Where the Wild Things Are: A Caldecott Award Winner
What’s inside...
Read-along with the story in this book and CD edition! One night Max puts on his wolf suit and makes mischief of one kind and another, so his mother calls him 'Wild Thing' and sends him to bed without his supper. That night a forest begins to grow in Max's room and an ocean rushes by with a boat to take Max to the place where the wild things are. Max tames the wild things and crowns himself as their king, and then the wild rumpus begins. But when Max has sent the monsters to bed, and everything is quiet, he starts to feel lonely and realizes it is time to sail home to the place where someone loves him best of all. Published by Tomorrow Publishing House in its first edition on September 1, 2009, this book includes a story CD and contains 48 pages in Chinese. The story, which was first published in 1963 under the title 'haunt of wild beasts', stirred much controversy and sparked discussions. The New York Times and Brian Dougherty weighed in on its significance.
Age
0-5
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Max
The Wild Things
Discussion points
What do you think Max learned during his adventure with the Wild Things?
How do you feel when you're angry or upset like Max? What helps you feel better?
Why do you think the Wild Things wanted Max to be their king?
What does 'home' mean to you, like how Max missed his home?
How did the pictures help tell the story? Which part of the illustrations did you like the most?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin the discussion by summarizing the book together, then ask the open-ended questions to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings.
Relate real-life scenarios to Max's emotions or actions to help your child connect personally with the story's themes.
Encourage your child to point out their favorite illustrations and describe what they see. This can help to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the story.
Listen actively and validate your child’s feelings, showing that their thoughts and opinions are important.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing emotions
Explanation: Max's journey to where the wild things are symbolizes a safe exploration of anger and other intense emotions. It demonstrates that feeling strong emotions is normal and can be managed creatively.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to express their feelings through art, play, or conversation, understanding that their emotions are valid and manageable.
Example Lesson: Importance of imagination
Explanation: Max's imaginative adventure highlights the power and significance of a child's fantasy world in understanding and coping with real-life situations.
Real-World Application: Encouraging imaginative play in children helps them develop creativity and problem-solving skills as they navigate their own 'wild' challenges.
Example Lesson: Understanding consequences
Explanation: When Max returns from his voyage, he finds his supper waiting for him, indicating that actions have consequences but also that forgiveness is always available.
Real-World Application: Teaches children that although they can make mistakes or act out, the stability of home and forgiveness is always present, fostering a sense of security and moral understanding.
Example Lesson: Value of home and family
Explanation: Despite the excitement of ruling over the wild things, Max chooses to return home, showing the inherent comfort and love found in one’s family.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to appreciate their family and understand the irreplaceable comfort and love that family provides, even after experiencing the thrilling adventures the world offers.