John D’Agata is an acclaimed essayist and editor known for his innovative approach to nonfiction. He is the author of several notable works, including "Halls of Fame," "About a Mountain," and "The Lifespan of a Fact," which explore the boundaries between fact and artistry in literary nonfiction. Additionally, he edited the three-volume series "A New History of the Essay," comprising "The Next American Essay," "The Making of the American Essay," and "The Lost Origins of the Essay," which collectively reexamine the essay as a literary form. His writing has appeared in prominent publications such as "The Believer," "Harper’s," "Gulf Coast," and "Conjunctions."
D’Agata’s career has been distinguished by numerous accolades, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Howard Foundation Fellowship, an NEA Literature Fellowship, and a Lannan Foundation Fellowship. He holds a B.A. from Hobart College and two M.F.A.s from the University of Iowa, where he currently teaches creative writing and directs the Nonfiction Writing Program. His work often challenges conventional distinctions between truth and narrative, blending meticulous research with lyrical prose.
Residing in Iowa City, D’Agata continues to contribute to the literary world through both his writing and his mentorship of emerging nonfiction writers. His essays remain influential in contemporary discussions about the essay as a dynamic and evolving genre.