Shel Silverstein

Shel Silverstein was a VERY gifted person who writes children's literature. Shel wrote The Lion Who Shot Back, which was published, in 1963. Then, in 1964, Shel wrote The Giving Tree which was complimented much by the people reading the book. There were some complaints about it, but it is still a well-rounded book. Now (in 2008), it is a very famous story. The other book written by Shel in 1964 is called A Giraffe and a Half.

Shel Silverstein's poems are great poems that usually leave you thinking or questioning. His drawings and writings are so unique that you can almost always tell it is Shel's. One of the poem books Shel wrote, called Where the Sidewalk Ends, was named a classic immediately after it was published. Then, in Shel's later life, he wrote A Light in the Attic and Falling Up. Both of these books were at the top of the "best seller" lists for months.

Shel Silverstein was born in 1930 on September 25 th. When he was a kid, he wanted to be a good baseball player or a hit with the girls. But Shel couldn't play baseball or dance so he decided to do something different. He decided to write. Before Shel wrote, he drew cartoons, and never expected to write for children. He later died in 1999 on May 10 th. He had lived to be 68 years old.

Here are some cool facts on Shel. His life motto was " Have A Good Time". Shel Silverstein was in the army in the 1950's! While in the army, he drew cartoons for the military newspaper. It took 4 YEARS to publish The Giving Tree! And, last but not least, his books have sold over 20 MILLION copies and have been translated into 20 DIFFERENT LANGUAGES!!!

I think Shel Silverstein is a great, good-hearted, gifted person who rocks. I hope, by this paper, I have changed or broadened your thoughts on Shel Silverstein. He teaches very good lessons in life with his books.