Chris Crutcher is an American novelist and a therapist who writes young adult fiction, often incorporating his experiences working with adolescents. Many of his novels feature themes of abuse, mental health, and social issues, and are known for their realistic portrayal of young people's problems. Born on July 17, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, Crutcher's career as an author began in the 1980s. His work has won numerous awards and has often been subject to censorship challenges due to its unflinching approach to controversial topics. Some of his well-known books include "Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes," "Whale Talk," and "Ironman." His writing style is characterized by humor, empathy, and respect for the resilience of his teen characters.