Kody Keplinger is a New York Times bestselling author acclaimed for her compelling young adult novels. Best known for her debut novel, "The DUFF" (Designated Ugly Fat Friend), which was adapted into a successful feature film, Keplinger has a knack for writing relatable characters and exploring themes such as identity, friendship, and self-acceptance. Born with a visual impairment, she often infuses her stories with diverse perspectives and experiences. Apart from writing, Keplinger is a strong advocate for disability representation in literature. She splits her time between writing, speaking engagements, and engaging with her avid community of readers.