Gayle Jones is an American author born in 1949 in Kentucky. She received a B.A. in English from Connecticut College in 1971 and M.A. and D.A. degrees from Brown University in 1973 and 1975. Her notable works include the novel Corregidora, which explores themes of sexual and racial violence through the life of its protagonist, Ursa. Despite facing abuse, Ursa begins to find love and hope. Jones' writing gives voice to the experiences of African Americans and women and examines issues like the struggles in Brazil through a modernist lens.