Avi is part of a family of writers extending back into the 19th Century. It was his twin sister—also a writer --who gave him the name Avi since she was unable or unwilling to use the name his parents had given him.

Born and raised in New York City, Avi was educated in local schools, before going to the mid-west to complete his education.

Starting out as a playwright--while working for many years as a librarian--he began writing books for young people when the first of his kids came along.

At first he chose the theatre writing as his focus. Not until he had children of his own did he turn to writing for young people. His first book was Things That Sometimes Happen, first published in 1970, and recently reissued.

Since then he has published sixty eight books

Winner of many awards, including the 2003 Newbery award, two Newbery Honors, Two Horn Book awards, and an O'Dell award, plus many children's choice awards, he frequently travels to schools around the country to talk to his readers.

He is known for writing in many genres, with picture books as well as novels.

Among his most popular books are Crispin: The Cross of Lead, The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, Nothing but the Truth, the Poppy books, Midnight Magic, and The Fighting Ground.

Of late he has returned to the theatre by presenting his works in a one-man performance called My Name is Avi.

Avi is co founder of Breakfast Serials, which brings good books to readers through our nation's newspapers.

He is co-founder of ART, the Authors Readers Theatre, who performs readers theatre throughout the country.

Avi lives in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and family.

For further information check Avi's web site:
www.Avi-writer.com