Atiq Rahimi is an Afghan-born author and filmmaker, known for his poignant storytelling that often reflects the struggles of his homeland. He was born in 1971 in Kabul and later fled to France during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. His works often explore themes of war, exile, and identity, drawing from his personal experiences. Rahimi gained international recognition with his novel, The Patience Stone, which won the prestigious Prix Goncourt in 2008. He has also directed films, including adaptations of his own literary works, contributing to the cultural dialogue surrounding Afghanistan and its history.