Where the Wild Things Are

by Maurice Sendak

Nearly 50 years after Max first cried, "Let the wild rumpus start," Maurice Sendak's tale continues to captivate generation after generation of children—and the grown-ups who read to them. With its beautiful story and artwork, this classic truly deserves its place as one of the best-loved children's books ever.

about the movie

Innovative director Spike Jonze collaborates with celebrated author Maurice Sendak to bring one of the most beloved books of all time to the big screen in Where the Wild Things Are, a classic story about the journeys we take to figure out the world we live in. Max, a rambunctious and sensitive boy feels misunderstood at home and escapes to where the Wild Things are—an island of creatures with wild emotions and actions. The Wild Things, longing for guidance, make Max king, and he promises to create a place where everyone is happy. But Max soon finds that ruling his kingdom is not so easy and his relationships there prove more complicated than he ever imagined.

about the author

Recipient of the 1964 Caldecott Medal for Where the Wild Things Are, Maurice Sendak also received the Hans Christian Andersen Medal for illustration in 1970—the only American awarded this honor. Among Sendak's other honors is the 1996 National Medal of Arts, recognizing his contribution to the arts in America.

READ MORE

Event kit contributions provided by the National Wildlife Federation. Be Out There is National Wildlife Federation's campaign to get kids and families outside. Download free activity guides and discover the wild thing within you.