Victor LaValle is an acclaimed American writer known for his exceptional contributions to contemporary literature. His storytelling prowess is showcased in his diverse body of work, which includes the short-story collection Slapboxing with Jesus, and notable novels such as The Ecstatic, Big Machine, The Devil in Silver, The Changeling, and Lone Women. LaValle's compelling fantasy-horror novella, The Ballad of Black Tom, garnered the prestigious Shirley Jackson Award for best novella in 2016.

LaValle's talents extend beyond fiction into the realms of essays and book reviews, with contributions to publications like GQ, Essence Magazine, The Fader, and The Washington Post. He is also the creative force behind the comic book Victor LaValle's DESTROYER.

His literary excellence has earned him a multitude of accolades, including a Whiting Writers' Award, a United States Artists Ford Fellowship, a Guggenheim Fellowship, an American Book Award, as well as the key to Southeast Queens. Born and raised in Queens, New York, LaValle continues to draw inspiration from his roots while residing in Washington Heights with his family. As a professor at Columbia University, he imparts his knowledge to the next generation of writers. While he may be challenging to reach, his connection to his readers remains strong.