Dorothy Edith Gilman was an American writer born on June 25, 1923, in New Brunswick, New Jersey. She is best known for creating the Mrs. Pollifax series of spy novels, which follows the adventures of Emily Pollifax, a grandmother who becomes a spy in her 60s. The series became popular for its unique protagonist and engaging storytelling. Gilman's contributions to mystery and spy fiction were recognized by the literary community. In 2010, she received the Grand Master Award from the Mystery Writers of America, one of the highest honors in the mystery writing field. She died on February 2, 2012, in Westchester County, New York.