Kurt Vonnegut was a popular American writer of humor and science-fiction novels and short stories. Vonnegut remains an important mentor for young pacifists, and his work is considered a quintessential example of the satirical style.
His novels are known for their dark humor and playful use of science fiction, as well as for their serious moral vision and cutting social commentary. Although his work has been criticized for being too simplistic, there are many who consider his imagination and sense of humor to be peerless. He is at once irreverent and highly moral, and this rare combination has made his voice integral to American literature.
Born in Indianapolis on November 11, 1922, Kurt...