Picture book author Mac Barnett has been named the Library of Congress' new ambassador for young people's literature. He discusses what the role means when engaging kids in reading can be a struggle.

Introduction -- First steps : oral traditions and pre-literacy -- Once upon a time, in a land far away -- Abecedarias and battledores -- The 'childe's first tutor' : the education of the young -- ...

The national ambassador for young people’s literature published a manifesto aimed at adults. Then came the blowback.

The new museum in North Kansas City’s Iron District is dedicated to immersing kids and their parents in the world of children’s literature. Co-founders Deb Pettid and Pete Cowdin have spent the last ...

Read all of Slate’s stories about the 25 Greatest Picture Books of the Past 25 Years. On Oct. 8, 2010, the New York Times ran a story on its front page: “Picture Books No Longer a Staple for Children.