The Century for Young People
By Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster
Doubleday Books for Young Readers $29.95
ISBN 0385327080

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Howard Bahr
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Barbara Delinsky
Bret Easton Ellis
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Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster
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Children's Authors

Arlene Alda
Jim Arnosky
John Bemelmans Marciano
Maurice Sendak
David Shannon
David Wiesner
Audrey Wood
Jane Yolen

Title of your new book:
The Century for Young People

Describe your book in 50 words or less:
This is a history of the twentieth century -- a somewhat universal history, we believe. Where most tell tell history "from the top down," we chose to tell it "from the bottom up" -- relying on eyewitnesses who offer up their memoirs. (Brewster)

What has been the biggest influence on your writing?
Being there to witness history -- and reading people who write it well. (Jennings)

What was your favorite subject in school? Why?
I was a terrible student -- sadly I realize now. (Jennings)

Who was your childhood hero?
Thomas Edison, the inventor, because he was a self-made man, as creative as he was scientific. (Brewster)

What books did you read as a child?
The Hardy Boys. Brother John. The Jungle Book. (Jennings)

What is the distinct difference between this book and the original volume?
It's a lot easier for kids to read and not so heavy. (Jennings)

If you could trade places with one extremely famous person for one day, who would it be and why?
Any great conductor -- to lead a great orchestra. (Jennings)

What message would you like to send to all children?
Be humble. There is always more to learn. (Brewster)
Have a sense of humor about life. You will need it and be courteous. (Jennings)

Peter Jennings is the anchor and senior editor of ABC's World News Tonight. Todd Brewster, a 20-year veteran of journalism, is on the staff of ABC News. The Century for Young People is published by Doubleday Books for Young Readers.