Brian Francis Wynne Garfield was an American novelist, historian, and screenwriter born in New York City on January 26, 1939. He began his writing career remarkably early, publishing his first book at age 18. Over his lifetime, Garfield authored more than 70 books across a variety of genres, establishing himself as a prolific and versatile writer. Garfield achieved significant recognition in the literary world. He was a Pulitzer Prize finalist and an Edgar Award recipient, honors that reflected the quality of his work. His novels proved popular with both readers and filmmakers: 19 of his books were adapted into films or television shows, and his works sold more than 20 million copies worldwide. His best-known work is Death Wish, published in 1972. The novel's success was amplified when it was adapted into a 1974 film of the same title, which launched a lucrative franchise. This adaptation brought Garfield's work to a wide audience and demonstrated the commercial appeal of his storytelling. Garfield died on December 29, 2018, in Pasadena, California, leaving behind a substantial legacy of published works that continue to be read and adapted.