Terry Brooks is an American author best known for his fantasy novels, particularly the Shannara series. He began his writing career in the 1970s, and his debut novel, The Sword of Shannara, was published in 1977. This book became one of the first epic fantasy novels to gain widespread popularity, paving the way for many others in the genre. Over the years, Brooks has published numerous novels and series, expanding the Shannara universe and exploring other themes in fantasy literature. His works often blend adventure, magic, and complex characters, making him a significant figure in contemporary fantasy writing.