Hate U Give: An Examination of Racial Injustice & Activism [website] - link
45. Angie Thomas - The Hate U Give [website] - link
46. Scripture Savvy - The Hate U Give Full Book Summary (With Lessons) [website] - link
47. PrimeStudyGuides.com - The Hate U Give - Narrator and point of view [website] - link
48. GradeSaver - How does the author (Angie Thomas) use colloquial langauge such as ‘Slang’ to covey the inequalties between white and black Americans? [website] - link
49. LitCharts - The Hate U Give Quotes [website] - link
50. Facebook - Oak Grove Presbyterian Church [website] - link
51. TIME - Author Angie Thomas on How Books Empower the Next Generation [website] - link
52. Goodreads - Book : Concrete Rose (The Hate U Give, #0) by Angie Thomas [website] - link
53. PEDESTRIAN.TV - Author Angie Thomas Details How Her Confronting Past Shaped 'The Hate U Give' [website] - link
54. The Bent Agency - Angie Thomas [website] - link
55. Zane State College - Black History Month: Angie Thomas [website] - link
56. Goodreads - Book : On the Come Up: Angie Thomas by Angie Thomas [website] - link
57. Epic Reads - The Inspiration Behind The Hate U Give [website] - link
58. Britannica Kids - Angie Thomas [website] - link
59. Oxygen.ie - Angie Thomas: the Woman who Showed us how to use your Voice through Writing [website] - link
60. IMDb - Angie Thomas [website] - link
61. African American Literature Book Club - Angie Thomas - Books, Biography, and Author Information [website] - link