Dr. Seuss: Finding Gems of Facts of Life

Today is Dr. Seuss' birthday, but more than likely many already knew this information.  As one of the most beloved children's author of our times, Dr. Seuss accomplished something that many before him attempted to do but never quite accomplished.  Reading became a fun, rhyming, nonsensical and fantastical activity for children who found it difficult to read.  All the children's books before Cat In The Hat were wonderful but there was something magical about Dr. Seuss' style.  Perhaps the pure genius is in the rhyming madness which puts on no airs and it is what it is.

Looking at the various titles from Dr. Seuss array of books one can not help but smile when recalling Simple lyrical lines like "I do not like them Sam I am, I do not like Green Eggs and Ham." or  "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not."  Seuss' style was so unique that it hasn't been copied or improved upon.  It is in a category all of its own. Which makes his books wonderful for all ages.   Why?   The timeless truths that are like gems waiting to be discovered.  Perhaps this is why the readers, old and young alike, are excited that in July a new Dr. Seuss will be published.   Yes, that's right.  The good Doctor left us in 1991 but his work still lives on.  Actually, it was rediscovered in his office by his widow and secretary.

The newly discovered book is titled "What Pet shall I get?".  Wonderful title for every animal lover, young and old.   What will really be a treat is to read the rhyming gems and feel as if Dr. Seuss has never left us at all.

As we celebrate the 111th Birthday of Dr. Seuss, it is really the readers that are receiving a gift.  For new readers the gift of joyful reading.  For all nostalgic readers, a trip back to memory lane of reading The Cat In The Hat for the very first time.  Rereading it because it needs to be shared or just perhaps to be reminded again of timeless truths.  What?  Don't believe that Cat in the Hat holds timeless truth?   Think again.  "“You find magic wherever you look. sit back and relax. all you need is a book”   Well, if that isn't the gem of all of the truths in life,   for young or  old, what would be?   The best writers are always the ones who are witty to make you smile and  wise to make you think.

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss and Happy Reading America!  

National Library Week 2014: The Inspiring Messages From The Lorax

Every child has a favorite book that they will enjoy hearing over and over again.  Those who have the pleasure of  reading the "favorite" book repeatedly have often wondered what is it about the book that lures them back.  For Alex Pereira, a real estate developer in Detroit, Michigan, his favorite was Dr. Suess' The Lorax.  Not a bad choice.  No one questions why because the good Dr.'s work has stood the test of children's critical reviews.  Why bring up one real estate developer's favorite book? It is what inspired him from that book he loved so many yard ago that is of interest.  Take a walk down Trumball and Warren area  to see Pereira's latest development in a neighborhood that is need of revitalization.   He purchased the abandoned home at 4759 Trumbull, fixed it up and made it into a tribute to The Lorax.  It's not only eye catching, it's amazing. When first learning about this house in the middle of Detroit, the thought came to mind that this proof positive that children, reading and libraries are a powerful combination.  Perhaps that was not his true intent in resting the hues in the is way but from a librarian's point of view,  this is the message to gain from this man's work.
 

Children's librarians have always championed the rights of children to have access to books.  It is for this reason, that pushing for funding for children's collection in public and school libraries is critically important to the educational growth of children. The strongest argument to supper this is that children who learn to love reading at an early age become life long learners.  An added icing on the cake is that they are more successful in schools than their peers who don't read often.  Which leads to the conclusion that every child should have access to a library.  If this is not feasible than at least have the library come to them by way of a bookmobile or school visits.  When administrators and public officials wring their hands and say that the costs of reaching out to young readers is too expensive. The right response is that not investing in them now, the costs will be staggering once these children are older.  

Detroit is one of many cities in the United States, whose public library system has been through some tough times and had to make some very tough calls.  Some of the decisions were understandable while others not so much.  Case in point, The Mark Twain library has been closed for years.  From photos taken recently the interior looks like a library graveyard   It is very disheartening because this once beautiful building stood as a landmark of the neighborhood.  In short it was a thriving library serving it's community well.  What happened?  Budget cuts for one.  Secondly, too many turned their backs and gave up on neighborhood libraries.  Siting that the internet and poor funding were the cause of library closing.  What a mistake!  The reading scores of the children in the local public schools are enough to prove that every opportunity for a child to learn to read has been taken away from them.  It would have been much better for the children of the neighborhood to have a place to go to after school, such as the library and get lost in a book.   Librarians are not the only one who believe this, parents did as well.  Yet the buildings were shut down and doors were locked.

