Famous American Biographers

Ève Curie was a French and American writer, journalist, and pianist. She worked as a journalist and authored her mother's biography "Madame Curie" and a book of war reportage, "Journey Among Warriors." In the 1960s, she dedicated herself to working for UNICEF, providing assistance to children and mothers in developing countries. Despite her family's scientific background and numerous Nobel Prizes, Ève chose a different career path and did not receive a Nobel Prize herself. Her husband, Henry Richardson Labouisse Jr., collected the Nobel Peace Prize in 1965 on behalf of UNICEF.

Robert Jolin Osborne was a prominent American film historian, author, and actor who was best known as the primary television host for Turner Classic Movies (TCM) for over two decades. Before his time at TCM, he had hosting roles on The Movie Channel and American Movie Classics (AMC). In addition, Osborne worked as a news columnist for The Hollywood Reporter and authored the official history of the Academy Awards, first published in 1988. His contributions to film history and television were widely recognized and appreciated.

David McCullough was an esteemed American popular historian, celebrated for winning two Pulitzer Prizes and National Book Awards. He received the prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2006. With a degree in English literature from Yale University, McCullough authored numerous acclaimed books on historical figures and events. He also narrated documentaries like The Civil War and hosted PBS series American Experience. His Pulitzer Prize-winning works, Truman and John Adams, were adapted into TV films, showcasing his profound impact on historical storytelling through various mediums.

Carl Sandburg was an American poet, biographer, journalist, and editor who garnered acclaim for his literary works. He won three Pulitzer Prizes, two for poetry and one for his biography of Abraham Lincoln. Sandburg's volumes of collected verse, such as Chicago Poems, Cornhuskers, and Smoke and Steel, solidified his reputation as a major figure in contemporary literature. His wide-ranging experiences allowed him to connect with various aspects of American life, making him a celebrated poet with unmatched appeal during his time.

John Sheldon Doud Eisenhower was a distinguished United States Army officer, diplomat, and military historian. His military career coincided with his father's presidency, and he served in various capacities before retiring in 1974. Notably, he was appointed as the United States Ambassador to Belgium from 1969 to 1971 during the Nixon administration. Eisenhower's contributions to military history and his diplomatic service exemplify his commitment to public service and his expertise in international relations.

Lee Israel was an American author who gained notoriety for her involvement in literary forgery. She wrote several biographies and profiles of famous figures before turning to forging letters by prominent authors. Israel's activities were discovered, leading to her downfall and eventual confession in her autobiography "Can You Ever Forgive Me?" Her story was later adapted into a film in 2018. Israel's professional life was marked by her talent as a writer but marred by her criminal activities in the world of literary forgery.

Ann Rule was a prolific American author specializing in true crime books and articles. She gained widespread recognition for her work, notably for "The Stranger Beside Me" which detailed her personal connection with serial killer Ted Bundy. Rule authored over 30 books focusing on various murder cases, with a particular emphasis on incidents from the Pacific Northwest region and Washington state. Her writing was characterized by in-depth research and a captivating storytelling style that captivated readers interested in the darker aspects of human behavior.

Jim Carroll was a versatile artist known for his work as an author, poet, and punk musician. He gained recognition for his autobiographical book The Basketball Diaries, later adapted into a film. Carroll's song "People Who Died" with the Jim Carroll Band also garnered attention. His contributions to literature and music left a lasting impact on audiences, showcasing his talent and creativity across different mediums. Carroll's work continues to be celebrated for its raw and compelling portrayal of life experiences.

Stephen E. Ambrose was an esteemed American historian, academic, and author known for his compelling biographies of U.S. Presidents Dwight D. Eisenhower and Richard Nixon. He held a distinguished position as a professor of history at the University of New Orleans, where he shared his passion for American history with students. Ambrose's expertise and engaging writing style led to the publication of numerous bestselling volumes on various aspects of American popular history, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the field.

