Robert Cormier author page

Robert Cormier biography

Robert Cormier was an American author known for his novels for young adults. He began his career as a journalist and continued to work in journalism throughout his life. Cormier published his first novel, Now and at the Hour, in 1960. He gained significant recognition with the publication of The Chocolate War in 1974, a novel that has been widely studied in schools and is noted for its unflinching portrayal of power and conformity.

His other notable works include I Am the Cheese (1977), After the First Death (1979), Fade (1988), and We All Fall Down (1991). Cormier’s books often explore themes of authority, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The Chocolate War was named an ALA Best Book for Young Adults and appeared on several recommended reading lists. I Am the Cheese received the Phoenix Award from the Children’s Literature Association in 1997, recognising its lasting literary value.

Cormier’s work has been translated into multiple languages and adapted for film. The Chocolate War was adapted into a feature film in 1988, and I Am the Cheese was adapted in 1983. He received the Margaret A. Edwards Award from the American Library Association in 1991 for his significant and lasting contribution to young adult literature. Cormier’s final novel, The Rag and Bone Shop, was published in 2001.