Where The Wild Things Are
by Maurice Sendak
Picture Books, Fiction, Classics, Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult, Animals, Kids, Monsters
Max, a wild and naughty boy, is sent to bed without his supper by his exhausted mother. In his room, he imagines sailing far away to a land of Wild Things. Instead of eating him, the Wild Things make Max their king.
Recommendations from Common Sense Media
Age Recommendation: 2+
What Parents Need to Know:
Parents need to know that Maurice Sendak‘s Where the Wild Things Are is a classic of children’s literature. Although Max misbehaves, the message is one of parental love. This subtle masterpiece of story, writing, and art will have kids asking for repeated readings. Colorful language and a world of imagination make this wild adventure a fun learning experience.
Educational Value: 2/5
A good lesson in the power of imagination.
Positive Role Models: 1/5
Max is a great model of a boy using his imagination. He misbehaves around the house and is sent to his room without any supper. He also sends the wild things to bed without supper. Perhaps his behavior toward the monsters means he understands why he was punished, making it a touching gesture when his dinner is waiting for him in his room.
Violence & Scariness: 2/5
Max threatens to eat up his parents and the wild things. The wild things gnash their teeth and pretend to be scary but they have rather goofy, kind faces and Max isn’t afraid of them.
Sex, Romance & Nudity: n/a
n/a
Language: n/a
n/a
Products & Purchases: n/a
n/a
Drinking, Drugs & Smoking: n/a
n/a
View Common Sense Media entry:
Search libraries for Where The Wild Things Are:
Purchase Where The Wild Things Are:
