Rita Williams-Garcia is an American author known for her contributions to children's and young adult literature. She was born on February 12, 1952, in New York City. Williams-Garcia has received numerous awards for her work, including the Coretta Scott King Award and the Newbery Honor for her novel "One Crazy Summer," which tells the story of three sisters who travel to California in the 1960s. Her writing often explores themes of family, identity, and the African American experience. In addition to "One Crazy Summer," she has written several other notable books, including "P.S. Be Eleven" and "Gone Crazy in Alabama," which continue the story of the sisters. Williams-Garcia's engaging storytelling and relatable characters have made her a prominent figure in contemporary literature.