On June 19th, SVA Visual Narrative’s own Leonard Marcus will be moderating a discussion about Maurice Sendak and his contribution to children’s books, illustration and popular culture.

I know, in my household, Sendak was like an invisible uncle, always present under our roof, with his strong opinions and dark charm. Where the Wild Things Are and In the Night Kitchen were palpable companions, as they somehow sat comfortably on the bookshelf next to the likes of Goodnight Moon and Curious George. But when I put a little more time into each of his pages, even as a kid (or especially as a kid) I spotted a sophisticated energy, a truth, that sticks with me today in my perception of monsters, consequences, family.

Sendak’s efforts have come under greater scrutiny as time passes, which is as it should be. Join Leonard Marcus as he leads the way for us to better understand one of the most influential storytellers of any time. June 19th, 2013.