Everyone probably has a favorite Dr. Seuss book, but how much do you know about the man behind the books? Who Was Dr. Seuss? by Janet Pascal and illustrated by Nancy Harrison celebrates the life of the person who altered the flavor of children’s books for generations to come.
Punctuated with numerous
black and white illustrations, the book reveals many interesting tidbits that are sure to capture a child’s attention. It turns out that Ted Geisel (his real name) loved to draw but wasn’t a very good student. He made a lot of money coming up with funny ads for products, and came to the world of children’s books because that was one of the few areas his contract with advertisers allowed him to explore. As an aside, although he wrote many beloved children’s books, his wife Helen was unable to have children and so Ted never had any of his own.
Written in an energetic and fun style, this book would be a great addition to Read-Across-America, (which is celebrated on Dr. Seuss’s birthday, March 2) for older children. It is also sure to be an inspiration for budding illustrators and writers.
Random House Children’s Books has lesson ideas for using Dr. Seuss books throughout the school year.
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 112 pages
Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap; Original edition (July 7, 2011)
ISBN-10: 0448455854
ISBN-13: 978-0448455853
Nonfiction Monday is a blogging celebration of nonfiction books for kids. We invite you to join us. For more information and a schedule, stop by the new Nonfiction Monday blog to see who is hosting each week.
This week’s post is at Apples With Many Seeds.