Charles Baxter is an American novelist, short story writer, essayist, and professor. He is best known for his collections of short stories, including "Harmony of the World," "Gryphon," and "Believers." He has also written several novels, including "The Feast of Love," "The Soul Thief," and "The Shadow of a Cloud." His work often focuses on the complexities of human relationships, the search for meaning in life, and the power of storytelling.