| Wednesday, November 14, 2007 |
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Shrek, the Book Source |
Spotlight: William Steig loved to draw. When his father lost the family's money during the Depression, Steig — to make ends meet at home — began to sell cartoons to The New Yorker magazine. Nearly 40 years later, he turned to writing and illustrating children's books. Among his award-winning books is Sylvester and the Magic Pebble. In 1990, Steig's Shrek! was released; it told the story of a green ogre who leaves home to find a bride as homely as himself. William Steig was born 100 years ago today.
Quote: "To tell the truth, I don't read children's books. I'm an adult. I just write them."
Word of the day: oneirophobiaFear of dreams.
Usage: Oneirophobia can make you into an insomniac.
Whether you suffer from friggaphobia or febriphobia, plutophobia or pteronophobia, the Phobias dictionary can help you put a name to your abnormal, irrational fears.
Today's News:
Today's History:
- Nellie Bly: journalist began her around-the-world-in-72-days trip to beat the 80-day record of Phileas Fogg (1889)
- Coventry: UK city was largely reduced to rubble by Nazi bombers (1940)
- Apollo 12: second successful manned mission to the moon was launched (1969)
Today's Birthdays:
- Claude Monet (1840-1926): Impressionist painter
- Astrid Lindgren (1907-2002): creator of Pippi Longstocking
- Prince Charles (59): heir to the throne of Great Britain
- Condoleezza Rice (53): US secretary of state
- Yanni (53): "contemporary instrumental" musician
- Laura San Giacomo (46): Maya Gallo on Just Shoot Me
