Fredrick Benjamin "Fred" Gipson was an eminent American writer and screenwriter, celebrated for his contributions to American literature and film. Born on February 7, 1908, on a farm near Mason in the Texas Hill Country, Gipson's early life was steeped in the rural experiences that would later influence his writing. The son of Beck Gipson and Emma Deishler, he grew up in an environment that valued hard work and perseverance.

After engaging in various farming and ranching jobs, Gipson decided to pursue higher education and enrolled at the University of Texas at Austin in 1933. During his time at the university, he showcased his writing talents by contributing to the Daily Texan and The Ranger. However, his academic journey was cut short as he left school before graduating to embark on a career as a newspaper journalist. This decision marked the beginning of his journey into the realms of writing and screenwriting.

Gipson's most notable work is the 1956 novel Old Yeller, a poignant story that captures the adventures and emotional landscapes of frontier life. The novel's success led to it being adapted into a popular 1957 Walt Disney film, further cementing Gipson's legacy in American culture. His ability to weave narratives that resonated with both young and adult readers alike has made him a beloved figure in American literature.