Mildred DeLois Taylor, born September 13, 1943, is a celebrated Newbery Award-winning American young adult novelist, renowned for her insightful exploration of powerful themes such as family dynamics and the harsh realities of racism faced by African Americans in the Deep South. Her narratives, notably accessible to young readers, weave a rich tapestry of historical context and emotional depth, making her works both educational and deeply moving.

Taylor achieved notable acclaim with her novel Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, a cornerstone of her Logan family series, for which she was awarded the 1977 Newbery Medal. This seminal work, along with her other novels, has earned her multiple prestigious awards, including the inaugural NSK Neustadt Prize for Children's Literature in 2003 and the Children's Literature Legacy Award in 2021. Her dedication to blending historical accuracy with compelling storytelling has positioned her as a pivotal figure in children's literature.

Born in Jackson, Mississippi, and raised in Toledo, Ohio, Taylor's literary inspiration is deeply rooted in the stories of her family's experiences in the South. These stories, passed down through generations, have not only fueled her creative vision but also served as a vessel for preserving her family's history. Her works, based on these family anecdotes, resonate with authenticity and serve as a bridge connecting past and present struggles against racial injustice.

Throughout her distinguished career, Taylor has penned nine novels, including The Road to Memphis, Let the Circle Be Unbroken, The Land, and her most celebrated work, Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. Her books have garnered numerous awards, and her impact on the genre of young adult literature has been profound, contributing significantly to the dialogue around racial and social justice issues.