John Bunyan was born in Elstow, Bedfordshire, England in 1628. After a turbulent youth and military service in the Parliamentary army during the English Civil War, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening that would shape the rest of his life.

Bunyan became a Baptist preacher, but his nonconformist beliefs led to imprisonment for 12 years. During this time he wrote many works, including the first part of "The Pilgrim's Progress", which became one of the most influential Christian allegories ever written. His vivid imagination and powerful prose continue to inspire readers worldwide.