Maurice Sendak, most know for his children's books, died today from complications from a recent stroke. Mr. Sendak wrote dark and moody books and is regarded a one of the founders of the "dark fantasy" genre. The children in his books were selfish, rude, obstinate and occasionally ran away from home; as a result, adventures ensued. An illustrator of about 80 books and author-illustrator of another 20, Sendak had won almost every important prize in children's literature.
Sendak didn't appreciate being pigeonholed as a children's writer, but said. "There is something in this country that is so opposed to understanding the complexity of children," he said of the controversy kicked up by some of works on a recent appearance on the Colbert Report. "I don't write for children. I write ... and somebody says, 'That's for children.' I didn't set out to make children happy or make life better for them or easier for them."
Maurice Sendak was a wonderful artist and if you are not familiar with him, you should be. I have a very clear; albeit short, memory of pulling Where the Wild Things Are from a shelf in my elementary school library. After immediately sitting down and reading it, I thought "Now this is the kind of book I like."
Rest in Peace Maurice Sendak. Now your wild rumpus begins. I hope it's fun and amazing.
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