Ishmael Beah, born on 23 November 1980, is a Sierra Leonean author and human rights activist renowned for his acclaimed memoir, A Long Way Gone. Beyond his memoir, Beah has contributed significantly to literature with his novel Radiance of Tomorrow, published in January 2014, and his most recent work, Little Family, released in April 2020.

Beah's journey has been one of remarkable transition. Born in Sierra Leone, he moved to the United States in 1998, completing his final two years of high school at the United Nations International School in New York. In 2004, he graduated from Oberlin College with a Bachelor of Arts in political science. His dedication to human rights advocacy is evident through his role in the Human Rights Watch Children’s Rights Division Advisory Committee. Beah has shared his experiences and insights before prestigious forums such as the United Nations, the Council on Foreign Relations, and the Center for Emerging Threats and Opportunities (CETO) at the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory, among other NGO panels dedicated to addressing the impacts of war on children.

Beah's contributions to literature and human rights have not gone unnoticed. His work has been featured in VespertinePress and LIT magazine, showcasing his versatile talent. Based in New York City, Beah continues to inspire with his storytelling and advocacy, making a significant impact on issues surrounding children affected by war.