We here at Education World and the Education World Community are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Maurice Sendak, whose powerful illustrations and imaginative children's stories sparked something magical in the minds of many children over the last half-century.
Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans. The New York Times has a lovely tribute that's worth a moment to read.
Please share your thoughts about Sendak and his books below. How did he/they touch you?
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R.I.P. Maurice
I absolutely love Mr. Sendak's work. NPR did a very touching show that aired bits and pieces of the interviews that he had done with the station over the years. He has stirred the imaginations of millions of the worlds children.
Standout
In the endless sea of children's books, Where the Wild Things Are stands out as an example of how incredible imagery and a simple story can resonate. Too often children's book aim too high, or are too simplistic. Sendak gave kids credit for being able to follow a story as deep as their imaginations while giving them situations they could relate to. God's speed Maurice Sendak.
perfectly captures a child's point of view
Few books capture a child's point of view as well as this one. There's a lot going on under the surface of this charming story. I think it resonates with kids because of the tension between wanting to be close to mom/being under mom's control and wanting to explore one's own anger and power. I love the way he feels homesick at the end and comes home to find dinner waiting for him. A little dark and dangerous for a while, and then that sense of safety again at the end. Plus the illustrations are so captivating!
When Wild Things was released it was panned by critics and banned from many libraries. To go from that to becoming one of the most beloved children's books of all time...it truly shows the enduring quality of this wonderful book.