Jacqueline Woodson’s latest picture book is The Day You Begin. TIME for Kids talked with her about her work.
Question: When did you become a writer?
Answer: I started writing when I was 7 years old. My first book was a collection
collection
RIDVAN_CELIK—GETTY IMAGES
a group of poems or stories brought together in one book
(noun)
Maryanne is working on a collection of stories.
of poems about butterflies.
Q: Where did you get the idea for The Day You Begin?
A: The story was based on my great-great-grandfather. He was the only black student in his classroom. It is about the way we can walk into a room and feel like we don’t belong
belong
DON NICHOLS—GETTY IMAGES
to be in the correct place
(verb)
The milk belongs in the fridge.
there.
Q: Where do you write down your ideas?
A: I used to write on my hand! But now there is always a notebook nearby
nearby
LAWRENCE SAWYER—GETTY IMAGES
close by; not far away
(adverb)
My best friend lives nearby.
.
Q: Why do you like writing books for children?
A: I have always written for children because I think kids are important, thoughtful
thoughtful
HENGLEIN AND STREETS/GETTY IMAGES
known for careful thinking; deep in thought
(adjective)
I like asking my older brother for advice because he is very thoughtful.
, and smart.
Did You Know?
Woodson is the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. She received the honor in 2018 from Carla Hayden, Librarian of Congress.
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