People like Donald J. Sobol

Donald J. Sobol (October 4, 1924 – July 11, 2012) was an American writer best known for his children's books, especially the Encyclopedia Brown mystery series.

Donald Sobol was born in The Bronx, New York City, New York, to Ira J. and Ida (Gelula) Sobol. Ira Sobol owned a few gas stations that eventually were sold. Donald attended the NYC Ethical Culture Fieldston School and graduated from Oberlin College with a degree in English literature in 1948.

Sobol's career began as a copy boy for the New York Sun, and he eventually worked his way up to reporter. In 1949, he started work at the Daily News and remained there for two years. After a brief stint as a buyer at Macy's in New York, he moved to Florida and started writing full-time.