Walter Ellis Mosley (68) is a Jewish African-American writer (Jewish mother, non-Jewish father) who recently was awarded the prestigious National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. He is the first Black man to receive the honor (although not the first Jew). Mainly known for writing best-selling crime novels, Mosley is the author of more than 40 published books. His most recent work is Pinprick of Light.
Quote: “In a way, to be a Jew is to be a part of a tribe,” Mosley said in 2010, reflecting on his Jewishness. “Being a part of a tribe, you can never really escape your identity. You can be anything inside, but in the end you’re always answerable to your blood.”
Sources: Wikipedia, The Jerusalem Post
Learn more about Walter Mosley on Wikipedia. >>
Read “Pinprick of Light Black Jewish Novelist Wins Lifetime Achievement Award” >>
Watch “Walter Mosley: 2020 National Book Festival” [30:52]. >>
Photo: Wisconsin Public Radio
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