Maurice Sendak, children’s book author and illustrator, died early today. He was 83.  

His work entertained and delighted children. He once said his illustrations for “Where the Wild Things Are” were taken from his relatives – the less attractive and rather unpleasant ones.  

“Sendak also created costumes for ballets and staged operas, including the Czech opera ‘Brundibar,’ which he also put on paper with collaborator Pulitzer-winning playwright Tony Kushner in 2003.”

Sendak designed the amazing Pacific Northwest Ballet's "Nutcracker" production which later became a television movie and he produced various animated TV series based on his illustrations.

His quirky illustrations and view of childhood resonated with children everywhere. He leaves a treasured literary legacy for generations to enjoy.

(S-R archives photo: Max Records stars in “Where the Wild Things Are.” Warner Bros.)

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