Bad Boy: A Memoir

A classic memoir that's gripping, funny, and ultimately unforgettable from the bestselling former National Ambassador of Books for Young People. A strong choice for summer reading—an engaging and powerful autobiographical exploration of growing up a so-called "bad boy" in Harlem in the 1940s.

As a boy, Myers was quick-tempered and physically strong, always ready for a fight. He also read voraciously—he would check out books from the library and carry them home, hidden in brown paper bags in order to avoid other boys' teasing. He aspired to be a writer (and he eventually succeeded).

But as his hope for a successful future diminished, the values he had been taught at home, in school, and in his community seemed worthless, and he turned to the streets and to his books for comfort.

Don’t miss this memoir by New York Times bestselling author Walter Dean Myers, one of the most important voices of our time. 

Into a memoir that is gripping, funny, heartbreaking, and unforgettable, Walter Dean Myers richly weaves the details of his Harlem childhood in the 1940s and 1950s: a loving home life with his adopted parents, Bible school, street games, and the vitality of his neighborhood. Although Walter spent much of his time either getting into trouble or on the basketball court, secretly he was a voracious reader and an aspiring writer. But as his prospects for a successful future diminished, the values he had been taught at home, in school, and in his community seemed worthless, and he turned to the streets and his books for comfort. Here in his own words is the story of one of the strongest voices in children's and young adult literature today.

“A powerful read. Will make the reader laugh out loud & sigh with satisfaction.” - Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA)

“[From] one of the most important writers of children’s books [comes a] glimpse into his own childhood [that] is wonderfully valuable, fascinating…inspiring.” - Kirkus Reviews

“Myers paints a fascinating picture of his childhood growing up in Harlem in the 1940s.” - Publishers Weekly

“[A] superb memoir. Young writers will find inspiration here.” - School Library Journal

“A thoughtful, cautionary and inspiring tale.” - Chicago Tribune

“This memoir joins the ranks of stellar literary autobiographies, such as Fleischman’s Abracadabra Kid and Zindel’s Pigman and Me.” - Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books