Scott McCloud is an American cartoonist and comic book theorist, best known for his influential works on the art and theory of comics. His most notable book, Understanding Comics, explores the mechanics of comic storytelling and the unique language of the medium. McCloud's insights have helped elevate the perception of comics as a legitimate form of art and literature. In addition to Understanding Comics, McCloud has authored other significant works, including Reinventing Comics and Making Comics. He has also contributed to various comic series and has been a speaker at numerous conventions and events, advocating for the importance of comics in culture and education.