Richard Wright (1908-1962) was an acclaimed short story writer, poet, and novelist, whose work most often concerned the plight of African Americans in late 19th century to mid-20th century America. His best known books are Native Son, chosen by the Book of the Month Club as their first book by an African-American author, and his memoir Black Boy, a vivid portrayal of one black man's search for self-actualization in a racist society.