- Maya Angelou: Blackman has said that Angelou's autobiography, _I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings_, was a major inspiration to her as a young writer. She admired Angelou's ability to write about her experiences with honesty and courage.
- Toni Morrison: Morrison is another writer who has had a significant influence on Blackman. Blackman appreciates Morrison's use of language and her ability to create complex characters.
- Walter Dean Myers: Myers is a children's book author who has written extensively about African-American culture. Blackman has praised Myers' work for its realism and its positive representation of African-American characters.
What inspired Malorie Blackman to write?
- Her own experiences: Blackman has said that her own experiences as a black woman in the UK have inspired her to write. She wants to create books that reflect the experiences of black children and young adults, and to challenge negative stereotypes about black people.
- The lack of diversity in children's literature: Blackman has also been inspired to write by the lack of diversity in children's literature. She wants to create books that are inclusive of all children, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or gender.
- The power of literature: Blackman believes that literature can have a powerful impact on people's lives. She wants her books to inspire young people and to help them see the world in new ways.