Hinton, S. E. (1948-…), is an American writer of novels for young adults. She writes about teenagers who face such problems as violence, poverty, and alcohol and drug abuse. The young characters in her novels often reject authority while trying to cope with these problems.
Susan Eloise Hinton was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on July 22, 1948, and raised there. The Tulsa area became the setting for her novels. Hinton’s first and probably best-known book is The Outsiders. She wrote the book when she was 16, and it was published in 1967. It is a story about two rival gangs, one rich and one poor. The book is noted for its action-packed plot, believable characters, and realistic language.
Hinton’s second novel, That Was Then, This Is Now (1971), focuses on teenage boys and the problems of growing up, especially the problem of drug abuse. Rumble Fish (1975) tells the story of a 14-year-old boy who idolizes his older brother, a former gang leader. His efforts to be like his brother get him into serious trouble. Tex (1979) also deals with two brothers, ages 14 and 17. Their father abandons them, and tensions grow between them as the younger brother tries to become more independent. Taming the Star Runner (1988) is an account of a 16-year-old boy who wants to become a writer. The book describes his relationship with an 18-year-old horse trainer and her horse, named the Star Runner. Hawkes Harbor (2004) is an adult novel about a young man who falls under the influence of a vampire.
Hinton also wrote short stories, as well as books for younger readers. A collection of 14 related short stories was published as Some of Tim’s Stories (2007). Big David, Little David (1995) is for kindergarten readers, and The Puppy Sister (1995) is for elementary school readers.
