Celeb Q&A: Mary-Louise Parker

Has the end of Harry Potter left a big hole in your child's reading list? Pick up The Spiderwick Chronicles, by Holly Black and Toni DiTerlizzi. Then see the live-action screen version, hitting theaters this month (rated PG). We chatted up actress and mom Mary-Louise Parker to find out about the film, her favorite kids' books, and more.

Q. What attracted you to The Spiderwick Chronicles?
A. I've always wanted to do a kids' movie, and this one is somewhat atypical -- the characters are finely drawn and complex. Even though my kids won't be able to see it for a few years [her son is 4 and her daughter is under 2], I have lots of children in my life who'd love to see me in a movie.

Q. You play the mom of three kids. How would you describe her?
A. She's just sort of wildly imperfect and struggling so much. I thought if I could convey that desperation in a real way, that would be more interesting than playing someone who was trying to be the perfect mother.

Q. Why should parents take their children to see this movie?
A. The kid characters are great -- good, smart, kind, and not precocious. As are the actors who portray them. If my son were a little bit older, I'd love for him to hang out with them.