Marilou Awiakta facts for kids

Marilou Awiakta is an American writer. She was born on January 24, 1936, in Knoxville, Tennessee. She is well-known for her poetry and essays. These writings often share her experiences growing up in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.

About Marilou Awiakta

Marilou Awiakta's family has lived in the Appalachian mountains for a very long time. They have been in East Tennessee since 1730. She is the seventh generation of her family to grow up in this area.

Marilou Awiakta studied at the University of Tennessee. She graduated in 1958 with high honors. She earned her degree in both English and French.

Awards and Recognition

Marilou Awiakta has received special honors for her writing.

• In 1989, she won the Distinguished Tennessee Writer Award.
• In 2000, she received the Appalachian Heritage Writer's Award. This award was given by Shepherd College.

Books by Marilou Awiakta

Marilou Awiakta has written several books.

• Abiding Appalachia: Where Mountain and Atom Meet. This book was first published in 1978. It was reprinted several times.
• Rising Fawn and the Fire Mystery: A Child's Christmas in Memphis, 1833. This book came out in 1983.
• Selu: Seeking the Corn-Mother's Wisdom. This work was published in 1993. It combines stories, essays, and poems.