Mary Karr is an American author and poet, best known for her memoirs, including "The Liars' Club," "Cherry," and "Lit." Born on February 16, 1955, in Groves, Texas, she has received numerous awards for her writing, including the Pushcart Prize. Karr's work often explores themes of family, addiction, and the complexities of growing up in a turbulent environment. In addition to her memoirs, Karr has published several poetry collections, such as "The Devil's Tour" and "Sinners Welcome." She is also a professor of English at Syracuse University and has taught at various institutions. Karr's contributions to literature have made her a prominent figure in contemporary American writing.