This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

5 Questions For Jon Scieszka

The author is the Library of Congress's new Ambassador for Young People's Literature.

TFK:

How does it feel to be a spokesperson for kids' literature?

Jon:

I'm honored and flabbergasted. My writing is crazy. That usually doesn't win awards. This is a nice confirmation that funny is important.

TFK:

What is your role in your new position?

Jon:

I'll work to connect kids with good books and to get them to read more, especially reluctant readers.

TFK:

Why are kids reading less?

Jon:

With TV, computer games and the Web, there are a million other things that kids can do. And there's a mania for testing that makes kids think of reading as a school assignment. They don't get to read enough of what they like just for fun.

TFK:

What attracted you to humor?

Jon:

Growing up with five brothers, I needed to find a way to command attention at the dinner table. Humor was my way. It's how I stand out as a writer, too.

TFK:

Why do you like writing for kids?

Jon:

I can write what I enjoy. Kids are willing to laugh and goof around when they read books.

Next: Back in the Swing Of Things