Ben Kassoy
Ben Kassoy is staff writer for DoSomething.org, one of the largest organizations in the U.S. for teens and social change. He is also the co-author two other books with Michael J. Rosen. His own work has appeared in The Huffington Post, Nerve, The Good Men Project, Thought Catalog, and a host of others. Ben lives in New York City.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
The Giving Tree. I find it just as beautiful and poignant now as I did then. A timeless classic for readers of all ages.
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“I’ll love you forever. I’ll like you for always. As long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be” from Love You Forever by Robert Munsch
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
Only three?! Oh, dear. OK, fine: Shel Silverstein, Beverly Clearly, and Michael J. Rosen
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
Looking at a white blank page with a blinking cursor, the possibilities are boundless. Every time I write, I feel infinite; it’s life-affirming and exhilarating.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Write for the process, not the product. Whether writing feels painful or joyful—or, likely, both—you have to embrace the journey. Climbing the mountain should be more rewarding than planting your flag atop it.
