Matthew Quick (born October 23, 1973) is an American writer of adult and young adult fiction. He emerged into the literary scene with his 2008 debut novel, The Silver Linings Playbook, which not only became a New York Times bestseller but also was adapted into a critically acclaimed movie in 2012 starring Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence. This adaptation was nominated for eight Oscars, highlighting Quick's impactful entry into the world of literature and cinema.
Quick's literary prowess was further recognized when he became a finalist for a 2009 PEN/Hemingway Award. His works, which have been translated into several languages, span both adult and young adult genres, showcasing his versatility as a writer. In 2012, his young-adult novel, Boy 21, received favorable reviews from The New York Times. He was also a finalist for the TIME 100 most influential people of 2013, cementing his status as a prominent figure in contemporary literature.
Throughout his career, Quick has written several novels, including We Are the Light, which became a #1 Indie Next Pick and a Book of the Month selection. His literary achievements have earned him a PEN/Hemingway Award Honorable Mention, an LA Times Book Prize finalist position, a New York Times Book Review Editorsβ Choice, and a #1 bestseller status in Brazil, among other accolades. Additionally, he has been nominated for a Deutscher Jugendliteratur Preis (German Youth Literature Prize) in 2016 and has been heralded as one of Hollywood's 25 Most Powerful Authors by The Hollywood Reporter.
Quick resides with his wife, the novelist Alicia Bessette, showcasing a life deeply entwined with the literary world. His journey from a debut author to an influential voice in literature and film exemplifies his significant contributions to the arts.