Jeff Sharlet is a New York Times bestselling author and editor of eight books of creative nonfiction and photography, including "The Undertow: Scenes from a Slow Civil War," "The Family," and "This Brilliant Darkness: A Book of Strangers." His work "The Family" was adapted into a Netflix documentary series of the same name, which he executive produced. Sharlet has also authored "C Street," "Sweet Heaven When I Die," and "Radiant Truths," and co-wrote "Killing the Buddha" with Peter Manseau. His writing has been praised by critics, with The Washington Post comparing his narrative style to Joan Didion and John McPhee.
Sharlet's work often explores themes of power, religion, and social justice, with a focus on marginalized communities. His investigative journalism on anti-LGBTQIA+ campaigns in Uganda and Russia earned him numerous accolades, including the National Magazine Award, the Molly National Journalism Prize, and the Outspoken Award. A contributing editor for Vanity Fair, Harper's, and Rolling Stone, Sharlet has written for prominent publications such as The New York Times Magazine, The Atlantic, and GQ. His writing on music has been featured in the "Best Music Writing" anthology.
Currently the Frederick Sessions Beebe '35 Professor in the Art of Writing at Dartmouth College, Sharlet has received fellowships from MacDowell and other institutions. He resides in Vermont, where he continues to write and explore new creative projects. His latest book, "The Undertow," was published in March 2023.