Richard W. Peck

Richard Peck, award-winning author and former adjunct professor at LSU, died at his home in New York City on May 23 at the age of 84 after a lengthy battle with cancer. Mr. Peck began his career as a teacher before becoming a full-time writer. He published over 40 novels for young readers and young adults; professional articles supporting teachers, librarians and readers; poetry; short stories; several novels for adults and a picture book for children. He was the winner of the American Library Association's Margaret A. Edwards Award for "significant and lasting contributions to young adult literature", the National Council of Teachers of English/ALAN Award, the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Allan Poe Award, and the prestigious Newbery Medal. Five of his novels were made into television movies and twice he was a National Book Award finalist. In 2002 Mr. Peck became the first young adult author to be awarded a National Humanities Medal, presented by President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush. He was honored with the University of Southern Mississippi Medallion for "outstanding contributions in the field of children's literature" and numerous state and regional awards. He received two honorary doctorates, the last conferred by Southern Illinois University on May 12, 2018. Mr. Peck was the first guest author at the Author/Illustrator Program sponsored by the Baton Rouge Public Library System and the LSU School of Library and Information Science in 1977. From that time, he returned to Louisiana to do research for his books, give guest lectures at LSU, and speak in schools and libraries. In 1996 he was appointed Adjunct Professor in the LSU School of Library and Information Science where he co-taught courses until 2010, including three Academic Programs Abroad. During that time he established the Richard Peck Youth Services Scholarship and endowed the Patsy H. Perritt Chair in Youth Services. His final professional speech was given at the 2017 Louisiana Book Festival. A memorial service will be held at Lincoln Center in New York City on June 29. Burial will be in Decatur, Illinois, Mr. Peck's hometown. He is survived by his sister, Cheryl Peck, four decades of readers, and numerous friends, students, and colleagues who will miss his talent, as well as his wit and charm. Memorial donations can be made to the LSU Foundation for the Richard Peck Youth Services Scholarship , sent to the LSU School of Library and Information Science, 267 Coates Hall.