Russell Banks is an American author known for his novels, short stories, and essays. Born on March 28, 1940, in Newton, Massachusetts, he has received numerous awards for his work, including the O. Henry Award and the John Dos Passos Prize. His writing often explores themes of identity, class, and the American experience. Banks is perhaps best known for his novels such as Continental Drift and The Sweet Hereafter, the latter of which was adapted into a critically acclaimed film. His storytelling is characterized by rich character development and a deep sense of place, often reflecting the landscapes of New England and the American South.