Rachel Renée Russell is an American author and illustrator best known for her popular children's book series, Dork Diaries. The series, which began in 2009, follows the life of a middle school girl named Nikki Maxwell as she navigates friendships, crushes, and the challenges of growing up. In addition to writing, Russell also illustrates her books, bringing her characters and stories to life with colorful drawings. The Dork Diaries series has gained a large following and has been translated into multiple languages, making it a favorite among young readers around the world.