Nikki Grimes is an American author of books written for children and young adults, as well as a poet and journalist. Grimes was born in Harlem, New York. In a conversation with a Reading is Fundamental interviewer, Ms. Grimes stated "Books were my survival tools. They were how I got by, and how I coped with things. Books carried me away." As an author whose work appeals to readers of all ages, her poetry and books help carry her readers away. She has been a guest lecturer at international schools in Sweden, Tanzania, China, and Russia. She has written articles for magazines such as Today's Christian Woman and Essence. Her interests and talents are diverse and include photography, fiber art, and beading. Grimes currently resides in Corona, California and continues to write poetry and books for children and young adults. She is on the board of directors for the National Children's Book and Literacy Alliance. Her work has earned her honors and recognition from a number of prestigious organizations. Her novel Bronx Masquerade was named the Coretta Scott King Award book in 2002. 

October 20th, 1950 in New York City (Age 74)