I love those adult writers with the pranking ethos, [Don]…
“I love those adult writers with the pranking ethos, [Don] DeLillo and [Donald] Barthelme and David Foster Wallace. I don't see any reason not to bring those kinds of influences to bear on books for children.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Barnett argues that the playful, subversive style of adult authors like DeLillo, Barthelme, and Wallace can enrich children's literature.
In simple terms: Playful adult influences can improve kids' books.
Embrace subversive humor in children's writing.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- writing workshops
- classroom reading
- author collaborations
- editorial decisions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can subversive humor be made age‑appropriate?
- What benefits do children gain from sophisticated literary styles?
Adult humor may be too complex for young readers without adaptation.