Susan Lillian Townsend (née Johnstone) was an English writer and humorist known for her novels, plays, and journalism. Born on 2 April 1946, she is best remembered for creating the character Adrian Mole.

Writing Career: Townsend began writing in secret from the age of 14 and initially gained recognition for her plays. Her iconic character, Adrian Mole, first appeared in a radio drama and soon expanded into a highly successful book series. The Adrian Mole series, consisting of nine books, presents the character's diaries, reflecting on life during the Thatcher years and later, Adrian's middle age. The series became a bestseller in Britain during the 1980s.

The Queen and I: Another of her notable works, "The Queen and I" (1992), showcases her republican views while portraying the Royal Family with empathy. Both this book and the earliest Adrian Mole title were adapted for successful stage productions in London's West End.

Despite achieving success, Townsend's early life was marked by poverty, an experience she often incorporated into her work. In the mid-1980s, she was diagnosed with diabetes, leading to severe health issues, including blindness in 2001. She passed away on 10 April 2014 due to a stroke.