Lillie Patterson facts for kids
Lillie Patterson (born May 3, 1917 – died March 11, 1999) was an American writer who wrote many books for kids and young adults. She also worked as a librarian in schools and colleges in Baltimore, Maryland. Lillie Patterson wrote 17 books, including Martin Luther King, Jr.: Man of Peace. This book was about Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and won the very first Coretta Scott King Award. She also wrote books about important figures like the Statue of Liberty, Coretta Scott King, Frederick Douglass, and Booker T. Washington.
About Lillie Patterson
Lillie Patterson grew up in Hilton Head, South Carolina. She loved listening to her grandmother tell stories. These stories likely inspired her to become a writer herself.
Her Education and Career
Lillie Patterson was an African-American woman. She went to Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, in the 1940s. There, she earned a degree in elementary education. Later, in the 1950s, she got another degree in library services from the Catholic University of America in Washington D.C. She also studied at other famous universities, including Johns Hopkins University and New York University.
After her studies, she became a librarian. She helped students find books and learn in both schools and colleges. Her love for books and learning clearly showed in her own writing.
Awards and Recognition
Lillie Patterson received several special awards for her work. In 1963, she was given the Living Maker of Negro History Award from the Iota Phi Lambda sorority. This award recognized her important contributions. She also won a Professional Award from the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs in Baltimore. In 1985, she received the Helen Keating Award from the Church and Synagogue Library Association. These awards show how much her writing and library work were valued.
Her Books
Lillie Patterson wrote many books that helped young readers learn about important people and events. Her book about Martin Luther King Jr. was especially famous. Here are some of her well-known works:
- Meet Miss Liberty (1962)
- David: The Story of a King (1985)
