Amy Tan is an American author best known for her novels that explore the complexities of mother-daughter relationships and the Chinese-American experience. Born on February 19, 1952, in Oakland, California, she is the daughter of Chinese immigrants. Her most famous work, The Joy Luck Club, was published in 1989 and has been adapted into a successful film. Tan's writing often draws from her own life experiences, reflecting themes of cultural identity and generational conflict. In addition to novels, she has written essays and children's books, contributing to her reputation as a versatile and influential writer in contemporary literature.