Where To Find Where The Wild Things Are Stuffed Animals

Since its publication in 1963, Maurice Sendak’s classic children’s book Where the Wild Things Are has captured the imaginations of generations of young readers. If you’re looking to bring the wild rumpus to life with Max and the monsters in plush form, this guide to Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals has got you covered.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: Official Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals can be purchased online from retailers like Amazon and Target or specialty toy stores like Magic Forest and Pufferbellies Toys.

You’ll find a variety of Wild Things plush toys ranging from classic characters like Max and Carol to more obscure monsters.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide an overview of Where the Wild Things Are and its enduring popularity before diving into the nitty gritty details on Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animal options, including:

Where to buy official and high-quality unofficial Wild Things plushes, key characteristics of the most popular Wild Things stuffed animals, tips for identifying authentic Sendak-licensed products, price ranges for Wild Things plush toys, and five of our top picks for cuddly monsters that will spark imaginative play.

The Enduring Popularity of Where the Wild Things Are

Overview of the Children’s Book Classic

First published in 1963, Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak has become one of the most beloved and iconic children’s books of all time. Centering around a young boy named Max who journeys to a land of wild creatures, the story’s imaginative world, mischievous spirit, and playful language have captured the hearts of generations of young readers.

With its lavish illustrations of fantastical monsters and innovative mix of text and art, Where the Wild Things Are was groundbreaking for its time. Sendak’s uncannily insightful depictions of a child’s emotions also struck a chord, allowing young readers to see themselves in the rebellious yet creative Max.

Over time, the book has sold over 20 million copies globally.

Why Where the Wild Things Are Still Resonates Today

More than half a century after its debut, Maurice Sendak’s classic tale continues to entrance children and parents alike. Much of its lasting power comes from how Sendak skillfully tapped into universal childhood themes that still ring true.

At its core, Where the Wild Things Are appeals to every child’s need for adventure and imagination. The story gives kids a vision of a boundless world where play reigns supreme and anything is possible—a space to escape from the structure of daily life.

Sendak’s wild rumpus speaks to children’s innate craving for fun and freedom.

The book also validates a range of emotions, from Max’s initial anger at being sent to bed without supper to his ultimate sense of belonging upon becoming king of the Wild Things. As Sendak once said, “It is through fantasy that children achieve catharsis.”

Ultimately, the story has remained a favorite because it promotes values that still deeply matter today: creativity, individuality, and adventure. Over half a century since its debut, parents continue to pass down Where the Wild Things Are to foster imagination in their kids—and watching Max sail off “through night and day” never loses its magical appeal.

Official vs. Unofficial Where the Wild Things Are Plush Toys

Key Brands for Licensed Wild Things Stuffies

The most popular official Where the Wild Things Are plush toys come from brands like Gund and Aurora. These companies partner with Maurice Sendak or his estate to produce high quality, licensed stuffed animals based on the beloved characters from the children’s book.

Key traits of official Wild Things plush include:

• Accurate depictions of characters like Max, Carol, Judith, Ira, Alexander, and more
• Premium soft fabrics and stuffing materials
• Tagging and branding from Sendak’s official licensees

By purchasing branded items from leading toy companies, collectors can be confident they are getting authentic Where the Wild Things Are merchandise approved by Sendak’s lineage.

What to Look for in Authentic Sendak Plush

When evaluating the authenticity of a Wild Things stuffed animal, examine it closely for signs of licensing. Official plush toys will feature a sewn-in tag or imprinted logo from Maurice Sendak or his formal licensees.

High attention to detail in capturing the wild things’ furry features and facial expressions is another mark of a licensed product.

Signs that a plush may be counterfeit include:

• Missing or incorrect branding tags
• Poor recreation of the characters’ unique horns, claws, and fur
• Use of lower-grade, lightweight fabrics

The high demand for Where the Wild Things Are toys makes them a target for unlicensed knock-offs. But with a careful eye, fans can identify authentic plush to add to their collections.

Quality Characteristics of Unofficial Wild Things Plush

While unofficial plush toys lack licensing from Sendak, some quality stuffed animals continue to capture the whimsical spirit of the Wild Things characters. These products tend to feature:

• Soft, cushiony fabrics and polyester stuffing
• Vibrant, accurate colors and fur patterns
• Embroidered facial details rather than printed faces
• Poseable wire frames allowing characters to stand on their own

Though not approved as licensed goods, these thoughtful unofficial designs demonstrate manufacturers’ passion in continuing Sendak’s imaginative vision. For many fans, especially children, counterfeit plush provides a more affordable way to bring home their favorite monsters from Where the Wild Things Are.

