Mia Couto, born António Emílio Leite Couto on July 5, 1955, in Beira, Mozambique, is a distinguished Mozambican writer renowned for his contributions to Portuguese literature. Having begun his career as a poet, he later gained widespread acclaim with his novels, short stories, and essays that weave a rich tapestry of post-colonial life in Mozambique. Couto's works are characterized by a unique blend of magical realism and social commentary, with a deep sensitivity to the natural environment and the complexities of Mozambican society. His lyrical prose frequently explores themes such as identity, cultural heritage, and the impact of civil conflict. Couto trained as a biologist and his background in science often informs his literature, lending an ecological perspective to his storytelling. Among his numerous accolaries, Mia Couto has received the prestigious Camões Prize for Literature in 2013, considered the most important literary award in the Portuguese-speaking world. His work has been translated into many languages, and he is widely recognized as one of the leading contemporary African writers.