Dimosthenis Papamarkos was born in 1983 in Malessina, Greece. He studied Ancient Greek History at the University of Athens before completing further studies at the University of Oxford. Widely regarded as one of the leading voices of his generation, Papamarkos has published novels, short fiction, plays, screenplays, poetry and graphic novels. He has also translated ancient Greek drama for productions of the National Theatre of Greece. Gjak received the prestigious Academy of Athens award, among others, and has been adapted many times for the stage.