NHS Welcomes Author Stephen Chbosky

On Oct. 22, we welcomed special guest Stephen Chbosky, author of the acclaimed novel, The Perks of Being a Wallflower. Nearly 100 ninth graders, who recently read the novel in their English classes, were able to meet and speak with Chbosky, who was kind enough to answer questions about the book and his journey in becoming a writer. He also signed copies of the text and took photos with students.

All told, he spent over an hour sharing his story with participants and encouraging them to pursue their passions in life. We are so grateful that our freshmen were given this opportunity and thank Chbosky for his time and energy supporting them.

More about Stephen Chbosky:

Stephen Chbosky wrote and directed the feature film adaptation of his critically acclaimed debut novel, THE PERKS OF BEING A WALLFLOWER. The novel spent over two years on the New York Times Best Seller List and the film garnered several awards including GLAAD, Independent Spirit, People’s Choice and was a WGA Nominee. The novel also enjoyed the distinction of being on the ALA’s Most Challenged Books list 7 times and was Number 10 on the most banned books in America list for 2000 – 2009.

In 2017 he wrote and directed the hugely successful film adaptation of WONDER, the NY Times bestselling novel by RJ Palacio. The film starred Julia Roberts and Owen Wilson, was nominated for one Academy Award and grossed over $300 million worldwide.

In that same year, he co-wrote the screenplay for Disney’s live action BEAUTY AND THE BEAST starring Emma Watson, which enjoyed both critical and box office success (#15 all-time domestic and #17 all-time worldwide).

Chbosky’s second novel, Imaginary Friend was published in October of 2019 and debuted as a New York Times Best Seller.

A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he graduated from the University of Southern California’s Filmic Writing Program. His first feature, THE FOUR CORNERS OF NOWHERE, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. He wrote the screenplay for the film adaptation of RENT and co-created the post-apocalyptic TV drama, JERICHO.

His latest directorial efforts include the film adaptation of DEAR EVAN HANSEN, the winner of six Tony Awards and the upcoming NONNAS, starring Vince Vaughn, Susan Sarandon, and Linda Cardellini.