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A video interview with

Lane Smith

Lane Smith recently described his artwork as a mixture between his fine arts background and low-brow influences like Monty Python and Mad magazine. He has tried making children's books that are sweet and cute, but inevitably they take a turn toward the edgy. "I try to do serious stuff," he explains, "but it just comes out screwy." Lane Smith's unconventional approach has resulted in many fans, numerous bestsellers, and a prestigious Caldecott Honor. Smith has collaborated with author Jon Scieszka on many favorites, including Math Curse, Science Verse, The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs! and The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales.

Click on the links below‡ to watch this interview online, or read the interview transcript. You can also read a short biography of Lane Smith or see a selected list of his children's books.

View online

The true story behind the three little pigs (1:22)
Lane Smith tells the story of meeting Jon Scieszka and publishing their first book.
Goofiness with a touch of class (1:03)
Lane Smith credits his wife with adding an elegant touch to his books.
Having fun with the founding fathers (2:47)
Lane Smith may be a history buff, but he's also one of the Stinky Cheese guys.
About Jon Scieszka (1:30)
After hurling a few insults at his dear collaborator, Lane Smith speaks with great reverence about Jon Scieszka.
Hooray for Diffendoofer Day! (2:16)
While working on Dr. Seuss's unfinished manuscript, Smith had the honor visiting the Geisel home.
On the edge (1:08)
Lane Smith discusses how his artwork offends some and pleases others.
From the studio to the spotlight (1:46)
The only problem with Lane Smith's success is that now he has to get up in front of people and talk about his artwork.
Bonus Track! (2:55)
Watch Lane Smith read from John, Paul, George & Ben before pulling out the biggest underwear you've ever seen.

‡ This video clip will appear in Windows Media Player, which most computers already have installed, or you can download it now. Macintosh users can download the free Flip4Mac playback file, which allows you to play Windows Media files in your Quicktime player.

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