Picture an American storyteller who spun tales of heartache, humor, and hope from a life as colorful as his novels—meet Jonathan Evison! Born in 1968, this New York Times bestselling author transformed a turbulent childhood and eclectic career into literary gold, crafting novels like All About Lulu and Small World that resonate with readers for their empathy and offbeat charm.
The Making of Jonathan Evison
Growing up in San Jose, California, Evison faced a whirlwind of challenges: his sister’s tragic death, his parents’ crumbling marriage, and a move to Bainbridge Island, Washington, at age eight. His third-grade teacher, Mrs. Hanford, sparked his love for writing by letting him scribble stories in a corner to channel his boundless energy. As a teen, he screamed his way through the Seattle punk scene as the frontman of March of Crimes, alongside future Pearl Jam and Soundgarden members. After high school, Evison juggled odd jobs—caregiver, tomato sorter, radio DJ—while penning six unpublished novels, three of which he buried in the earth, a testament to his gritty determination.
Jonathan Evison’s Unforgettable Stories
Evison’s breakout novel, All About Lulu (2008), is a quirky coming-of-age tale of a vegetarian in a bodybuilding family, earning the Washington State Book Award and critical praise for its Salinger-esque wit. West of Here (2011), a sprawling epic set in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, won the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Award and was hailed as a modern classic for its vivid historical tapestry. The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving (2012), inspired by his caregiving days, blends humor and heartbreak, later adapted into a Netflix film starring Paul Rudd. His 2022 novel, Small World, weaves interconnected stories across time, earning accolades as a 'quintessential Great American Novel' for its hopeful exploration of human connection.
Evison’s style is a cocktail of emotional depth, quirky humor, and sharp social commentary, drawing comparisons to Charles Dickens and John Irving. His characters—flawed, resilient, and achingly human—navigate class, identity, and the American Dream, reflecting his own journey from struggle to success.
Why Jonathan Evison Matters
Evison’s impact lies in his ability to give voice to the overlooked, from veterans to working-class dreamers. His novels tackle tough issues—race, class, grief—with a light touch that invites readers to laugh, cry, and hope. Critics like Sherman Alexie call him 'the most honest white man alive' for his unflinching yet compassionate storytelling. With awards, film adaptations, and a loyal readership, Evison has cemented his place as a vital voice in contemporary American literature, proving that stories born from hardship can illuminate the human spirit.
- Born: September 27, 1968, San Jose, California
- Key Works: All About Lulu, West of Here, The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving, Small World
- Awards: Washington State Book Award, Pacific Northwest Booksellers Award
Snag All About Lulu or Small World and dive into Jonathan Evison’s heartfelt, hilarious world of literary fiction!