Virginia Hamilton Biography

Virginia Hamilton is a prolific writer in youth literature. She is the author of 41 books in a variety of genres. Her life began in Yellow Springs, Ohio on March 12, 1934. A graduate of Ohio State University she majored in literature and creative writing. As she pursued her dream of becoming a published writer she worked as a museum receptionist and a nightclub singer in New York City. In order to further her education ms. Hamilton studied fiction writing at the New School for Social Research.

After marrying poet and teacher Arnold Adoff, Ms. Hamilton was able to fully focus on her writing. She wrote many genres of books including realistic novels, biography, science fiction and mysteries. She is best known for her writing that focus on African American tradition and generations.

Throughout her career Ms. Hamilton has won every major award in children's literature. In 1974, Ms. Hamilton became the first African American to win the Newberry Medal with her novel M.C. Higgins the Great.