The Lorax House in Detroit should give librarians and advocates hope and the spark need to seize on the opportunity to support their libraries.   The quote from the book that is painted on a mural outside the house is simple and speaks volumes about caring about the community.  It's simply, Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not." National Library Week reminds everyone librarian,  local leaders and patrons alike that it is up to them to help support and speak up for libraries.   One man's tribute to his favorite childhood book sends a stirring message that one person and one book can make a difference.  Which brings it full circle to the idea that  the effect of three power combinations of young minds, books and libraries is nothing to be taken lightly.  No one never knows how books can stir one to action. No one can ever be certain the lasting impact one story has on a child.   One thing for sure, it can lead to something wonderful and  out of this world.

To view the Lorax House and The Mark Twain Library please click on the links below. 


http://www.modeldmedia.com/devnews/TheLoraxComesToWoodbridge.aspx


mark twain public library detroit

Celebrities' Children's Books!

Children books have come a long way since the 1960's and 1970's. In those days there were classic tales with wonderful artwork, but they were few and far between. Imaginative writers such as Keats, Sendak, Carle, Seuss, and a whole host more filled the stacks with stories that can not be forgotten. So why is it that celebrities think that it is their duty to come into the Children's Literature genre and make it their own? Could it be that they believe that it is easy to write a "kiddie's" book? Maybe it's just a marketing ploy to get their name plastered onto books. Whatever the reason, there are somethings that all children's books must have to be considered a "classic" or need to read. Placing a famous person's name on the cover just doesn't cut it. There needs to be creative text and art, a plot that is simple yet engaging, and never ever talk down to your audience. Children never respond well when adults treat their inquisitive nature as "silliness". The young readers are quite serious about their world. The authors should be just as well. One shining example of a celebrity turned children's author is John Lithgow of 3rd Rock From The Sun. Mahalia Mouse Goes To College is an inspiring, imaginative story of a young mouse who successfully graduates from College. The art work is pleasing to the eye, but it's the text that steals the show. In his trademark of rhymes and whimsical storytelling, Lithgow grabs the readers attention and gets them to root for Mahalia. Lithgow has mastered the ability to tell a story that invites every child to be apart of his world. Frankly, he has earned the right to plaster his name on the cover of children's books. Thank goodness he didn't stop with Mahalia. Check out his other titles at the library. One example of who shouldn't write for children is Madonna. Although this is a book that could be placed on a coffee table, unlike her other attempt at that literary/photographic fiasco, the question would be why would any parent or caregiver want to give it to their children? English Roses is an attempt to demonstrate that "beautiful girls" can be outcasts too. The text is poorly written and the art is less then magical. Not to mention that the story makes he reader wonder who she is talking to or about? It would be an interesting question to ask if any child has ever known someone who was an outcast because they were beautiful. Just a guess, but the number would probably be zero. Perhaps gifted Children's authors such as De Paola, Carle, or Willems should consider forming a rock band or audition for movies. After all, it can't be that hard to do. If Madonna can do it why can't they? Perhaps, they may be as lucky as John Lithgow and realize that they can successfully branch out into other arts! It's just a thought!

Library Programs Ideas to Invite Patrons into Dr. Seuss' World.

In the wonderful and whimsical world of Dr. Seuss there are many characters to love. From the mischievous Cat in the Hat to the grouchy Grinch to lovable Thidwick. Without a doubt, Dr. Seuss' creative genius has enriched children's literature for the better. His legacy in kiddie lit is making reading fun, easy and rhythmical for young readers. The fact that his tales have stood the test of time, seventy-five years to be exact, is an amazing accomplishment. Not many authors, especially in children's literature reach that level of durability. It would not be a stretch to say that there will never be another children's author/illustrator who can capture the magic of Dr. Seuss.

It's hard to image what children's literature would be like without Seuss' books gracing the bookshelves. The idea of putting together a story that contained two hundred twenty-five new reader vocabulary was pure inspiration. The Cat in the Hat introduced himself to young readers and has stolen their hearts forever. For struggling young readers this is a gift that lasts a lifetime. Rhyming words stories provide the opportunity to learn simple words without becoming boring or tedious. It is quite the opposite. That is to say, it's unique and engages the reader with every page.

