Tracy Kidder is an acclaimed American nonfiction writer renowned for his meticulous research and compelling narrative style. He rose to prominence with "The Soul of a New Machine" (1981), a Pulitzer Prize-winning exploration of the early computer industry that masterfully balanced technical detail with human drama. His later work, "Mountains Beyond Mountains" (2003), a biography of physician Paul Farmer, further cemented his reputation for illuminating complex social issues through vivid storytelling. Kidder's diverse bibliography also includes examinations of home construction ("House"), elementary education ("Among Schoolchildren"), and aging ("Old Friends"), showcasing his ability to find profound meaning in ordinary subjects.
Educated at Harvard and the Iowa Writers' Workshop, Kidder overcame an unsuccessful debut ("The Road to Yuba City") to become one of nonfiction's most respected voices. His works are characterized by deep empathy, journalistic rigor, and an unwavering commitment to truth. In 2010, he served as Harvard's inaugural A. M. Rosenthal Writer-in-Residence, where he co-authored "Good Prose," a guide to nonfiction writing. A recipient of the National Book Award and Robert F. Kennedy Award, Kidder continues to reside in Massachusetts and Maine.