Shel Silverstein Biography and Video | Poet

Well-known and loved poet and author Sheldon Allan Silverstein was born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 25, 1930, to Nathan and Helen Silverstein. He attended the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts, now the Art Institute of Chicago. Shel dropped out of college to enlist in the army when he was nineteen, serving in Korea and Japan. He started illustrating cartoons for the Pacific Stars & Stripes magazine. He worked for Sports Illustrated when his military career was over, but his work with Playboy got him national recognition. He had cartoons appear in every Playboy issue from 1957 through the 1970s. While working for the adult magazine, he started publishing his cartoon books.

His Career

In 1963, Harper and Row book editor Ursula Nordstrom suggested Silverstein start writing and illustrating books for children. He wrote three books in two years; the last was "The Giving Tree," which became his best-known book. "The Giving Tree" has been causing much debate and criticism. Initially rejected by publishers because the themes seemed more adult than juvenile, it has been called anti-feminist and targeted by religious groups. Even through the debates, it has been translated into over 25 languages and consistently makes the list of top children's books.

He also started writing poetry collections. Through the 1970s and early '80s, he released such collections as "Where The Sidewalk Ends" and "A Light In The Attic." He made a big comeback in 1996, releasing "Falling Up," followed by "Draw A Skinny Elephant" in 1998. His poems are silly, and each book has black-and-white pen-style drawings to illustrate some of the funnier points.

Having a creative mind, Silverstein branched out in the 1960s and '70s, writing music. He wrote musical pieces for films while writing such songs as "A Boy Named Sue" for the great Johnny Cash. One of Loretta Lynn's top hits was "One's On The Way," which is about a pregnant mother of many contemplating her crazy life. It was also written by Silverstein. The 1970 film "Ned Kelly" features his songs sung by legends such as Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson. He is still praised in many musical circles, but his work as an author captures his genius. 

Later Years

Shel Silverstein continued to write music and poetry even into his last years. It was his passion in life, and he pursued it to the end. He was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe and won a Grammy for his work with Johnny Cash. In 2002, he was inducted into Nashville's Songwriters Hall of Fame, and in 2014, he was inducted into the Chicago Literary Hall of Fame. His books have sold over 20 million copies worldwide. 

Personal and Family Life

Silverstein had a close relationship with his sister, Peggy Myers. They often shared creative ideas, which fostered his early love for writing and drawing and a shared love for storytelling. This connection influenced many of Silverstein's famous works.

Silverstein had two children, a son and a daughter. He cherished his role as a father and often wrote about his experiences in his poetry. Even though he found great professional success and aspects of his family life shaped his creative journey and influenced his work throughout his career, he suffered great personal tragedies.

He married Susan Hastings and has one daughter with her, Shoshanna. One day before their daughter turned five, Susan passed away of unknown causes. Shoshanna also passed away at the young age of eleven. She had a brain aneurysm. Even though Silverstein never remarried, he had one more child, a son named Matthew. 

His Poems

Shel Silverstein's poems use fun and imaginative language, making them enjoyable for both children and adults. His unique illustrations complement his words well, adding a visual element that draws readers into his whimsical world. Many of his poems contain valuable life lessons. Silverstein conveys wisdom through humor, making the lessons memorable and relatable. These features combine to create a literary experience that resonates with readers of all ages.

His Drawings

Shel Silverstein's drawings have a distinctive, whimsical quality. They often feature exaggerated proportions and playful characters, making them instantly recognizable. His illustrations beautifully complement his poetry. They enhance the humor and emotion of the verses, creating a deeper connection with readers. Silverstein's art appeals to both children and adults. The simplicity and charm resonate across generations, inviting everyone to engage with his work. These elements make Shel Silverstein's drawings essential to his literary legacy.

How Did He Die?

Shel Silverstein passed away on May 10, 1999, from a heart attack at the age of 68. His death came as a shock to many fans. Silverstein was a beloved poet and author known for his whimsical and insightful children's books. His works continue to resonate with readers of all ages. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through his timeless stories and poems.