Louis Sachar celebrates 10 years of 'Holes'
by Euan Kerr, Minnesota Public RadioLouis Sachar has written many books for children in his career that have been enjoyed by adults too. His biggest hit has been "Holes." He's celebrating the 10th anniversary of its publication with readings in Minnesota.
St. Paul, Minn. — It's the story of Stanley Yelnats who is sent to a young offenders camp in Texas. There he meets a guard who never takes off his sunglasses.
"My name is Mr. Sir," he said. "Whenever you speak to me you must call me by my name, is that clear?"
Stanley hestitated "Uh, yes, Mr. Sir," he said, although he couldn't imagine that was really the man's name.
"You are not in the Girl Scouts anymore," Mr. Sir said.
At the camp each boy every day has to dig a hole five foot wide and five feet deep in blazing hot temperatures. Stanley soon realizes the staff has an ulterior motive.
"Holes" won the National Book Award and a Newbery medal. Later it became a popular movie.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of "Holes'" publication, there's a new edition, and Louis Sachar is in the Twin Cities to read from it.
He told Minnesota Public Radio's Euan Kerr the book began when he moved from California to Texas.
