Book covers for Erasure, The Argonauts and The Sympathizer

Erasure, The Argonauts and The Sympathizer are among the century’s best, according to a survey of more than 500 writers, critics and literary stars. (Images: iStock, Gray Wolf Press and Grove Atlantic.)

Three USC Dornsife professors’ books named among best of the 21st century

Percival Everett, Maggie Nelson and Viet Thanh Nguyen were recognized by The New York Times for their literary achievements.

ByUSC Dornsife News Staff July 16, 2024

Three professors from the USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, all of whom are distinguished MacArthur Fellows, have had books named to The New York Times list of “Best Books of the 21st Century.” The accolade highlights the tremendous impact of their work on contemporary literature and scholarship.

The list was developed by the New York Times Book Review, which surveyed 503 novelists, nonfiction writers, poets, critics, and other literary luminaries, asking them to name the 10 best books published since Jan. 1, 2000.

Percival Everett, Distinguished Professor of English, is recognized for his satirical novel Erasure. This thought-provoking work addresses race and identity in America through the story of a cerebral novelist who finds mainstream success only when he produces a stereotypical portrayal of Black pain.

The novel’s adaptation, American Fiction, recently won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, showcasing the enduring relevance of his work, which he recently discussed with USC News.
Maggie Nelson, professor of English, is renowned for her genre-defying memoir The Argonauts. This National Book Critics Circle Award winner and New York Times bestseller delves into themes of queer identity, gender politics, and the meaning of family, through “prose that is sharp, supple and disarmingly heartfelt.”

Nelson’s work continues to challenge and expand the boundaries of contemporary literature, making her a pivotal figure in both poetry and prose.
Viet Thanh Nguyen, University Professor, Aerol Arnold Chair of English, and professor of English, American studies and ethnicity, and comparative literature, is celebrated for his novel The Sympathizer. This New York Times bestseller and Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a gripping political thriller, exploring themes of identity, betrayal and the immigrant experience.

The novel was adapted into an HBO series that premiered this year, expanding Nguyen’s impact on both literature and popular culture.

“Having some of the most accomplished authors of the century on our faculty is a testament to the caliber of our department and the exceptional talent within it,” said Dana Johnson, chair of the English department and Florence R. Scott Professor of English. “I couldn’t be more proud that our students have the opportunity to learn from some of the nation’s greatest thinkers and writers.”

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