Surfing the Net with kids
Although Maurice Sendak’s 1963 children’s book “Where the Wild Things Are’’ consists of only 10 sentences, it has been a big international hit. As of last year, more than 19 million copies of the book have been sold worldwide. Now it’s been adapted into a movie by director Spike Jonze. Although the film may not be appropriate for young children, its success brings attention once again to Sendak, his artwork, and this wonderful children’s book.
HarperCollinsChildrens: Where the Wild Things Are www.harpercollinschildrens.com/kids/gamesandcontests/features/wildthings/
The official “Where the Wild Things Are’’ book site from publisher HarperCollins Children’s features a Maurice Sendak biography, a list of awards won by the book (such as the 1964 Caldecott), and a complete listing of Sendak’s 79 HarperCollins books. Wow! But the best clicks are the printable goodies: a six-page activity book, a coloring page, and a cutout of Max’s royal crown, all found in Extras.
NWF: Be Out There: Where the Wild Things Are
The National Wildlife Federation has teamed up with the movie to “connect kids and families with nature at home, at schools, and in their communities.’’ They’ve created a PDF kids guide titled “Find the Wild Thing in You,’’ a parents and teachers activity guide to the movie, and a printable activity poster. All these downloads are really big, so be patient. But your patience will be rewarded with activity ideas such as a monster mobile, Wild Things bingo, and a crown pattern to cut out and wear.
Reading Rockets: Family Literacy Bag: Where the Wild Things Are
A Family Literacy Bag is a printable activity booklet, bookmark, parent info sheet, and parent survey designed to be placed in a Ziploc bag by a teacher and sent home with a book. But for our purpose, you’ll find great value here whether you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, or scout leader. The “Where the Wild Things Are’’ activity book includes a kitchen project (“Max must have been hungry! Would your child be willing to give up a kingdom for a favorite food?’’) and a collage project using images of day and night. “While sorting, talk with your child about how they feel when they wake up, during the day, and when they go to bed at night.’’
Terrible Yellow Eyes
Terrible Yellow Eyes is a collection of artwork inspired by “Where the Wild Things Are’’ put together by artist Cory Godbey, who says this about it: “Simply put, like a visual love letter to the book, with Terrible Yellow Eyes I am seeking to celebrate and promote the original masterwork by Maurice Sendak in the best way I know how - with pictures.’’ I loved it, and I’m certain you will too.
