This YA Author Wrote a Black Lives Matter-Inspired Masterpiece
Over the last few years, we’ve seen the Black Lives Matter movement grow from protests to a powerful national campaign to counteract racial oppression. It’s also the inspiration behind Angie Thomas’s debut novel, The Hate U Give, about a 16-year-old who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed best friend by a police officer. Torn between two worlds, her poor neighborhood and her wealthy prep school in the ‘burbs, Starr must discover her own voice and speak out about what truly matters.
The Hate U Give is an unforgettable novel you won’t want to miss — especially not before the movie comes out. We caught up with Angie Thomas and chatted with her about her creative inspiration, books on her radar, and more. Scroll on to discover this brilliant new author!
Brit + Co: Describe your book in six words or less.
Angie Thomas: Activist-in-the-making finds her voice.
B+C: Where/when do you do your best writing?
AT: During the day, in my bedroom with the door closed as I sit at my desk, my headphones blasting a Spotify playlist while I sip from a mug of coffee.
B+C: What’s your go-to cure for when you’re stuck in a creativity rut?
AT: Music and movies always do the trick. For instance, a few weekends ago I was struggling to write my second book. I saw Hidden Figures. When I left the theater, I was so inspired that I started writing ideas on my phone.
B+C: What two lady heroes do you turn to for inspiration, and why?
AT: My mother, for one. I don’t think I know anyone who is stronger. Secondly, Oprah. As a young black woman from Mississippi, seeing her, a successful black woman from Mississippi, always reminds me of what’s possible. (Photo via Getty/CBS)
B+C: What’s your latest Instagram (or Tumblr/Twitter/media) obsession?
AT:@NotKarltonBanks on Instagram. He’s probably my favorite online comedian.
B+C: Can you name a book that you think deserves a little more love + recognition?
AT:How It Went Down, by Kekla Magoon.
B+C: What’s next on your to-read pile?
AT: Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson and Rani Patel in Full Effect by Sonia Patel.
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(Featured photo via Anissa Hidouk)
