pinksteeler's Full Review: Maurice Sendak - Where the Wild Things Are
One of the BEST stories of all-time is Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak. I love this book. It is a childhood favorite that has traveled with me throughout the years. I’m sure you have probably already read this classic piece of child literature but to be on the safe side I’ll give a summary without revealing the plot.
It’s an adorable tale about a boy named Max. He got into trouble for sassing his mom and was sent to bedroom without supper. That night he goes on an amazing adventure. He encounters phenomenal creatures and enjoys spectacular travels but ultimately decides to return to his beloved home.
As a child, I rooted for Max. I didn't relate to being sent to my room hungry but I could understand being cross with my mom for her “unfair” disciplining. I knew that combination feeling of being mad yet feeling loved at the same time. As a young tot, I couldn’t vocalize that sense but I recognized it. Later this short book of 48 pages went with me in my “bag of tricks” while babysitting. It was always a well received story with my charges – especially when given the opportunity to behave like monsters while acting out the wild rumpus.
During college, one of my elementary education course requirements was to memorize and present a children’s book. My immediate selection was Where The Wild Things Are. I knew it by heart. The demonstration went perfectly with me doing animations, fluttering a large blue scarf to represent the ocean, other props and acting, and homemade scepters and crowns for handouts. We had a blast!
When I became a Special Education teacher, my 1963 (year it was published) hardback book came with me into my classroom. The K through third graders adored the story too. Soon we found ourselves creating Max and Wild Thing puppets to share this wonderful book with the “regular” classmates. Even the fourth through sixth grade kids wanted to participate. It was a wonderful experience. Now I read this book with my twin niece and nephew. They know Where The Wild Things Are is Aunt Sherry’s favorite and like reading it to me.
That’s part of the magic of this book. It quickly captures your attention, whisks you off on an incredible journey, and then brings you back home again with a big smile and happy heart all in short time with deceptively simple wording. It’s brief but you swiftly develop a liking and concern for the chief character Max. The other portion of the magnetism comes from Maurice Sendak’s outstandingly expressive illustrations. They make this a captivating picture book for children and adults. The watercolor artwork is the focal point of the book, garnishing so much attention that a minimal amount of words are needed. The Wild Things are fanciful, frightening, and funny creatures. They have mismatched features such as a bushy tail with dragon legs or a bull’s head with human feet. They are comical and crazy. I chuckled even more at them after hearing Mr. Sendak share during a college lecture that he based the monsters on his aunts and uncles.
Where The Wild Things Are is a 1964 Caldecott Medal winner for most distinguished picture book of the year. It is hard to believe this book is forty-four years old. The story is still relevant today and able to be enjoyed by current audiences. Interestingly, there is a movie in post production too. It is directed by Spike Jonze and is supposed to be out October 2008.
I could discuss the story’s lessons, morals, and psychological philosophies: the power of imagination, consequences for behavior, need for children to learn how to express their feelings, how kids can control their emotions, there is no place like home, and so forth. Or I could dwell on the possibly perceived negatives of Max’s actions, the questionable punishment of missing a meal, and the perhaps scary monsters but why? The story isn’t one that requires a lot if any explanation. Kids “get it” without a bunch of adult meddling. Sure, as a teacher, I asked open-ended questions about fantasy and reality as well as assessing for understanding but too much probing and analyzing can kill the spontaneity and enjoyment.
I love Where The Wild Things Are. It is my most favorite book for young kids. Heck, it is my most treasured childhood story. The tattered book I own still holds a cherished spot in my heart. As soon as I read about The 'Fight Illiteracy' write-off, I knew I had to share one of my top children’s books. I thank Cindy and Stephanie for their efforts in this worthwhile endeavor. I hope these book donations will help children grow WILD for reading!
Other book info (taken from Amazon.com):
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover Comic: 48 pages
Publisher: Harper Collins
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060254920
ISBN-13: 978-0060254926
Product Dimensions: 10.3 x 9.1 x 0.5 inches
Max, a wild and naughty boy, is sent to bed without his supper by his exhausted mother. In his room, he imagines sailing far away to a land of Wild Th...More at Buy.com
Max is sent to bed without supper and imagines sailing away to the land of Wild Things, where he is made king. Winner, 1964 Caldecott MedalNotable Chi...More at Buy.com Marketplaces
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.