Funny Business Conversations with Writers of Comedy

This unique nonfiction book delves into the art of comedy writing through fascinating interviews with thirteen prominent children's authors. It explores their creative processes, sources of inspiration, and personal anecdotes, offering insights into what makes humor effective and enduring. Parents will appreciate its thoughtful design and the opportunity it provides for children to learn about literature, authorship, and the craft of writing in an engaging, accessible way. It's perfect for sparking conversations about creativity and the value of laughter.

What makes funny FUNNY? An esteemed anthologist interviews thirteen favorite children’s authors -- and asks them to share their trade secrets. (Age 12 and up) DO YOU EVER MAKE YOURSELF LAUGH WHILE YOU ARE WRITING? "A joke isn’t a joke if you need to explain it," notes Leonard S. Marcus. "Even so, the hidden clockwork of comedy . . . has long been considered one of the great riddles of life." There are many kinds of humor, but capturing their essence on paper is a remarkably difficult (and often undervalued) skill. So how do authors create books that not only stand the tests of time but also make us laugh? In thirteen fascinating interviews, well-loved writers of humorous books for children discuss an array of topics, from their sources of inspiration to the ways they began writing, from their revision processes to childhood anecdotes to the value they place on comedy in their work and lives. Beautifully designed and thoughtfully edited, this collection is bound to tickle the fancy of children and adults alike.