Maurice Sendak passed at the age of 83. At the age of 75 he wrote and opera, "Brundibar",of which he was most proud. Sendak created many memorable characters,such as Hector Protector, Max and the Wild Things, Pierre (who didn't care),Little Bear,and George and Martha. He produced the Pacific Northwest Ballet production of "The Nutcracker" as well as designed costumes for ballets and operas.
Sendak loved children, but knew how dark and scary childhood was. He, along with a sister and brother, were one of the few surviving members on his father's side of the family, only knowing his mother's mother. The rest of his Jewish-Polish family never made it to America. Inhumane conditions and treatment were the stories he heard as a child as the fates of is family were discussed.
He began his long and highly awarded career in 1957. He illustrated for others as well as his own works. At least 3 of his books were turned into educational shows for kids by Nickelodeon and HBO. The live action movie of "Where the Wild Things Are" was a hit and was well produced, staying true to Sendak's illustrations.
Sendak's work is instantly recognized and will endure for many years to come. I know that I have read "In the Night Kitchen" to countless children over the years along with "Where the Wild Things Are", as my own favorites from my childhood. Sendaks' contribution's to children's literature will be forever felt, and he will be missed.
So raise your glass to a great man, and let the wild rumpus begin!
Sendak loved children, but knew how dark and scary childhood was. He, along with a sister and brother, were one of the few surviving members on his father's side of the family, only knowing his mother's mother. The rest of his Jewish-Polish family never made it to America. Inhumane conditions and treatment were the stories he heard as a child as the fates of is family were discussed.
He began his long and highly awarded career in 1957. He illustrated for others as well as his own works. At least 3 of his books were turned into educational shows for kids by Nickelodeon and HBO. The live action movie of "Where the Wild Things Are" was a hit and was well produced, staying true to Sendak's illustrations.
Sendak's work is instantly recognized and will endure for many years to come. I know that I have read "In the Night Kitchen" to countless children over the years along with "Where the Wild Things Are", as my own favorites from my childhood. Sendaks' contribution's to children's literature will be forever felt, and he will be missed.
So raise your glass to a great man, and let the wild rumpus begin!