Zenna Henderson (1917–1983)
Zenna Henderson was an American science fiction and fantasy author, best known for her "People" series, which explored themes of xenophobia, community, and the human condition through the lens of alien refugees with psionic abilities. A former elementary school teacher, her writing often infused a gentle, compassionate tone with a strong sense of moral and ethical inquiry. She was a pioneering female voice in science fiction during a period when the genre was largely male-dominated, leaving a distinctive mark with her unique blend of speculative fiction and humanistic depth.