Edna O'Brien is an Irish author who has written numerous novels, short stories, plays, and non-fiction works. She is best known for her 1960 novel The Country Girls, which was banned in Ireland due to its frank portrayal of female sexuality. Her other works include the novels Down by the River, Wild Decembers, and Girl with Green Eyes. She has also written several collections of short stories, including A Fanatic Heart and Saints and Sinners. O'Brien has been awarded numerous awards for her writing, including the Irish PEN Award, the American National Arts Gold Medal, and the Ulysses Medal.