Joyce Carol Thomas (born May 25, 1938) is an African-American poet, playwright, motivational speaker, and best-selling author of more than 30 children's books. She was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma and currently resides in Berkeley, California. She moved with her family in 1948 to Tracy, California. Thomas received a Master of Arts Degree from Stanford University. Her 1982 novel Marked by Fire won her the prestigious National Book Award. Her many awards and honors also include the American Book Award, several Coretta Scott King Honor Awards, a New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year Award, and an Outstanding Woman of the 20th Century Award.