Giovanni Francesco Straparola was an Italian writer born around 1480 in Carpi, Italy. He is best known for his collection of fairy tales titled "Le piacevoli notti," published in the 1550s. This work is considered one of the earliest examples of the fairy tale genre in European literature. Straparola's stories often feature magical elements and moral lessons, influencing later writers like Charles Perrault and the Brothers Grimm. His tales include themes of love, adventure, and transformation, showcasing the rich storytelling tradition of the Renaissance period.