Rachel Corrie was an American nonviolence activist and diarist who dedicated her life to advocating for peace and justice in the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories. She was a member of the International Solidarity Movement (ISM) and actively protested against the Israeli army's policies in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Corrie's commitment to nonviolent resistance led her to join efforts to prevent the demolition of Palestinian property in Rafah, Gaza, where she tragically lost her life in 2003. Her death sparked international attention and criticism of the Israeli military's handling of the incident.

Piper Kerman is an American author known for her memoir "Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison" detailing her experiences during a 15-month detention for money-laundering charges. The memoir was adapted into the popular Netflix series "Orange Is the New Black." Following her release, Kerman has become an advocate for women in prison and has spoken extensively about issues within the federal prison system. She currently works as a communication strategist for non-profit organizations, utilizing her experiences to bring awareness to important social issues.

Robert Caro is an American journalist and author renowned for his biographies of political figures Robert Moses and Lyndon B. Johnson. He started his career as a reporter before gaining acclaim for his book "The Power Broker," a biography of urban planner Robert Moses. Caro has also written a multi-volume biography of former president Lyndon Johnson. His meticulous research and attention to detail have earned him numerous prestigious awards, including two Pulitzer Prizes, two National Book Awards, and the National Humanities Medal from President Barack Obama.

Dave Pelzer is an American author known for his autobiographical and self-help books. His most famous work, "A Child Called 'It': One Child's Courage to Survive," has been a bestseller for several years, selling over 1.6 million copies. Despite its success, the book has also faced controversy, with allegations of fabricated events from both family members and journalists. Pelzer's professional life is marked by his ability to bring attention to the issue of childhood abuse and resilience through his writing.

Ron Chernow is an acclaimed American writer, journalist, and biographer known for his bestselling historical non-fiction works. He has received prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize for Biography and the National Book Award for Nonfiction for his books. Chernow's biographies of notable figures like Alexander Hamilton and John D. Rockefeller have garnered critical acclaim and award nominations. His expertise as a historical consultant was instrumental in the success of the popular musical Hamilton. With over sixty articles published in national publications, Chernow's professional career showcases his exceptional talent in storytelling and historical research.

Ken Murray was a versatile American entertainer known for his comedy, acting, and work in radio and television. He gained fame for his comedic performances and engaging personality on various media platforms. Murray's career spanned several decades, during which he entertained audiences with his witty humor and charm. In addition to his work as a comedian and actor, he also authored several books, showcasing his talent and creativity in the entertainment industry. Murray left a lasting impact on the world of comedy and entertainment through his diverse professional endeavors.

Randy Shilts was an acclaimed American journalist and author known for his groundbreaking work on LGBT issues and the AIDS epidemic. As the first openly gay reporter for the San Francisco Chronicle, he made significant contributions to journalism. His notable works include "The Mayor of Castro Street," a biography of Harvey Milk, and "And the Band Played On," a detailed account of the AIDS crisis. Shilts received numerous awards for his exceptional reporting, shedding light on important social issues before his untimely death due to an AIDS-related illness.

William Manchester was a highly esteemed American author, biographer, and historian with a prolific career spanning multiple decades. Over the course of his professional life, he authored a total of 18 books, many of which were widely acclaimed and translated into more than 20 languages. Manchester's contributions to the field of history and literature were recognized through prestigious accolades such as the National Humanities Medal and the Abraham Lincoln Literary Award, solidifying his reputation as a distinguished figure in the literary world.

Michael Chaplin is an American actor and author known for his work in both writing and acting. He gained attention for his memoir "I Couldn't Smoke The Grass On My Father's Lawn," which delved into his teenage experiences with drugs and rebellion. Despite a legal battle with his famous father over its publication, the book launched his writing career. In addition to his memoir, Chaplin has also authored a novel titled "A Fallen God," a modern retelling of the Tristan and Iseult story.

