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Meet the Kids' Author: T.A. Barron
Title of your new book:
The Mirror of Merlin (Book Four of "The Lost Years of Merlin")
Also...Where Is Grandpa?
Describe your book in 50 words or less:
"Mirror" reveals the lost youth of Merlin, the greatest wizard of all times. A nameless boy washes ashore, almost drowned, unaware of his glorious destiny -- but first he must discover the powerful magic within himself.
"Where Is Grandpa?", a picture book, is about losing someone you love -- and finding them once again.
What has been the biggest influence on your writing?
The wonders of nature -- full of mystery, renewal, rebirth...and surprising connections.
What was your favorite subject in school? Why?
Life -- as taught outside the classroom: In elementary school, I started up a magazine for absurd humor; at Oxford as a Rhodes, I studied hard the hiking trails of Scotland. As for the classroom, I've always loved history -- that tale of the joys, sorrows, and quirky possibilities of humanity.
Who was your childhood hero?
Abraham Lincoln, whose wisdom and humor saved his nation and his soul; John Muir, whose devotion to wilderness enriched us all; and Pheidippides, whose sheer guts won the battle of Marathon.
What books did you read as a child?
Nature writing by Rachel Carson and Henry D. Thoreau; myths from all around the world; great sports stories; Anne Frank's diary (several times); biographies; anything by Madeleine L'Engle or J.R.R. Tolkien.
Do you write other types of books? If so, what kinds?
In addition to my novels, I write nature books -- so I can explore wild places by foot as well as by pen. (The hiking part is easier.)
If you could trade places with one extremely famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Leonardo da Vinci -- to stretch myself, to explore the universe, in every possible way.
What message ("Wish") would you like to send to all children?
Follow your deepest passions!
T.A. Barron is the author of "The Lost Years of Merlin" series, among other titles. He writes in the attic of his Colorado home that he shares with his wife Currie and their five children. Be sure to visit him at www.tabarron.com!
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