by Shel Silverstein

Ricky was “L” but he’s home sick with the flu,

Lizzie, our “O,” has some homework to do,

Mitchell, “E” prob’ly got lost on the way,

So I’m all of love that could make it today.

Although most people are familiar with Shel Silverstein as the author, some may not realize that he was also a gifted poet, songwriter, illustrator, playwright, and composer. This multi-talented man contributed much to the artistic world during his 67 years of life.

Sheldon Allan Silverstein was born in Chicago, Illinois in 1932. In his younger years, Shel wasn’t a great fan or sports or a favorite among the ladies, so he spent his time writing and doodling. In fact, while he served as a soldier in Korea and Japan, he drew cartoons for the military magazine Stars and Stripes. He also learned how to play the guitar.

Although he wasn’t interested in writing for children at first, he eventually wrote his first children’s book Lafcadio: The Lion Who Shot Back. He wrote The Giving Tree soon afterward began his successful career. Another one of his most famous works is his collection of poetry, Where the Sidewalk Ends.

As a songwriter, Shel wrote a bunch of hits during his career. Two better-known songs include Johnny Cash’s “A Boy Named Sue,” the Irish Rovers’ “The Unicorn,” and Dr. Hook’s “Cover of the Rolling Stone.” Additionally, in 1984, Silverstein won a Grammy for his musical version of Where the Sidewalk Ends.

In 1999, Shel Silverstein died of a heart attack after years of sharing his various talents. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy remains. His books have sold 18 million copies in hardcover in 20 different languages. Also, Where the Sidewalk Ends is one of the best-selling hardcovers of all time.