Octavia Estelle Butler (June 22, 1947 – February 24, 2006) was an American science fiction writer renowned for her work which earned her several prestigious awards including the Hugo, Locus, and Nebula awards. In 1995, Butler made history by becoming the first science fiction writer to be awarded a MacArthur Fellowship.

Born in Pasadena, California, she was raised by her widowed mother and grandmother. Butler was a shy child who found solace in the library, indulging in fantasy and writing. Her journey as a writer began in her teenage years, as she started creating science fiction stories. During the Black Power movement in the 1960s, she attended community college and participated in a local writer's workshop, where she was encouraged to attend the Clarion Workshop focusing on science fiction. Her talent was soon recognized, allowing her to pursue writing full-time by the late 1970s.

Butler's impactful narratives and insightful social observations drew widespread attention. Her works explored themes of Black injustice, global warming, women’s rights, and political disparity, often ahead of commercial demand. Despite her struggles, she remained committed to her craft, balancing writing with various jobs until she gained recognition. Her novels, like the critically acclaimed Parable of the Sower and Parable of the Talents, captivated readers with their strong protagonists and narrative depth.

Before her untimely death at 58 from a stroke, Butler had relocated to Washington. Her legacy endures, as her works are taught in over 200 colleges and universities nationwide, and continue to gain relevance with the passing years. Moreover, her novel Dawn is in development for television, and her book Kindred has seen a successful graphic novel adaptation.