Johann David Wyss (March 4, 1743 - January 11, 1818) is best remembered for his book The Swiss Family Robinson. His inspiration for the book was Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe. His goal was to teach important lessons to his
children.
The book was first published in 1812 and was translated into English two years late by William Godwin.
Johann David Wyss was a Swiss pastor. He wanted to instill firm values of good husbandry, the uses of the natural world and self-reliance.
The novel revolves around a Swiss family who become shipwrecked in the East Indies while enroute to Australia. It has become one of the most popular books of all time.
Swiss Family Robinson was edited by his son, Johann Rudolf Wyss who was a scholar and wrote the Swiss national anthem. The book was illustrated by another son, Johann Emmanuel Wyss.
