Thomas Berger was a renowned literary figure, celebrated for his works in mystery, thriller, and literary fiction. He is best known for his novel "Little Big Man," which was later adapted into a film of the same name by Arthur Penn. Berger's writing explored and manipulated various genres, including crime, science fiction, classical mythology, and Arthurian legend. His use of humor and wit gained him recognition as a satirist, although he did not identify himself as one.
Berger was born in Cincinnati and served in a medical unit during World War II. His experiences during the war provided the inspiration for his first novel, "Crazy in Berlin," published in 1958. Berger's breakthrough came with his third novel, "Little Big Man," which became a bestseller and solidified his reputation as a leading author. He continued to produce critically acclaimed work throughout his career, with several of his novels being adapted into films.
In addition to his novels, Berger also wrote short stories and plays. His short fiction has been featured in notable publications such as Harper’s Magazine, Esquire, and Playboy. Berger's literary contributions were not limited to his creative output, as he also taught writing at various institutions, including Yale University and the University of Southern California. His impact on American literature is undeniable, and his works continue to be celebrated and studied.