Where the Wild Things Are by: Jacqui Robbins and Matt Phelan

Ages: 4-8

A young boy named Max, wearing a wolf costume, was up to mischief at home. He was sent to his room without eating dinner. In his room, the story begins as Max’s imagination takes over and he goes on an amazing adventure. A forest grows in his room and he sails to where the wild things are. He decides he wants to tame the wild things, and surprisingly does so. He becomes king of all the wild things. After awhile he wants to go back to the comforts of his home. When he returns home, dinner is waiting for him. See all of Max’s adventures with the wild things in this children’s book.

Where the Wild Things Are is a fun book that allows readers to use their imagination. Both children and adults will find this book enjoyable. The text and the illustrations complement one another. The words are simple enough for young children to understand, and for elementary school students to read on their own. The illustrations in this book are wonderful. The images start out fairly small, and as Max begins to imagine more and more, the pictures get larger. The images attract children with the setting and imaginary creatures. The monsters look scary, but are not scary enough to frighten most children. There is a good lesson portrayed in the book that there are consequences for bad behavior, but that they can be forgiven. Children also learn that they can use their imagination and have fun wherever they are. I believe that the simple, yet powerful message of home being the safest and happiest place is a great message to convey to children. Where the Wild Things Are is a distinguished children’s book that has remained to be one of the best picture books of all time.