The Wild Things (ISBN 1934781630) is a novel written by Dave Eggers, released on October 13, 2009, by McSweeney's. The book is a novelization inspired by the screenplay of Where the Wild Things Are, which Eggers co-wrote with Spike Jonze. The film itself is based on Maurice Sendak's 1963 children's book Where the Wild Things Are''. ''

Development

The novel The Wild Things began as a request from Spike Jonze, who asked Eggers to co-write the screenplay for the film adaptation of Sendak's classic book. Later, Maurice Sendak requested Eggers to write a novelization of the story. Eggers infused the character of Max with elements from his childhood, making the character's journey a reflection of his personal experiences. Eggers' interpretation of Max differs from both Sendak’s and Jonze’s versions, offering a unique exploration of the character's inner life and psychological development.

Plot and themes

Eggers' novel expands significantly on the original children's story, further exploring Max's psyche and the symbolic significance of the island and its inhabitants. The novel portrays Max as a troubled boy dealing with complex emotions, including anger, loneliness, and a yearning for control. The island serves as a symbolic space where Max confronts these emotions, and the Wild Things represent different facets of his personality and emotional struggles. The novel is lauded for its rich symbolism, vivid imagery, and deeper, more mature exploration of themes such as identity, the power of imagination, and the complexities of childhood and family dynamics.

Critical reception

The Wild Things received generally positive reviews for its imaginative narrative and emotional depth. Critics have praised Eggers for his ability to create a novel that stands independently, separate from the original children's book and the film adaptation. The novel was described as "deeply imaginative, slightly strange, occasionally dark, and ultimately touching," with Eggers’ writing style noted for its crispness and vitality.

Awards