Walter Dean Myers Teaching Resources

Walter Dean Myers has been named the new US ambassador for young people's literature (the 2-year appointment began in January 2012). Check out his stunning works of fiction, covering topics ranging from the youth drug culture and school shootings to first loves and sports. Middle and high school students will appreciate Myers' handling of tough themes that affect them as they come of age.

Teaching/Discussion Guides Autobiography of My Dead Brother Reading Guide Autobiography of My Dead Brother is about two friends and the tragic ramifications of one's decision to join the drug culture. Use this printable to guide classroom discussion about the themes and characters in the novel by Walter Dean Myers. Monster Reading Guide Spark a spirited debate about the moral and social dilemmas that arise in Walter Dean Myers's Monster with the group discussion questions in this reading guide. Discussion of racism, social injustice, and criminality are covered in this gripping story. Shooter Reading Guide This reading guide includes discussion questions for Shooter, a novel by Walter Dean Myers about a school shooting. Dope Sick Reading Guide Use the questions in this printable to guide classroom discussion about Walter Dean Myers's novel Dope Sick, a story about drug use, violence, and second chances. Game Reading Guide Enrich students' reading experience with classroom discussion questions and activities for Game, a novel by Walter Dean Myers about a high school senior's struggle to earn a basketball scholarship. Street Love Reading Guide Use the questions in this reading guide to encourage classroom discussion of Street Love, a novel by Walter Dean Myers about first love and following your heart. War Is... Author Notes Learn about the inspiration behind War Is... and compare how four leading young-adult authors tell the truth about war. This article is based on speeches given by Paul Fleischman, Harry Mazer, Walter Dean Myers, and Jim Murphy; it includes a short scene from a book by each author so you and your students can compare their writing styles. Teacher's Guide to The Dream Bearer, Handbook for Boys & It Ain't All for Nothin' In this teacher's guide you'll find reading skills and strategies, discussion questions, and activities for Walter Dean Myers's The Dream Bearer, Handbook for Boys & It Ain't All for Nothin'. These three novels address themes of personal responsibility, father-son relationships, and the importance of mentors. More Information on Walter Dean Myers Walter Dean Myers' official website New York Times article about Myers' appointment as Ambassador for Young People's Literature