Nick McDonell is an American author and journalist, best known for his debut novel, Twelve, published when he was just 17 years old. The book, which explores the lives of affluent teenagers in New York City, received critical acclaim and established him as a notable young writer. In addition to his fiction work, McDonell has contributed to various publications, including The New York Times and The Atlantic. He has also written non-fiction pieces that cover topics such as war and culture, showcasing his versatility as a writer and his ability to engage with complex subjects.