Century on Mulberry Street
Contributing writer
We're approaching the centennial of the birth of Theodor Geisel on March 2. You know him as Dr. Seuss, the world's best-selling author of children's books.
Dr. Seuss was not exactly an overnight success. His first children's book, "To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street," was rejected by 21 publishers before it finally found its way into print. I am convinced that truly original books are often rejected by publishers, who prefer to play it safe with a formula which works. Dr. Seuss is nothing if not original. Nobody could mistake his work for anybody else's.
I doubt that I will ever be too old to relish a Dr. Seuss book. They are light-hearted and funny, but many of them also have a message worth proclaiming "Yertle the Turtle,"explores the dangers of arrogance and self-absorption. "The Big Brag" pokes fun at pride and boasting. A little ridicule can often drive home a point far better than the most solemn sermon, especially with young readers.
Some people of my own generation fail to recognize the genius of Dr. Seuss and consider him second-rate children's literature. I disagree. However, even if I concede that he may not measure up to some other writers, they must concede that children love to read his books. Any author who writes books children love to read is doing the world an important service. Children who learn to love books become good readers; good readers are good learners; good learners are the leaders of the future. For this progression to take place, books must be entertaining enough to drag children away from the television.
Of course, I must admit that some television programs can also promote learning, but this old curmudgeon thinks their number is fast diminishing. The recent passing of Mister Rogers and Captain Kangaroo called our attention to the decrease in quality programming for children. I believe a real person engaging the minds of children is superior to computer generated cartoons every time.
Dr. Seuss's books managed to combine two qualities rarely found together. The simple vocabulary is read easily by beginning readers. Yet they give the reader something to think about and appeal to the imagination. I learned to read with Mac and Muff and Dick and Jane. (Yes, I know. I'm dating myself.) Since I was a child fascinated by any printed word, I wasn't quite bored out of my skull. However, you have to realize that "The Cat in the Hat" has a more engaging story line.
The influence of Dr. Seuss reached beyond his own books. Other children's authors also began writing simple stories children could read by themselves. I am not convinced a book for children should never contain any words they won't recognize. By sounding out words or looking them up, children stretch their minds. However, children who struggle with reading may grow discouraged and give up. Interesting books that are easy to read keep that from happening.
I'm sure schools and libraries will be celebrating the Dr. Seuss centennial in many appropriate ways. Some school cafeterias will probably serve green eggs and ham. If you are a parent, the best way to celebrate is to sit down with your child and a Dr. Seuss book. If your child is a toddler, read it to him. If your child is a bit older, let her read it to you. If you are an old woman (or man) like me, read a Dr. Seuss book anyway. Nourish the inner child. Happy Dr. Seuss's birthday to all.
