Breena Clarke facts for kids

Breena Clarke is an American writer. She writes fiction, which means she makes up stories. Her first book, River, Cross My Heart, won an award in 1999. She is also the younger sister of Cheryl Clarke, who is a poet and activist. Together, they help organize a special event called the Hobart Festival of Women Writers every summer.

About Breena Clarke

Breena Clarke grew up in Washington, D.C.. She has four sisters and one brother. Her parents were James Sheridan Clarke and Edna Payne Clarke. She went to college at Webster College and later at Howard University.

Her Books

Breena Clarke's first novel was River, Cross My Heart. It was published in 1999. This book was chosen by the famous Oprah Winfrey for her book club. People loved the book because it told an important story. It showed a part of the African-American experience in the 20th century. A reviewer from Publishers Weekly called it a "haunting story." The book was so popular that it stayed on The New York Times bestseller list for a month.

Her second book, Stand the Storm, came out in 2008. A reviewer from The Washington Post said it was another exciting historical story. It told about African Americans wanting true freedom.

Breena Clarke's third novel is Angels Make Their Hope Here. It was published in 2014. This book also received good reviews. For example, Alan Cheuse from NPR's All Things Considered praised it.

Awards She Has Won

Breena Clarke has won several awards for her writing. These awards show how much her books are appreciated.

• 1999: She won the New Atlantic Independent Booksellers Association (NAIBA) award for fiction.
• 2000: She received the Alex Award. This award is given by the Young Adult Library Services Association. It recognizes books written for adults that are also great for young adults.