Paul Zindel

Born:: May 15, 1936, Staten Island, New York, USA
Died:: March 27, 2003, New York City, New York, USA
Nationality:: American
Profession(s):: Playwright, Young Adult Novelist, Teacher

Early Life and Education

Born on Staten Island and raised primarily in Travis, a rural area of Staten Island.
Later lived in several boarding houses with his mother, a single parent.
Attended Wagner College, earning a degree in chemistry.
Began writing plays while teaching high school chemistry.

Career and Major Achievements

Taught chemistry at Tottenville High School on Staten Island.
Won a Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1971 for his play The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds.
Established himself as a significant voice in young adult literature with novels exploring themes of adolescence, loneliness, and family dysfunction.
His works were often adapted for stage and screen.
Mentored countless aspiring writers and students throughout his career.

Notable Works

Plays

The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds (1970)
And Miss Reardon Drinks a Little (1967)
Let Me Hear You Whisper (1969)

Young Adult Novels

The Pigman (1968)
My Darling, My Hamburger (1969)
I Never Loved Your Mind (1970)
Pardon Me, You're Stepping on My Eyeball! (1976)
The Pigman's Legacy (1980)

It is important to note when looking for "paul zindel biography pigman's bbq" the latter phrase references one of his most well-known works, not a culinary endeavor.

Legacy and Impact

Paul Zindel's work had a lasting impact on young adult literature and American theatre. He is remembered for his honest and unflinching portrayal of adolescence and for giving voice to marginalized characters. His plays continue to be produced, and his novels remain relevant to young readers today, grappling with universal themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning.