About Avram Davidson

Avram Davidson (1923–1993) was a writer of fantasy, science fiction, and crime fiction. Davidson was born in Yonkers, NY and and served in the Navy during World War II. He began his career as a Talmudic scholar before becoming one of the most quietly influential authors of the 20th century.

Davidson wrote 19 novels and over 200 short stories which have been widely recognized for their wit and originality. Davidson’s works have won awards in three genres: an Edgar Award for mystery, a Hugo Award for science fiction, and three World Fantasy Awards.

Davidson’s best known short fiction is collected in The Avram Davidson Treasury. His most renowned novels include The Phoenix and the Mirror, a mythologized account of the Roman poet Vergil, and The Adventures of Dr. Eszterhazy, the stories of a gentleman detective in a mythic European empire. Davidson had a unique talent for dialogue, which makes reading his fiction seem like you’re watching the characters on-screen.

Davidson often collaborated with his former wife, author Grania Davis, who edited and completed many of his works. They are survived by Ethan (son of Avram and Grania) and Seth (son of Grania and godson of Avram).

If you’re looking for where to start with Avram’s writing, there’s no better place than the classic short story Or All the Sea with Oysters.

For more information please see www.avramdavidson.org. A wonderful page developed by Henry Wessells.