To the Best of Our Knowledge: Mysteries of Childhood

Mysteries of Childhood
To The Best of Our Knowledge

Alex Rider, Nancy Drew, The Cat in the Hat, and Harold and the Purple Crayon – for millions of children of all ages, they're some of the most imaginative and mysterious stories around. But as it turns out, the authors sometimes have their own, personal mysteries to share. In this hour of To the Best of Our Knowledge, we'll talk with Anthony Horowitz, the creator of the Alex Rider series, about his complicated past. Michael Chabon talks about some of the stories that shaped his childhood. And we'll hear about the radical political origins of some of best known children's books.

Anthony Horowitz on Fiction for Children



Anthony Horowitz has written dozens of books for children, including the teen superspy series featuring Alex Rider.

Ellen Handler Spitz on "The Brightening Glance"



Ellen Handler Spitz is the author of many books on psychology and aesthetics. She talks with Jim Fleming about her latest - "The Brightening Glance: Imagination and Childhood."

Michael Chabon on "Manhood for Amateurs"



Pulitzer Prize winning novelist Michael Chabon has written both for adults and young readers. In a recent book of essays, "Manhood for Amateurs," Chabon tackles his own childhood.

Julia Mickenberg on "Tales for Little Rebels"



Julia Mickenberg tells Steve that some of the best known children's book writers were longtime political radicals.

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