It would not be the least bit surprising to realize that Jim Henson’s name is probably known all over the world. The beauty, joy, and love he and his creations have brought to young and old alike leave one breathless. The artistry Henson demonstrated was consumed with compassion and enabled viewers to enter a sphere that was replete with imagery which is still being realized long after his untimely demise. His maternal grandmother was his first ‘teacher’, prompting him to stretch his mind to see beyond the obvious. She was a painter, quilter, needle worker and her encouraging strokes enhanced Jim’s creative spirit.
In this book, Ms. Falk recounts this ingenious spirit through the documentations in the diary that Henson began in June, 1965, and affords the reader the opportunity to walk along with him as history was made. It is marvelous to see the illustrations, drafts and scripts that were created as ideas were conceived. One does not have to have an imagination to appreciate this genius.
When Sesame Street premiered in 1969, Henson was heralded as an ‘artist extraordinaire’. This creation was applauded by parents, teachers and, most of all, children and was considered a spectacular achievement, to say the least. It has not only entertained children worldwide, but has provided educational perks that have been beyond description, particularly for the disadvantaged. Big Bird, who made the cover of Time magazine at the start of season two, is still thrilling audiences whenever he makes an appearance. The Muppet Show also became a rousing success. When one considers the films, books and television appearances these characters have brought forth, in addition to hob-knobbing with celebrities from all facets of the entertainment industry, Jim Henson’s fantasy legacy becomes an incredible accomplishment. He was a man of integrity with an extraordinary talent that lent itself to the creation of pleasure for mankind. Through his artistry, Jim allowed the observer to see beauty and experience joy that set aside conditions that might be less than optimum… at least, momentarily. What a gift to the world! If you close your eyes, you might be able to imagine the smile on the face of his grandmother, at the wonder of it all.