Arts·Q with Tom Power

Kwame Alexander set out to write a collection of love poems, but ended up writing a memoir instead

Alexander's new memoir, Why Fathers Cry At Night, is a window into the life and mind of one of America’s greatest children's authors. He joins Q's Tom Power to share some of his stories.

Why Fathers Cry At Night is a window into the life and mind of one of America’s greatest children's authors

Head shot of Kwame Alexander.
Kwame Alexander is a poet, educator, producer and #1 New York Times Bestselling author of 38 books. (Submitted by Kwame Alexander)

In the world of poetry and children's literature, author Kwame Alexander is royalty. His books for young readers include The Undefeated, which won the prestigious Caldecott prize, and The Crossover, which has been adapted into a Disney+ series.

Now, Alexander has released his first full-length book for adults. His memoir Why Fathers Cry At Night is a window into the life and mind of one of America's greatest children's authors. He joins Q's Tom Power to share some of the stories in his memoir and why writing poetry doesn't necessarily mean you're a vulnerable person. 

The full interview with Kwame Alexander is available on our podcast, Q with Tom Power. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.


Interview with Kwame Alexander produced by Vanessa Greco.