Explores some of the threats to accuracy in biographies for children. Illustrates how carelessness and oversimplification, inadequate data, unreliable sources, and social mores and taboos can lead to inaccuracies in this genre. (SR)

This article presents a brief biography of author Jon Scieszka, best known for his first published title, "The True Story of the Three Little Pigs!" which has become a modern classic. The publication of this creative and inventive title led to the numerous fractured fairy tales published since its release in 1989. His books have received numerous…

This article presents a brief biography of Judith Viorst, best known for her children's picture books and poetry. Viorst's well-known and most unforgettable character Alexander was based on her youngest son. Alexander was featured by name in the title of three of Viorst's picture books. In fact, Viorst often has used her family life to provide…

Presents the Newbery Medal acceptance speech of Russell Freedman, writer of children's nonfiction. Discusses the place of nonfiction in the world of children's literature, the evolution of children's biographies, and the author's work on "Lincoln." (ARH)

Describes Robin McKinley, Newbery Award winner and author of "Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of the Beauty and the Beast,""The Door in the Hedge," and "The Hero and the Crown."(EL)

Examines relationships among children's fairy tales, the North American dream of going from rags to riches, the role of sports in North American society, and the uses and misuses of biographies written for young readers. (HOD)

Presents a short biography of the life, work, and teachings of Charlotte Huck. Discusses her time at Ohio State, her contributions to published children's literature, her contributions to reading instruction, and her many honors and awards. Talks about her concern and active involvement in writing for public policy relating to education. (SC)

Chuck Richards, author/illustrator of "Jungle Gym Jitters," shares his views on art education and artistic process. Details on how Richards moved from creating art for adult audiences to creating his picture book for children are presented.

This article profiles Diane Stanley, an author and illustrator of children's books. Although she was studying to be a medical illustrator in graduate school, Stanley's path changed when she got married and had children. As she was raising her children, she became increasingly enamored of the colorful children's books she would check out of the…

This study examined children's literature and the development of biography intended for juvenile readers. The writer assembled a list of characteristics of writing for children, reviewed the growth of biography as a literary form, and noted the difference between biography written for the child audience and that intended for adults. Qualities were…

A compilation from periodicals, newspapers, and journals over a 21-year period, this volume is a collection of 50 articles by and about contemporary authors of children's books. This book of readings provides background information about the authors and author-illustrators for children's librarians and students of children's literature. Each…

Reviews the life and work of children's author and illustrator, Arnold Lobel. (MS)

The Natural Trust in England is responsible for maintaining the village and home of Beatrix Potter (creator of Peter Rabbit). It is possible to recognize the country from the illustrations in her books. The author wonders if beauty in nature is being conserved in Japan. Miss Potters' life is outlined. (DH)

Discusses the life and art of the illustrator-author, Leonard Weisgard. (SW)

Discusses Black American histories, biographies, songs, stories, and poetry which can be important supplements to elementary social studies or cultural units or featured titles in the classroom library. (Author/SJL)