Ann Koffsky’s picture book biography, BLAZING HUMOR: MEL BROOKS IS SERIOUSLY FUNNY (Intergalactic Afikoman, 2026), illustrated by Jason Kirschner, offers insights into the life of comedy legend Mel Brooks. The book’s anecdotes share how Mel used humor to cope with difficult situations throughout his life. Jason Kirschner’s illustrations complement the story, offering realistic depictions that capture the heart and humor of Mel’s life. The book is a wonderful way to introduce a comedic icon to a new generation! I am delighted to learn more about BLAZING HUMOR.
Welcome back, Ann!
What sparked the interest in Mel Brooks that led to your writing BLAZING HUMOR?
Mel himself, of course! But more specifically, I read his autobiography, ALL ABOUT ME, and was just so blown away by his life story….then I realized he’d soon be turning 100 years old, and it felt like the perfect moment for a kids book about him.
Mel Brooks had a very storied life. What challenges did you have choosing his life events to include in the book? Were there any anecdotes that didn’t make it into the book that you’d like to share?
I think what I had to be most careful about NOT including was some of his humor. A lot of it is really not for kids—and not just because some of the jokes are sexual, but because they have complex, adult level ideas packed into them. So when I was looking for examples of how funny Mel is, I had to find ones that kids would “get”—like, dropping the ten commandments!
Did you have the opportunity to meet Mel Brooks or any of his family members?
Oh, I wish! I reached out in all sorts of ways that I could think of, but he is just much more famous than I am! I couldn’t get to him. I did manage to get to his agent and send him a copy of the book when it was published…I hope he likes it!
Do you have a favorite Mel Brooks movie or other performance piece?
Oh so so many! I’ll pick an obscure one: there is this adorable short he did for Electric Company called I am cute. You can see it on my Mel videos playlist for kids I made over here:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9B6LEYBWBDIpZj7q11fbRxLjfNfFRXal
What were your thoughts when you saw Jason Kirschner’s illustrations?
YESSSSS! He SO got him, and added so much to the story. You could tell instantly that he was a huge Mel Brooks fan. His art added in so many helpful details.
What do you hope young readers take away from the book?
That throughout his life, Mel Brooks used humor to overcome difficult things-and they can too!
Thank you, Ann!
Ann Diament Koffsky is the author and illustrator of more than thirty Jewish books for children. She lives in West Hempstead, New York. You can see more of her work at www.annkoffsky.com.