Avi, the pen name for Edward Irving Wortis, is a distinguished American author known for his captivating works that have garnered significant acclaim. His journey into the world of writing was anything but straightforward. As a child, Avi was shy, not particularly interested in sports, but had a deep love for reading and engaging in imaginative play. Despite his passion for stories, his academic journey faced hurdles, especially in writing. It was not until he received specialized tutoring and attended a small school focusing on reading and writing that his skills began to flourish.

Avi's aspiration to become a writer was deeply rooted in his desire to prove himself capable in the eyes of his family, friends, and educators. This determination saw him transition from being a playwright to writing for young audiences, a change inspired by his own experiences as a parent. Avi believes that becoming a writer involves shifting one's focus from personal expression to engaging with readers, a realization that came to him in his senior year of high school.

Avi's creative process is marked by persistence and dedication, as he often spends a year refining a book through multiple revisions. Despite the challenges, he finds joy in writing and pursues photography as a hobby to occasionally disconnect from his work. Inspiration for his stories comes from a keen observation of the world and a personal commitment to understanding and questioning the phenomena around him. Avi encourages aspiring writers to read extensively, observe, question, and write with honesty, embracing the criticism that inevitably accompanies the creative process.

Among Avi's notable works are The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, Nothing but the Truth, and the Crispin series, which have endeared him to both young and adult readers alike. His dedication to crafting compelling narratives that challenge and inspire his audience underscores his status as a beloved figure in contemporary literature.