Tommy Orange is a critically acclaimed author renowned for his keen ability to bring Native American narratives into contemporary fiction. Born and raised in Oakland, California to parents of white and Cheyenne and Arapaho descent, Orange's unique perspective and heritage serve to deeply enrich his storytelling. He garnered recognition for his debut novel, “There There,” which not only enhances understanding and appreciation of Native American culture, but also confronts readers with the real and raw plight of urban Indian Americans.
Orange's literary prowess began to find global acclaim after his graduation from the Institute of American Indian Arts. As an MFA graduate, his stellar talent was noticed by Alfred A. Knopf who published "There There". The novel was subsequently well received, earning praise from The New York Times, among others, ultimately becoming a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in fiction. Owing to his ingenious narrative, Orange received the 2019 PEN/Hemingway Award, and was named among Granta’s Best Young American Novelists.
Not merely an author, Tommy Orange possesses a diverse range of skills including teaching, arts administration, and philanthropy. He spent years working in the Native American community of Oakland, California, before stepping into the literary world. Serving as an ambitious author, dedicated educator, and tireless advocate for Native American communities, Tommy Orange continues to trendset for contemporary Native American literature, earning a well-deserved reputation as a vital voice in American fiction.