Susan Eloise Hinton, born July 22, 1948, is an acclaimed American author, widely recognized for her contributions to young adult (YA) literature. Hinton carved a niche for herself with her novels set in Oklahoma, particularly with The Outsiders, which she penned during her high school years. This novel, along with her other works, has significantly influenced the YA genre.

Hinton's literary journey began early, driven by her dissatisfaction with the young adult literature available at the time. Her pioneering efforts in YA fiction have not only garnered her a wide readership but also academic recognition. The Outsiders, published in 1967, stands as a testament to her enduring influence on the field. In 1988, she was honored with the inaugural Margaret Edwards Award by the American Library Association for her cumulative contribution to writing for teens.