Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

Tomorrow, March 2^nd marks the day of Theodor Geisel's birthday. If you asked most kids who Geisel was, they probably wouldn't know. However, if you told them his full name Theodor Seuss Geisel, they might recognize the middle name. Dr. Seuss's famous and beloved stories are popular amongst children and adults alike. I know my favorites are Green Eggs and Ham and Yertle the Turtle.

For the latter part of his life, Geisel lived in San Diego, Ca. He and his wife made many contributions to the UCSD library. As a result, when he died the library was renamed after him. Having gone to UCSD, I often went to the Geisel library. Due to its inverted nature and tremendous height, I fondly called it the spaceship. Every year on March 2^nd, we had a Dr. Seuss celebration in front of the library (complete with cake).

Another reason, March 2^nd is important is that it marks Read Across America day. On this day, schools often set aside time to read, especially Dr. Seuss stories. At one school I worked at, students were allowed to wear their pajamas on this day. They rotated classes and in each classroom the teacher read their favorite Dr. Seuss story. At another school I worked at, we had "famous" members of the community come in like Assemblymen and authors. In addition, we asked parents to come in, tell the kids a little bit about themselves and then read a favorite book. Even better was the window-decorating contest. Each class who entered had to decorate their window with a reading or Dr. Seuss theme. I had my students write letters to Dr. Seuss telling him why reading is important.

So what are you doing this March 2^nd? If you are reading Dr. Seuss books with your class and children, you are helping commemorate his birthday and encourage literacy across the country.