Love the Message
There are many great authors and poet laureates whose words have stood the test of time, but for me the work of Dr. Seuss has had a lasting impact. At a time when children’s books were less than stellar, Theodor Seuss Geisel became a “tour de force” in literature for the young and the young at heart. I have always loved his turn of rhyme, but I am drawn to his empathetic characters and the messages they bring. Here are just a few of my favorites:
Horton the Elephant – In 1940 Dr. Seuss created this faithful elephant whose mantra was: “I meant what I said, and I said what I meant. An elephant’s faithful one-hundred percent.” This big hearted pachyderm was loyal to the core. Then in 1954, Horton spoke up to save the little people in Horton Hears a Who, reminding us that “A person’s a person no matter how small.” Horton’s message is one of kindness, respect, perseverance, and humble dedication.
The Grinch – In 1956 How the Grinch Stole Christmas stole hearts and generations have faithfully followed the Christmas classic year after year. Still to this day, my heart swells when I read, “In Whoville they say that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day.” The Grinch’s message of love overcoming hate is timeless.
The Lorax – In 1971 this little creature’s wise words rang true, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” Dr. Seuss was before his time when he used the Lorax to remind us that we must care for our earth.
The Sneetches – In 1953 Dr. Seuss brought us Sneetches whose bellies had stars and Sneetches whose had “none upon thars.” As the two groups of Sneetches strive to prove that one is better than the other, we hope that they will learn to value one another and see that it is what is inside that truly counts.
When Houghton Mifflin and Random House challenged Theodor Seuss Geisel to pen a primer that would change the face of children’s literature, he used 220 high frequency words and The Cat and the Hat came to life. Throughout his career he published over 60 books and shared some intriguing characters, clever rhymes, and life lessons that will be passed on from generation to generation. From Green Eggs and Ham to Oh, The Places You’ll Go you will find fun stories with heartfelt messages that touch us all. Here’s to Dr. Seuss! Thanks for writing from the heart!
“You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child.” – Dr. Seuss
Which Dr. Seuss book is your favorite and why? Comment below and let us know.
