Elizabeth Acevedo is a beloved poet and author, celebrated for winning prestigious honors like the National Book Award, the Prinz Medal, and the Pura Belpré Award. She also held the title of Young People's Poet Laureate. And on a personal note, she is one of my all-time favorite authors. Elizabeth is renowned for her young adult novels, including “The Poet X,” “Clap When You Land,” and “With The Fire on High,” along with her recent adult novel, “Family Lore.” Her writing vividly explores her Afro-Latina heritage, delving into themes of identity, family, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.
In this episode, we discuss Elizabeth’s secret mentors (and mentees), and some of the spurns she has encountered within the literary community. She reminisces about Friday nights in her apartment building, reflects on the importance of names, and ruminates about what her future may hold. She even shares her original rap name!
“I cannot do an interview without talking about who I come from as it pertains to the writers who have influenced my work because their fingerprints are all over [it].” - Elizabeth Acevedo
In an interview, we may hear Elizabeth Acevedo’s singular voice, but she assures us she is not alone. Elizabeth reminds us that she is part of a lineage and an amalgamation of many voices. She, like all of us, represents those who came before her, those whose books she devours, those who have shaped her life, and those who inspire her. A Greek chorus, if you will.
In fact, when I asked Elizabeth about her personal journey, she called on her community and family at every phase—the community that raised her and continues to nurture her. Elizabeth credits everyone, from the neighborhood boys who encouraged her to spit bars at the local corner store to the teacher-mentors, with being essential to her rise as a critically acclaimed author and international slam poet star.
Listen to the full episode, “Always in the Room: Elizabeth Acevedo on Ancestors, Neighbors, and Secret Mentors,” on Apple, Spotify, Podbean, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. Like what you hear? Please leave a 5-star review, subscribe, and share with someone who will enjoy it!
Whatever you do, keep reading!
Download the free reading challenge worksheet, or view the challenge materials on our helpdesk.