Fiction:
* John Barth (1930-2016): Born in New York, Barth lived in Delaware for a long time. He is known for experimental fiction, including "The Sot-Weed Factor" and "The Floating Opera."
* George R.R. Martin (b. 1948): While not born in Delaware, Martin lived in Wilmington for a period. He is the author of the popular "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, adapted into the HBO series "Game of Thrones."
* Michael Ondaatje (b. 1943): Born in Sri Lanka, Ondaatje lived in Delaware for a period and is a renowned poet and novelist, known for his lyrical style. His most famous novel is "The English Patient," which won the Booker Prize.
Nonfiction:
* John Dickinson (1732-1808): Dickinson was a prominent figure during the American Revolution, known for his writings on political philosophy. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress and drafted the "Letters from a Farmer in Pennsylvania," which argued against British taxation without representation.
* James T. Farrell (1904-1979): Farrell is known for his gritty, realistic novels, particularly his "Studs Lonigan" trilogy, which explores the lives of working-class Irish Americans in Chicago. He spent much of his childhood in Wilmington, Delaware.
* Howard Pyle (1853-1911): Pyle was an illustrator and author, known for his "Robin Hood" illustrations and children's books like "The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood." He also worked as an art instructor at the Wilmington Academy of the Arts.
Other Notable Authors:
* Joseph Conrad (1857-1924): Although not born in Delaware, Conrad lived in Wilmington for a time, influencing his writing. He is a celebrated author known for his seafaring tales and psychological exploration, such as "Heart of Darkness."
* Alice Childress (1920-1994): Childress was a playwright and novelist, known for her works that dealt with issues of race and social justice. She lived in Wilmington for a period.
Note: While some authors might have spent a significant part of their lives or their formative years in Delaware, it's important to note that their primary place of residence and upbringing might differ. This list attempts to encompass authors who have a significant connection to Delaware through their life or work.