Timothy Zahn was born on September 1, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, and is a distinguished writer of science fiction and fantasy. Throughout his career, Zahn has become notably recognized for his significant contributions to the Star Wars universe, especially the Thrawn series, marking him as a key figure in the realm of sci-fi literature.

His notable achievement includes winning the Hugo Award for Best Novella with Cascade Point in 1984. Zahn's talents extend beyond the Star Wars saga; he has authored several other series of original sci-fi and fantasy novels, alongside numerous works of short fiction. His early academic pursuits led him to Michigan State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics in 1973, followed by an M.S. degree in physics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 1975. Despite beginning a doctorate in physics, Zahn shifted his focus to writing science fiction following the death of his advisor.

Zahn and his wife Anna currently reside in Bandon, Oregon, where they continue to be immersed in the literary world. They have a son named Corwin Zahn.