D'Erasmo: A Career in Literary Excellence and Academic Writing
D'Erasmo is a distinguished author, editor, and educator whose work spans multiple genres and prestigious institutions. Born in New York City in 1961, she has established herself as a significant voice in contemporary American literature through a blend of academic rigor and creative exploration.
Academic Foundation and Early Career
D'Erasmo's literary journey began with a strong academic grounding in English and American literature. She earned a B.A. from Barnard College and subsequently completed an M.A. at New York University. These studies provided the theoretical framework for her later work as both a critic and a novelist.
Her professional career in editing began in 1988, where she served as a senior editor at The Village Voice Literary Supplement until 1995. This role allowed her to engage deeply with the literary landscape of the time. Following this, she was awarded a Stegner Fellowship—a prestigious program for aspiring writers—in fiction at Stanford University from 1995 to 1997. She further contributed to the literary community by creating and developing the fiction review section of Bookforum between 1997 and 1998.
Literary Works and Accolades
D'Erasmo has authored four novels and one work of nonfiction, receiving widespread critical acclaim for her storytelling and prose.
The Novels
- Tea: Her debut novel, which earned a selection as a New York Times Notable Book for 2000.
- A Seahorse Year (2004): A commercial and critical success that became a San Francisco Chronicle best seller and won both the Lambda Literary Award and the Ferro-Grumley Award.
- The Sky Below (2009): Her third venture into long-form fiction.
- Wonderland (2014): Her most decorated work, named NPR's Best Book of 2014, a Time Top Ten Fiction Book of 2014, a BBC Top Ten Book of 2014, and a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice.
Nonfiction and Journalism
Beyond her novels, D'Erasmo published the nonfiction book The Art of Intimacy: The Space Between in 2013. Her versatility as a writer is further evidenced by her contributions to high-profile publications, including The New Yorker, the Los Angeles Times, New York Times Magazine, The New York Times Book Review, Interview, and Ploughshares. She has also expanded her reach through various podcasts.
Fellowships and Academic Appointments
Throughout her career, D'Erasmo has been recognized by some of the most prestigious arts organizations in the world. In 2009, she received a Guggenheim Fellowship in fiction, a grant awarded to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional capacity for productive scholarship or exceptional creative ability in the arts.
Her international presence was solidified during 2010–11, when she served as the Sovern/Columbia Affiliated Fellow at the American Academy in Rome. In addition to her fellowships, she has shared her expertise as a faculty member at the Bread Loaf Writers Conference.
Currently, D'Erasmo continues to influence the next generation of writers as an associate professor of writing at Fordham University.
Key Facts
- Born: 1961, New York City.
- Education: B.A. from Barnard College; M.A. from New York University.
- Major Awards: Guggenheim Fellowship (2009), Lambda Literary Award, and Ferro-Grumley Award.
- Notable Work: Wonderland (2014), recognized by NPR, Time, and the BBC.
- Current Role: Associate Professor of Writing at Fordham University.
| Title | Year | Genre | Notable Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tea | 2000 | Novel | NYT Notable Book |
| A Seahorse Year | 2004 | Novel | Lambda & Ferro-Grumley Awards |
| The Sky Below | 2009 | Novel | - |
| The Art of Intimacy: The Space Between | 2013 | Nonfiction | - |
| Wonderland | 2014 | Novel | NPR, Time, and BBC Top Ten |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does D'Erasmo currently teach?
D'Erasmo is currently an associate professor of writing at Fordham University.
Which of D'Erasmo's books received the most critical acclaim?
While several of her works were praised, Wonderland (2014) received extensive recognition, being named a top book of the year by NPR, Time, and the BBC, as well as an Editors' Choice by the New York Times Book Review.
What prestigious fellowships has D'Erasmo held?
She was a Stegner Fellow in fiction at Stanford University (1995–1997), a Guggenheim Fellow in fiction (2009), and the Sovern/Columbia Affiliated Fellow at the American Academy in Rome (2010–11).
Has D'Erasmo written any nonfiction?
Yes, she authored the nonfiction book titled The Art of Intimacy: The Space Between, published in 2013.
In which publications has D'Erasmo's journalism appeared?
Her articles have been featured in The New Yorker, the Los Angeles Times, New York Times Magazine, The New York Times Book Review, Interview, and Ploughshares.