Hamlin Garland (September 14, 1860 - March 4, 1940) was a prolific American writer, poet, essayist, and lecturer. Recognized for his significant contributions to American literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Garland became synonymous with the Middle Border region, which described the area between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains. His writings often reflect this region's pioneering spirit, harnessing themes of hardship in the rural Midwest. One of Garland's notable works, 'The Light of the Star' (1904), exemplifies his later shift towards spirituality and the exploration of religious thought within the framework of fiction. Garland's literary style is often categorized under the 'Realism' movement, as he sought to depict the honest and unvarnished realities of daily life. His earlier work, such as 'Main-Travelled Roads' (1891), cemented his reputation as a writer committed to authenticity and social reform, earning him respect and acclaim within literary circles. Garland's autobiography, 'A Son of the Middle Border' (1917), offers insight into his Midwestern upbringing and the cultural influences that shaped his work. In 1922, Garland was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for a sequel to this autobiography, 'A Daughter of the Middle Border.' His insightful treatment of American rural life and commitment to literary naturalism has left a lasting imprint on the canon of American literature.