Maurice Sendak

Maurice Sendak was an American author and illustrator. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1928. He is best known for his picture book Where the Wild Things Are. His books explored the big feelings that children have.

Early Life

Sendak grew up in Brooklyn with his Polish immigrant parents. He was often sick as a child and spent a lot of time drawing. He loved comic books and movies. After high school, he got a job making window displays at a toy store.

Where the Wild Things Are

Published in 1963, the book tells the story of a boy named Max who sails to an island of wild monsters. Some adults worried the book was too scary for kids. But children loved it, and it won the Caldecott Medal. It has sold over 20 million copies worldwide.

Fun Facts

• Sendak said the Wild Things were based on his relatives who visited when he was young.
• The book was almost called Where the Wild Horses Are, but Sendak could not draw horses well.
• He illustrated over 100 books during his long career.

Did You Know?

Maurice Sendak kept a collection of over 10,000 books, including rare first editions. He loved books so much he never wanted to get rid of any.