Daniel Defoe (1659-1661) was an English writer and journalist most widely known for his novel Robinson Crusoe, originally published in 1719. His work varied from political pamphlets to poetry, and included other novels such as Religious Courtship and The Political History of the Devil. He lived in London, England. Avi has written over forty-five highly acclaimed books ranging from fantasies to sports stories, from tales of suspense and terror to historical adventure. In 2003 Avi won the Newbery Medal for Crispin.