And - but I remembered this overwhelmingly moralistic tone in all of my least favorite books, so I thought it might be good to sort of mock that from the outset and warn children away from a story instead of the sort of typical treacly beginning which is, you know, this is a very charming story, and you're just going to love the adorable hero. I hadn't read a book for children since I was a youngster. And also I - when I sat down to just start writing for children, I really had no bearing in children's literature. Why did you decide to start your book that way?ĭANIEL HANDLER: Well, it seemed only fair to warn anyone who was seeking cheerfulness.

Now, your book, as we heard, starts with a warning that readers might be better off with a more cheerful book. Terry Gross interviewed Daniel Handler in 2001.

They tell the tales of three unlucky orphans who live lives filled with misery and woe. It's based on a series of satirical gothic novels for children by Lemony Snicket, the pen name of Daniel Handler. Look away.Ī new TV version of 'A Series Of Unfortunate Events' premieres today on Netflix. It's hard to fathom how the orphans managed to live through it, but how a decent person like yourself would even want to view it - just look away. He tries to steal their fortune with a plot that's not quite lawful. Three children lose their home and go to live with someone awful. Every single episode is nothing but dismay so look away. The show will wreck your evening, your home life and your day. NEIL PATRICK HARRIS: (As Count Olaf, singing) Look away. (SOUNDBITE OF TV SHOW, 'A SERIES OF UNFORTUNATE EVENTS')

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