Thomas Michael Keneally, AO is an acclaimed Australian novelist, playwright, essayist, and actor. He soared to literary prominence with his non-fiction novel Schindler's Ark, which chronicles the heroic efforts of Oskar Schindler in saving Jews during the Holocaust. This notable work received the prestigious Booker Prize in 1982 and was subsequently adapted into the Oscar-winning film Schindler's List directed by Steven Spielberg in 1993.

Keneally's journey began in Sydney, where he was born on October 7, 1935. He received his education at St Patrick's College, Strathfield. In an interesting turn of events, Keneally started his professional life with the intent to become a Catholic priest, attending St Patrick's Seminary, Manly. However, he left before ordination and instead became a schoolteacher in Sydney. This experience would later shape his successful career as a writer.

Often published under the name Tom Keneally in Australia, his legacy continues to influence and inspire. Keneally is not only celebrated for his literary achievements but also for his contributions to the arts, reflected in his honorific title of Officer of the Order of Australia.