Author Derrick Barnes Inspires Students at Brooklyn Ascend Middle School

On Friday, September 19, Brooklyn Ascend Middle School welcomed acclaimed author Derrick Barnes for a special visit, where students enjoyed an engaging discussion and an exclusive preview of his new book, The Incredibly Human Henson Blaze.

“As long as you have the power to read, you have the world in your hands,” said Danique Day, Ascend’s Chief Schools Officer, as she introduced Barnes to an audience of attentive students.

Barnes—a National Book Award Finalist, Newbery Honor recipient, and Coretta Scott King Author Honor recipient—shared insights about his life and career before reading a short excerpt from his latest work.

Students in grades 5–8 eagerly participated in a Q&A session, asking questions ranging from the sources of his inspiration to how he chooses the design of his book covers. At the end of the visit, each student received a personally signed copy of his new book.

“Everybody in this room has their own story to tell. Everybody’s lived experience is so valuable,” Barnes told the students during his presentation.

The Incredibly Human Henson Blaze, published today, September 23 by Penguin Random House, has already been longlisted for the 2025 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature.

A heartfelt thank you to Derrick Barnes for taking the time to visit and inspire Ascend’s students!