Philip Yancey is an American author known for his insightful writings on spiritual issues. Born on November 4, 1949, Yancey's works have sold over 15 million copies in English and have been translated into 40 languages, establishing him as one of the best-selling contemporary Christian authors.

Yancey's books, such as "The Jesus I Never Knew" and "What's So Amazing About Grace?", have received critical acclaim, with two of his works winning the ECPA's Christian Book of the Year Award. He has been published by major publishers, including Hachette, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, InterVarsity Press, Rabbit Room Press, and Penguin Random House.

Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Yancey earned graduate degrees in Communications and English from Wheaton College Graduate School and the University of Chicago. He began his career at Campus Life Magazine in 1971, where he developed a deep understanding of engaging with readers.

Yancey's journey from a strict fundamentalist upbringing in the southern USA to a broader understanding of grace and faith is a recurring theme in his writings. He has authored numerous bestsellers and has won 13 Gold Medallion Awards from Christian publishers and booksellers.

In 1992, Yancey moved to Colorado, where his writing took a personal and introspective turn. He describes himself as a "pilgrim" recovering from a challenging church upbringing and searching for a faith that inspires and enlarges its followers.