Who is the author of Hidden Figures? The author of this inspiring and groundbreaking novel is Margot Lee Shetterly. Born on January 17, 1972, in Henrico County, Virginia, Shetterly is an American historian and writer. Her work focuses on the untold stories of African-American women who played pivotal roles in the United States’ space program during the 20th century.
Margot Lee Shetterly’s journey to becoming an author began with her own fascination with the lives of the women who worked at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. These women, known as “Hidden Figures,” were mathematicians and scientists who made significant contributions to the success of the American space program, particularly during the height of the Cold War and the Space Race.
Shetterly’s research led her to uncover the remarkable stories of these women, who were often overlooked and underappreciated for their work. Determined to share their stories with the world, she embarked on a writing career that would ultimately result in the publication of Hidden Figures in 2016.
The novel is based on Shetterly’s family history and the lives of her grandmother, Dorothy Johnson, and her great-aunt, Katherine Johnson, who were both part of the “Hidden Figures” at NASA. The book tells the story of these women’s struggle for recognition and their incredible achievements in the face of racial and gender discrimination.
Margot Lee Shetterly’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling have brought the lives of these unsung heroes to the forefront, inspiring a generation of readers to pursue their dreams and overcome adversity. Hidden Figures has received widespread acclaim and has been adapted into a critically acclaimed film directed by Theodore Melfi, starring Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe.
As the author of Hidden Figures, Margot Lee Shetterly has not only brought attention to the contributions of the “Hidden Figures” but has also opened up a conversation about the role of women and minorities in the sciences and technology fields. Her work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of those who have been overlooked throughout history.
