James Patterson is a bestselling American author known for his thrillers and suspense novels. He has written numerous books, including the popular Alex Cross series, which features a detective solving complex crimes. Patterson's writing style is characterized by short chapters and fast-paced plots, making his books accessible and engaging for a wide audience. In addition to his novels, Patterson has collaborated with various co-authors and has ventured into children's literature, creating series like Middle School and Maximum Ride. He is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in promoting literacy and supporting libraries across the United States.