Walter Isaacson is an accomplished American historian and journalist known for his biographies of significant public figures such as Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, and Elon Musk. He has held various leadership roles, including president and CEO of the Aspen Institute, chair and CEO of CNN, and editor of Time. Isaacson is also a professor at Tulane University, an interviewer for the PBS and CNN news show Amanpour & Company, and an advisory partner at Perella Weinberg Partners. His extensive body of work includes notable books on historical figures and groundbreaking innovations.

Cathy O'Brien is an American conspiracy theorist and author who claims to have been a victim of a government mind control program called "Project Monarch", allegedly part of the CIA's Project MKUltra. She has authored books such as Trance Formation of America and Access Denied, co-written with her husband. Despite her assertions of being subjected to trauma-based mind control and abuse, scholars have found no credible evidence to support her claims, noting inconsistencies in her narrative. O'Brien's work has been criticized for lacking evidence and being sensational and lacking common sense.

Dorothy Bush Koch is an accomplished American author and philanthropist. She has made significant contributions in the literary world through her writing and has also dedicated her time and resources to various charitable causes. With a passion for giving back to the community, she has actively supported numerous philanthropic initiatives. Koch's professional endeavors reflect her commitment to making a positive impact in society through both her literary work and her philanthropic efforts.

Irving Stone was an American writer renowned for his biographical novels focusing on notable artists, politicians, and intellectuals. He gained widespread acclaim for works like Lust for Life, a vivid portrayal of Vincent van Gogh's life, and The Agony and the Ecstasy, a compelling depiction of Michelangelo. Stone's writing style captivated readers by delving deep into the lives and minds of his subjects, offering unique insights into their struggles, triumphs, and creative processes. His works continue to be celebrated for their meticulous research and engaging storytelling.

James Truslow Adams was an American writer and historian known for popularizing the latest scholarship about American history. As a freelance author, he achieved recognition for his three-volume history of New England, highly regarded by scholars. Adams notably coined the phrase "American Dream" in his 1931 book The Epic of America, a concept that would go on to become a central theme in American culture. Through his works, he contributed significantly to the understanding and appreciation of American history and the ideals that define the nation.

Leon Leonwood Bean was a prominent figure in American business as the founder of the company L.L.Bean. Known for his innovative spirit, he was also an inventor and author. His passion for the outdoors led him to create a successful business that catered to outdoor enthusiasts. Through L.L.Bean, he revolutionized the retail industry by offering high-quality outdoor gear and clothing. His dedication to providing reliable products and exceptional customer service solidified his legacy as a pioneer in the outdoor retail sector.

Shirley Graham Du Bois was a prolific American-Ghanaian writer, playwright, composer, and activist known for her significant contributions to African-American causes. Her professional life was marked by numerous accomplishments, including being awarded the Messner and Anisfield-Wolf prizes for her impactful works. She utilized her talents to advocate for social justice and civil rights, leaving a lasting legacy through her writings and plays that continue to inspire and educate audiences about the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities.

Daniel Joseph Boorstin was an American historian known for his work at the University of Chicago and as the twelfth Librarian of the United States Congress. He played a key role in establishing the Center for the Book at the Library of Congress. Transitioning from a youthful Communist Party member to a political conservative, Boorstin became a prominent advocate of consensus history, emphasizing American unity and the contributions of inventors and entrepreneurs to the country's success.

Peter Maas was an American journalist and author known for his investigative reporting and true crime books. He gained recognition as the biographer of Frank Serpico, a whistleblower NYPD officer, and for his bestsellers such as "Underboss" about Sammy "The Bull" Gravano. His works, including "The Valachi Papers" and "Manhunt," delved into organized crime and police corruption, earning critical acclaim. Maas was awarded the prestigious Edgar Award for Best Fact Crime book for "In a Child's Name." His impactful writing influenced a new wave of books on Mafia informants.

John Henry Lahr is an accomplished American theater critic and writer known for his extensive contributions to the field. He held the prestigious position of senior drama critic at The New Yorker for over two decades. Lahr has authored a significant number of books focused on theater, showcasing his expertise and passion for the subject. His work has garnered widespread acclaim, with critics hailing him as one of the most prominent biographers in contemporary literature.

