Introduction

Susan Orlean is a name widely recognized in the literary world. She is the author of several books, including The Orchid Thief and The Library Book, and has contributed numerous articles to various publications. In this post, we dive into the life and works of this literary mastermind. From her early career to her writing process, we explore the different aspects that have made her a remarkable figure.

Early Life and Career

Susan Orlean was born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1955, but grew up in Shaker Heights. She attended the University of Michigan, where she studied literature and history. Her early career began as a journalist for different publications, including Rolling Stone and Vogue. Orlean gained national recognition for her coverage of the 1992 Presidential campaign. She wrote for The New Yorker from 1992 to 1993 and again from 1997. In 1999, she published her breakout book, The Orchid Thief.

The Orchid Thief

The Orchid Thief is a nonfiction book that explores the world of orchid collecting. The book follows the story of John Laroche, a plant dealer, and his attempt to steal endangered orchids from the Fakahatchee Strand State Preserve in Florida. Orlean’s immersive research and writing style make the book an enthralling read. The book was adapted into a film, Adaptation, in 2002, by renowned writer Charlie Kaufman.

The Library Book

The Library Book is another masterpiece by Susan Orlean. It tells the story of the devastating fire that occurred at the Los Angeles Central Library in 1986 and the subsequent investigation into its cause. Orlean’s meticulous research and storytelling skills paint a vivid picture of the library’s history and its importance to the community. The book was a New York Times bestseller and a finalist for the 2018 National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction.

Writing Process

Susan Orlean is known for her immersive research and storytelling skills. When it comes to her writing process, she once said, “my process is not normal, and it changes every time.” Orlean does not follow a strict routine or schedule. She prefers to work in a quiet environment, often a library, surrounded by books. She usually starts her writing day by editing what she wrote the day before.

Famous Quotes by Susan Orlean

Susan Orlean is known for her witty and insightful quotes. Here are a few memorable ones:

– “The reason we want to go to museums is because they have a real aura, and if you can recreate that in a library, It will be nonstop, unashamed nerdfest.”
– “Writing gives you the illusion of control, and then you realize it’s just an illusion, that people are going to bring their own stuff into it.”
– “The cliche is that life is a mountain. You go up, reach the top, and then go down. To me, life is going up until you are burned by flames.”

FAQs

1. What inspired Susan Orlean to write The Library Book?

Susan Orlean was inspired to write The Library Book after visiting the Los Angeles Central Library for the first time. She wanted to investigate the devastating fire that occurred in the library in 1986 and its impact on the community.

2. What is Susan Orlean’s most famous work?

Susan Orlean’s most famous work is The Orchid Thief, a nonfiction book that explores the world of orchid collecting.

3. What is Susan Orlean’s writing process?

Susan Orlean does not follow a strict routine or schedule. She prefers to work in a quiet environment, often a library, surrounded by books. She usually starts her writing day by editing what she wrote the day before.

4. What is the theme of The Library Book?

The Library Book is about the devastating fire that occurred at the Los Angeles Central Library in 1986 and the subsequent investigation into its cause. The book explores the library’s history and its importance to the community.

5. What other books has Susan Orlean written?

Susan Orlean has written several books, including The Orchid Thief, The Library Book, Rin Tin Tin: The Life and the Legend, and Saturday Night.

6. What is Susan Orlean’s journalistic background?

Susan Orlean started her career as a journalist for different publications, including Rolling Stone and Vogue. She gained national recognition for her coverage of the 1992 Presidential campaign.

7. Has Susan Orlean won any awards?

Yes, Susan Orlean has won several awards, including the John Newbery Medal for her children’s book The Hound of the Baskervilles and the National Book Critics Circle Award for Nonfiction finalist for The Library Book.

Conclusion

Susan Orlean is a literary mastermind whose immersive writing style, research skills, and storytelling abilities have won her numerous accolades. From her early career to her writing process, we have explored the different aspects that make her an enthralling figure. So, whether you are a fan of The Orchid Thief or The Library Book, Susan Orlean’s works are definitely worth reading.