Elif Batuman is an American author, academic, and journalist known for her engaging and insightful works. Born in New York City to Turkish parents, Batuman grew up in New Jersey and showed an early interest in literature and writing. She graduated from Harvard College and earned her doctorate in comparative literature from Stanford University, where her academic pursuits led her to teach and conduct research.

Batuman's first book, The Possessed: Adventures with Russian Books and the People Who Read Them, published in 2010, is a collection of interconnected essays that delve into her experiences with Russian literature. Her debut novel, The Idiot, was a finalist for the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and draws inspiration from her own college experiences. She continued the narrative with her follow-up novel, Either/Or.

In addition to her books, Batuman has made significant contributions to journalism, particularly as a staff writer for The New Yorker. Her writing residency at Koç University in Istanbul and her time spent in Uzbekistan further reflect her dedication to cultural exploration and understanding. Batuman's work often explores the interplay between personal and political narratives, challenging readers to consider the broader implications of seemingly personal experiences.

Recognized with a Rona Jaffe Foundation Writers' Award in 2007, Batuman's academic and literary accomplishments are a testament to her talent and commitment to the world of letters.