Picture a storyteller who spins tales so whimsical they make kids giggle and adults nod in approval—meet Mac Barnett! This American children’s book author, born in 1982, has crafted a world of quirky, heartfelt stories that charm readers of all ages. With a knack for blending humor, absurdity, and heart, Barnett’s books, like the award-winning Extra Yarn and Sam and Dave Dig a Hole, have earned him a spot as a beloved voice in children’s literature.
Barnett’s journey to becoming a literary star is as delightful as his stories. From his Oakland roots to his role as the 2025-2026 National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, he’s championed the power of picture books, proving they’re not just for kids but are a vibrant art form deserving respect.
The Making of Mac Barnett
Born in Castro Valley, California, Mac Barnett grew up in Oakland, where his love for stories took root. As a kid, he frequented Children’s Fairyland, a storybook theme park that sparked his imagination. He studied literature at Pomona College under the legendary David Foster Wallace, but it was his summer job as a camp counselor in Berkeley that set his path. There, he wove fantastical tales for kids, discovering his gift for captivating young audiences. After college, Barnett worked at 826 Valencia, a nonprofit writing center, and later ran 826LA, where he founded the Echo Park Time Travel Mart—a quirky shop selling “woolly mammoth chili” that doubled as a creative hub. These experiences shaped his playful, innovative approach to storytelling.
Mac Barnett’s Unforgettable Stories
Barnett’s books are a masterclass in blending words and illustrations to tell stories that are funny, strange, and deeply meaningful. His 2012 picture book Extra Yarn, illustrated by Jon Klassen, follows a girl who transforms her town with magical knitting, earning a Caldecott Honor and the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for its heartwarming narrative. Sam and Dave Dig a Hole (2014), also with Klassen, is a hilarious tale of two boys digging for treasure, only to miss it in the most absurd way, snagging another Caldecott Honor. The Important Thing About Margaret Wise Brown (2019), illustrated by Sarah Jacoby, is a quirky biography celebrating the Goodnight Moon author, praised for its experimental style. Then there’s Chloe and the Lion (2012), where Barnett and illustrator Adam Rex playfully argue over the story’s direction, creating a meta-adventure kids adore. His style—marked by Swiftian absurdity, open-ended questions, and respect for young readers’ intelligence—makes every book a unique experience.
Barnett’s collaborations with illustrators like Klassen, Adam Rex, and Christian Robinson are legendary, turning his stories into visual feasts. He’s also ventured into novels, like the Mac B., Kid Spy series, where he reimagines himself as a young spy for the Queen of England, and the Terrible Two series, co-authored with Jory John, packed with pranks and hilarity. His work, translated into over 30 languages and selling over 5 million copies, proves his universal appeal.
Why Mac Barnett Matters
Mac Barnett’s impact on children’s literature is profound. As the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, he’s on a mission to elevate picture books, calling them a “quintessential American art form.” His books don’t preach morals; they invite kids to think, laugh, and find meaning in life’s absurdity. By respecting young readers’ intelligence, he’s reshaped how we view children’s stories, making them a shared joy for kids and adults. His advocacy for free access to books, seen in works like his Margaret Wise Brown biography, underscores his belief that every child deserves a great story.
- Born: 1982, Castro Valley, California
- Key Works: Extra Yarn, Sam and Dave Dig a Hole, The Important Thing About Margaret Wise Brown, Mac B., Kid Spy
- Awards: Two Caldecott Honors, Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, three E.B. White Read Aloud Awards
- Fun Fact: He once played Peter Pan at Children’s Fairyland!
Snag Extra Yarn or Sam and Dave Dig a Hole and dive into Mac Barnett’s whimsical world—your inner child will thank you!