Irving Stone, born Tennenbaum on July 14, 1903, and passing away on August 26, 1989, was a prolific American writer, best known for his biographical novels of famous artists, politicians, and intellectuals. His works include some of the most celebrated biographies, such as Lust for Life (1934), a vivid portrayal of Vincent van Gogh, and The Agony and the Ecstasy (1961), an insightful exploration into the life of Michelangelo.

Stone received his bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 1923 and later, an honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University of Southern California in the 1960s, where he had previously earned a Master's Degree from the College of Letters, Arts, and Sciences. His academic achievements underscored his commitment to a life of scholarship and storytelling.

He was remarkably supported in his research by Esther Euler, head research librarian of the University of California at Los Angeles, to whom he dedicated many of his works. Stone's reliance on expert research facilities and expertise was a testament to his dedication to authenticity and detail in his writing.

Stone's personal life was equally remarkable. He enjoyed a long and loving marriage to Jean Stone, who served as the editor for many of his works. The couple primarily resided in Los Angeles, California, and shared a life dedicated to literature and intellectual pursuit.