Daniel Handler, better known as Lemony Snicket, has captivated young readers for 25 years with his mysterious and wonderful world in books like A Series of Unfortunate Events and The Bad Beginning. Now, in his latest book, And Then? And Then? What Else?, Handler invites readers into his own world to share how his love of reading and respect for children’s curiosity led him to become a writer.
Handler’s passion for books and reading dates back to his childhood. The first book he bought with his own money was The Blue Aspic by Edward Gorey, a „strange, obsessive“ book that sparked his interest in literature with melodramatic plots and a dark tone. Reading has always been a powerful force in Handler’s life, providing solace in times of joy and sadness, and offering endless opportunities for discovery.
His latest book, a blend of memoir and inspiration for aspiring writers, sheds light on his creative process, which he describes as a „locked-room mystery.“ Despite the mystery surrounding his work, Handler believes that part of the appeal of his books lies in their grounding in reality, reflecting the chaotic and troubled world he was raised in as the descendant of German refugees.
As Lemony Snicket’s popularity grew, Handler found himself at numerous book signings, where he encountered unexpected challenges like children vomiting. This led to the realization that bookstores needed a „vomit plan“ in place, much like restaurants have rags on hand for spills. Handler’s quirky habits include using cheap pharmacy notebooks for his writing, as he finds fancy leather-bound notebooks intimidating.
Handler’s writing process involves jotting down ideas in his notebook, typing them up, cutting them into index cards, and arranging them on his dining table to create a structure for his stories. Despite the unconventional method, Handler finds joy in keeping track of his thoughts and observations, even if it may not be helpful to others.
With an affinity for New Zealand, Handler draws parallels between the culture of San Francisco and certain aspects of New Zealand, such as a foggy seaside culture and a community of stubborn artists dedicated to their craft. He expresses admiration for New Zealand’s music and literature, citing Janet Frame as a beloved figure in the literary world.
In conclusion, Daniel Handler’s journey from a young book lover to a celebrated author is a testament to the power of reading, imagination, and storytelling. Through his books and personal anecdotes, Handler continues to inspire readers of all ages to embrace their curiosity, creativity, and love for literature.
