- Birth: Taylor was born on August 13, 1943, in Jackson, Mississippi, United States.
2. Education:
- Early Education: She received her primary and secondary education in Jackson.
- College: She attended Tougaloo College, Mississippi, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1965.
3. Career:
- Writer: Taylor began writing as a child and published her first novel, "Song of the Trees," in 1977.
- Educator: She worked as a teacher in Mississippi and Colorado.
4. Literary Recognition:
- Newbery Medal: Taylor received the Newbery Medal, one of the most prestigious awards in children's literature, for her novel "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" in 1977.
- Other Awards: Her works have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Coretta Scott King Award, the National Book Award for Young People's Literature, and the PEN/Laura Ingalls Wilder Award.
5. Historical Fiction:
- Major Theme: Taylor's novels often explore themes of racial discrimination and the experiences of African Americans in the United States, particularly in the rural South during the 20th century.
6. Notable Works:
- "Song of the Trees" (1977) - Her debut novel set during the Civil Rights Movement.
- "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" (1976) - Follows the Logan family navigating racial tensions in the 1930s.
- "The Friendship" (1987) - Explores the relationships between different racial and ethnic groups in the mid-19th century.
7. Legacy:
- Impact on Children's Literature: Mildred D. Taylor's works have significantly impacted children's literature by bringing attention to important aspects of African American history and culture.
- Representation: Her characters and stories have empowered young readers and given them insight into the challenges and triumphs of African American life.
8. Personal Life:
- Family: Taylor has two children, Christopher and Elizabeth, from her previous marriage.
- Activism: She is an advocate for social justice and has collaborated with organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center.