Carol Ryrie Brink was an American author born on December 28, 1895, known for her prolific career in writing over thirty juvenile and adult books. Her most acclaimed work, Caddie Woodlawn, won the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1936, and later, a Lewis Carroll Shelf Award in 1958.

Born Caroline Sybil Ryrie, Brink faced early adversity, becoming orphaned by the age of 8. She was subsequently raised by her maternal grandmother, who served as the inspiration for the character Caddie Woodlawn. Brink's writing journey began with school newspapers, which she avidly contributed to during her academic career. She attended the University of Idaho for three years before transferring to the University of California, where she graduated Phi Beta Kappa in 1918, the same year she married.

Her first novel, Anything Can Happen on the River, was published in 1934. Brink's significant contributions to literature were recognized with an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University of Idaho in 1965. In her honor, the University named Brink Hall, housing the UI English Department and faculty offices.