Is E. L. Doctorow A-List?
No — E. L. Doctorow is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 1975
*Ragtime* Success
Lost A-list status in 1985
Dropped to B tier — *World's Fair*
Ranking Timeline
Early Editing Career
Works as an editor, starting his career in publishing.
*Welcome to Hard Times* Novel
Publishes his first novel, *Welcome to Hard Times*.
*The Book of Daniel* Breakthrough
Publishes *The Book of Daniel*, gaining critical acclaim.
*Ragtime* Success
Publishes *Ragtime*, which becomes a bestseller and is adapted into a musical and film.
*World's Fair*
Publishes *World's Fair*.
*Billy Bathgate* Award Winning
Publishes *Billy Bathgate*, winning the National Book Critics Circle Award.
PEN/Faulkner Award
Receives the PEN/Faulkner Award.
Death in New York
Passes away in New York City, with his novels remaining a lasting influence.
Legacy Historical Fiction
Remembered for his influential contributions to historical fiction.
Last updated: February 25, 2026