Maurice Sendak

Date of Birth: June 10, 1928

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: May 8, 2012

Biography

Maurice Bernard Sendak was an American illustrator and writer of children’s books. He was born on June 10, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, to Polish Jewish immigrant parents. Sendak is best known for his book “Where the Wild Things Are,” first published in 1963, which has become a classic in children’s literature. His work is renowned for its unique and sometimes controversial style, incorporating dark themes and complex emotions that challenge the traditional norms of children’s books. Sendak’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, during which he illustrated over 150 books. He also worked in various other artistic mediums, including opera and film. He received numerous accolades for his contributions to literature and art, including the Caldecott Medal, the Hans Christian Andersen Award, and the National Medal of Arts. Maurice Sendak passed away on May 8, 2012, leaving behind a significant and influential legacy.

5 Interesting Facts about Maurice Sendak

1. Maurice Sendak designed the sets for several operas, including “The Magic Flute” and “The Nutcracker.”

2. He was inspired to become an illustrator after watching Disney’s “Fantasia” at a young age.

3. Sendak was openly gay and lived with his partner, psychoanalyst Eugene Glynn, for 50 years until Glynn’s death in 2007.

4. He illustrated “Where the Wild Things Are” based on his childhood memories and his relatives’ personalities.

5. Sendak was a strong advocate for children’s right to experience a range of emotions through literature, including fear and sadness.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Maurice Sendak

1. “I refuse to lie to children. I refuse to cater to the bullshit of innocence.”

2. “You cannot write for children. They’re much too complicated. You can only write books that are of interest to them.”

3. “There must be more to life than having everything.”

4. “I have nothing now but praise for my life. I’m not unhappy. I cry a lot because I miss people. They die, and I can’t stop them. They leave me, and I love them more.”

5. “I said anything I wanted because I don’t believe in children’s books. I think it’s a lie to say you have to write a certain way for children.”