When A Raisin in the Sun captured the 1959 New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Play of the Year, it marked a milestone for its creator, Lorraine Hansberry. At just twenty-nine, she etched her name into history as the youngest American playwright to achieve this honor, while also being the fifth woman and the first African-American to do so. This recognition, coupled with subsequent theatrical presentations, solidified Hansberry's significance in young adult literature. Her influence was further extended through the musical adaptation of her work, Raisin, which has seen performances in high schools nationwide.

Hansberry's vision transcended the stage; she was a vocal advocate for universal freedom, asserting that liberation for one requires liberation for all. Her writings and political activism were guided by a deep-seated belief that racism stifles humanity's true potential. Notably, she foresaw the African revolutionary movements that erupted in the 1960s and 1970s. Her circle included prominent figures from the African-American civil rights movement, and she even stepped in for Martin Luther King, Jr., at a conference, underscoring her commitment to the cause.

Following Hansberry's untimely death, her former husband, Robert Nemiroff, dedicated himself to preserving her legacy. His efforts ensured that her work remained accessible to future generations, particularly through the release of To Be Young, Gifted, and Black. This unique biography blends theatrical language with personal narrative and public speech, offering a comprehensive view of Hansberry's life and contributions. Without it, many young adults might remain unaware of her diverse body of work, the profound impact of A Raisin in the Sun, and the multifaceted nature of Hansberry herself.