By Sarah Bruursema, Grand Rapids Public Library, Main 

Some of the most amazing books can be enjoyed by all ages. The release of director Spike Jonze’s adaptation of the beloved children’s book Where the Wild Things Are offers an opportunity to revisit why both adults and kids alike are so captivated by this classic read. No matter if it’s your first time entering Max’s world, introducing the story to a child, or reading the book for the third, twelfth, twentieth time… mischief will certainly ensue!

From the very beginning we get to know the playful, misbehaving main character Max as he is sent to his room without dinner. While sulking in his bedroom wearing his infamous wolf suit we are lead into Max’s imaginary land full of Wild Things and adventure. The brave young boy rules over his new world, displaying his recently acquired magic skills, and creating all sorts of wild rumpus. The wonderful quality this book contains is that the story can morph into something new for each reader.

The detailed illustrations make this a book that can be enjoyed by all. The carefully crafted, minimalist storyline is transformed by the images of giant, yellow eyed creatures that manage to create a scary excitement without crossing the line into real fear. You may even find that each page turned just makes them more endearing.

In the end, no matter how you experience the story the resounding call for home gets whispered into each reader’s ear. Although we may all want to crawl into an imaginary land, there’s nothing quite like coming back to a place we love.