Stephen King is a highly acclaimed American author, best known for his prolific output of horror, supernatural fiction, and suspense novels. Born on September 21, 1947, in Portland, Maine, King has written over 60 novels, many of which have been turned into successful films, TV series, and miniseries. Some of his most famous works include "Carrie" (1974), "The Shining" (1977), and "It" (1986).

King is often referred to as the "King of Horror" because of his mastery in creating terrifying and suspenseful stories, though his works also touch on themes of human nature, morality, and societal issues. He has a unique ability to develop rich characters, explore psychological horror, and weave intricate plots that resonate with readers on multiple levels.

Besides horror, King has written fantasy, crime, and science fiction novels. He also publishes under the pen name Richard Bachman for certain works.

King’s writing career began to take off in the 1970s, and he has since become one of the most successful authors of all time. His works have earned him numerous awards, and he's considered a living legend in the literary world.