Nicholas Charles Sparks, born December 31, 1965, in Omaha, Nebraska, is a titan of the romance novel genre, renowned for his compelling storytelling that has captivated millions worldwide. Sparks has penned twenty-three novels, all of which have been New York Times bestsellers, spanning various themes of love, fate, and human connections. His narrative prowess has sold over 115 million copies across the globe, translated into more than 50 languages, underscoring his universal appeal.

Sparks' literary journey began with the publication of The Notebook in 1996, a story that he crafted over six months at the age of 28. This novel, along with Message in a Bottle (1998), A Walk to Remember (1999), and many others, have not only enjoyed immense popularity but also been adapted into feature films, cementing Sparks' status in both the literary and cinematic worlds. His works, including The Choice, The Longest Ride, and The Best of Me, have collectively grossed over three-quarters of a billion dollars worldwide, with The Notebook also making its mark as a musical, featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson.

Apart from his writing, Sparks is deeply committed to philanthropy and educational causes. He is a major contributor to the Creative Writing Program (MFA) at the University of Notre Dame, providing scholarships, internships, and a fellowship annually. In 2006, he co-founded The Epiphany School in New Bern, North Carolina. Additionally, the Nicholas Sparks Foundation, launched in 2011, aims to enhance global education experiences for underprivileged students, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to programs thanks to the Sparks family covering all operational expenses.

Residing in North Carolina, Sparks' life beyond the pages includes a stint as a track and field coach, where he led a team to set a World Junior Indoor Record in the 4x400 meter in 2009. This record, among others, showcases another dimension of his commitment to nurturing talent and excellence.