Maurice Sendak

My first encounter with Maurice Sendak books was Where the Wild Things Are.  In my undergraduate children's literature class we read all the Caldecott and Newbery books.  Since this book had received the 1964 Caldecott Medal, it was on the list of books to read.  I was captivated by the bold and imaginative illustrations!  I had no way of knowing at that time that I would read this book to my kindergarten classes every year, and it would always be a favorite!  I was happy when the film version came out in 2009.  We had great classroom discussions about why the movie was so much longer than the book.  My advice is always to read the book first, then see the movie.
Chicken Soup with Rice is another enjoyable book!  The book is set to music by Carol King.  This book helps children learn the months of the year.
An alphabet book featuring alligators is Alligators All Around.  One Was Johnny is a counting book.  The book Pierre is charming!  Any child who has a hard time making choices should hear this cautionary tale!  The Little Bear books were illustrated by Maurice Sendak.  The pictures are so warm and loving.
Mr. Sendak, we will miss you very much, but your books will live on!