Ursula K. Le Guin was an American author known for her influential works in the genres of science fiction and fantasy. Born on October 21, 1929, she gained recognition for her thought-provoking narratives that often explored themes of gender, society, and human nature. Her most famous works include the Earthsea series and the novel The Left Hand of Darkness, which challenged traditional notions of gender and identity. Le Guin's writing style is characterized by rich world-building and philosophical depth. Throughout her career, she received numerous awards, including the Hugo and Nebula Awards, solidifying her status as a key figure in speculative fiction. She passed away on January 22, 2018, leaving a lasting legacy in literature.