Walter Dean Myers

Presents blues lyrics that chronicle the history of the African-American experience, and includes information about the development of blues music.

Frederick Douglass was a self-educated slave in the South who grew up to become an icon. He was a leader of the abolitionist movement, a celebrated writer, an esteemed speaker, and a social reformer, proving that, as he said, "Once you learn to read, you will be forever free."

The two-time National Book Award finalist discusses his historical novel about the New York City Draft Riots in 1863 with middle graders and teens, ages 12 and up. The event includes a discussion with the audience. Performance playlist: Reading with the Audience by Walter Dean Myers, then conversation between Walter Dean Myers and Madeline Cohen.