Octavia E. Butler (1947-2006) was an American science fiction author who broke barriers as an African American woman in a genre dominated by white men. Recognized for her unique blend of science fiction and African American spiritualism, her work explores themes of race, gender, and identity. Butler's writing won her multiple Hugo and Nebula awards, making her one of the best-known women in the field.
Some of her most notable books include "Kindred," and the "Parable" series. In 1995, she became the first science-fiction writer to receive a MacArthur Fellowship, also known as the "Genius Grant." Through her trail-blazing work, Butler has left a lasting legacy in the world of science fiction and beyond.