Creating Characters That Connect with Dan Yaccarino

From Reading Inspires by Reading Is Fundamental by Reading Is Fundamental

March 3, 2026 · 26 min · Episode 14

About this episode

Dan Yaccarino discusses his creative journey and insights on character creation in children's literature.

In this episode of Reading Inspires, author and illustrator Dan Yaccarino joins Dr. Erin Bailey to discuss his creative journey from childhood drawings to beloved children's books and animated series like Oswald and Doug Unplugs . He shares insights on collaborating versus working solo, teases upcoming projects including Piccolo and two new animated series, and reflects on how reading inspires possibility—the same gift he now creates for young readers. For information on the Rally to Read Reading Inspires live event visit: Event | Rally to Read Reading Inspires Event – Live, virtual national reading month celebration About Dan Yaccarino: Dan Yaccarino is the author and illustrator of more than fifty books for children, including Piccolo , Unlovable , Every Friday , and The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau . Awards and honors include The New York Times 10 Best Illustrated Children’s Books, the Bologna Ragazzi Award, ALA Notable Children’s Books, the Parents’ Choice Award, and has had the honor of being invited to the White House to read his books. Dan is also the creator and producer of the animated series Doug Unplugs , Oswald , and Willa’s Wild Life , as well as the…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Erin Bailey

Guest: Dan Yaccarino

Topics covered

character creation
children's literature
animation
creative process
reading inspiration

Keywords

Dan Yaccarino
children's books
animation
creative journey
reading inspiration

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Reading Is Fundamental, The New York Times, Bologna Ragazzi Award, ALA, Parents’ Choice Award

Books & works: Oswald, Doug Unplugs, Piccolo, The Luna Sisters Battle for the Moon Blossom, Unlovable, Every Friday, The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau

Places: White House