Maurice Sendak author page

Maurice Sendak biography

Maurice Bernard Sendak (June 10, 1928 – May 8, 2012) was an American author and illustrator of children’s books, celebrated for his distinctive and imaginative works that explore the complexities of childhood. Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Polish-Jewish immigrant parents, Sendak’s early life was marked by frequent illness and the trauma of losing many family members during the Holocaust. These experiences profoundly influenced his work, leading him to depict childhood with honesty, often addressing themes of fear, anger, and the darker aspects of growing up.

Sendak’s artistic journey began at the Art Students League of New York, and he started his career in children’s literature in 1951 by illustrating books for other authors. His first solo work as both author and illustrator was Kenny’s Window (1956). However, it was his 1963 book Where the Wild Things Are that brought him international acclaim. The story of Max, a boy who sails to a forest inhabited by wild creatures, won the 1964 Caldecott Medal and became a classic of children’s literature. The book has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been adapted into various media, including an opera and a 2009 film directed by Spike Jonze.

Following the success of Where the Wild Things Are, Sendak continued to create influential works such as In the Night Kitchen (1970) and Outside Over There (1981), forming a thematic trilogy that delves into the psychological development of children. His illustrations were known for their detailed, expressive style, often blending elements of fantasy with the everyday world.

In addition to his work in children’s literature, Sendak designed sets and costumes for operas and ballets, including productions of Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. He also collaborated with Carole King on the 1975 animated musical Really Rosie.

Sendak received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Hans Christian Andersen Award for Illustration in 1970, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal in 1983, and the National Medal of Arts in 1996. He was also honored with the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award in 2003. Despite his success, Sendak remained a private individual, known for his candid and often provocative views on children’s literature and his own work.

He passed away on May 8, 2012, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence and inspire generations of readers and creators.