Dorothy Allison is an American writer known for her powerful storytelling and exploration of themes such as identity, class, and sexuality. Born on April 11, 1949, in Greenville, South Carolina, she grew up in a working-class family and faced various challenges, including poverty and abuse. Her experiences heavily influence her writing, which often reflects the struggles of marginalized communities. Allison gained prominence with her novel Bastard Out of Carolina, published in 1992, which received critical acclaim and was adapted into a film. She has also written essays and short stories, contributing to discussions on feminism and LGBTQ+ issues, making her a significant voice in contemporary literature.