Bio

Watch a video interview with Mike Thaler. 

"The most powerful nation in the world is IMAGINATION."

Mike Thaler believes that story writing and riddles are the most useful tools in stimulating children's awareness of language and its creative use. An award-winning author and illustrator, Mike travels the world sharing his message with teachers and children.

Mike has written over 250 books for children of all ages. He has also created word play games, software, and audiocassettes. He created and wrote "Letterman" for TV’s Electric Co. In addition, he launched the Jell-O Reading Rocket Program to motivate children to read.

Mike was born in Los Angeles in 1936. After moving to New York City, he started his professional career drawing cartoons for adults. A children's book editor saw one of these cartoons and encouraged Mike to write children's books. The attempt was successful and Magic Boy was published in 1962. 250 books later, Mike has been called "one of the most creative people in children's books today." Thaler now lives in West Linn, Oregon, surrounded by his family, friends, and yellow, his favorite color.

Become a Lagoony and visit Mike online at his website.

Booklists/Awards

The Cafeteria Lady from the Black Lagoon
1999
IRA Children’s Choice Award

Cinderella Bigfoot, Hanzel & Pretzel, Princess and the Pea, and Schmoe White and the 7 Dorfs
1998
#1 Pick, USA Today

The Librarian from the Black Lagoon
1997

The Bully Brothers at the Beach
1996

The Bully Brothers: Making the Grade
1995

The Principal from the Black Lagoon
1993

The Teacher from the Black Lagoon
1989

Interviews