History of David Payne (novelist) in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 28, 2026

David Payne is an American novelist and memoirist known for his works of fiction and non-fiction. He has authored five novels and one memoir. His debut novel was recognized with the Houghton Mifflin Literary Fellowship Award, marking an early achievement in his writing career. Payne's work falls under the umbrella of contemporary American literature.

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Full Timeline

1977: Graduation from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

In 1977, David Payne graduated with highest honors in creative writing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, marking the end of his formal education and setting the stage for his literary career.

1984: Publication of "Confessions of a Taoist on Wall Street"

In 1984, David Payne's first novel, "Confessions of a Taoist on Wall Street," was published by Houghton Mifflin. The book received positive reviews and commercial success, enabling Payne to pursue writing full-time.

1989: Publication of "Early from the Dance"

In 1989, David Payne's second novel, "Early from the Dance," set on the North Carolina Outer Banks, was published by Doubleday and selected by the Literary Guild. The novel garnered critical acclaim, with reviewers praising Payne's profound human sympathy and deep understanding of the human heart.

1993: Publication of "Ruin Creek"

In 1993, David Payne's third novel, "Ruin Creek," set on the Outer Banks and in the fictional town of Killdeer, NC, was published by Doubleday. The novel received positive reviews, with critics lauding Payne as one of the most gifted American novelists of his generation.

2000: Publication of "Gravesend Light"

In 2000, David Payne's fourth novel, "Gravesend Light," was published by Doubleday. The novel follows Joe Madden, an adult ethnographer studying commercial fishermen on the Outer Banks.

2006: Publication of "Back to Wando Passo"

In 2006, David Payne's fifth novel, "Back to Wando Passo," was published by William Morrow. Set on a former rice plantation in South Carolina, the novel explores themes of history and mystery.

2015: Publication of "Barefoot to Avalon"

In 2015, David Payne published his sixth book, "Barefoot to Avalon," a memoir centered on the death of his younger brother, George A. Payne. The memoir received critical acclaim for its brave and beautifully written narrative.

2016: Appearance on The Charlie Rose Show

In 2016, David Payne appeared on The Charlie Rose Show, where he discussed his memoir, "Barefoot to Avalon". Charlie Rose described the memoir as "powerful" and "searing".

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