Kevin Young, author portrait
© Melanie Dunea

Kevin Young

KEVIN YOUNG is the author of sixteen books of poetry and prose, including his most recent, Night Watch. He is the poetry editor of The New Yorker, where he hosts the Poetry Podcast, and the editor of eleven volumes, including A Century of Poetry in the New Yorker, 1925-2025 and the acclaimed anthology African American Poetry: 250 Years of Struggle & Song. He currently serves as the Global Distinguished Professor at New York University.
Stones
Brown
Blue Laws
Book of Hours
Ardency
Dear Darkness
For the Confederate Dead
Jelly Roll

Books

Stones
Brown
Blue Laws
Book of Hours
Ardency
Dear Darkness
For the Confederate Dead
Jelly Roll

Mental Health Awareness Month Resources

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and educators are increasingly aware that integrating social-emotional learning into the curriculum is critical if we want students to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Download the thematic educator guides on Teaching About Anxiety and Mindfulness and Teaching About Student Wellness. Explore our specially curated collections on

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Books for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Each May, we honor the stories, histories, and cultures of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Below is a selection of acclaimed fiction and nonfiction books by AANHPI creators to share with your students this month and throughout the year. AANHPI Creators – Middle School titles AANHPI Creators – High School titles .

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Celebrate 100 years of James Baldwin

We’re celebrating the centennial of James Baldwin’s birth by sharing a collection of his work. Explore titles and learn more about the literary legend and civil rights champion.   James Baldwin (1924–1987) was a novelist, essayist, playwright, poet, and social critic. His first novel, Go Tell It on the Mountain, appeared in 1953 to excellent reviews, and his

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Books for Black History Month

Join Penguin Random House in celebrating the contributions of Black authors, creators, and educators. In honor of Black History Month, we are highlighting stories about the history of Black America, being Black today, and essential novels by Black writers. Browse the middle school collection Browse the high school collection   Explore additional books by Black

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