Very sad news. legendary children’s author and illustrator murice Sendak has passed away at the age of 83. The author died in Danbury, Connecticut, earlier today due to complications from a recent stroke, his long-time editor Michael di Capua tells the New York Times.
Sendak, who penned 17 books over the course of his career is best known for his book Where the Wild Things Are, which has endured as one of the classics of children’s literature. he was also a talented illustrator, a skill which was mostly self taught.
A number of celebrities tweeted about the loss. In a series of posts, British musician Mika writes, “Maurice Sendak has died. I am so sad to hear that news. He was one of my lifelong heroes. I met him at his house last year & adored him. We spent the afternoon together & he was everything I hoped he would be. Full of mischief and joy but also the grumpiest man ever. Loveable. His life was full of achievements… He was a notorious hypochondriac & people used to joke that he was always saying he was ill or dying. This time it was for real. Such a loss.”
Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood writes, “Maurice Sendak has left us for the land of the wild things. May he carry on adventuring,” and director Kevin Smith adds, “And send-off to Sendak: Rest in Peace, Maurice!” Mia Farrow adds, “Rest in Peace Maurice Sendak.”
Where the Wild Things are is one of the most loved children’s books of all times, and one that personally affected and influenced me as a child. Thank you, Maurice Sendak, for the wonderful stories you gave children everywhere, which will endure for years and years to come.
