Oh, the Places You’ll Go!!

Today is an important day for many people, and not just because it’s a Friday.  For some, they’re celebrating ‘Read Across America Day‘, ironically enough by promoting a movie.  For others, and more importantly for me, it’s because it’s the birthday of Dr. Seuss!  To celebrate his birthday today, kids everywhere are reading Dr. Seuss books and adults everywhere are dressing up like the Cat in the Hat to read Dr. Seuss books to kids.

Like many others, I’m a huge fan of Dr. Seuss.  I still have Dr. Seuss books from my childhood that my daughter will begin reading in the next year.  His books have influenced many people over the years, encouraging not only reading, but also imagination, innovation, and having fun.  There are also important life messages in his books, about achievement, encouragement, and being confident in yourself.  Some famous Dr. Seuss quotes:

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot,
Nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”  –The Lorax

 “You’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting,
So… get on your way!”  — Oh, the Places You’ll Go

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”  – I Can Read with My Eyes Shut

One fact that may not be as well known to the general public, and an additional reason why I’m a fan, is that Dr. Seuss is in a Fraternity. Specifically, Dr. Seuss is a Fraternity brother of mine in Sigma Phi Epsilon!  Yes, before he became Dr. Seuss, Theodor Geisel was a proud member of the Dartmouth chapter of SPE during his college days.

So, as you’re celebrating his birthday today and dressing up to read to kids, keep in the back of your mind that one of the most admired and respected literary authors was a member of the Greek community in college.  Damn proud!

What is your favorite Dr. Seuss book?  Why?

‘Cat in the Hat’ Image from Bunky Cooks