Where to Buy Where the Wild Things Are Stuffed Animals

Online Retailers

Some of the best places to find Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals are popular online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy where you can search and browse a wide selection. On Amazon and eBay, you’ll find officially licensed stuffed animals of main characters like Max, Carol, Judith, Alexander, and more.

Etsy offers handmade stuffed animals inspired by the beloved Maurice Sendak book.

Other great online shops to check include Fat Brain Toys, Stuffed Safari, and Acrylic Display Cases. These specialty retailers carry high-quality Where the Wild Things Are plushes and figurines from brands like Gund, Aurora, and Wild Republic.

Specialty Toy Stores

Walk into toy stores like Learning Express and Build-A-Bear Workshop and you’re likely to spot Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals on the shelves. These retailers tend to carry classic, beloved character toys from children’s books, movies, and more.

SoMaxx and Mary Meyer are two popular plush brands you may find.

Independent toy shops and children’s bookstores in your community may also sell Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals, especially during the holidays. Supporting local businesses is worthwhile, and you may discover unique, one-of-a-kind Wild Things finds!

Secondhand Sites

Searching secondhand sites like eBay, Mercari, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace can yield deals on pre-loved stuffed animals. Vintage Where the Wild Things Are plush toys from the 1980s and 90s may be listed here.

NOTHING brings back childhood nostalgia more than finding beloved childhood stuffed animals from days past.

What’s great about pre-owned items is they hold stories. You may find handmade or custom Wild Things that someone clearly cherished. And the prices are generally more affordable than buying brand new. Going secondhand takes a bit more digging but can pay off big time!

So whether you browse online or head to your local toy shop, finding adorable Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals for kids and collectors of all ages is sure to lead to wild rumpus fun. Happy hunting!

Most Popular Where the Wild Things Are Plush Characters

Max

No Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animal collection would be complete without the iconic character of Max, the imaginative young boy who journeys to the land of the Wild Things. Max plush toys typically depict him in his classic wolf costume from the beloved children’s book, with fuzzy brown fur, a long bushy tail, claws, and a crown on his head.

These cuddly Max stuffed animals allow fans to adventure along with their favorite character.

Some of the most popular Max plush toys include the super soft 15″ Max by Wild Republic, the Dandee lion costume Max, and the 19″ jumbo Max by Gund which stands tall for big hugs. Prices typically range from $15-$50 depending on size and brand.

Many specialty toy stores like Steiff and Aurora will also carry exclusive Max editions. Just look for his iconic wolf suit to find the perfect Where the Wild Things Are Max stuffed animals for imaginative play.

Carol

As the most nurturing and motherly of the Wild Things, Carol plush toys make wonderful stuffed animals to cuddle. Most Carol plushes are extra fuzzy to match her kind persona, with soft brown fur or felt.

She usually has sweet facial features like large eyes and a smile that will make anyone feel comforted after a bad day.

Popular Carol stuffed animals include the super huggable 30″ jumbo by Aurora, the 18″ by Gund with an embroidered mouth, and the Toozies laying down Carol perfect for naps. Prices range from $20-$60. An adorable addition to any Wild Things stuffed animal collection, a Carol plush lets kids snuggle up with one of their favorite comforting characters.

Judith

The coolest of the Wild Things, a Judith plush captures this hip character’s fun and spirited personality. Most Judith stuffed animals feature her distinctive large eyes with long lush eyelashes, red lips, white fluffy fur, and fabulous horns.

She’ll add a funky style to any Wild Things plush collection.

Some of the best Judith stuffed animals include the 20” by Wild Republic which stands out with bright blue horns, the soft Toozies Judith perfect for lounging, and the 14” by Gund that kids can’t get enough of. Prices are usually between $15-$30 for these fab Judith plushies.

Moishe

For the Where the Wild Things Are fan looking for a stuffed animal beyond the classic characters, a Moishe plush is a unique choice. This owl-like Wild Thing has tawny fur, big eyes, and feathers coming off his head that resemble ears. He’ll stand out in any plush collection!

A few of the only Moishe options are the 14” plush by Wild Things that features embroidered facial details, and the miniature 6” Moishe stuffie by Yottoy perfect for travel. These specialty Moishe stuffed animals range from $10-$25.

Bernard

Covered in shaggy brown fur from head to toe, a Bernard stuffed animal captures this wary Wild Thing’s anxious charm. Most Bernard plush toys depict him with his signature very large nostrils and eyes peering out from the fur to hilarious effect.

He adds a quiet humor to any Wild Things plush menagerie.

Popular options include the floppy 14” by Wild Republic, the Beanie Baby version with teeny tiny limbs, and the 30” jumbo Bernard by Toozies that’s wonderfully larger than life. Prices range from $10-$50 for these funny Bernard plush pals.

