Dogs Don't Tell Jokes

Twelve-year-old jokester Gary Boone knows he was born to be a comedian, it's the kids in his class who think he's just a goon. Winning the school talent show would be Gary's dream come true, but on the big night his dream nearly backfires--with hilarious results.

An IRA/CBC Children's Choice.

Louis Sachar was born in East Meadow, New York, moved to Southern California when he was nine, and now lives in Austin, Texas. Louis's first book for children, Sideways Stories from Wayside School was accepted for publication during his first week of law school. Although Louis graduated and passed the bar exam, he opted to be a full-time writer for children rather than a lawyer.

Louis met his wife, Carla, when he was a visiting author at a school in Texas. She was a counselor at the same school. They have a daughter, Sherre. Louis likes to play chess, cards, ski, play the guitar (and sing loudly), but mostly he likes spending time with Carla and Sherre.