Music and Design Inspiration: Where the Wild Things Are

We were mesmerized by Spike Jonze’s adaptation of Where the Wild Things Are. All it took was one glimpse at those fantastically furry wild things to transport us back to that place—the one where we, as children, were completely transfixed by Max’s world. One where he dressed up in his wolf suit and got into all sorts of mischief, only to be sent to his room where an extraordinary world awaited him.

It was a world where a boy who fantasized about ruling the world—just like we did—set sail on a boat and washed ashore on a beach with an amazing forest. What he found was a place where he could create a ruckus as a king among wild things. Even as adults, it’s a place we wouldn’t mind visiting.

Alas, the big screen glimpse into that world ended all too soon. So we’ve concocted a list of beastly items that should tide us over now that we’re back in the real world. From the movie’s amazing soundtrack to a grouping of whimsical forest items, we found a few things that feel a little less grown up and a little more wild—things that take us away from the responsibilities of the hurried adult world. Perhaps you’ll find room for them to live in your home. You know, a spot somewhere in the place where someone loves you best of all.

1. Oh, Deer: The next time you’re sent to your room for chasing the dog with a fork or shouting that you’ll eat your mother up, we hope this deer will spur thoughts of a far away land. This lasercut, cardboard forest dweller is the latest in cruelty-free kitsch, and we just adore him. He comes disassembled and ready for your DIY touch. Just paint him up or adorn him with some vintage wallpaper, and he’s ready to claim his spot on the wall. Cardboard Mounted Deer, ModCloth.

2. Knock on Wood: We can’t chop wood, but we sure can craft. And this cushion is the perfect object of all your DIY desires. This crafty pillow comes in a package that contains all the materials you’ll need (think needle, embroidery floss, and wood grain-printed, wool-felt panels) to sew some lumber of your very own. Soon, you can rest your head on a log and channel Max for a sweet forest slumber. We Wood Craft 4 U Kit, ModCloth.

3. Where the Wild Things Sing: When we first heard the soundtrack for Where the Wild Things Are, we were as moved and awestruck as we were the first time we laid eyes on the book’s extraordinary illustrations. Much like the book, the soundtrack, which features music by Karen O (of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs) and The Kids, just feels special. It’s dreamy and dripping with a melancholy, childlike feel from beginning to end. But when you give the collection of sweet songs and sad ballads a listen, you’ll know that this soundtrack was meant for more than just the wee ones. Where the Wild Things Are Soundtrack, Karen O, Interscope Records.

4. Grin and Bear It: No collection inspired by Where the Wild Things Are would be complete without something for the kiddos. And we think this movable bear, which is made of sustainably harvested beech wood and can hold many poses, is perfect for hours of imaginative play. Plus, durable wood limbs make this bear nearly impervious to breakage. So this is one toy that won’t be as fleeting as your days spent concocting fairytales in your childhood bedroom. Ursa Minor, David Weeks, Bobby Berk Home.

5. Get Hooked: This rugged moose hook would be a quirky addition to your entryway or hallway, and it’s strong enough to hold your favorite coat. But we’d much rather imagine it as the resting place for Max’s wolf suit once he’s returned from his fantastical voyage. Decorative Hook Moose, Sierra Lifestyles.