All about Maurice Sendak

Maurice Sendak was an American author and illustrator who is best known for his book "Where the Wild Things Are." Maurice was born on June 10, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York. When he was a child, he loved to draw and read stories. He decided he wanted to create books for children when he grew up.

Maurice faced some challenges in his life. His family didn't have much money, and he was often sick. But these difficulties didn't stop him. He worked hard and studied art. His big break came when he illustrated a book called "A Hole Is to Dig" in 1952. People loved his drawings, and he became famous.

In 1963, Maurice wrote and illustrated "Where the Wild Things Are." The story is about a boy named Max who wears a wolf suit and imagines sailing to an island filled with wild creatures. The book was a big hit, and it won many awards. Maurice wrote and illustrated many other books, including "In the Night Kitchen" and "Outside Over There."

Maurice Sendak passed away on May 8, 2012, but his books continue to be loved by children all over the world. His wonderful stories and unique drawings remind us to use our imaginations and explore our wildest dreams.

1. Where was Maurice Sendak born?
2. What was the name of the book that made Maurice famous for his illustrations?
3. Who is the main character in "Where the Wild Things Are"?
4. Why do you think Maurice Sendak's books are still loved by children today?
5. How did Maurice's challenges affect his path to becoming an author and illustrator?

Symbols and Traditions

Hi! My name is Amy, and I am 8 years old. I want to tell you about my trip to New York! It was so much fun. One of the best parts was visiting a place called the Children's Museum of Manhattan. Do you know who Maurice Sendak is? He is the guy who made the book "Where the Wild Things Are." I love that book! It's about a boy named Max who goes to a forest and meets big monsters called Wild Things. At the museum, they had a special exhibit all about Maurice Sendak and his books. There were big, colorful pictures of the Wild Things and even a place where you could pretend to be Max in his boat. I felt like I was inside the book! They also had other fun stuff to do, like drawing and reading. I learned so much about Maurice Sendak and his amazing stories. I can't wait to go back to New York and visit more places like this!

1. Who is the author of "Where the Wild Things Are"?
2. What attraction did Amy visit in New York?
3. Describe one activity Amy did at the Children's Museum of Manhattan.
4. Why do you think Amy enjoyed the exhibit about Maurice Sendak?
5. Can you name another book by Maurice Sendak that you might like to read?

Profile of Maurice Sendak

A Timeline of Maurice Sendak to another Festival

After learning all about Maurice Sendak, your job is to create a timeline of their life. You should add all the important events in their life but you can be inventive and add some interesting things that people might like to read about. You can make it as simply as you like with pen and paper or you can be very inventive and create a 3D diorama or hanging banner. The sky's the limit - go for it!

Slideshow - Maurice Sendak
A full set of teaching plans for Maurice Sendakteaching.