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Happy Birthday, Shel Silverstein!

By Jennifer P on Sep 25, 2014 8:44 AM
Photo by Larry Moyer

The multi-talented Shel Silverstein was born on September 25th, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois. Although he is most well known for his children's books, Silverstein was also a prolific songwriter, penning hits for several rock and country stars, including Johnny Cash's "A Boy Named Sue".

Silverstein's illustrations were first published when he was a student at Roosevelt University. While in the army, he illustrated cartoons for the military newspaper, Stars and Stripes. Upon returning stateside, Silverstein had cartoons published in several magazines, including Sports Illustrated and Look. His first children's book was published in 1963, titled Uncle Shelby's Story of Lafcadio: The Lion Who Shot Back. Silverstein's best known work, The Giving Tree, was published in 1964. He also wrote and illustrated several books of children's poetry, including Where the Sidewalk Ends and A Light in the Attic.

Shel Silverstein died in 1999 at the age of 68. Since his death, two additional children's books have been published, and all of his works continue to be popular with children and adults alike. Silverstein's estate has an active website for his works, including a section that provides lesson and activity plans for teachers, librarians and day care providers.

 



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