Where The Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak

Where the Wild Things Are is an iconic children’s book written and illustrated by Maurice Sendak. Written in 1963, it broke the mold of traditional children’s stories with its unsettling and surreal imagery, making it one of the most beloved and enduring stories of the 20th century.

The story follows Max, a mischievous and imaginative young boy who causes so much mischief that his mother sends him to the bedroom without dinner. In his indignation, Max cries out into the night that he wishes to sail away to “where the wild things are.” His wish is answered, and Max sets out on a fantastical journey to a distant land inhabited by wild creatures, some fierce, some gentle, all ruled by Max himself as the “most wild thing of all.”

As Max venturers in this new land, he encounters a number of obstacles, first meeting a grouchy beast, Carol the Wild Thing, who challenges his authority. Through a game of chase and tussle, the two develop a special bond and Max eventually wins over the wild things' love and worship. Max enjoys his role as leader but soon becomes homesick and chooses to return to his mother, finding himself back in his bedroom just as he left it.

Where the Wild Things Are is more than a whimsical story of a child’s journey; it is also a powerful parable of childhood emotions, providing many timeless lessons about emotions and childhood experience. Through the ups and downs of Max’s journey, Sendak craftily tackles themes like loneliness, loneliness, defiance, disenchantment, and love. The story subtly reinforces the message that emotions should be embraced, not suppressed, which can only lead to a more satisfying life.

Moreover, Where the Wild Things Are is widely credited as a pioneer in bringing darker themes and ambitious illustrations to children’s literature, a daring move which accorded Sendak numerous awards and accolades. Rife with dark images of destruction, solitude and fear, it presents an honest and forthright look at our innermost thoughts and fears, mirroring a child’s natural emotions without sugar- coating the truth. This non-idealistic approach to literature for children gave the genre a much needed jolt of authenticity, setting a new standard for authors who followed.

Where the Wild Things Are is a timeless book that has been captivating generations of readers for over fifty years. Its thoughtful exploration of childhood experience, non-idealistic characters, and daring images have rendered it a landmark in children’s literature. Ultimately, Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are is a captivating and endearing tale of adventure, emotions, and growth.