Mehdi Azar Yazdi, also known as Mehdi Khorramshahi, was born on March 18, 1922, in Khorramshah, Yazd, Iran. His father was opposed to sending him to school, limiting his education to religious sermons and a seminary-style education. From a young age, Mehdi worked alongside his father on the farm. His life took a new turn when he started working in a sock-weaving workshop. The owner of the workshop intended to open a bookstore and found Mehdi suitable for the role. Mehdi considered this job a "rebirth" for himself.

Azar Yazdi's professional journey shifted when he started working at a printing house, where he gained access to old books. He decided to rewrite and recreate these stories in a way that would be understandable and engaging for children. Despite facing numerous rejections, his persistence paid off when Amir Kabir Publishing House agreed to publish his work in 1956. He continued working on literary classics such as Kalila and Dimna, Gulistan of Saadi, Masnavi of Rumi, The Conference of the Birds by Attar, and more. This effort resulted in the creation of the famous series Good Stories for Good Children.

Key Works by Mehdi Azar Yazdi Mehdi Azar Yazdi is best known for his two popular book series: 1. Good Stories for Good Children 2. New Tales from Old Books These books have been translated into multiple languages and reprinted numerous times. Kalila and Dimna Stories: This book is part of the Good Stories for Good Children series, where Azar Yazdi rewrote the ancient fables of Kalila and Dimna in a simple, accessible language for children. Rumi's Masnavi Stories: Another book in the Good Stories for Good Children series, this work presents the parables and tales from Rumi's Masnavi in a simple and clear manner for young readers. Stories from Gulistan and Molestan: Drawing from Saadi’s Gulistan, this book offers a collection of reimagined tales in child-friendly language. New Tales from Old Books: This series includes thematic collections like Good and Evil, Right and Wrong, and Ten Stories, where classic stories are presented with fresh perspectives. Other Contributions In addition to authoring children's books, Mehdi Azar Yazdi worked as a proofreader and compiler of book indexes. He believed that reading was one of life’s greatest joys. Despite his deep engagement with literature, he never married. Azar Yazdi passed away on July 9, 2009, and his burial site is located in his hometown of Yazd. Awards and Recognitions In 1966, Mehdi Azar Yazdi received an honorary certificate from UNESCO for the third volume of Good Stories for Good Children. The fourth and fifth volumes of Good Stories for Good Children were recognized as "Books of the Year" by the Children's Book Council of Iran in 1966 and 1967, respectively. Legacy and Commemoration Mehdi Azar Yazdi is regarded as one of the pioneers of children's literature in Iran. To honor his contributions, the day of his passing, July 9, has been designated as "National Day of Children's and Young Adult's Literature" in Iran.

Perspectives of Literary Figures Mohammad-Ali Eslami Nodoushan, an Iranian writer, researcher, and literary critic, highlighted the profound impact of Azar Yazdi's work on multiple generations of readers. He emphasized the educational and moral significance of rewriting classical texts for a younger audience. Mostafa Rahmandoust, a children's literature author and poet, commended Azar Yazdi's work, noting that at a time when most people considered ancient texts inaccessible, Azar Yazdi made them available and comprehensible for children and the general public. Interesting Facts While writing the first volume of Good Stories for Good Children, Azar Yazdi constantly worried about whether children would find his stories appealing. His efforts were met with encouragement from Dr. Parviz Natel Khanlari, a prominent Iranian writer, poet, and linguist, who praised his work and motivated him to continue rewriting old stories for children.

Mehdi Azar Yazdi's legacy continues to inspire young readers and educators, and his books remain beloved classics in children's literature.