Stacy Madeleine Schiff is a renowned American author and essayist who has established herself as a leading biographer with her captivating works on various historical figures. She has delved into the lives of notable personalities such as Véra Nabokov, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, Benjamin Franklin, Samuel Adams, Cleopatra, and the Salem Witch Trials. Schiff's exceptional writing skills have been recognized through awards like the Pulitzer Prize for her biography on Véra Nabokov. Her contributions to the literary world have solidified her reputation as a distinguished biographer.

Garry Wills is an accomplished American author, journalist, political philosopher, and historian with a focus on American history, politics, and religion, particularly the history of the Catholic Church. He is a recipient of the Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction in 1993. With a prolific career spanning over fifty books, Wills has been a prominent reviewer for The New York Review of Books since 1973. In 1980, he joined the history department at Northwestern University, where he currently holds the title of Emeritus Professor of History.

James Aloysius Farley was an influential American politician and businessman known for his key roles in the Democratic Party. Serving as chairman of the New York State Democratic Committee, Democratic National Committee, and Postmaster General under President Franklin Roosevelt, Farley was a political kingmaker credited with orchestrating Roosevelt's rise to the presidency. He revolutionized polling data use, managed various political campaigns, and played a pivotal role in forming the New Deal Coalition. Farley also had a successful career in business, notably guiding Coca-Cola International's global expansion during World War II.

John George Nicolay was an American author and diplomat. He served as private secretary to U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and played a significant role in the administration. Nicolay later co-authored a ten-volume biography of Lincoln titled "Abraham Lincoln: A History," showcasing his expertise in American history and politics. His contributions to documenting and preserving the legacy of the 16th president solidified his reputation as a respected figure in American historical literature.

Michael Eric Dyson is an accomplished American academic, author, Baptist minister, and radio host. He serves as a professor in the College of Arts and Science and in the Divinity School at Vanderbilt University. Dyson is widely recognized for his extensive work in the form of over twenty books, focusing on various influential figures and critical topics such as Malcolm X, Martin Luther King Jr., Marvin Gaye, Barack Obama, Nas's debut album Illmatic, Bill Cosby, Tupac Shakur, and Hurricane Katrina.

Alex Roy is a versatile American professional known for his accomplishments as a writer, podcaster, TV host, and rally race driver. He has made a name for himself by setting multiple endurance driving records, most notably the US "Cannonball Run" transcontinental driving record. Roy gained further visibility through his involvement in the documentary "APEX: The Secret Race Across America." Additionally, he is recognized for his innovative approach to shedding light on the issue of fact-checking in online media through a well-executed April Fools prank.

Louis Untermeyer was a prominent figure in American literature, known for his work as a poet, anthologist, critic, and editor. His contributions to poetry and literature were widely recognized, leading to his appointment as the Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress in 1961. Untermeyer's career was marked by a deep passion for poetry and a commitment to promoting and preserving the art form. Through his work as an editor and critic, he played a significant role in shaping literary discourse in his time.

Michelle Ye is a prominent Chinese actress and producer known for her versatile roles in various films and television series. Her noteworthy performances in popular productions like Eternal Happiness, Triumph in the Skies, and Accident have earned her critical acclaim and prestigious awards. Beyond acting, Ye has also excelled as a successful entrepreneur, serving as the owner and chairman of Michelle Ye Studios-Zhejiang Bohai Television Ltd. She has further diversified her interests by owning a sushi restaurant and holding a significant position as the Vice President of the Hengdian Film Association.

Carole Simpson is a pioneering journalist known for breaking barriers in the field. She made history as the first woman of color to moderate a presidential debate in 1992. Simpson received the prestigious Journalist of the Year Award from the National Association of Black Journalists the same year. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to supporting and mentoring aspiring journalists, establishing the Carole Simpson Scholarship for minority students. Simpson retired from ABC News in 2006 to teach journalism at Emerson College until 2019. She is also an author, with her autobiography "Newslady" published in 2010.

