An Na facts for kids

An Na (born 1972) is an American author who writes books for young people. She was born in South Korea. Her first book, A Step From Heaven, became very popular. It was published in 2001. This book won the Michael L. Printz Award. This award is given to the best book for teens each year. It was also a finalist for the National Book Award. Many people consider it one of the best books.

About An Na's Life

An Na grew up in San Diego, California. She earned a degree from Amherst College. She started her career as a middle school teacher. She taught English and History.

How She Became a Writer

An Na decided to become a writer after taking a special class. This class was about books for young adults. She was studying at Vermont College of Fine Arts at the time.

Today, An Na lives in two places. She spends time in Oakland, California and Warren, Vermont. She often visits middle schools. She talks to students about her books. She also encourages young Asian-American students. She wants them to use their creativity and become artists.

Books That Inspired Her

An Na has been inspired by other writers. She looks up to authors like Frank McCourt. His book Angela's Ashes influenced her. She also admires The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros.

An Na also likes the work of Madeleine L'Engle. Her first writing teacher, Jacqueline Woodson, also inspired her. These authors helped shape her own writing style.

An Na's Books

Here are some of the books An Na has written:

• A Step From Heaven (2001)
• The Fold (2008)
• Akbar : The Great Emperor of India
• Wait For Me (2017)
• The Place Between Breaths (2018)