If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times: children’s books are the best. From illustrated adventures to young adult novels, these literary gems seem to find their way into my heart and stay lodged there permanently.
In fact, just a few weeks ago, I wrote about my favorite children’s bookstore in the Twin Cities: Wild Rumpus, whose name is pulled directly from Maurice Sendak’s most revered book: Where the Wild Things Are.
With yesterday’s news of Sendak’s death came the realization that the literary world had lost not only an incredible artist and literary advocate, but someone who paved the way for a new kind of children’s book. In Sendak’s worlds, kids often misbehaved and caused a ruckus. They dreamed of monsters and mayhem, and were always given room to let their imaginations run rampant. Though Sendak’s books were often dark, he left room for his characters to learn and grow.
Wild Things remains, to this day, one of my all time favorite children’s books. Sendak’s unwavering and unapologetic writing has empowered children for decades. His contributions will live on in libraries and bookstores around the world. He probably said it best himself: “Kids don’t know about best sellers. They go for what they enjoy. They aren’t star chasers and they don’t suck up. It’s why I like them.” Farewell to a man who let the wild rumpus begin.
Hotdish & Catfish 
Reblogged this on Specialmothers's Blog.