o Shel Silverstein was a popular Cartoonist, author, poet, songwriter, and play writer. o He was best known for children’s stories and poems. o Helped young readers appreciate poetry. o His nickname was “Uncle Shelby.”

o Shel Silverstein was born on September 25, o Born in Chicago, Illinois o At 12, he began an interest in drawing. o Grew up in a lower class neighborhood. o Instead of playing baseball with his friends, he stayed inside and drew cartoons and wrote.

o Graduated from Roosevelt High School in o After high school, he attended Chicago Academy of Fine Arts. o Later attended Roosevelt University. o He dropped out in 1953 and joined the Army.

o Shel’s first published book was entitled, “Take Ten,” and included his cartoons. o As an author, he was most successful with his book, “The Giving Tree.” o He introduced young readers to his humorous poetry with his book, “Where the Sidewalk Ends.” o All of his books included his black and white illustrations.

o Shel passed away on May 10, 1999, in Key West, Florida. o He died from heart failure at the age of 68. o Although he is no longer alive, his works are still greatly appreciated by children and adults alike.

o o o