“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss was born 116 years ago on March 2, 1904. Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, was an author and illustrator with a brilliant imagination who wrote more than 60 books for children during his lifetime. Many of his works remain among the most popular children’s books to this day.
My children and I love Dr. Seuss books! His silly rhyming stories have always been some of my family’s favorites to read over and over again. A few of my personal favorites are The Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, There’s a Wocket in my Pocket, and The Grinch Stole Christmas.
Dr. Seuss’s birthday, March 2, is now celebrated as National Read Across America Day, a reading initiative through the National Education Association. Many schools and libraries will celebrate with special Dr. Seuss themed activities this month.
If you want to join in the celebration, head to the library, grab a few Dr. Seuss titles and spend the afternoon reading with your child. For other fun ideas, visit www.seussville.com where you’ll find games, printables, crafts, recipes, and other activities.
Did you know?
- Seuss’ real name was Theodor Seuss Geisel.
- Geisel had no children of his own.
- Before becoming a popular children’s author, Geisel worked as a cartoonist in the advertising field.
- Geisel wrote under several pen names including Dr. Seuss, Theo LeSieg and Rosetta Stone.
- His first published children’s book, And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, was printed in 1937. He received 27 rejections before finding a publisher for the book.
- His last book, Oh, the Places You’ll Go!, was published in 1990, the year before his death.
- Several of Geisel’s books were published after his death including Hooray for Diffendoofer Day!, Daisy-Head Mayzie and My Many Colored Days.
- Four of Dr. Seuss’ books have been made into films – How the Grinch Stole Christmas, The Cat in the Hat, Horton Hears a Who! and The Lorax.
