Sharon M. Draper

1948, United States — present

Sharon M. Draper is an award-winning author and educator known for Out of My Mind, which explores the life of a girl with cerebral palsy, and Out of Darkness, addressing race and violence. Some of her books have been challenged for language and content addressing systemic injustice. Draper has been an outspoken advocate for inclusive education, arguing that literature should broaden perspectives. Her writing gives voice to characters rarely centered in mainstream fiction, approaching storytelling as both an educational and emotional tool.