As the years go on, we tend to realize our literary heroes aren’t who we thought they were. Dr. Seuss was a controversial writer who dabbled inside racial stereotypes in his writing. So why do we continue to celebrate him or any of his books? We can’t deny his literary artistry and the legacy he created within his work. No matter the years that pass, children will enjoy these rhyme tall tales as a way to giggle and to understand simple life lessons. I see it as this: you don’t have to appreciate the artist as long as you can identify the artistry behind the work.
There has yet to be someone like Dr. Seuss, and for that reason alone, we are counting down ten books that you or your child love!
10. Dr. Seuss’s ABC
A,B,C’s can be a difficult subject for the little ones. So having a fun-loving Dr. Seuss version comes in handy!
9. Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories
Many lessons can be learned from Dr. Seuss. In Yertle the Turtle, we learn about greed. Be thankful for what you got. You can’t have it all!
8. Hop on Pop
Basic rhyming skills for your little ones should be introduced in Hop on Pop!
7. Oh, the Places You’ll Go!
Oh, the Place You’ll Go! was the last book published before Dr. Seuss had passed away. In this tale, we learn the importance of seizing new opportunities. Don’t limit yourself! You have many new places to go!
6. Horton Hears A Who!
You can learn many, MANY, many lessons from Horton Hears A Who! You could be the only one in the room that believes in something differently from the rest of the crowd. Does that mean you should cave? No way! Horton believed in his heart of hearts that he heard a noise on a tiny speck, and guess what? He was right! If you believe in something, believe it with your whole heart!
5. One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
Look out, everyone! We are in the top five!
Everyone is different. Some people you come across can and will think or do things the complete opposite as you do. This is a great time for the little ones to recognize the differences in this book!
4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Christmas gift-giving should come from the heart, and the Grinch learned this valuable lesson when he stole the presents. Your little ones should know the importance of family and love over expensive gifts. (Although, we do love bookish gifts!)
3. Fox in Socks
Fox in Socks is my personal favorite tale! I love reading this story out loud to kids (and honestly for myself) because it’s hilarious. Showing off your talents in anything can discourage people. Be uplifting, unlike the Fox in socks! Be humble!
2. Cat in the Hat
Now, this was a tough one! I was tempted to put the Cat in the Hat at number one! Regardless of that, the Cat in the Hat is the Dr. Seuss symbol. We learn responsibility, honesty, and expectations. You can have fun on a rainy day, but make sure you do it safely!
1. Green Eggs and Ham
Why oh why is Green Eggs and Ham number one you may ask? This book has been read hundreds, thousands, millions, billions, dare I say trillions of times! And with each read, you will understand the importance of trying new things. Who are the pickiest eaters in the world? Kids! So this will surely help.
Dr. Seuss is timeless, and his stories are fun to read as a young kid all the way to adulthood. For more Dr. Seuss content, click here!