Dr. Seuss' birthday (March 2) is the perfect time to plan a Seussical program at the library. This isn't just kid stuff. Nope. Programs can range from Cat In the Hat Look alike contests. Invite patrons of all ages to take pictures of their pets dressed as the CAT in the Hat. This is an opportunity for all pet lovers to show off their four-legged family member's artistic side. The library can also sponsor a cooking class for the entire family which features green eggs and ham. Not Surprisingly, children will not only want to learn the recipes but will also want to try the tasty treats. Not forgetting that there are teens who still love and have fond memories, activities that involve memorizing, puzzles and mayhem will certainly get them into the action. One idea is to challenge teens to put together a floor puzzle of a Dr. Seuss title as fast as they can. The pieces are twenty-four in all and very big. Putting it together should be easy, right? Teens are always looking for the catch, as well as they should with sneaky librarians. Hide the pieces are the library and have teens find them. Once they have all twenty four pieces they can put the puzzle together. It's a fun time for all and is a homage to the mischievous Cat.

In all honesty, a library that does not recognize this wonderful author's work in some fashion, is missing out on an wonderful opportunity to lure patrons into the library. The creativity of Dr. Seuss should provide a gold mine of ideas when it comes to celebrating books, reading and of course, libraries.

If Only I Could Run the Zoo

Today's headline should give a clue to the topic today. It would almost be a sin not to mention Dr. Seuss on his birthday. After all, this author lit the fire for the love of reading in so many children's hearts. His books are timeless and are still tucked on the bookshelves for little boys and girls to enjoy today. Dr. Seuss' world is imaginative, playful and whimsical just like a child's heart. Perhaps that is why he has become so endearing to many. As a birthday toot to the beloved author, today will be dedicated to Seuss' works that may not have been as popular as Cat in the Hat, but are just as good if not better.

As luck would have it, a couple of weeks ago I ran across The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins. Having never heard of the book, curiosity got the better of me. The story is quite simple, King Derwin of Kingdom of Didd passes by Bartholomew Cubbins, who wore a red hat with a feather. Everyone knows that when the King passes by, hats must be removed. So why didn't Bartholomew remove his hat? He did! Honestly he did but unfortunately his head seems to grow hats! Whenever he takes one off, another one takes its place. All in all there were 500 hats. Poor Bartholomew, what will he do? Lucky for him the 500th hat was very much to the King's liking. King Derwin bought all the hats from Bartholomew for 500 gold coins. Seuss leaves his reader with a happy ending and no explanation for why Bartholomew's head grew 500 hats. His simple explanation, " "happened to happen." Good enough for me. This is a lost treasure that must be shared with little story time friends. It would be easy enough to make red caps with feathers.

Seuss could always bring to light many interesting questions, such as Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are? Great question for little ones who sometimes don't appreciate that life is wonderful in Suess' world as well as in their own world. In true and unique Seuss fashion, an old wide man perched on a cactus (and why not a cactus, after all they look so comfortable) offers readers a lesson on the value of life, liberty, and opportunity. Throughout the book, the readers are shown a bad situations from a worse angle and asked to consider the difference. After the book has been closed, the wise man's question stays with the readers. Yes, indeed he has told us how lucky we are and it is very difficult to argue with his logic.

As a children's librarian, interesting angles to get children and parents to read together are constantly popping up in my mind. One of the more successful ideas came to me when looking for a unique title for family book discussion night. If I Ran the Zoo was a perfect fit because it contained all the ingredients of a good story time book: imagination, humor and broad appeal. During this book discussion, children were encouraged to describe their "zoo". As you can imagine, there were no two zoos alike. As a matter of fact, one child stated he would put the visitors in the cage and let the animals throw peanuts to the humans! (I'm not sure I would go to that zoo!) By the end of the book discussion, each parent and child created a unique creature to add to the library's one of a kind zoo. Using a styrofoam tray, all participants glued their animals on the tray, threaded yarn through the top and bottom, creating the bars of the cage. It was the most unique zoo I had ever seen and it was perfect. Which made me wish again, just as I did when I was younger, to run a zoo. However, I think I might settle for "If I Ran The Library", now that would be fun and perhaps even a best seller!

in honor of Dr. Seuss' birthday, pick up one of his books and read to your child. It could be the start of a wonderful habit!