Revenge of the Nerds!

Michael Buckley, bestselling children's author of The Sisters Grimm and N.E.R.D.S. books series, delighted young fans in Vancouver last night at a booksigning organized by the fabulous Vancouver Kidsbooks. Parents and children gave Michael their full attention as he waxed comedic about his good friends in the business (AKA Tom Angleberger, author of the Origami Yoda books) and other famous folk who have inspired him along the way (Steve Martin was mentioned a couple of times!).

Michael spoke animatedly about some of the interesting jobs he had before becoming an author, such as a P.A. for David Letterman, a circus performer, t.v. screenwriter (he wrote for Nickelodeon!) and stand up comedian.  He decided to become a children's book author when he realized he was really into what other kids were into, like video games and whacky t.v. shows.

When asked about the inspiration for his N.E.R.D.S. series, he explained that it came to him like an epiphany at a high school reunion.  He looked around and suddenly realized all of the kids who were cool in high school grew up ordinary, whereas the nerds (a group to which he admittedly belonged) all flourished to work at really interesting jobs and married to supermodels! His takeaway lesson?  It all gets better kids!  Who wants to peak at 16 anyway?!

Michael Buckley's new book, N.E.R.D.S.: The Cheerleaders of Doom (9781419700248; $16.95) is available now wherever fine children's books are sold.