Kwame Dawes (Ghana/Jamaica)

Born in Ghana in 1962, he spent most of his childhood and early adulthood in Jamaica. He is the author of 36 books encompassing poetry, fiction, criticism, and essays. He maintains a close connection with reggae music. His notable works in poetry include the recently published Sturge Town (Peepal Tree, 2023), Nebraska (UNP, 2019), and City of Bones: A Testament (Northwestern, 2017). He serves as the Glenna Luschei Editor of Prairie Schooner magazine and holds the position of Chancellor's Professor of English at the University of Nebraska. He directs the African Poetry Book Fund and serves as the Artistic Director of the Calabash International Literary Festival in Jamaica. He is a member of the American Academy of Poets.

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