Let's make this birthday one to remember.

80 years old (Born on August 09, 1944)

Happy Birthday, Patricia Mckissack! Your incredible talent for bringing history to life has made countless readers secretly wish they could time-travel—though preferably without the uncomfortable corsets or lack of Wi-Fi. From your captivating contributions to the Dear America series, you've given us diaries so vivid we almost forgot they're fictional (and may have accidentally cited them in history class).

And let's not forget your royal touch with Scholastic's Royal Diaries; you’ve proven that princesses can be both regal and relatable. With three Coretta Scott King Awards and a Newbery Medal finalist nod under your belt, you're truly literary royalty yourself. Keep inspiring—and making us laugh along the way!