“When
you're watching somebody read your material and they smile and nod, you know
you've found that place where your experience and their experience match, even
though they aren't the same exact experience.”
– Chris Crutcher
Born on this date
in 1946, Crutcher has combined a successful career as a family therapist with
an equally successful career as a writer for teens. In the process he has been honored with a
lifetime achievement award – the coveted Margaret Edwards Award (recognition
for writing for teens) – from the American Library Association.
Many of his novels concern teenaged
athletes (especially swimmers) who face major problems and get the help and
support they need from wise, caring adults – usually either a teacher or a
coach. Unafraid to tackle such issues
as abusive parents, racial and religious prejudice, mental and physical
disability, or crushing poverty, Crutcher’s books have won the praise of
millions despite being censored by those who think they are too graphic. Despite this controversy, he has earned dozens
of awards. One of his most honored books is
2007’s Deadline, 
the story of a high
school senior dying from a rare blood disease and who has kept that fact a
secret so that he can pack a lifetime of full living into his last year of
life.
“What I hope my writing reflects...
is a sense of the connections between all human beings... and a different
perspective on the true nature of courage,” Crutcher said. “For
me, those are things worth exploring and writing about.”
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