Jill Collins McCorkle, born on July 7, 1958, in Lumberton, North Carolina, is a distinguished American short story writer and novelist. After completing her education at the University of North Carolina in 1980, where she was mentored by literary figures such as Max Steele, Lee Smith, and Louis D. Rubin, she went on to further her studies and received a Master's degree from what is now Hollins University.

McCorkle's teaching career is as impressive as her writing, having held positions at Tufts University, University of North Carolina, Duke University, Harvard University, and Bennington College. She currently imparts her literary knowledge to students at North Carolina State University. Her contributions to literature have been recognized with awards such as the New England Booksellers Award, the Dos Passos Prize for Excellence in Literature, and the North Carolina Award for Literature.

McCorkle resides near Boston with her husband, their two children, and several pets. Her dedication to storytelling is evident through her work, with five of her seven previous books being honored as New York Times Notables.