John Winslow Irving was born on February 3, 1942 in Exeter, New Hampshire. Growing up in the picturesque town, he attended the prestigious Phillips Exeter Academy. It was here that his passion for writing was ignited, thanks to the guidance of his teachers who recognized his talent at a young age.
After graduating from Phillips Exeter Academy, Irving went on to attend the University of Iowa's esteemed Writers' Workshop. It was during his time at Iowa that he would meet and study alongside some of the most influential writers of his time, including the likes of Kurt Vonnegut, Jr. This period of intense literary immersion would shape Irving's writing style and approach for years to come.
In his mid-twenties, Irving published his debut novel, "Setting Free the Bears", a work that hinted at the bold and imaginative storytelling that would become his trademark. Despite the novel's moderate success, Irving continued to hone his craft, immersing himself in the world of fiction writing.
It was with the publication of "The World According to Garp" in 1978 that Irving gained international recognition and established himself as a literary force to be reckoned with. The novel, with its rich characters and intricate plot, resonated with readers and critics alike, catapulting Irving to fame.
Irving married Janet Turnbull, with whom he had one son. The couple's shared love of literature and storytelling was a cornerstone of their relationship, with Janet often serving as Irving's first reader and sounding board for his ideas.
Throughout his career, John Irving has continued to captivate readers with his unique blend of humor, drama, and keen observation of human nature. His body of work stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of a true literary talent.