Alice McDermott Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Alice McDermott, a celebrated American author, lends her unique voice to the tapestry of contemporary fiction with the precision and depth of an expert storyteller. Born on June 27, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, Alice was raised in an environment where stories were woven into the fabric of daily life. Her Irish Catholic upbringing in suburban New York shaped much of her narrative style and thematic focus, often delving into the nuances of family life, tradition, and personal identity. A dedicated student of literature, McDermott completed her undergraduate studies at the State University of New York at Oswego, following which she pursued an M.A. at the University of New Hampshire. As her academic pursuits blossomed, so did her passion for writing. Her breakout novel, "A Bigamist's Daughter," published in 1982, established her as a fresh and compelling voice in the landscape of American fiction. However, it was her subsequent works like "That Night," "At Weddings and Wakes," and "Charming Billy" that cemented her reputation. "Charming Billy" was awarded the 1998 National Book Award for Fiction, a testament to her ability to craft deeply humane and resonant narratives. In addition to her literary achievements, McDermott has been recognized multiple times as a finalist for the prestigious Pulitzer Prize. Her novels, "That Night," "After This," "At Weddings and Wakes," and "The Ninth Hour" have all been acknowledged for this honor, underscoring her consistent capacity to weave rich, empathetic portrayals of ordinary lives with extraordinary insight. Her work is noted for its lyrical prose and its evocative examination of the human condition, often focusing on the intimate details that define everyday experiences. Beyond her writing, Alice McDermott is also renowned for her dedication to the art of teaching. She served as the Richard A. Macksey Professor for Distinguished Teaching in the Humanities at Johns Hopkins University, where she inspired a generation of students with her insight and passion for literature. Her commitment to education is matched by her mentorship, guiding aspiring writers to hone their craft with a balance of discipline and creativity. Alice McDermott’s contributions to literature and education are profound and multifaceted. Her keen observations and empathetic storytelling continue to resonate with readers, making her work a staple for those exploring the depth of human experience. McDermott’s legacy is one of eloquent narratives and impactful teaching, each aspect of her career marked by a relentless pursuit of truth and beauty in the written word.