Just Sayin'

More about the book

Malorie Blackman, one of Britain's most beloved children's authors, is known for her impactful Noughts & Crosses series. Her journey to becoming a writer was long and filled with challenges, yet she maintained a sense of wonder and humor throughout. Growing up in South London, she found solace in books and her local library. Despite her passion for storytelling and a desire to become an English teacher, she faced rejection due to her race and was even told by a doctor that she would not live past thirty due to sickle cell disease. Overcoming more than eighty rejections from publishers, she ultimately achieved her dream of becoming a writer. Blackman reflects on her life through the principles that have motivated her journey: wonder, loss, anger, perseverance, representation, and love. These tenets have inspired her writing and fueled her determination. Her experiences provide insight into growing up in post-war Britain, the importance of protecting the arts, navigating the healthcare system, and confronting societal racism. Funny, frank, and full of life lessons, this deeply personal narrative showcases the incredible life of a natural storyteller who defied expectations and inspired a generation.