So we know that the plot structure used in The Bad Beginning leaves us thinking, rather than feeling content and satisfied. And we know that this book and this series don’t fit squarely as realistic fiction because they don’t convey hope. So how do these ideas work together? And what does this combination mean in terms of the direction of modem children’s literature?
To understand Snickers approach, we have to consider who he really is. The pseudonym of Lemony Snicket is carefully maintained by Daniel Handler, an author who has several adult fiction novels under his belt. Consider the following facts about Handlers use of the Snicket name:
Like many children’s book writers, he often visits elementary schools and speaks to groups of children. But as you might guess, he’s not your average speaker. He usually wears a long coat and carries a bug in a jar. He explains to the kids that he is visiting them in place of Snicket, who was bitten by the bug in the jar and is unable to attend. Throughout the presentation, the children push and prod him to admit that he truly is Lemony Snicket, but Handler simply plays along and never divulges his identity. Take a peek at Lemony Snicket’s web site and its photos of “the afflicted author.” What do you notice? Of course! You can’t visually identify Snicket because you never see his face. Once again, the anonymity of Handler is crafted. This pseudonym is part of the charm and appeal of these books for children. But who is this weird author, anyway?
Check out the following site and discover Snicket’s motivations behind writing A Series of Unfortunate Events:
‘The Mysterious Mr. Snicker’
A/indn Listen an interview with Daniel Handler (aka Lemony Snicket) online. Listen to the irkaikFlith riancier that aired on the NPR radio show “Fresh Air.” After you finish listening, write a response in which youg4tiMir reaction to Handler. Do
you have a different opinion of him after hearing him speak?