This biography in verse offers readers an exciting glimpse into the life of one of our most talented and beloved poets. Fourteen poems explore important themes and events in Hughes? life. We learn about his lonely childhood spent with his grandmother, who told him stories of his heroic ancestors. We see the racism and poverty he overcame, and how he followed his dream to become a poet. We learn of Hughes? love of language and travel, and how he inspired other writers. While Hughes often struggled with poverty and a world that did not welcome black poets, he stayed true to his dream of writing poetry in the language of black folks, celebrating the people with whom he grew up. This book is perfect for those who already know and love the work of Langston Hughes as well as for those who want to learn more about this inspiring man and acclaimed writer.

Tony Medina is the author of six beloved books for young readers, as well as multiple volumes of poetry for adults. A Pushcart Prize-nominated poet and a professor of creative writing at Howard University, Dr. Medina is a two-time winner of the Paterson Prize for Books for Young People. He lives in the Washington, DC area.