"Stoner" is a novel written by John Williams, published in 1965. It tells the story of William Stoner, a quiet and unassuming man who becomes a professor of English literature at the University of Missouri. The narrative follows his life, exploring themes of love, ambition, and the struggles of an ordinary man against the challenges of his personal and professional life. The novel is noted for its deep character development and lyrical prose. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, "Stoner" gained recognition over the years and is now considered a classic of American literature, often praised for its poignant exploration of the human condition.