Mac Barnett is the author of more than 60 books for children, including the picture books “Twenty Questions,” “Sam & Dave Dig a Hole,” and “Extra Yarn,” as well as the popular series Mac B., Kid Spy and The First Cat in Space graphic novels. Check out more about his work in this LibGuide.
Shortly before the announcement on Monday that he is now the ninth National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, we talked with Mac about this new appointment, his pre-author life, and the signature project he’ll be working on in his ambassadorship. When a new National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature or United States Poet Laureate begins their time in the role and with the Library of Congress, they create a platform and a project on how they will promote literature. For example, Cuéntame was Meg Medina’s project , and Jason Reynolds’ was “Write. Right. Rite”. And as you’ll see below, Mac’s is all about the art of the picture book—for both children and adults.
Some responses have been edited for clarity and length.
Sasha Dowdy: What are the five facts everyone should know about Mac Barnett?
Mac Barnett: I’m a writer of children’s books (everyone probably already knew that); I have lived in California my whole life; my favorite animal is a dog, which may seem like a boring answer, but the more you think about it, the more interesting it is of an answer; I don’t play any musical instruments (I know it feels negative, but I think it’s important); and I love that I’m the ninth National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature [he then instructed me to say that fireworks went off the in background, which they did].
SD: When people read your book, or if they know anything about you, they say that you’re all about nonsense and silliness and untidy endings….Have you always been like this?
MB