André Schwarz-Bart was a French author born on May 28, 1928, in Metz, France. He is best known for his novel, The Last of the Just, published in 1959, which explores themes of Jewish identity and suffering during the Holocaust. His writing often reflects his own experiences as a Jewish man in post-war Europe. Schwarz-Bart's literary career was marked by his deep engagement with Jewish history and culture. He received several awards for his work, including the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 1959. He passed away on September 30, 2006, leaving behind a significant legacy in French literature.