Bobbi Katz

I'm delighted that some students choose me when writing reports about their favorite author. Here are some answers to your questions.

Have you had other jobs beside writing for kids?
I've been an art historian, a fashion editor, a social worker, the host of "Art in Action", which was a radio talk show, the program director of a community arts council, a contributing author to the Cousteau Society's Environmental Almanac, and editor of educational books,and then, of course children's books. I've taught fiction at college and cleaned apartments in Manhattan. My most important job was being a Mom.

Do you always write poetry?
No, I write biographies, essays, and picture books.

How did you start writing poetry?
When I was a young child, the radio brought wonderful jazz right into our living room. I sang the lyrics and danced to the tunes. Soon I was making up my own words.

Do you get bored with writing poems?
Tired and frustrated at times, but never bored. Usually I delight in using rhythms and rhyme now as much as I did as a little kid. I love the very taste of words.

What is the best part of being a writer?
There's nothing better than finding just the right words to make a new connection between ideas or images. It's super-delicious to share that connection with readers.

How do you get ideas?
Our planet pulses with life; from teeny, tiny germs to gigantic elephants and whales. And people are the most amazing of all. Ideas are all around saying, "Choose me!" "Choose me!"