Robert Arthur Jr.

Robert Arthur Jr. (November 10, 1909 – May 2, 1969) was an American writer and editor of crime fiction and speculative fiction known for his work with The Mysterious Traveler radio series and for writing The Three Investigators, a series of young adult novels.

For his radio work, Arthur—together with writing partner David Kogan—was honored with three Edgar Awards by the Mystery Writers of America. He also adapted at least one story, and had several of his own adapted by others, for Alfred Hitchcock's TV show, Alfred Hitchcock Presents.

Early life and education Arthur was born on November 10, 1909, in Fort Mills, Corregidor Island in the Philippines while his father, Robert Arthur Sr., was stationed there as a lieutenant in the United States Army. Arthur spent his childhood moving from place to place, wherever his father was stationed.

Although he was accepted to West Point Arthur decided not to pursue a military career like his father and instead in 1926 enrolled at the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. After two years, he transferred to the University of Michigan, where he graduated from with a B.A. in English in 1930.

He worked as an editor and returned to the University of Michigan and received his M.A. in Journalism in 1932.

Radio Arthur, along with his writing partner David Kogan, was honored three times by the Mystery Writers of America with Edgar Awards for his radio work: twice for "best radio drama"—in 1950 for Murder by Experts and 1953 for The Mysterious Traveler —and once, regarding his work on both of the aforementioned shows, in 1951 for "outstanding achievement in producing, directing and writing radio mystery shows."