Erica Jong is a renowned poet, novelist, essayist, and cultural icon, best known for her groundbreaking novel "Fear of Flying" published in 1973. This internationally bestselling book introduced a new way of thinking about gender, sexuality, and freedom in our society. In 2013, the 40th anniversary of "Fear of Flying" was celebrated with a reissue by Holt, the original publisher, featuring a new introduction by Jennifer Weiner. The book received significant press coverage, including a major article in The New York Times, highlighting its enduring significance and Jong's place in the literary canon. Jong's latest novel, "Fear of Dying," was critically acclaimed upon its release in September 2015. She is known for her advocacy of women's rights, authors' rights, and free expression, and frequently delivers keynote speeches and lectures at various international events and conferences. Some notable appearances include International Women's Day at the Royal Library in Copenhagen, THiNK India, the International Jewish Literature Festival in Rome, and the Goteborg Book Festival. Jong has also given Master Classes at Barnard and Hunter Colleges in New York City. Over the course of her career, Jong has received numerous awards and honors, including the United Nations Award for Excellence in Literature in 1998. She has also been recognized for her poetry, winning Poetry magazine's Bess Hokin Prize and the Sigmund Freud Award for Literature in Italy. In 2009, Jong was the inaugural recipient of the Fernanda Pivano Prize for Literature in Italy. "Fear of Flying" has sold over 20 million copies in more than 40 languages, solidifying Jong's status as a bestselling author. Her other notable books include "How to Save Your Own Life," "Fanny: Being the True History of the Adventures of Fanny Hackabout-Jones," "Parachutes & Kisses," "Shylock's Daughter" (also known as "Serenissima"), "Any Woman's Blues," "Inventing Memory," and "Sappho's Leap." Her memoir "Fear of Fifty" was also a major international bestseller. In 2012, Jong edited the anthology "Sugar in My Bowl: Real Women Write About Real Sex." In addition to her literary achievements, Jong has insightful perspectives on sexuality in America, drawn from her own life and career. She regularly blogs for The Huffington Post and has contributed to magazines, newspapers, and blogs worldwide. Jong served as president of The Authors' Guild from 1991 to 1993 and remains on the Board. She has also established a program for young writers at her alma mater, Barnard College, called the Erica Mann Jong Writing Center, which focuses on peer tutoring and editing. In 2008, Columbia University acquired her literary archive.
