Here are the key factors that motivated Hinton to write *The Outsiders*:
* Experiencing the social divisions of youth: As a teenager in Oklahoma in the 1960s, Hinton witnessed firsthand the clashes between different social groups, particularly the "greasers" and the "socs" (short for "socials"). She felt empathy for both sides, recognizing the struggles and misunderstandings each faced.
* Finding a lack of relatable stories: Hinton struggled to find books and movies that accurately depicted the challenges and complexities of teenage life, especially the struggles of lower-income kids. She wanted to create a story that resonated with her peers.
* Expressing her own feelings: As a young writer, Hinton used *The Outsiders* as a way to process her own emotions and experiences. The story was her way of expressing the frustrations, anxieties, and hopes of being a teenager in a society that often felt divided.
While Hinton didn't set out to write a bestseller, *The Outsiders* struck a chord with readers of all ages and backgrounds. Its honest portrayal of teenage life and its exploration of social issues like class, violence, and prejudice resonated deeply, ultimately making it a classic.