Cynthia Rylant is an American author and librarian. She has written more than 100 children's books, including works of fiction such as picture books, short stories and novels, as well as nonfiction and poetry. Several of her books have won prestigious awards, including her novel Missing May, which won the 1993 Newbery Medal, and A Fine White Dust, which was a 1987 Newbery Honor book. Two of her books are also Caldecott Honor Books.

Many of Rylant's books reflect her childhood experiences in Appalachia, her love for her pets, the joys and hardships of family life, and the feelings of loners. A number of her works are written in series, showcasing her versatility and depth as a writer. Rylant is recognized as a gifted author who has made significant contributions to various genres of juvenile literature, including contemporary novels, historical fiction for young adults, middle-grade fiction, fantasy, lyrical prose poems, beginning readers, collections of short stories, volumes of poetry and verse, books of prayers and blessings, autobiographies, and a biography of three well-known children's writers.