Catherine Ryan Hyde (born 1955) is an American novelist and short story writer, with more recent forays and notable success in transitioning from traditional publication towards the world of eBook publication. Her novels have enjoyed bestseller status in both the U.S. and U.K., and her short stories have won many awards and honors. Her book Pay It Forward, was later adapted into a film of the same name and her novel Electric God is currently in development.

Many of Hyde's literary works are generally optimistic explorations of ordinary people, characters who are troubled or down-on-their-luck or recovering from past difficulties or abuse. Many feature journeys that parallel some of her own travels, life in New York City, small towns, and 'cross country' travels and explore settings often in those areas and the American West and Southwest. Hyde's Young writings and activities deal issues such as alcoholism, (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender) concerns, social service difficulties, etc.