Neil Richard MacKinnon Gaiman, born Neil Richard Gaiman on 10 November 1960, is an acclaimed English author renowned for his contributions to short fiction, novels, comic books, graphic novels, audio theatre, and screenplays. Gaiman's eclectic works span a variety of genres, with a notable focus on the fantastical and the macabre.

His illustrious career is adorned with several flagship creations, including the iconic comic book series The Sandman, and beloved novels such as Good Omens (co-written with Terry Pratchett), Stardust, Anansi Boys, American Gods, Coraline, and The Graveyard Book. Notably, Gaiman's ventures into screenwriting have brought to life the TV adaptations of Good Omens and The Sandman.

A recipient of numerous prestigious awards, Gaiman has garnered the Hugo, Nebula, and Bram Stoker awards, in addition to the Newbery and Carnegie medals. Marking a historic achievement, he became the first author to clinch both the Newbery and Carnegie medals for the same work, The Graveyard Book (2008). In 2013, The Ocean at the End of the Lane was celebrated as Book of the Year in the British National Book Awards, and later, its adaptation graced the stage of the Royal National Theatre in London, earning critical acclaim.