André Aciman facts for kids
André Aciman (born 2 January 1951) is a well-known Italian-American writer. He was born and grew up in Alexandria, Egypt. Today, he is a respected professor at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. There, he teaches about writing and famous books.
Before this, Aciman taught writing at other big universities. These included New York University, Princeton University, and Bard College. In 2009, he was a special visiting writer at Wesleyan University.
He has written several books. One of his most famous novels is Call Me by Your Name (2007). This book won an award in 2007 and was later made into a movie. He also wrote a memoir called Out of Egypt in 1995. This book won a Whiting Award. Even though Call Me by Your Name is very popular, Aciman has said he thinks his novel Eight White Nights is his best work.
Early Life and Education
André Aciman was born in Alexandria, Egypt. His parents were Regine and Henri N. Aciman. His father owned a factory that made knitted clothes. His mother could not hear.
Aciman grew up in a home where French was spoken most often. His family also spoke Italian, Greek, Ladino, and Arabic. His family was Jewish and had roots in Turkey and Italy. They had moved to Alexandria in 1905.
His family was seen as "foreigners" in Egypt. This meant they could not become Egyptian citizens. As a child, Aciman thought he was a French citizen by mistake. He went to British schools in Egypt.
In 1965, his family had to leave Egypt. This was because of growing problems and tensions in the country. His father bought Italian citizenship for the family. Aciman, his mother, and his brother moved to Rome as refugees. His father moved to Paris.
Later, in 1968, they all moved to New York City. Aciman studied English at Lehman College. He then earned more degrees from Harvard University.
Out of Egypt
Aciman's book Out of Egypt was published in 1996. It is a memoir, which means it tells a true story from his own life. The book is about his childhood in Alexandria, Egypt, before his family left.
Many people reviewed the book. Critics praised it as a "remarkable memoir." They said it painted a clear picture of a world that no longer exists. Some even said parts of the book were "strange and marvelous."
Personal Life
André Aciman is married to Susan Wiviott. They have three sons. One of their sons, Alexander, is also a writer and journalist.
His wife, Susan, works as the CEO of a non-profit group called The Bridge, Inc. This group helps people in New York City. She also serves on the board of other companies.
Awards
- 1995 Whiting Award
- 2007 Lambda Literary Award
See also
In Spanish: André Aciman para niños