'A perfect match between writer and reader'

 

“When you're watching somebody readyour material and they smile and nod, you know you've found that place whereyour experience and their experience match, even though they aren't the sameexact experience.” –  Chris Crutcher

Born in Dayton, Ohio on this date in 1946, Crutcher combineda successful career as a family therapist (in his adopted city of Spokane, Wash.) with an equally successful career asa writer for teens, his work being honored by the American Library Association with its coveted Margaret Edwards Award (recognition for writing for teens).

 

Many of his novels concern teenagedathletes (especially swimmers) who face major problems and get the help andsupport they need from wise, caring adults – usually either a teacher or acoach.   His writings have tackled such issues as abusiveparents, racial and religious prejudice, mental and physical disability, orcrushing poverty. 

 

One of his most honored books, Deadline,is the story of a high school senior dying from a rare blood disease who haskept that fact a secret so that he can pack a lifetime of full living into his final year.  His most recent bookis Losers Bracket.

 

“What I hope my writing reflects...is a sense of the connections between all human beings... and a differentperspective on the true nature of courage,” Crutchersaid.   “For me, those are things worth exploring and writingabout.”