I think my books talk about kids learning to like and respect themselves and each other. You can't write a message book; you just tell the best story you know how to tell.

The quote by Paula Danziger emphasizes the themes of self-respect, empathy, and personal growth in her children’s books. She notes that her work encourages kids to like and respect themselves and each other, highlighting the importance of fostering positive relationships and self-esteem through storytelling. This reflects her belief that literature can serve as a tool for emotional and social learning.

Danziger also stresses that one cannot create a “message book” deliberately; rather, the focus should be on telling the best story possible. This approach underlines the idea that meaningful lessons emerge naturally from well-crafted narratives, rather than through overt moralizing or forced messages. Authenticity and storytelling skill are central to engaging readers and imparting values organically.

The origin of the quote comes from Danziger’s career as a children’s author, known for books like The Cat Ate My Gymsuit and Can’t You Make Them Behave, King George?. Her stories often explore adolescents’ challenges, relationships, and personal development, reflecting her commitment to writing in a way that resonates with young readers while conveying important life lessons.

Overall, the quote conveys that literature for children is most effective when it combines entertaining storytelling with themes of self-respect, empathy, and understanding. Danziger emphasizes that the impact of a story lies in its ability to connect with readers naturally, showing that values and lessons are best communicated through authentic and engaging narratives.