This post was first published in 2011, but with all things Dr. Seuss, the lessons are timeless. My mini-me is now about to graduate high school and is reading these titles to the kids she babysits. Share your favorite Seuss title in the comments below.👇
This past week marked the 107th birthday of Theodor Seuss Geisel, aka. Dr. Seuss. My daughter celebrated with a canned tuna food drive at her school and immersing herself in all things Seuss. She’s just five and becoming a great little reader. Each night, her homework involves reading and then writing about the story. Thursday night she curled up in her favorite armchair with Green Eggs and Ham and read aloud while I prepped dinner. Every so often she would pause and yell, “I’m stuck on a word!” I’m not sure why she had to yell since I was only a few feet away, but……
Here’s where she got stuck: “I do not like them here or there. I do not like them….”
I said, “Is the word spelled a-n-y-w-h-e-r-e?” Her head popped up over the back of the chair, eyes wide. “How did you know!” My all-knowing Mother power shot up two notches.
How many of you heard “anywhere” in your head with that line? Aside from being fantastical tales of imagination with catchy rhythms, his stories stay with us forever.
We have a collection of favorite Dr. Seuss books and a wonderful neighborhood library to supply the rest. As I look at the iconic images on the covers, I am reminded of the lessons we learn from Dr. Seuss:
Green Eggs and Ham: Persistence (Sam) and Open-Mindedness (The character never named)
The Cat in the Hat: Responsibility
I Wish That I Had Duck Feet: Self Esteem
Horton Hears A Who: Compassion
Oh, The Places You’ll Go!: I think this one is self-explanatory and a wonderful book to read whenever you feel stuck. If you’re a writer, you should probably read it weekly.
I really could go on and on, but that would delay you from contemplating the lessons taught in your favorite Dr. Seuss book.
Just remember….
“Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting.
So… get on your way!”