Acclaimed feminist author bell hooks has died at 69

Author bell hooks has died at the age of 69, her family and publisher said in a statement Wednesday. Born Gloria Jean Watkins, the hooks was best known for her writing on Black identity, feminism and intersectionality. 

"The family of bell hooks is sad to announce the passing of our sister, aunt, great aunt and great great aunt," hooks' family said in the statement. "The family is honored that Gloria received numerous awards, honors, and international fame for her works as poet, author, feminist, professor, cultural critic, and social activist. We are proud to just call her sister, friend, confidant, and influencer." 

Her family did not release a cause of death, but said she had friends and family by her side.