Russell Earl Banks was an American writer of fiction and poetry renowned for his novels which often depicted detailed accounts of domestic strife and the daily struggles of ordinary, often-marginalized characters. His narratives frequently drew on his own childhood experiences and commonly explored moral themes and personal relationships.

Throughout his career, Banks was an esteemed member of the International Parliament of Writers and the American Academy of Arts and Letters. His literary contributions extended to a wide readership, with his works being translated into twenty languages and earning numerous international prizes and awards.

Among his notable novels are Continental Drift, Rule of the Bone, Cloudsplitter, The Sweet Hereafter, and Affliction. The latter two have been adapted into successful feature films, further cementing Banks' legacy in the world of literature and film.