Maurice Sendak: A Celebration of the Artist and His Work by Justin G. Schiller (review)

This latest tribute to Sendak features more than two hundred previously unpublished sketches and other works from the late artist along with twelve essays from art curators, librarians, and scholars, including well-known names such as Iona Opie and Paul O. Zelinsky. Marcus, who edits the collection, provides the first chapter, offering historical context for Sendak’s work both in the art world and the realm of children’s literature and highlighting the artist’s creative evolution, with specific attention given to Where the Wild Things Are and In the Night Kitchen. A large trim size and oversized photo reproductions make for easy browsing and the juxtapositions of sketches next to final works provide a glimpse of the artist’s process. Though most of the essays are more admiring than academic, this still makes a fine addition to the shelves of any Sendak fan.