Sir Henry Rider Haggard (1856–1925) was an English writer, primarily known for his contributions to the adventure and fantasy genres. Born in Norfolk, England, Haggard was the eighth of ten children. After spending time in South Africa as a young man, he developed a profound interest in the culture and landscapes of Africa, which would profoundly influence his literary work. Haggard is best known for his novel 'King Solomon's Mines' (1885), which has achieved enduring popularity and is credited with beginning the 'Lost World' literary genre. His creation of the character Allan Quatermain, who serves as the hero in numerous novels, including the groundbreaking 'King Solomon's Mines' and its sequels, has had a significant impact on the development of fictional adventure heroes. Aside from his adventure tales, Haggard also wrote on social reform and agricultural issues, demonstrating a diverse range of interests. His imaginative storytelling embodies themes of exploration and the supernatural, often juxtaposing the Victorian fascination with empire and adventure against mystical elements drawn from the African context. The 'H. RIDER HAGGARD Ultimate Collection,' which encompasses over 60 of his works, serves as a comprehensive testament to his prolific writing career and his considerable influence on the literary culture of his time.