Picture a Korean-American storyteller who spun tales of courage and culture, captivating young readers worldwide—meet Linda Sue Park! Born to Korean immigrants in Illinois, Park’s journey from a nine-year-old poet to a Newbery Medalist is a testament to her passion for storytelling. Her books, rich with historical depth and vibrant characters, bring Korean heritage to life for children everywhere.
With a knack for blending history and heart, Park has penned novels and picture books that resonate across generations. From the 12th-century Korea of A Single Shard to the Sudanese struggles in A Long Walk to Water, her stories invite readers to explore diverse worlds with empathy and wonder.
The Making of Linda Sue Park
Born on March 25, 1960, in Urbana, Illinois, Linda Sue Park grew up in a Korean-American household near Chicago. Her parents, who immigrated in the 1950s, instilled a love for learning, but Park found her true calling in books. A self-proclaimed 'maniacal' reader, she devoured Nancy Drew and Laura Ingalls Wilder, scribbling stories and poems from age four. At nine, she published her first haiku in Trailblazer magazine, earning a dollar she gifted to her father—a check still framed above his desk.
Park’s path to authorship wasn’t direct. After earning a BA in English from Stanford University, she worked in public relations, taught English as a second language, and even wrote food reviews in London. But her childhood love for writing never faded, and in her mid-thirties, she began exploring her Korean roots, leading to her debut novel, Seesaw Girl, in 1999.
Linda Sue Park’s Unforgettable Stories
Park’s works are a vibrant tapestry of Korean history and universal themes, crafted with meticulous research and lyrical prose. Her 2002 Newbery Medal winner, A Single Shard, follows Tree-ear, a 12th-century Korean orphan dreaming of becoming a potter. The novel’s vivid depiction of celadon pottery and themes of perseverance make it timeless.
A Long Walk to Water, a New York Times bestseller, intertwines the true story of Sudanese 'Lost Boy' Salva Dut with a fictional girl’s quest for water. Its powerful narrative has inspired countless readers to engage with global issues. Park’s picture book Bee-bim Bop! celebrates Korean culture through a joyful tale of cooking a traditional dish, while Tap Dancing on the Roof introduces sijo, a Korean poetic form, with playful verses.
Her Wing & Claw trilogy, a fantasy adventure, showcases Park’s versatility, blending magic and mystery to captivate middle-grade readers. Each work reflects her commitment to authentic cultural details and stories that spark empathy.
Why Linda Sue Park Matters
Linda Sue Park’s impact extends beyond her books. As the first Korean-American Newbery Medalist, she’s a trailblazer for diverse voices in children’s literature. Her stories bridge cultures, helping young readers connect with histories and perspectives different from their own. Through her work with We Need Diverse Books and the kiBooka website, Park champions inclusivity and celebrates Korean diaspora authors.
Her global travels to promote literacy—visiting over 30 countries and 49 states—have inspired educators and students alike. Park believes books foster empathy, a belief reflected in her narratives that encourage readers to engage with the world’s complexities. Her legacy is one of connection, proving that stories can change lives.
About Linda Sue Park
- Born: March 25, 1960, Urbana, Illinois
- Key Works: A Single Shard, A Long Walk to Water, Bee-bim Bop!, Wing & Claw trilogy
- Awards: 2002 Newbery Medal, Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature
- Fun Fact: Park is a devoted New York Mets fan!
Snag A Long Walk to Water or Bee-bim Bop! and dive into Linda Sue Park’s heartfelt, history-rich world!