Bret Lott

Bret Lott was born on October 8th, 1958

Full Name: Bret Lott

Nationality: American

Profession: Journalist Author Academic

Notable Work: National Book Award

Place of Birth: Statesboro, Georgia

Education: University of South Carolina

Teaching: College of Charleston

Books: 10 novels

A journalist, author, and academic who wrote novels and essays exploring themes of family, identity, and social justice, known for his poignant and evocative storytelling style.

Written by:

Emma Thompson

The Prolific Bret Lott: A Literary Icon and Academic Force

Bret Lott is a household name in the literary world, renowned for his captivating novels, thought-provoking essays, and dedication to nurturing the next generation of writers as a professor of English at the College of Charleston. As the nonfiction editor of Crazyhorse magazine, Lott's influence extends beyond the classroom, shaping the literary landscape through his editorial expertise.

A Life of Letters and Learning

Born on October 8, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, Lott grew up in Buena Park, California, and Phoenix, Arizona, before settling in Huntington Beach. This West Coast upbringing instilled in him a love for storytelling, which would eventually become the hallmark of his literary career.

Lott's academic pursuits took him to Cal State Long Beach, where he graduated in 1981, and later to the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned his MFA in 1984. His teaching career began at Ohio State University, and in 1986, he joined the English Department at the College of Charleston, where he is now a tenured professor and director of the MFA program.

Awards and Distinctions: A Testimony to Excellence

Recipient of the Ohio Arts Council Aid to Artists Fellowship in Literature (1986-1987)
Recipient of the South Carolina Arts Commission Fellowship in Literature (1987-1988)
Winner of the PEN/NEA Syndicated Fiction Project Award (1985, 1991, 1993)
Bread Loaf Fellow in Fiction, Bread Loaf Writers Conference (1991)
Distinguished Research Award, College of Charleston (1995)
Distinguished Alumni Award, University of Massachusetts, Amherst (1999)
Chancellors Medal, University of Massachusetts (2000)
In Praise of Teaching Award, College of Charleston (2002)
Recipient of The Avalon Award for Excellence in the Arts, Lipscomb University (2005)
Recipient of The Leila Lenore Heasley Prize for a Distinguished Contribution to the Arts (2005)

A Passion for Teaching and Mentorship

Lott's commitment to teaching and mentoring is evident in his work as a professor and director of the MFA program at the College of Charleston. His ability to inspire and guide emerging writers has earned him a reputation as a dedicated and passionate educator.

A Global Perspective: Travel, Research, and Inspiration

In addition to his academic pursuits, Lott has traveled extensively, drawing inspiration from his experiences. As a Fulbright Senior American Scholar in 2006, he taught at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv, Israel, and has led a study abroad program to Spoleto, Italy, every summer.

A National Platform: Serving on the National Council of the Arts

In 2006, President George W. Bush appointed Lott to the National Council of the Arts, a distinction that recognizes his contributions to the literary world and his ability to shape the cultural landscape. He served a six-year term, further solidifying his impact on American arts and literature.

A Lasting Legacy: Inspiring Future Generations

Bret Lott's impressive body of work, coupled with his dedication to teaching and mentorship, has created a lasting impact on the literary world. As a professor, editor, and author, he continues to inspire and shape the next generation of writers, ensuring his legacy as a champion of literature and learning.

Timeline

1958

Born in Los Angeles

Bret Lott was born on July 20, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, USA, and would go on to become a prominent American journalist, author, and academic

1984

Published First Novel

Lott published his first novel, The Man Who Owned Vermont, in 1984, marking the beginning of his literary career

1996

Published Jewel

Lott published his novel Jewel in 1996, which became an Oprahs Book Club selection and earned critical acclaim

2001

Became Editor of The Southern Review

Bret Lott became the editor of The Southern Review in 2001, overseeing the literary journals publication

2010

Published Memoir

Lott published his memoir Before We Get Started: A Practical Memoir of the Writers Life in 2010, offering insights into his writing process

Bret Lott Quiz

Bret Lott's writing style is characterized as

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FAQ

What is Bret Lott known for?

Bret Lott is an American journalist, author, and academic, known for his memoir Father, Mother, Child, which was a New York Times Notable Book of the Year. He is also a contributing editor to several publications, including The New York Times and The Washington Post.

What is Bret Lotts writing style?

Bret Lott is praised for his lyrical and introspective writing style, which often explores themes of family, faith, and the human condition. His work is characterized by its nuanced storytelling and poetic prose.

What has Bret Lott taught at various institutions?

Bret Lott has taught creative writing and literature at several institutions, including the University of Iowa, the University of North Carolina, and the College of Charleston. He is currently a professor of English at the College of Charleston.

Has Bret Lott received any awards for his writing?

Bret Lott has received several awards for his writing, including the Ohio State Universitys Paul Englehardt Award for Fiction, the Southern Reviews Eudora Welty Prize, and the Faulkner Societys Award for Excellence in Fiction.

What is Bret Lotts connection to the PEN American Center?

Bret Lott has served as a member of the PEN American Centers Board of Trustees and has been involved in various literary initiatives, advocating for freedom of expression and promoting literary excellence.

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