Maurice Sendak Google Doodle

On Monday 10^th June 2013 Google paid homage to Maurice Sendak, the famous children’s author and illustrator.

The Maurice Sendak Google Doodle celebrated what would have been the deceased illustrators 85^th birthday, his most famous works include: “Where the Wild Things Are,” “In the Night Kitchen“, and “Outside over There.“

Through his creative storytelling and colourful illustrations, Sendek captured the imaginations of adults and children alike. For those unfamiliar with his books, many will remember the film adaptation of his 1963 novel “Where the Wild Things Are”, which was released in 2009.

Jennifer Hom a prominent member of the Google Doodles team explained the challenges behind creating the Sendak themed animated doodle:

“To honor such a cherished cultural icon is no small task. How can anyone sing the praises of Maurice Sendak with enough affection? The doodlers and I decided to let Sendak’s characters do the talking, or the walking rather. The doodle is a kind of parade- sixteen of his characters march through their stories and gather around a birthday cake decked with candles that read “85.” Even his dog, Herman, makes an appearance to wish Maurice a warm happy birthday.”

The Maurice Sendak Google Doodle is an adorable rendition of some of Sendeks most famous works. The fully animated doodle is presented in a semi circle which rotates depicting a number of scenes.

It begins with Sendeks most famous publication: “Where the Wild Things Are”, and features Max being chased by the Wild Things onto a boat. You then watch Max and his wild friends enjoy a “wild rumpus”, before the doodle moves to a kitchen themed commemoration of “In the Night Kitchen”. The night kitchen shows a series of bakers wandering through a world of cooking supplies and ingredients.

The final scene of the doodle is based on one of Sendeks last books: “Bumble-Ardy”, his final novel which told the story of a pig who threw himself a birthday party.

Sendek’s wide popularity with a child audience was drawn from his deep rooted respect for the both the intellect and imagination of children. In his own words: “You cannot write for children. They’re much too complicated; you can only write books that are of interest to them.”

Much of the inspiration for his books is said to have come from his own difficult past. He was born in America to Jewish parents of Polish origin, who immigrated to escape the atrocities of the holocaust. He died on the morning of May 8^th 2012 in hospital from complications resulting from a prior stroke.