Maurice Sendak started as an illustrator for another favorite author (Ruth Krauss) before he published his own works.

Our favorite:

Where the Wild Things Are may be controversial in some quarters, but it's a favorite around here. What child wouldn't identify with Max, at least every now and then?

Gladys Hunt in Honey for a Child's Heart deals with this book so sensitively, I won't rehash her arguments. (But definitely pick that book up if you're looking for children's book suggestions!)

Others by Maurice Sendak that we own:

 Higglety Pigglety Pop! Droll illustrations of a terrier who goes to find adventure. An unusual story.
 Hector Protector and As I Went Over the Water. These lesser known Mother Goose rhymes get updated with Sendak's lively illustrations.

And another favorite that Mr. Sendak illustrated:

You will find illustrations by this prolific artist in many children's books. He's even in the 1964 edition of Childcraft! (Which is where I first saw his work. I don't remember reading any of his books as a child, but I devoured Childcraft.)

Other sites about Mr. Sendak or his work:

• Maurice Sendak biography and timeline
• The Maurice Sendak collection at The Rosenbach
• 10 Things You Might Not Know About Maurice Sendak from Mental Floss.

Do you have a favorite by Maurice Sendak?

Resources for Readers: