Books Alive!

Her Black Book of Secrets and The Bone Magician offer hints of magic and mystery along with their sense of adventure. Great for kids who enjoyed Harry Potter. Fifth grade and up.

The fabulous E. B. Lewis has illustrated some incredible picture books for children including a book that is in my top five: The Other Side. Prepare to be awed.

David A. Carter is the king of pop up books for young children. He explores the art of Alexander Calder in his series of paper sculpture books for children.

Just beginning a successful career as an author, Christopher Paolini has three powerhouse books to his credit: Eragon, Eldest and Brisingr. They are best selling fantasy adventures. Great for kids 9-14.

Charles R. Smith Jr. began as a photographer. He uses his skills to illustrate the powerful poems, "My People," and "If." He is also the author of several powerful poetry books, Hoop Kings and Hoop Queens, as well as the...

Carole Boston Weatherford writes biography and poetry for kids as picture books. She writes with power, insight and sensitivity.

Avi has written across the spectrum of genres for children from suspense thriller to his Newbery Award winning Crispin. He shares a bit of his boyhood and the source of his writing abilities.

Here's a buffet of authors who joined me on the red carpet for a series of quick interviews.

The irrepressible Mem Fox joined me to talk about reading and kids. She is in a class by herself.