NWP’s The Write Time will “Write Out” this month by welcoming poet and author Nikki Grimes discussing her new children’s book, A Walk in the Woods. She is interviewed by elementary school teacher and poet Willeena Booker and Park Ranger Maryann Zujewski.

New York Times bestselling author Nikki Grimes is the recipient of the 2022 CSK Virginia Hamilton Lifetime Achievement Award, the ALAN Award for significant contributions to young adult literature, the Children's Literature Legacy Medal, and the NCTE Award for Excellence in Poetry for Children. The author of Coretta Scott King Award-winner Bronx Masquerade, and five Coretta Scott King Author Honors, her most recent titles include the YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults title Between the Lines, companion to Bronx Masquerade, NCTE Notable Words With Wings, the much acclaimed Garvey's Choice, One Last Word, Printz Honor and Sibert Honor Ordinary Hazards, ALA Notables Legacy: Women Poets of the Harlem Renaissance and Southwest Sunrise, Kirkus Best Books Bedtime for Sweet Creatures and Playtime for Restless Rascals, and Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice. Ms. Grimes lives in Corona, California.

Willeena Booker is an inspiring educator, powerful poet, and passionate advocate of social justice. Willeena's poetry celebrates Black Identity, diversity, and equality. Willeena writes poetry for adults as well as young readers and loves using her poetry as a catalyst for change.

Maryann Zujewski has worked for the National Park Service for over 30 years. She is currently the Education Program Manager for the Northeast Region of the National Park Service providing support and assistance to the 83 parks in states from Maine to Virginia in their efforts to provide equitable and inclusive place-based learning experiences.