NEW YORK (AP) 鈥� The new s a prolific, best-selling author of children's books who hopes to use his two-year term to promote the wonders of picture stories.
appointment was announced Monday by the Library of Congress. He will be formally inaugurated Thursday.
鈥淭he way he elevates the picture book with originality and intentionality, making space for young readers to embrace the unknown, is magical," Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said in a statement. "I often mention the joy of seeing myself for the first time in 鈥楤right April鈥� by Marguerite De Angeli, a book about a young African American girl celebrating her 10th birthday. I look forward to the many joyous ways Mac will use picture books to inspire connections within our communities.鈥�
Barnett has published dozens of books, including the 鈥溾�淢ac B., Kid Spy鈥� series and 鈥淭he First Cat in Space鈥� graphic novels, and he has won three E.B. White Read Aloud Awards. His books have sold millions of copies and have been translated into more than 30 languages.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a profound honor to serve as ambassador. When I got the news, I was speechless, which is unusual for me,鈥� Barnett said in a statement. 鈥淣ow I feel energized to proclaim the many glories of children鈥檚 literature, with a particular focus on a unique and marvelous way of telling stories: the children鈥檚 picture book.鈥�
He is the ninth author to serve as youth ambassador and succeeds Meg Medina. Other predecessors include Jacqueline Woodson, Jason Reynolds and Kate DiCamillo.
Hillel Italie, The Associated Press
