A Hole Is to Dig A First Book of First Definitions

Back in print with gorgeously restored artwork! From beloved children’s book creators Ruth Krauss and Maurice Sendak, this iconic hardcover book of first definitions is a clever, humorous read-aloud.

“A brother is to help you, a package is to look inside, arms are to hug with, and a book is to look at,” as award-winning author Ruth Krauss and the many children who made suggestions, revisions, additions (and subtractions) say in this book.

Since it was first published in 1952, generations of children have taken this book of words and black-and-white pictures to heart. With wonderful illustrations from Caldecott Medal winner Maurice Sendak, this is the funniest book of definitions you’ll ever read!

Don’t miss these other books by Ruth Krauss and Maurice Sendak:

Somebody Else’s Nut Tree

I'll Be You and You Be Me