6 Authors You Should Know

Here’s a list of 6 authors that I think are excellent writers.  You should check out some of their books if you haven’t already!

1. Jerry Spinelli: I wasn’t too familiar with Spinelli before this semester, but after reading Maniac Mcgee and Crash, I became a big fan of his writing.  I think he tells stories with a diverse variety of characters, whom he wonderfully describes and brings to life.  I’m hoping to read some other Spinelli books, particularly Milkweed and Wringer in the near future.

2. C.S. Lewis: Lewis was an expert storyteller.  He really knew how to tell a tale about an exciting adventure or journey.  I think his Chronicles of Narnia series is excellent.  I also found it quite fun to read about the mythical creatures in Lewis’ stories, including centaurs, fauns, marsh-wiggles, and dragons.  It definitely gets your imagination going! 

3. Roald Dahl: Dahl was an extremely creative writer.  He had a very interesting and unique sense of humor that not all will enjoy, but it certainly appeals to me.  Dahl wrote some great books, including The BFG, Matilda, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.  Quentin Blake illustrated most of Dahl’s stories, and his pictures are very unique.

4. Lois Lowry: I read some of her Giver series this semester, Gathering Blue and Messenger, and enjoyed them quite a bit. I also was impacted by Number the Stars when we read it as a class in elementary school.

Lois Lowry, author of The Giver, at her home in Cambridge, MA

5. Eric Carle: Everybody should read at least one of Carle’s books.  He is an amazingly talented author and illustrator who has some excellent works, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar and The Mixed-Up Chameleon.  Very unique illustrations that kids love.

6.Mark Ludy: I had never heard of Ludy before this semester but ended up reading one of his books, The Farmer.  I thought it was a great story with wonderful illustrations.  I need to check out some of his other books, like Noah and The Flower Man.