Sara Gruen is a #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author known for her captivating novels that often feature stories involving animals. Born in 1969 in Vancouver, she holds dual Canadian-American nationality. Her works, which include At the Water's Edge, Ape House, Water for Elephants, Riding Lessons, and Flying Changes, have been translated into forty-three languages and have sold over ten million copies worldwide.

Gruen's third book, Water for Elephants, was initially rejected by her publisher, Avon Books. Unperturbed, she found another publisher, and the book went on to become a New York Times bestseller. It was translated into 45 languages and adapted into a major motion picture in 2011, starring Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz, and Robert Pattinson. Moreover, it was transformed into a smash Broadway musical currently running at the Imperial Theatre.

In 2007, Gruen was awarded the Alex Award for young adult literature. She is also a dedicated collaborator on wildlife conservation projects. Sara Gruen resides in Western North Carolina with her husband and three sons, and their collection of pets including dogs, cats, horses, birds, and the world’s fussiest goat.