Tillie Olsen was an American writer born on January 14, 1912, in Omaha, Nebraska. She is best known for her short stories and essays that often explore themes of motherhood, work, and the struggles of women. Her most famous work, "Tell Me a Riddle," won critical acclaim and highlighted the complexities of family life. Olsen's writing career was influenced by her own experiences as a working-class woman and a mother. She faced challenges in pursuing her literary ambitions due to societal expectations and economic hardships. Despite these obstacles, her contributions to literature have made her a significant figure in American literature, particularly in feminist writing.