Tim O'Brien is an American novelist and short story writer, best known for his works reflecting on his experiences as a soldier in the Vietnam War. Born in 1946 in Minnesota, O'Brien was drafted into the army after graduating from Macalester College. His time in the service heavily influenced his writing style and themes. His most notable works include "The Things They Carried" and "Going After Cacciato," the latter of which won the National Book Award in 1979. O'Brien's writing is admired for its exploration of truth, fiction, and memory, using the backdrop of war to delve into deeper philosophical discussions.