Front Burner Robert Munsch’s decision to die
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Sep 23, 2025 
Katie Engelhart, a journalist known for her insightful feature writing, discusses the profound choice of beloved children’s author Robert Munsch to pursue medically assisted death. They explore the impact of dementia on Munsch's creativity and storytelling abilities. Engelhart delves into the complexities surrounding MAID in Canada, including who qualifies, the ethical dilemmas it raises, and the evolving legislation. Munsch's legacy as a cherished writer is also highlighted, showing how his personal struggles resonate with many.
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Live Testing With Children
- Robert Munsch developed stories interactively by testing them with children in classrooms and nap rooms.
- He refined plots by observing kids' interruptions and reactions during live storytelling.
A Fan Letter That Became A Lifelong Bond
- Ganeng Tang began writing to Munsch at age eight and kept a decades-long correspondence with him.
- Munsch surprised her by visiting her school unannounced and spent the day getting to know her and her town.
Grief Behind 'Love You Forever'
- Munsch created the refrain "I'll love you forever" after the grief of two stillborn children and used it onstage before writing the book.
- His publisher initially rejected the story, but a small press printed it and it became a bestseller.