Naomi Shihab Nye (b.1952) is an American poet, novelist, and anthologist renowned for her evocative and multicultural work. Her writing often revolves around her upbringing and experiences as an Arab American.
Born in St. Louis to a Palestinian father and an American mother, Nye earned a B.A. in English and world religions from Trinity University in 1974.
Nye’s diverse background profoundly influences her writing, which often explores themes of identity, family, and cultural heritage. Her poetry collections include Different Ways to Pray (1980,) her début book, and The Tree Is Older Than You Are: A Bilingual Gathering of Poems (1992,) which reflects her commitment to bringing together different cultures and languages. Red Suitcase (1994) received widespread acclaim for its insightful and personal reflections. Her 2002 collection, 19 Varieties of Gazelle: Poems of the Middle East, offers a poignant exploration of Middle Eastern themes and experiences. Nye is also known for her 2011 book A Maze Me: Poems for Girls, which showcases her ability to connect with young readers.
In addition to her poetry, Nye has written novels for young adults, including Habibi (1999,) which delves into themes of cultural displacement and identity.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Naomi Shihab Nye
Poetry calls us to pause. There is so much we overlook, while the abundance around us continues to shimmer, on its own.
—Naomi Shihab Nye
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