Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Dolen Perkins-Valdez is a bestselling author known for her historical fiction exploring African American experiences.

Her novels include Wench, Balm, and Take My Hand, which won the 2023 NAACP Image Award for Fiction.

Perkins-Valdez has gained recognition as a prominent chronicler of American historical life.

She has written introductions for special editions of classic works and serves as Chair of the Board of the PEN/Faulkner Foundation.

Her writing has been praised for its insightful portrayal of complex historical themes and has established her as an important voice in contemporary literature.