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.