Writing Humor for Kids, Seriously

This is a free event, but registration is required.

Funny books for kids can transport young readers to an amusing and entertaining universe, serving as a refuge from life’s difficult moments, as well as easing the approach to serious subjects.  A panel of four distinctive voices in contemporary children’s literature—Crystal Allen (Between Two Brothers) Nick Bruel (Bad Kitty series), Christopher Paul Curtis (Bud, Not Buddy) and Eugene Yelchin (The Genius Under the Table)—will discuss the role of humor in their books. Their work explores, respectively, using humor as a catalyst for the major themes of love, hope and forgiveness in families, a cranky cat’s zany adventures, Black American lives in various historical eras, and growing up behind the Iron Curtain in the Soviet Union. The panelists will delve into how humor infuses their stories and the challenge of using humor responsibly and with sensitivity. The panel will be moderated by Elizabeth Levy, longtime author of humorous fiction whose recent non-fiction historical books have been singled out for their unexpectedly funny qualities. Her most recent book is Witch Hunt: The Cold War, Joe McCarthy, and the Red Scare.

The 2024 PEN World Voices Festival, the 20th anniversary of the festival, will be a celebration of world literature and free expression. Over four days, over 100 writers from nearly 30 countries will be featured in engaging talks, panels, readings, and performances in New York City and greater Los Angeles.

Visit for more information about the entire festival, as well as PEN America.

PLEASE NOTE: Regretfully Deutsches Haus does not offer an accessible restroom (restroom is downstairs with no elevator). The event space is otherwise ADA accessible. For more details, questions, or requests please reach out to [email protected]

ASL interpretation is available for this event by request only. Please reach out to our Box Office team at [email protected] by April 21st to request.

Please ask a Box Office Attendant or festival representative upon arrival for directions to accessible seating if preferred.

For further information on accessibility in this space, or to make a request, please contact [email protected]

While not required, per public health official guidelines, the World Voices Festival recommends being fully vaccinated, and wearing masks in all public indoor settings as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19, as well as around crowds.

If you are feeling unwell, please do not come to the event. Reach out to [email protected] for assistance if you have already purchased a ticket.

We thank you for ensuring our speakers, guests and venue workers feel safe and comfortable at all World Voices Festival events. If you have questions or concerns please contact [email protected]

Host or Publisher PEN America