Etan Boritzer
American writer of children's literature
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Etan Boritzer (born 1950) is an American writer of children’s literature who is best known for his book What is God?[1] first published in 1989.[2][3] His best selling What is? illustrated children's book series on character education and difficult subjects for children is a popular teaching guide for parents, teachers and child-life professionals.[4][5][6]
Biography
Boritzer gained national critical acclaim after What is God? was published in 1989;[7]although the book has caused controversy from religious fundamentalists for its universalist views. There are currently 15 more books in the What is? series, now published in 20 languages. The bestselling What Is? series helps children explore complex emotional and social topics in a clear, respectful, and age-appropriate way. Each book opens a safe space for dialogue between children, parents, and educators, encouraging empathy, critical thinking, and positive values. The series aims to empower young readers to better understand themselves, others, and the world around them.[8]
Boritzer was first published in 1963 at the age of 13, when he wrote an essay in his English class at Wade Junior High School in the Bronx, New York, on the assassination of John F. Kennedy. His essay was included in a special anthology compiled and published by the New York City Department of Education for New York City public school children. He has been a Hollywood screenwriter and TV writer, an actor, a journalist, a blogger, and a ghostwriter. For 20 years, Boritzer owned BGH Galley, a contemporary fine art gallery at the Bergamot Station Arts Center in Santa Monica, CA. [9] His bestselling What is? series was created when he decided to tackle his 7-year-old niece’s difficult life questions through a series of kids’ books. Etan hopes to help create a better world through our future leaders with these inspiring books. Etan continues to work on new books in the series from his home in South Florida.[10]
Boritzer has helped numerous other authors to get published through his How to Get Your Book Published! programs via his publishing company Veronica Lane Books, founded in 1992. Boritzer is also a yoga and meditation teacher who teaches locally, nationally, and internationally. He is also recognized as an erudite speaker on The Original Teachings of the Buddha with several YouTube videos of his talks.
