Ask the Author: Dan Yaccarino

Don't miss out on our special visit from Dan Yaccarino as part of the Fall KidsLIVE! Author Talk series at the Chatham Square Library on October 6.

Dan Yaccarino is the author and illustrator of storytime classics like Doug Unplugged and Every Friday, and known also for his fabulous kids shows Oswald and Willa's Wild Life.  His fun retro design style matched with curious, endearing characters make his works enjoyable for all ages. 

In  his presentation he'll talk about how he got started in his career and teach kids how, with enough perseverance and creativity, they can do anything! He'll also be demonstrating his one-of-a-kind drawing style for us.  I decided to ask him a few questions, lets see what kind of a reader he is:

When/where do you like to read?

I usually like to read lying on my living room couch. It's the most comfortable couch in the whole world.

What books had the greatest impact on you?

There were a few. The Wonderful Flight to the Mushroom Planet, Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, any by Beverly Cleary, and all of the Curious George books.

Your artwork style—with its retro look and use of bright colors and soft shapes—is very distinctive. What inspired this style?

I've always loved mid-century design. I've been attracted to the graphic design, furniture, and anything else that evoked a 1950s/1960s feel. 

(I find it important to add here that Dan also fills his NYC studio with all types of vintage toys!)

What's harder: illustrating or writing a story?

Both are hard and easy to do for me. I know that's not a great answer.

You write about NYC or similar cities in some of your books. What is your favorite thing to do/see in NYC?

I love riding the subway, I love Central Park, I love the museums, and I love the FOOD! I just really love living here. I can't imagine living anywhere else other than Manhattan. 

Your newest book Zorgoochi Intergalactic Pizza: Delivery of Doom is geared towards an older audience than any of your other books. What inspired this long-form sci-fi adventure?

I've always enjoyed sci-fi books, movies, and comic books and I wanted to write a big, funny sci fi adventure that I would've wanted to have read when I was 10 or 11.

What do you plan to read next?

The next book on the stack to read is Watership Down.

Looking for more information about Dan Yaccarino before the event? Check out his website and his blog!