A Hole Is to Dig: A First Book of First Definitions (1952) is a delightful and whimsical children’s book by Ruth Krauss, with charming illustrations by a young Maurice Sendak in one of his earliest major works. This playful book captures the imaginative logic of childhood through a series of quirky, childlike “definitions” (“A hole is to dig,” “A face is so you can make faces,” “Hands are to hold”). Krauss’s simple yet profound text, derived from observing real children at play, pairs perfectly with Sendak’s energetic, scribble-style drawings that brim with joy and movement.
A cornerstone of mid-century children’s literature, the book celebrates the unfiltered creativity of kids, blending humor, poetry, and timeless truth in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Sendak’s illustrations—looser and more spontaneous than his later Where the Wild Things Are—showcase his early genius for capturing childhood’s essence.
For Fans of This Book, Try:
- Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson – Another minimalist classic about childlike imagination.
- The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss (illus. Crockett Johnson) – A collaboration celebrating persistence and wonder.
- I Want to Paint My Bathroom Blue by Ruth Krauss (illus. Maurice Sendak) – A lesser-known but equally joyful Krauss-Sendak gem.
Perfect for budding philosophers and lovers of vintage children’s books!
