(*28 March 1914 - †3 February 1997) One of the world's most read authors and the most translated Czech writer of the 20th century. A lover of life who changed his job many times. He had an extraordinary observational talent and a phenomenal memory, as well as being incredibly knowledgeable and, above all, a captivating storyteller. His heroes are ordinary people who can laugh and cry over the meaning of the world.