Max Kruse (author)

Max Kruse (1921-2015) was a German author best known for his children's books featuring the character Urmel (also known as "Impy" in English translations), a prehistoric creature hatched from a preserved egg. Born in Bad Kösen, Germany, he was the son of the sculptor Max Kruse and the puppeteer Käthe Kruse, famed for her handmade dolls.

Kruse's writing career began after World War II, where he served as a soldier. His experiences during the war, including captivity in a Russian prisoner-of-war camp, profoundly influenced his worldview and his later work. He developed a distinctive writing style, characterized by humor, satire, and philosophical undertones, often addressing themes of tolerance, understanding, and the dangers of prejudice.

The Urmel series, beginning with Urmel aus dem Eis (1969), achieved widespread popularity and was adapted into multiple animated series and films. Other notable works include Der Löwe ist los, Lord Schimmelmeier, and the fantasy series Die Musketierkrawatte.

Kruse's works have been translated into numerous languages and have received several awards, recognizing his significant contribution to children's literature. He is remembered for his imaginative storytelling and his ability to engage young readers with complex ideas in an accessible and entertaining way.