Tom Wolfe is an American author and journalist, best known for his works such as The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test and The Bonfire of the Vanities. He was born in Richmond, Virginia in 1931 and is considered one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. Wolfe's writing style is characterized by its use of satire, wit, and irony. He has been awarded numerous honors, including the National Book Award and the National Humanities Medal.