Bill Bryson is an accomplished American-British journalist and author known for his engaging nonfiction works on travel, language, and science. Having spent the majority of his adult life in Britain, Bryson has dual American and British citizenship. He served as chancellor of Durham University and has authored several acclaimed books, including "Notes from a Small Island" and "A Short History of Nearly Everything." Bryson recently announced his retirement from writing books but continues to engage audiences through projects like audiobooks. He is a bestselling author with a global reach of over 16 million books sold.

Sloan Wilson was an American writer known for his insightful portrayal of middle-class life. He gained fame for his novel "The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit," which explored the struggles of a businessman balancing work and family. Wilson's work often delved into the complexities of American society, particularly the pressures and expectations faced by individuals striving for success. His writing style was characterized by its realism and keen observations of human behavior, earning him recognition as a prominent voice in mid-20th century American literature.

Thomas "Toivi" Blatt was a Holocaust survivor, writer, and public speaker. He is known for escaping from the Sobibór extermination camp during a prisoner uprising in 1943. After World War II, he lived in Communist Poland before emigrating to Israel in 1957 and later settling in the United States in 1958. Blatt dedicated his life to sharing his experiences and educating others about the atrocities of the Holocaust through his writing and public speaking engagements.

David Herbert Donald was a prominent American historian recognized for his extensive contributions to the field of American history. His acclaimed biography of Abraham Lincoln solidified his reputation as a leading authority on the subject. With over 30 published works focusing on United States political and literary figures, as well as the history of the American South, Donald's expertise and scholarship have left a lasting impact. His two Pulitzer Prize-winning biographies further attest to his dedication and excellence in historical research and writing.

Susan Berman was an American journalist and author known for her work in investigative reporting. She gained recognition for her writing on organized crime and her exploration of her father's involvement in criminal activities. Berman's professional life was marked by her insightful commentary on the underbelly of society, shedding light on complex and often dangerous subjects. Her writings offered a unique perspective on crime and its impact on individuals and communities, making her a respected figure in the field of journalism.

Douglas Southall Freeman was a prominent American historian, biographer, newspaper editor, radio commentator, and author. He gained widespread recognition for his comprehensive multi-volume biographies of notable figures such as Robert E. Lee and George Washington. Freeman's meticulous research and engaging writing style earned him Pulitzer Prizes for both biographies. His works on these iconic figures have become enduring classics in American historical literature, solidifying his reputation as a leading authority on their lives and legacies.

Mari Sandoz was a prominent Nebraska novelist, biographer, lecturer, and teacher, known for her extensive work on pioneer life and the Plains Indians. She rose to prominence as one of the West's leading writers, capturing the essence of the American frontier through her compelling narratives. Sandoz's literary contributions focused on the rich history and culture of the Plains Indians, shedding light on their way of life and struggles. Her impactful storytelling and in-depth research solidified her reputation as a respected authority on Western history and heritage.

Edward William Bok was a Dutch-born American editor and Pulitzer Prize-winning author known for his significant contributions to journalism and literature. He served as the editor of the Ladies' Home Journal for three decades, from 1889 to 1919, where he made a lasting impact on the publication and its readers. Bok also engaged in distributing popular homebuilding plans, showcasing his interest in architecture and design. Additionally, he established the iconic Bok Tower Gardens in central Florida, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of horticulture and landscape architecture.

Karl Shapiro was an accomplished American poet, recognized for his notable contributions to literature. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1945 for his esteemed collection, V-Letter and Other Poems. Following this achievement, he was appointed as the fifth Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress in 1946. Shapiro's professional life was marked by his service as a United States Army company clerk in the Pacific Theater during World War II, a period that greatly influenced his poetic work and perspective.

Cornelia Otis Skinner was a prominent American writer and actress known for her wit and versatility. She gained recognition for her one-woman shows where she portrayed a variety of characters with humor and insight. Skinner wrote several successful books, including autobiographical works and humorous essays. As an actress, she performed on stage and in film, showcasing her talent for both comedic and dramatic roles. Throughout her career, Cornelia Otis Skinner was celebrated for her literary contributions and engaging performances in the entertainment industry.

