The author known for the novel "The Grapes of Wrath" is John Steinbeck. Published in 1939, the novel depicts the harrowing experiences of a poor family during the Great Depression as they travel to California in search of better opportunities. Steinbeck's vivid storytelling and compelling characters highlight social injustices and the struggles faced by dispossessed families. His work not only received critical acclaim, winning the Pulitzer Prize, but also sparked discussions about economic disparity and the plight of migrant workers, cementing his impact on American literature.