Connie Willis

Science fiction author, Hugo Award winner

Connie Willis - Science fiction author, Hugo Award winner
Born

December 31st, 1945
79 years ago

Category

Artists & Creatives

Country

United States

Links & References

An American author recognized for contributions to the science fiction genre, particularly through the exploration of time travel. Wrote the acclaimed 'Doomsday Book,' a novel that intertwines a contemporary narrative with a historical setting during the Black Death. Created a notable series of works set in Oxford's time travel research program, delving into themes of history and human experience. Received multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards throughout a prolific writing career.

Wrote 'Doomsday Book'

Received multiple Hugo Awards

Authored the 'Oxford Time Travel' series

Other People Born on December 31st

Junot Diaz

American novelist and essayist
Born
December 31st, 1968 56 years ago

Born in the Dominican Republic, a writer focused on themes of immigration and identity. He gained recognition with the novel 'The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao', which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2008. The work explores the life of a Dominican-American boy and examines the complexities of the immigrant experience. Other works include short story collections such as 'Drown' and 'This Is How You Lose Her', which explore themes of love, loss, and cultural dislocation. Besides fiction, contributions to various literary and cultural discussions occurred through essays and critiques published in leading magazines and journals.

Continue Reading

Sri Lal Sukla

Indian author of Raag Darbari
Born
December 31st, 1925 99 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 86 years old

An Indian author contributed significantly to Hindi literature, particularly through the novel Raag Darbari. The work explored themes of rural life and bureaucracy, gaining prominence for its satirical portrayal of societal issues in post-independence India. The novel earned critical acclaim and won the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1969. Apart from Raag Darbari, also engaged in writing essays and critiques that reflected contemporary society. Worked as a lecturer and served in various editorial roles in literary publications.

Continue Reading

Geoff Marsh

Cricketer and coach, Australian national team
Born
December 31st, 1958 66 years ago

A former cricketer for Australia, played as an opening batsman. Participated in international matches from 1985 to 1992, contributing to Australia's victories in the 1987 Cricket World Cup. Transitioned into coaching, leading teams in domestic circuits and taking on roles within the Australian national setup. Guided the Australian under-19 team to success and coached various international franchises.

Continue Reading

Silvestre Revueltas

Mexican composer and conductor of music
Born
December 31st, 1899 125 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1940 84 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1899, this individual gained prominence as a composer, conductor, and violinist. Contributions to Mexican music included establishing a unique style that blended classical music with traditional Mexican folk elements. Engaged with the Mexican muralist movement, collaborated with prominent artists and intellectuals of the time, creating soundtracks for films and theatrical productions. Directed the National Conservatory of Music in Mexico City. A strong advocate for Mexican folk music, incorporated indigenous themes into musical works while training the next generation of musicians.

Continue Reading

Javaris Crittenton

Basketball player and NBA draft pick
Born
December 31st, 1987 37 years ago

Professionally played basketball in the NBA, having been drafted 19th overall in the 2007 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. Crittenton played for the Lakers during the 2007-2008 season and subsequently for the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2008-2009 season. His career was marked by various off-court incidents that led to legal issues and ultimately his departure from professional basketball. After leaving the NBA, he pursued a brief career in the D-League and other basketball leagues.

Continue Reading

Pierre-Charles Villeneuve

French admiral and naval commander
Born
December 31st, 1763 261 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1806 219 years ago — 42 years old

Served as an admiral in the French Navy during the early 19th century. Commanded the combined French and Spanish fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Engaged in naval operations against British forces and faced significant challenges during his tenure. Oversaw various naval campaigns in the Mediterranean region and played a crucial role in French naval strategy during the Napoleonic Wars. Faced defeat at Trafalgar, which led to a decline in French naval influence.

Continue Reading