7 Facts About Jonathan Franzen, the Great American Novelist and Author of “Crossroads”

Almost Pulitzer-Winning

Franzen’s novel “The Corrections” won the National Book Award in 2001 and was also nominated for the Pulitzer Prize.

Face of Time Magazine

In 2010, Franzen appeared on the cover of Time as “The Great American Novelist”—a rare honor for a contemporary author.

Oprah vs. Franzen

While Franzen’s novels “Crossroads” and “The Corrections” were selected for the Oprah Winfrey Book Club, he famously declined Oprah’s invitation, reportedly because he didn’t value the recognition.

Passionate Ornithologist

Franzen is an avid bird enthusiast. He can identify species by region and country and is an active environmentalist.

Omelets & Butter

The author loves omelets because, in his words, they are “a great platform for butter”—a reminder that even literary geniuses enjoy simple pleasures.

A “Crazy” Decision

Franzen once considered adopting a child orphaned by the Iraq War but later called the idea “crazy” and decided to dedicate his time to teaching instead.

The Return of the “Great Novel”

Franzen is a leading figure in “post-postmodern realism,” known for creating expansive, ambitious novels that stand out in contemporary American literature.