Frank McCourt ​

Francis "Frank" McCourt was an Irish-American teacher and writer known for his Pulitzer Prize–winning memoir, Angela's Ashes. The book details his early life and poverty-stricken upbringing in Ireland and later in New York City. McCourt also authored the sequels 'Tis and Teacher Man.

Quick Facts ​

• Was a Pulitzer Prize-winning American writer.
• Best known for his memoir of childhood in Ireland, "Angela's Ashes."
• Worked as a Hollywood writer before finding success with his memoir.
• Taught high school English in New York City for many years.
• Also wrote the memoirs "`Tis" and "Teacher Man."

Background ​

McCourt was born in 1930 in Brooklyn, New York, to Irish immigrant parents. The family moved back to Ireland during the Great Depression, where Frank grew up in extreme poverty. They returned to America when he was nineteen. After several odd jobs, he was drafted into the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, he studied at New York University on the G.I. Bill. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in English. He then earned a master's degree in English from Brooklyn College and began teaching at New York City high schools.

McCourt's greatest accomplishment came later in life when he published his memoir, Angela's Ashes, in 1996 at the age of 66. The memoir, which details his upbringing in Ireland, won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1997. The book was later turned into a film in 1999. McCourt continued to write about his life experiences in 'Tis and Teacher Man. He passed away in 2009.

Writing Style and Impact ​

McCourt's work is notable for its raw, gritty depiction of his childhood poverty in Ireland. His writing style is characterized by its uncompromising realism, dark humor and stunning lyricism. He employs a first-person narrative style that is conversational and often includes direct addresses to the reader. His memoir 'Angela's Ashes' won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography, and his work has been an important contribution to the genre of autobiographical literature.

Notable Works ​

• Angela's Ashes (1996)
• 'Tis (1999)
• Teacher Man (2005)