Laurie Forest is an American author known for her work in the young adult fantasy genre. She gained recognition for her debut novel, *The Black Witch*, which is the first book in a series that explores themes of identity, power, and acceptance in a richly built magical world. In addition to her writing, Forest is an advocate for diversity and representation in literature. She often emphasizes the importance of including varied perspectives in storytelling, aiming to create a more inclusive environment for readers. Her work has resonated with many young adults and has contributed to discussions about social issues in fantasy literature.