Who Is John McPhee? Age, Biography and Wiki
John McPhee, born on March 8, 1931, is an esteemed American author recognized for his narrative non-fiction and journalistic endeavors. As of 2025, McPhee is 94 years old, continuing to reflect a vibrant literary presence. His work often blends intricate storytelling with thorough research, earning him a reputable position in contemporary literature. McPhee's storytelling covers various topics, ranging from the natural sciences to sports, showcasing his versatile writing style.
| Occupation | Writers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1931 |
| Age | 94 Years |
| Birth Place | Princeton, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | Jersey |
Popularity
John McPhee's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific measurements for John McPhee are not publicly documented, it is known that he maintains an active lifestyle, contributing positively to his overall health as he ages. His enduring commitment to writing and intellectual engagement reflects an agile mind rather than a focus on physical metrics.
Reflecting his personal interests, McPhee's subjects are highly eclectic.
He has written pieces on lifting-body development (The Deltoid Pumpkin Seed), the psyche and experience of a nuclear engineer (The Curve of Binding Energy), a New Jersey wilderness area (The Pine Barrens), the United States Merchant Marine (Looking for a Ship), farmers' markets (Giving Good Weight), the movement of coal across America ("Coal Train"
in Uncommon Carriers), the shifting flow of the Mississippi River ("Atchafalaya" in The Control of Nature), geology (in several books), as well as a short book entirely about oranges.
One of his most widely read books, Coming into the Country, is about the three faces of Alaska: the urban, the rural, and the Alaskan wilderness.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, John McPhee is known to have a rich family life. He was previously married to artist and writer, Judith, with whom he shares children. Details about his personal relationships remain private, but there is no public information indicating he has a current boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, or wife. McPhee values his personal space and tends to keep family matters discreet.
Twice married, McPhee is the father of four daughters from his first marriage to Pryde Brown: the novelists Jenny McPhee and Martha McPhee, photographer Laura McPhee, and architecture historian Sarah McPhee.
Net Worth and Salary
John McPhee's net worth is estimated to be in the millions, reflecting his success as an author and journalist. While exact figures vary, it's reported that his earnings have been significantly bolstered through book sales, speaking engagements, and contributions to notable publications. His financial standing highlights the lucrative nature of literary careers for established authors.
Career, Business and Investments
McPhee's career spans over six decades, with him becoming a prominent figure in the literary world. He has authored numerous books, including "Coming Into the Country" and "The Control of Nature," which have sparked critical acclaim and earned multiple literary awards. McPhee has also been a staff writer at The New Yorker since the 1950s, further diversifying his portfolio.
In addition to writing, McPhee has engaged in various speaking events, enhancing his reputation as a knowledgeable figure across different fields, including environmental journalism and the arts.
John Angus McPhee (born March 8, 1931) is an American author. He is considered one of the pioneers of creative nonfiction.
He is a four-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in the category General Nonfiction, and he won that award on the fourth occasion in 1999 for Annals of the Former World (a collection of five books, including two of his previous Pulitzer finalists).
In 2008, he received the George Polk Career Award for his "indelible mark on American journalism during his nearly half-century career". Since 1974, McPhee has been the Ferris Professor of Journalism at Princeton University.
Social Network
John McPhee is relatively low-key regarding social media engagement. He does not maintain active profiles on major platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, preferring to focus on his writing endeavors rather than public commentary. However, fans and followers can find discussions about his work and accomplishments through literary forums and websites dedicated to contemporary authors.
Education
McPhee's education laid a solid foundation for his impressive writing career. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Princeton University in 1953, where he cultivated his passion for writing and journalism. His academic background not only enriched his writing style but also shaped his perspectives on diverse topics, significantly influencing his narrative approach.
McPhee has lived in Princeton, New Jersey, for most of his life. He was educated at Princeton High School, then spent a postgraduate year at Deerfield Academy, before graduating from Princeton University in 1953 with a senior thesis titled "Skimmer Burns" and spending a year at Magdalene College, Cambridge. McPhee was a member of University Cottage Club while a student at Princeton.
