How many books did Shel Silverstein write?

Shel Silverstein wrote 12 books, although many of his poems have been compiled into published collections. Silverstein's works have sold more than 20 million copies and have been translated into more than 30 languages. His first children's book, "Lafcadio, the Lion Who Shot Back," was published in 1963.

Writing was only one of his talents; he was also an accomplished songwriter who won a Grammy in 1970 for his song "A Boy Named Sue;" his song "I'm Checking Out," which appeared on the soundtrack for the movie "Postcards From the Edge," was also nominated for a Golden Globe and Oscar. Silverstein was inducted posthumously in 2002 into the Nashville Songwriter's Hall of Fame.