David Baldacci has been named a PEN/Faulkner Literary Champion, a commendation given each year that “recognizes a lifetime of devoted literary advocacy and a commitment to inspiring new generations of readers and writers.”
The PEN/Faulkner Foundation made the announcement in a news release, with Gwydion Suilebhan, the executive director of the organization, saying, “David Baldacci, whose novels have captivated millions of readers worldwide, has been a paragon of service to the literary community.”
Baldacci was working as an attorney when he published his first thriller, Absolute Power, in 1996. He has since written dozens more, most recently Simply Lies. He is also the author of several books for young readers, including Freddy and the French Fries: Fries Alive!, illustrated by brother Rudy Baldacci, and The Finisher.
He is also known for his philanthropy. With his wife, Michelle Baldacci, he co-founded the Wish You Well Foundation, which promotes adult literacy. The couple also underwrites the Mark Twain American Voice in Literature Award, which comes with a cash prize of $25,000.
“PEN/Faulkner is dedicated to the idea that fiction creates empathy within and among communities and advances civil discourse, and Baldacci’s devoted philanthropic work in promoting literacy has ensured that countless Americans have access to those possibilities,” Suilebhan said.
Baldacci reacted to the honor in a statement, saying, “[W]hen someone tells you that books are magical, believe them. I am thrilled and honored to accept this award from PEN/Faulkner, an organization that stands for everything I believe in about the miraculous power of words.”
Previous PEN/Faulkner Literary Champions include actor LeVar Burton, media mogul Oprah Winfrey, and public radio host Terry Gross.
Michael Schaub is a contributing writer.
