Anne McCaffrey was an American author best known for her science fiction and fantasy works. She gained fame for her series, particularly the Dragonriders of Pern, which combines elements of both genres. McCaffrey was the first woman to win the Hugo Award and the Nebula Award, establishing her as a significant figure in speculative fiction. Born on April 1, 1926, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, McCaffrey began her writing career in the 1960s. Over her lifetime, she published numerous novels and short stories, earning a dedicated fan base. She continued to write until her passing on November 21, 2011, leaving behind a rich legacy in literature.