Robert Cormier Biography

Robert Cormier was an American author and journalist, known for his novels/stories that have pessimistic themes. He authored ten major novels and several short stories, most of which are specifically for young adults. Although he did not enjoy initial commercial success, he always received immense critical acclaim. His novels and short stories are centered on themes of abuse, betrayal, mental illness, violence, and revenge. Another interesting feature in his novels is that good may not necessarily win over evil. This tendency of his novels to stress on the ‘negative’ led to the rejection of his publications from educational institutions and library lists. However, the author and several critics have explained his works as simply a realistic depiction of human nature. Owing to stories’ dark controversial nature, some of his works were initially banned. However, with time they have been accepted into mainstream publication houses and have also been translated into many languages. His works now appear frequently on the list of ‘Best Books for Young Adults’ of the American Library Association and are often recommended in the New York Times and School Library Journal.