Gordon R. Dickson (1923–2001) was a Canadian-American science fiction and fantasy author best known for his Childe Cycle (also called the Dorsai series), a sweeping saga exploring human evolution through courage, faith, and philosophy. His work often blended military themes with deep philosophical questions, earning him a reputation as a thoughtful and ambitious storyteller.

He also co-created the humorous Hoka series with Poul Anderson and wrote the beloved Dragon Knight fantasy novels, starting with The Dragon and the George. Dickson won multiple Hugo and Nebula Awards and was inducted into the Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 2000.