Week 19: Tribute to Maurice Sendak (June 1928 - May 2012)

Erin here. I don't know how else to do the intro to this week's topic other than speaking personally. As you probably have heard, picture book author and illustrator Maurice Sendak passed away last Tuesday.

I have read only a few books that have had an impact on my life as large as "Where the Wild Things Are." This book was an integral part of my childhood and is one of the reasons I chose to go to art school. The everyday fantasy of it all is something that I always try to bring into my own artwork. Whether I am conscious of it or not, "Where the Wild Things Are" is part of who I am and I am positive that there are generations out there that feel the same way.

Mr. Sendak was the illustrator and/or author of far too many books to list here, but is known most for "In the Night Kitchen," "Little Bear," and of course, "Where the Wild Things Are". Unfortunately, there doesn't seem to be a good database of his illustrations online - I recommend sitting on the floor of the Children's Book section for a few hours. Not long ago, Marice did an excellent and touching interview with Terry Gross and a delightful 2-part interview with Stephen Colbert (part 1, part 2); I am very glad I listened to / watched both of them.

This week, the RBMC pays tribute to this influential and inspiring story teller.
Marice Sendak please don't go, we'll eat you up, we love you so.

Stay Tuned.