William Styron was an American author born on June 11, 1925, in Newport News, Virginia. He is best known for his novels, including Sophie's Choice, which explores themes of guilt and redemption during the Holocaust. Styron's writing often reflects his experiences and struggles, particularly with mental health. In addition to Sophie's Choice, Styron wrote other notable works such as The Confessions of Nat Turner, which won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1968. His literary contributions have had a lasting impact on American literature, and he is recognized for his powerful prose and deep psychological insights.