Iceberg Slim, born Robert Lee Maupin on August 4, 1918, was an American who transitioned from a life of pimping to becoming a celebrated writer. Known also as Robert Beck, Slim's life was as intriguing as his pseudonym suggests.

His 1967 memoir, Pimp: The Story of My Life, was a notable success, particularly within Black audiences. By 1973, this memoir had been reprinted 19 times, selling nearly 2 million copies. The book offers a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the world he once inhabited.

Slim didn't stop with his memoir; he authored other novels such as Trick Baby, further showcasing his literary prowess that captivated audiences and translated his life experiences into compelling narratives.