Alana Tyson is an award-winning storyteller, author, and retired Intelligence Officer. She’s also a mom, actress, journalist, and native New Yorker. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY Alana always had a passion for reading and writing. She earned two degrees in mass media, was a freelance writer for a NY-based business publication, and a production assistant at Fox 5 News. From journalism to a 22-year career in the secretive world of intelligence – neither industry allowed for the freedom and creativity she sought in her storytelling. Inspired by her two school-aged sons, Alana began writing for children and never looked back. Her debut picture book, My Red, White and Blue was a 2024 finalist for the Jane Addams Peace Children’s Book Award, was selected as a Michigan MiSelf In Books 2023 list member, and was chosen by the Black Caucus American Library Association’s Best of the Best picture books in 2023. Alana’s forthcoming picture book, Devin’s Gift shows her range as an author, as she seamlessly tackles topics as profound as patriotism in the Black community and as lighthearted as friendship.
Alana enjoys writing about unsung heroes and creating opportunities for young readers to see themselves, and the experiences of others, in her stories. No topic is off-limits for her picture books, because like children, Alana finds inspiration everywhere. She’s a lover of organized chaos and writing books that showcase the simple joys of childhood.
“With creativity and compassion…Alana Tyson’s thoughtful ode to the flag, and the way African American history is woven into every stitch of it, opens the door to deeper conversations about patriotism, protest and freedom.” — The Virginian Pilot
