Robert James Waller was an American author best known for his bestselling novel "The Bridges of Madison County," published in 1992. The book became a cultural phenomenon, topping the New York Times bestseller list in 1993 and later being adapted into a major motion picture. Waller also gained recognition for "Puerto Vallarta Squeeze," another novel that was adapted for film in 1995. His works often blended romance with introspective storytelling, appealing to a wide audience.
Before becoming a full-time writer, Waller had a distinguished academic career. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1962 and a Master of Arts in 1964 from the University of Northern Iowa, followed by a PhD in business from Indiana University Bloomington in 1968. He taught management and economics at his alma mater, rising to become a full professor in 1977 and later serving as dean of the business school. Waller's multifaceted career also included photography and music, reflecting his creative versatility beyond literature.