Avi Wortis was born in New York City on December 23, 1937. He grew up in Brooklyn with his family, which included his twin sister and older brother.

He performed poorly in high school and failed many courses. Finally during his junior year, his English teacher suggested a tutor to help him learn to write and spell. Avi had always read a great deal, and his tutor helped him to gain a love for writing as well.

Avi attended the University of Wisconsin, then continued his studies at Columbia University where he earned a master's degree in library science in 1964.

When his sons were small, he began to write for children, partly because they always wanted him to tell them stories.

Avi, who publishes under his first name, works as a librarian and a writer.

The British Book Council named Avi's Snail Tale one of the...