Reflection One for Where the Wild Things Are

Analysis Summary

"Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak is a beloved children's book that follows the imaginative journey of a young boy named Max, who, after being sent to his room without supper for misbehaving, escapes into a fantasy world inhabited by wild creatures.

While the book is cherished for its imaginative storytelling and captivating illustrations, some individuals have found aspects that could be considered problematic:

Behavioral Issues and Discipline: The story begins with Max engaging in misbehavior, resulting in his punishment of being sent to his room without supper. Some critics argue that the book might inadvertently convey a message that acting out or disobeying authority can lead to adventure or reward.

Representation of Wild Things: The portrayal of the "Wild Things" in the book has been interpreted in different ways. Some readers see the creatures as manifestations of Max's emotions and imagination, while others have raised concerns about the creatures' appearances and behavior, suggesting that they might be intimidating or frightening for some children.

It's important to note that while these points have been raised as potential concerns, "Where the Wild Things Are" continues to be widely celebrated for its creativity, emotional resonance, and its ability to spark children's imaginations. Readers' interpretations of the book can vary widely, and what some see as problematic, others may view as thought-provoking or open to different interpretations.

Impact Assessment

Some students might face challenges or have specific impacts from the book: Fears and Anxiety: The book's portrayal of wild creatures and Max's journey might be intimidating or frightening for some children, especially younger or more sensitive readers, potentially causing anxiety or fear. Misinterpretation of Behavior: Without proper guidance, students might misinterpret Max's behavior as a positive way to deal with anger or disobedience, rather than understanding the consequences of his actions. In a more positive note, Encourages Imagination and Creativity: For many children, the book serves as an inspiration to explore their imagination. It encourages them to create their own worlds and stories, fostering creativity and inventive thinking.

Alternative Texts

• The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright - This story encourages courage, self-confidence, and embracing one's inner strength. It's about a small mouse learning to find his roar.

Guiding Questions

1. Mirror: How do you relate to the character of the small mouse in the story who wanted to be more courageous like a lion? Can you think of a time when you felt small or unsure but found courage within yourself?
2. Window: How do you think the story might change if it were told from the perspective of the lion instead of the mouse? What might the lion see or feel that's different from what the mouse experiences?
3. Doorway: If you were to write an additional chapter for this story, what adventure would the mouse and lion go on next? How would they help each other and learn more about themselves along the way?

These open-ended questions are designed to encourage students to reflect on personal experiences, gain different perspectives, and spark creativity and imagination while engaging with the themes and characters from "The Lion Inside."