Hanna Pylväinen is a Finnish-American author known for her works that often explore themes of religion, family, and the complexities of belief and identity. She gained notable recognition for her debut novel, "We Sinners," which was published in 2012. The novel received praise for its nuanced portrayal of a family deeply embedded in a conservative religious sect and how each member grapples with the faith they were raised in. Pylväinen's work has been recognized for its eloquence and sensitivity in dealing with personal and intimate stories. She has been awarded several prestigious fellowships and grants for her writing, including a Whiting Award. Pylväinen's background and experiences growing up in a religious family have informed much of her literary exploration into the themes of faith and belonging.