Erich Kästner was a German author born on February 23, 1899, in Dresden. He is best known for his children's books, including the popular Emil and the Detectives, which was published in 1929. Kästner's writing often features themes of adventure, friendship, and social issues, making his stories appealing to both children and adults. In addition to his children's literature, Kästner was also a poet and screenwriter. He lived through significant historical events, including both World Wars and the rise of the Nazi Party. His works were banned during the Nazi regime, but he continued to write and advocate for freedom of expression throughout his life. Kästner passed away on July 29, 1974.