Some writers stick to one subject. Gore Vidal was not one of them. Born on October 3, 1925, Vidal grew up surrounded by politics. His grandfather, Thomas Gore, was a United States senator. Young Vidal spent time reading books in his grandfather's library. He even read to his grandfather, who was blind. Vidal published his first novel at just 19 years old. Over the next six decades, he wrote novels, plays, essays, and movie scripts. He was one of the most versatile writers ever. Vidal's essays made him famous. He wrote about presidents, wars, and what he believed was wrong with the country. His writing was sharp and often controversial. He did not worry about making people angry. He once said that people should "never miss a chance to have sex or appear on television." Vidal also wrote historical novels that brought American history to life. His book *Lincoln* told the story of Abraham Lincoln's presidency through imagined conversations. Critics praised the book for making history feel alive. Vidal appeared on TV talk shows for decades, debating politicians and other writers. He proved that a writer's voice could reach beyond the page and into living rooms across the country.