Price Ranges for Wild Things Stuffies

Fans of the beloved children’s book Where the Wild Things Are can find stuffed animals based on the book’s magical creatures in a variety of price ranges. These “Wild Things” plush toys make a great gift for kids and a nostalgic decoration for adults.

Inexpensive

You can often find basic Wild Things plush toys in the $10 to $20 range. These are usually smaller, simpler stuffed animals without a lot of special features. A 7-inch Wild Thing might cost around $12.99.

These bargain Wild Things may not look exactly like the illustrations from the book, but they capture the playful spirit.

Mid-Range

For more detailed, true-to-the-book Wild Things plushes, expect prices in the $25 to $40 range. These stuffed animals tend to be bigger at around 15 inches tall. They use nicer materials and have more hand-stitched details to accurately recreate the monsters’ shaggy fur and horns from the book’s iconic artwork.

High-quality plush and expressive faces make these middle-of-the-road Wild Things appealing while keeping costs reasonable.

Collectibles

At the high end, you’ll discover limited edition or extra large “collector” Wild Things ranging from $50 up to $200. These deluxe stuffed animals might be as big as three feet tall! They are meticulously designed to match the illustrations, with individually stitched tufts of fur in all the right colors and places.

Swiveling heads, posable arms, and glinting eyes enhance lifelike qualities. Super-soft faux fur makes these creatures irresistibly huggable. While expensive, these detailed Wild Things are impressive works of plush art.

No matter your budget, the iconic monsters from Where the Wild Things Are can be yours in snuggly stuffed animal form. With options spanning ten bucks to two hundred, there is a playful Wild Thing ready to let your imagination run wild.

5 High Quality Plush Picks for Your Wild Rumpus

If you’re looking to add some wildly imaginative stuffed animals to your collection, look no further than Where the Wild Things Are plush toys. These soft and cuddly creatures are perfect for recreating the adventures from the beloved children’s book.

We’ve rounded up 5 high-quality Where the Wild Things Are stuffed animals that will delight kids and adults alike.

Wild Thing Plush

This 16-inch tall plush version of Max’s wild friend is irresistibly cute. Handmade by Vermont-based company Jellycat, this stuffed animal features long horns, a furry face, and gangly limbs perfect for imaginary adventures. Reviewers say this Wild Thing is “well made” and “very soft.”

Max in Wolf Suit Plush

Dress up like the king of the Wild Things with this plush Max wearing his iconic wolf costume. This 13-inch stuffed animal from Amazon has a friendly embroidered face and a cozy fleece wolf suit outfit. One happy customer said their toddler “takes him everywhere and hugs him every night.” 😊

Where the Wild Things Are Playset

Recreate the whole island of the Wild Things with this 5-piece plush playset. It comes with soft and huggable versions of Max, Carol, Judith, Ira, and Bob. These 12-inch stuffed animals from Fat Brain Toys have velcro on their hands so they can hold each other during the wild rumpus.

According to reviews, kids “love acting out their own adventures” with this imagination-sparking set.

Douglas Max Plush

This 12-inch plush Max from designer toy brand Squishables has an adorably squishy body perfect for squeezing during storytime. His detachable crown lets kids act out the iconic scene of Max taming the Wild Things and being declared king.

A 5-star review raves “The quality is outstanding and this plush is just so darn cute!” 😍

Where the Wild Things Are Plush Backpack

Bring the Wild Things wherever you go with this stuffed backpack featuring Max and his monster friends. Made by L.A.-based brand Harmony, this 16-inch tall canvas backpack has plush heads as straps and smiley embroidered faces.

According to Harmony’s website, over 500 of these imaginative backpacks have been sold. One parent calls it “the perfect gift” for kids who love the book.

With these wildly creative plush picks, you can spark imaginative adventures and bring the iconic Wild Things to life. They make great gifts for little ones or fun collector’s items for grown-up fans of the Maurice Sendak classic.

So let the wild rumpus start with these soft and huggable stuffed animals!

Conclusion

With its captivating story and iconic monster characters, Where the Wild Things Are remains a staple of imaginative childhood reading six decades after its release. This guide covered where to purchase officially licensed and high-quality unofficial Wild Things plush toys featuring classic characters like Max, Carol, Judith and more monsters from Maurice Sendak’s masterful illustrations.

By following our tips on identifying authentic Sendak-licensed products, knowing reputable places to buy stuffed Wild Things online and in stores, and learning about the most beloved plush picks from the book, you’re now equipped to find the perfect cuddly companion for your own wild rumpus, whatever your budget may be.

So let the wild rumpus start—just be sure to keep an eye out for those Terrible Things lurking among the plush piles!