Ernest K. Gann (1910–1991) was an American author celebrated for his contributions to aviation literature through novels, scripts, short stories, and autobiographies. A former World War II pilot, Gann's firsthand experience in aviation deeply informs his writing, particularly in works like the autobiographical Fate Is the Hunter, which provides an intimate look at a pilot's life and explores the theme of fate, as discussed by Martin Caidin and V. S. Pritchett. His novels, including The High and the Mighty and The Aviator, often depict characters facing high-stress situations and showcase Gann's ability to maintain suspense and explore human will, a quality commended by Coleman Rosenberger and Michael Malone. While Gann occasionally explores themes outside aviation, his work is most acclaimed for its technical precision and engaging storytelling in the context of adventurous narratives. His historical novel The Antagonists, which inspired the television mini-series Masada, demonstrates his versatility, as noted by Charles Dollen. Gann's unique ability to blend technical detail with suspenseful plots has solidified his reputation as a significant figure in both aviation literature and adventure fiction.