Next year,The Outsiders,S.E.
Fortunately, Nothing gold can stay doesnt apply to great literature.
I knew I was going to be a writer, Hinton says of her early start.
Credit: Everett Collection
By the time I was in high school I had been practicing for years.
Hinton herself also reflected with us on the legacy of her novel, and why itstill touches teenstoday.
ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: How are you feeling about the books 50th anniversary?
Courtesy Penguin Young Readers
Im just thrilled to be able to share such a personal milestone with the books fans.
Your novel also became a classic film in 1983.
Whats your favorite memory from the film set?
Courtesy Penguin Young Readers
Are you still in contact with anyone from the movie?
And yes, I am in contact with all of the actors and Francis Coppola.
Why do you think the novel still stands up so well after all these years?
And even today, that concept of the in crowd and the out crowd is universal.
How many times have you re-read The Outsiders over the years?
I dont re-read it at all.
I glad I wrote it when I did, I could never be that un-self-conscious again.
As an adult I see many faults but its faults are its virtues.
What would you say to your 16-year-old self now?
Youre going to be so glad you wrote that book!
Whats a favorite reader encounter that stands out for you?
I used to work in a shoe store.
While fitting work boots on some tough young guys, someone told them who I was.
One of them said You made me cry on the school bus.
What are you reading now?
I read mostly nonfiction these days.
I re-read Jane Austen, Mary Renault, Victorian classics.
I also have a large collection of true paranormal books, an interest of mine.
S.E Hinton as a teen.
