Michel Déon published over fifty works. He was the recipient of numerous awards, including the Prix Interallié for his 1970 novel, Les Poneys Sauvages (The Wild Ponies). His 1973 novel, Un Taxi Mauve, garnered him international renown when it received the esteemed title of the Grand Prix du roman de l'Académie française. His novels have been translated into numerous languages. He was considered one of the most innovative French writers of the 21st century. A member of the Académie française, Déon was one of just forty members who are elected by their peers to serve for life. Déon died in 2016.