Alphonse Daudet was a French novelist and playwright born on May 13, 1840, in Nîmes, France. He is best known for his works that capture the essence of life in the south of France, particularly in the region of Provence. His most famous novel, Tartarin de Tarascon, humorously portrays the adventures of a larger-than-life character, reflecting the local culture and spirit. Daudet's writing style is characterized by its vivid descriptions and emotional depth. He also wrote short stories and essays, contributing to the literary movement of Naturalism. Daudet passed away on December 16, 1897, leaving behind a rich legacy in French literature.