David Rees has written over 20 novels for children and young adults, includingThe Exeter Blitz (Carnegie Medal, 1978),The Green Bough of Liberty (Other Award, 1980), andThe Flying Island, just published. He has also taught at Exeter University and at California State University, San Jose. Rees has published two collections of critical essays on children's writers,The Marble in the Water andPainted Desert, Green Shade, and is currently at work on a third collection.