Minneapolis author
Kate DiCamillo, who has won numerous awards for her books
Because of Winn-Dixie and
The Tale of Despereaux, is the Library of Congress' new
Ambassador of Young People's Literature. "The position," according to the LIbrary of Congress website, "was created to raise national awareness of the importance of young people's literature as it relates to lifelong literacy, education and the development and betterment of the lives of young people."
The appointment is a two-year term. The selection criteria, in addition to authoring books, includes being "revered by children," a "dynamic and engaging personality," and having a "known ability to relate to children."
In a
New York Times article, DiCamillo said she moved to Minneapolis on a whim and "It was the best thing I ever did." DiCamillo is the fourth author appointed to the position.
Sources: Library of Congress,
New York Times