Marya Justine Hornbacher, born on April 4, 1974, is a celebrated American author and freelance journalist renowned for her groundbreaking work in literature. Her journey into the literary world began with the publication of Wasted: A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia in 1998, when she was merely twenty-three years old. This autobiographical account details Hornbacher's harrowing struggle with eating disorders and has since been a beacon of hope and understanding for many. The book's influence is far-reaching, having been translated into sixteen languages and sold over a million copies in the U.S. alone.

Following the success of Wasted, Hornbacher continued to enchant readers with her novel The Center of Winter, published in 2005. Praised as "masterful," "gorgeous writing," and "a stunning achievement of storytelling," the novel is a compelling narrative told through the perspectives of six-year-old Kate, her mentally ill brother Esau, and their mother. It has been lauded for its exquisite portrayal of family dynamics and mental illness.

Hornbacher's literary prowess and ability to tackle difficult subjects with grace and depth have not only garnered her critical acclaim but have also made a profound impact on readers worldwide. Her work is a testament to the power of storytelling in shedding light on the complexities of the human condition.