Chesley Sullenberger is a renowned American retired fighter pilot, diplomat, and airline pilot. He gained worldwide recognition for successfully landing US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River after a bird strike disabled both engines. Following this heroic act, he became a vocal advocate for aviation safety, leading to the development of new safety protocols. Sullenberger retired as a commercial pilot after a 30-year career and later joined CBS News as an aviation and safety expert. He co-authored bestselling books and was appointed as the U.S. representative to the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Clarence Shepard Day Jr. was a renowned American author and cartoonist. He gained fame primarily for his work "Life with Father," published in 1935. Known for his wit and humor, Day's writing style captivated readers with its insightful observations of family life and relationships. In addition to his literary achievements, he also made significant contributions to the field of cartooning, showcasing his artistic talent and creativity. Clarence Day's work continues to be celebrated for its enduring humor and timeless portrayal of everyday experiences.

Mary Crow Dog, also known as Mary Brave Woman Olguin, was a Sicangu Lakota writer and activist. She played a significant role in the American Indian Movement during the 1970s, participating in prominent events such as the Wounded Knee Incident. Her memoir, Lakota Woman, garnered critical acclaim, winning an American Book Award in 1991 and becoming a national bestseller. This success led to its adaptation as a made-for-TV movie in 1994. Mary Crow Dog's professional contributions have left a lasting impact on literature and activism.

Alice Stone Blackwell was a prominent American feminist, suffragist, journalist, radical socialist, and human rights advocate. She dedicated her career to advocating for women's rights, social justice, and equality. Blackwell actively promoted the suffrage movement, working tirelessly to secure voting rights for women. As a journalist, she used her platform to raise awareness about important social issues and promote progressive ideas. Through her work as a human rights advocate, Blackwell fought for the rights and dignity of all individuals, leaving a lasting impact on the fight for equality.

Francis H. Underwood was an American editor and writer known for being the founder and first associate editor of The Atlantic Monthly. He worked as a publisher's assistant before establishing the magazine in 1857. Underwood was a passionate advocate against slavery and supported the Free Soil Party. He served as the American Consul in Glasgow and later in Leith. Underwood was also a member of Edinburgh's "Pen and Pencil Club" and lived in the Grange neighborhood. He passed away in Edinburgh in 1894.

Mason Locke Weems, known as Parson Weems, was an American minister, evangelical bookseller, and author. He gained fame for writing and publishing the first biography of George Washington shortly after the latter's death. Weems is credited with popularizing stories about Washington, such as the cherry tree tale. His biography of Washington was a bestseller, focusing on depicting Washington's virtues and providing moral lessons for the youth of the nation. Weems aimed to offer morally instructive tales through his work, catering to a growing nation.

Clifford Whittingham Beers was a pioneer in the field of mental health advocacy. He founded the American mental hygiene movement, which aimed to improve conditions for individuals with mental illness. Beers authored the influential book "A Mind That Found Itself," detailing his own struggles with mental illness and the shortcomings of mental health care at the time. His work led to the establishment of the National Committee for Mental Hygiene, now known as Mental Health America, and significantly influenced the development of mental health policies and practices.

Larry Collins was a renowned American writer known for his impactful contributions to literature. He gained widespread recognition for his compelling storytelling and meticulous research in his works. Collins co-authored several best-selling books with Dominique Lapierre, including the critically acclaimed "Is Paris Burning?" and "O Jerusalem!" His writing style was characterized by a blend of historical accuracy and engaging narrative, captivating readers around the world. Collins' works continue to be celebrated for their vivid storytelling and profound exploration of significant historical events.

