Ayana Mathis is an acclaimed American novelist known for her debut, "The Twelve Tribes of Hattie," which was selected for Oprah's Book Club 2.0. Born in Pennsylvania, Mathis studied at the Iowa Writers' Workshop, where she received an MFA. Her vivid storytelling and intricate exploration of African American life have earned her critical praise. Mathis’s work often delves into themes of family, identity, and resilience, reflecting a deep understanding of her characters' struggles and triumphs. Besides writing, she has taught creative writing at Princeton University. Mathis continues to influence the literary world with her powerful narratives and poignant prose.