Toronto Reference Library Blog

This year marks the 50^th anniversary of the publication of Maurice Sendak’s Where The Wild Things Are – one of the world’s best-loved children’s books. The phenomenally successful TD Gallery exhibit has finished, but you can still come and enjoy “Let The Wild Rumpus Start!” at the Osborne Collection (Lillian H. Smith Branch, 239 College Street, 4^th floor) until MONDAY, March 7.

King Max, watercolour and ink, circa late 1960s. © Maurice Sendak: All Rights Reserved

The exhibit provides a journey through the early works by masters whose influence is easily seen (and was gladly acknowledged) by Sendak. From Rowlandson’s inspired fantasy through William Blake, Cruikshank and the Brothers Grimm, Caldecott and Winsor McCay, these are the artists whose work spoke to the young Sendak, who in turn developed his own individualistic style. Interwoven with the artistic influences are the storytellers that helped to build Sendak’s own “cauldron of story,” ranging from his Jewish folk heritage, the musical background of New York and even – surprisingly – Disney’s Mickey Mouse, a figure Sendak found deliciously appealing.

Next, you will see here the pivotal historical events that marked Sendak’s youth. The Dionne Quints, Baby Lindbergh, developments in movie animation – all made their mark on Sendak. But what could rival the emotional impact of his pet dogs – lifelong companions, and inspiration for some of Sendak’s finest books? Only his own family, the source of his greatest comfort, and the essence of his own story.

Other parts of the display include special cases devoted to “Really Rosie,” “Little Bear” and, of course, “Wild Things.”  Sendak’s works are today’s classics of children’s literature and art – come and enjoy them at Osborne!  

Hours: Monday-Friday 10-6, Saturdays 9-5. Closed Sundays and holidays. Admission free and all are welcome! 

Groups requesting tours, please call ahead, (416) 393-7753 or email lmcgrath@torontopubliclibrary.ca

This year marks the 50^th anniversary of the publication of Maurice Sendak’s Where The Wild Things Are – one of the world’s best-loved children’s books. The phenomenally successful TD Gallery exhibit has finished, but you can still come and enjoy “Let The Wild Rumpus Start!” at the Osborne Collection (Lillian H. Smith Branch, 239 College Street, 4^th floor) until MONDAY, March 7.

King Max, watercolour and ink, circa late 1960s. © Maurice Sendak: All Rights Reserved

The exhibit provides a journey through the early works by masters whose influence is easily seen (and was gladly acknowledged) by Sendak. From Rowlandson’s inspired fantasy through William Blake, Cruikshank and the Brothers Grimm, Caldecott and Winsor McCay, these are the artists whose work spoke to the young Sendak, who in turn developed his own individualistic style. Interwoven with the artistic influences are the storytellers that helped to build Sendak’s own “cauldron of story,” ranging from his Jewish folk heritage, the musical background of New York and even – surprisingly – Disney’s Mickey Mouse, a figure Sendak found deliciously appealing.

Next, you will see here the pivotal historical events that marked Sendak’s youth. The Dionne Quints, Baby Lindbergh, developments in movie animation – all made their mark on Sendak. But what could rival the emotional impact of his pet dogs – lifelong companions, and inspiration for some of Sendak’s finest books? Only his own family, the source of his greatest comfort, and the essence of his own story.

Other parts of the display include special cases devoted to “Really Rosie,” “Little Bear” and, of course, “Wild Things.”  Sendak’s works are today’s classics of children’s literature and art – come and enjoy them at Osborne!  

Hours: Monday-Friday 10-6, Saturdays 9-5. Closed Sundays and holidays. Admission free and all are welcome! 

Groups requesting tours, please call ahead, (416) 393-7753 or email lmcgrath@torontopubliclibrary.ca