William Allen White was a prominent American newspaper editor, politician, author, and leader of the Progressive movement. He gained recognition as a spokesperson for middle America from 1896 until his passing. White's contributions to journalism and politics were highly regarded, earning him the title of the most loved and distinguished member of the Kansas press at a 1937 banquet. His professional life was marked by a commitment to advocating for progressive ideals and representing the interests of the common people through his writing and activism.

Richard David Ellmann was an influential American literary critic and biographer known for his insightful works on prominent Irish writers such as James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and William Butler Yeats. He achieved notable recognition for his acclaimed biography of James Joyce, which won the U.S. National Book Award for Nonfiction. Ellmann's scholarly focus on modernist writers of the 20th century reflected his liberal humanist perspective. His contributions to literary criticism and biographical studies have left a lasting impact on the field of literature.

Nina Berberova was a prominent Russian writer known for her works that depicted the lives of anti-communist Russian refugees in Paris. She gained recognition for her short stories and novels that captured the experiences of these individuals. Berberova also made significant contributions to the literary world through her revision of the Constance Garnett translation of Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina, which is regarded as one of the best translations to date. Her expertise and talent in storytelling and translation have solidified her legacy in literature.

Mary Catherine Gordon is an accomplished American writer, holding the position of McIntosh Professor of English at Barnard College. She is renowned for her impactful contributions to literature through novels, memoirs, and literary criticism. In recognition of her significant literary achievements, she was honored as the Official State Author of New York in 2008. With a distinguished career marked by insightful storytelling and critical analysis, Mary Gordon continues to inspire readers and scholars alike with her thought-provoking work.

Ada Louise Huxtable was a pioneering American architecture critic and writer known for establishing architecture and urban design journalism in North America. She significantly elevated public awareness of the urban environment and was recognized with prestigious awards such as the first Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 1970 and a MacArthur Fellowship in 1981. Huxtable's impactful work reshaped the public dialogue around architecture, earning praise from fellow critics and architects alike for her passion for cities and preservation efforts.

William Taylor was an American Methodist missionary reverend known for his extensive missionary work around the world. He was elected as bishop over the Methodist missions in Africa by the Methodist General Conference in 1884. Taylor established self-supporting missions in various countries, including England, Ireland, India, South America, Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. His missionary efforts introduced Methodism to several countries and he is credited with bringing the eucalyptus tree to California from Australia. Taylor's work and publications have received acclaim for their impact and influence.

Carl Clinton Van Doren was an American critic and biographer known for his exceptional literary works. He won the 1939 Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for his acclaimed book on Benjamin Franklin. Throughout his career, Van Doren made significant contributions to American literature through his insightful critiques and detailed biographies. His writing style was admired for its depth and thorough research, solidifying his reputation as a prominent figure in the literary world during the mid-20th century.

Will Campbell was a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, known for his involvement in various events such as escorting black students during school integration, founding the Southern Christian Leadership Conference with Martin Luther King Jr., and supporting Freedom Riders. He urged Southern Christian churches to end segregation and fought against discrimination. Campbell maintained an uncompromising theology, advocating for the immortal soul of oppressors and refusing to demonize white racists. He also protested against the Vietnam War, supported draft resisters, and spoke out against the death penalty and abortion.

Leonard James Arrington was a prominent American author and academic known as the "Dean of Mormon History" and "the Father of Mormon History." He served as the first non-general authority Church Historian for the LDS Church and was the founder of the Mormon History Association. Arrington made significant contributions to documenting LDS Church history through various projects, publications, and scholarly works, including his influential book "Great Basin Kingdom." Despite facing challenges and controversy, he left a lasting legacy in the field of Mormon history with over 20 publications to his name.

Jill Ker Conway was an Australian-American scholar and author best known for her autobiographies, notably "The Road from Coorain." She made history as Smith College's first female president from 1975 to 1985 and later served as a visiting professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Her contributions to women's history were recognized in 2004 when she was designated a Women's History Month Honoree by the National Women's History Project. Conway was also a recipient of the National Humanities Medal for her outstanding achievements in academia and literature.

