Jonathan Harr

Author Jonathan Harr is best known for his compelling account of a tragic toxic waste case that plagued Woburn, Massachusetts during the 1980s, entitled A Civil Action. This story traces the formulation and outcome of a legal complaint filed by eight families against three local Woburn industries for improper handling and disposal of toxic chemicals. A Civil Action won Harr the 1996 National Book Critics Circle Award for nonfiction and earned him a spot on the New York Times Best Sellers List for 65 weeks. He also received the 1997 Environmental Awareness Award from the League of Conservation Voters for his ability to incorporate an environmental protection issue into his work and for his efforts to help raise awareness of environmental issues. Jonathan Harr is a former staff writer at New England Monthly and has contributed to The New Yorker. He has also taught at Smith College.