Lionel Shriver is an acclaimed American author known for her novels and short stories. Born on May 18, 1957, in Gastonia, North Carolina, her full name is Margaret Ann Shriver, but she goes by her pen name, Lionel Shriver. Shriver gained widespread recognition with her novel "We Need to Talk About Kevin," published in 2003. The book tells the story of a mother grappling with her son's horrific act of violence and its impact on her life. It received critical acclaim and won the 2005 Orange Prize for Fiction. Aside from "We Need to Talk About Kevin," Shriver has written numerous other novels, including "The Post-Birthday World," "Big Brother," "So Much for That," and "The Mandibles: A Family, 2029-2047," among others. Her works often explore complex themes, societal issues, and personal relationships with a sharp and incisive style. Lionel Shriver is known for her thought-provoking and controversial perspectives, and her writing often delves into topics such as family dynamics, identity, and cultural criticism. She continues to be an influential and respected figure in contemporary literature.