Mark Harris was an accomplished American novelist, literary biographer, and educator known for his baseball-themed novels, notably featuring the character Henry Wiggen in works like "Bang the Drum Slowly." Throughout his career, Harris consistently produced excellent novels that explored themes of individuality, integrity, and societal dynamics. Despite not receiving widespread recognition, he remained dedicated to his craft and focused on portraying the struggles of individuals navigating their place within society while maintaining their own identity.

Van Wyck Brooks was an influential American literary critic, biographer, and historian known for his insightful analysis of American literature and culture. He played a significant role in shaping the study of American literature, emphasizing the importance of understanding the cultural context in which literary works were created. Brooks's critical writings were characterized by their meticulous research, thought-provoking interpretations, and commitment to exploring the unique qualities of American literature. His work continues to be studied and respected for its contributions to the field of literary criticism.

S.N. Behrman was a versatile and prolific American writer known for his contributions to the fields of playwriting, screenwriting, and biography. He gained recognition for his work as a writer for The New Yorker, showcasing his talent for crafting engaging and insightful pieces. Throughout his career, Behrman established himself as a respected figure in the literary world, with a legacy that includes a diverse body of work that continues to be celebrated for its wit, intelligence, and enduring relevance.

Stephen Humphrey Bogart is an accomplished American writer, producer, and businessman. He has authored three semi-autobiographical books that provide insights into his family's legacy in the entertainment industry. Through his writings, he has shared personal anecdotes and experiences, offering a unique perspective on the lives of his famous parents. In addition to his work as an author, Bogart has also been involved in producing projects, showcasing his versatile talents in various aspects of the creative field.

Dumas Malone was an esteemed American historian, minister, and biographer known for his significant contributions to the field of history. As the Thomas Jefferson Foundation Professor of History at the University of Virginia, Malone dedicated much of his career to teaching and research. His renowned six-volume biography, "Jefferson and His Time," earned him the Pulitzer Prize for History in 1975 and solidified his reputation as a leading authority on Thomas Jefferson. Malone also served as the editor-in-chief of the Dictionary of American Biography and as the director of the Harvard University Press. His outstanding achievements were recognized in 1983 when he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ronald Reagan.

Margaret Caroline Anderson was an influential American figure in the literary world as the founder, editor, and publisher of The Little Review magazine. Through this publication, she introduced many notable American and British writers to a wider audience, including Ezra Pound, T. S. Eliot, and James Joyce. Anderson's professional legacy extends to her collection of papers on Gurdjieff's teaching, which are now housed at the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Yale University, showcasing her dedication to preserving and sharing valuable literary and philosophical works.

Joseph Pennell was an American draftsman, etcher, lithographer, and illustrator known for his work in books and magazines. He spent most of his career in Europe, focusing on landmarks, landscapes, and industrial scenes. Influenced by notable artists like James McNeill Whistler, Pennell was a student of James Lambdin and Thomas Eakins. His publications include works like "The Jew at Home," "Lithographs of War," "Pictures of the Wonders of Work," and "The Adventures of an Illustrator." Later in life, he and his wife, Elizabeth Robins, also wrote art criticism and co-authored books.

Moncure D. Conway was an American abolitionist minister and radical writer who spent a significant portion of his professional life abroad in England and France. He was associated with various religious denominations throughout his career, including Methodist, Unitarian, and Freethinker. Conway was known for his biographies of prominent figures such as Edmund Randolph, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Thomas Paine, as well as his own autobiography. He led freethinkers at London's South Place Chapel, now known as Conway Hall, and played a key role in advancing progressive ideas and social movements.

Deborah Feldman is an American-born German writer based in Berlin. She gained prominence through her 2012 autobiography, "Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots," which chronicles her departure from an ultra-Orthodox Jewish community in Brooklyn, New York. The book's success led to the creation of the 2020 Netflix miniseries "Unorthodox," which further showcased Feldman's story to a wider audience. Through her writing and the adaptation of her work, Feldman has become known for shedding light on issues within religious communities and advocating for personal freedom and self-discovery.