Katherine Paterson

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• Born in China (1:00)

  Katherine Paterson spent her early childhood in China — until the Japanese invaded during World War II. In this video clip, Paterson tells her family’s story.

• Getting to know them (1:00)

  A Japanese friend helped open Paterson’s heart to the country she had hated and feared as a child. Friends, whether in person or in books, can dissolve dangerous stereotypes, Paterson believes.

• Naming characters (1:00)

  Paterson talks about the importance of giving characters a name that fits – or in some cases, finding a character that fits the name.

• International acclaim (1:00)

  Katherine Paterson’s books have won the top writing awards in the United States. She has also received international praise for the body of her work.

• Behind the pages (2:00)

  Paterson talks about the long struggle, and ultimate triumph, of her Newbery Medal book, Jacob Have I Loved.

• A writer deals with tragedy (1:00)

  When her son’s best friend was killed by lightning at the age of eight, Paterson wrote Bridge to Terabithia, a book that has consoled many readers over the years.

• Read, read, read (1:00)

  For children who want to become good readers or writers, Paterson points out an enjoyable way to learn.

• For the heart of a child (1:00)

  Katherine Paterson lists some of her favorite authors and books for young children.

• No role models in my books! (1:00)

  Katherine Paterson didn’t like reading about role models when she was a kid – and she doesn’t view her characters as role models, either.