Wacky, zany, lovable, fun and totally unforgettable — Dr. Seuss‘ characters have been inspiring and educating children for decades. His timeless stories allow us to share some of our favorite childhood characters with our children today. All are amazing in their own way, but there are a few who stand out as our favorites.
The Grinch
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a classic holiday tale that teaches children to put friends and family before presents under the tree at Christmastime. Most of us grew up with the book, cartoon, and later, movie. The story is full of entertaining and charismatic characters that include Max, the Grinch’s faithful dog and reluctant partner in crime, and Cindy Lou Who. But the Grinch himself is the most memorable and lovable character, in a love him and hate him kind of way.
Why we love him: It’s not hard to identify and sympathize with the Grinch as he looks in on the Christmas celebrations from the outside, and it’s hard not to love a happy ending (spoiler alert) that comes with a big change of heart.
The Cat In The Hat
I know it is wet and the sun is not sunny. But we can have lots of good fun that is funny!
The Cat in the Hat is another one of our all-time favorite Dr. Seuss books with some of our favorite characters, like Fish, Thing 1 and Thing 2. Silly and so much fun to read and listen to, The Cat in the Hat makes learning to read enjoyable and entertaining. But the absolute best thing about this story is the larger than life, mischievous cat with a tall red and white striped hat.
Why we love him: The Cat is a crazy and chaotic house guest who helps two bored children, who are stuck inside on a rainy day, uncover adventure inside their house. He teaches us to be creative and look for fun in unexpected places. He also gave the children an opportunity to discover just how responsible they can be, as they ultimately get the Cat-induced insanity under control before their mother gets home.
The Lorax
Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.
The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss, is packed full with colorful characters, amusing rhymes and word play and beautiful illustrations that make this book a popular family favorite. It also provides a wonderful way for parents to share a message about the negative effects of greed and pollution to our environment.
Why we love him: The Lorax may be small (and orange), but he is mighty. His stature doesn’t stop him from speaking up for the trees and the environment, since they can’t speak up for themselves. He shows us that it’s important to stand up for what we believe in, if we care enough to make a difference.
Horton the elephant
A person’s a person, no matter how small.
Beautiful illustrations and memorable lines make Horton Hears a Who a storytime favorite for kids of all ages. It’s easy to relate to feeling small or overlooked, like a Who, from time-to-time, and Horton’s plight to accomplish what he knows is right, even if no one believes him at first, is another situation that everyone can identify with at times as well.
Why we love him: Horton is the best kind of elephant. He’s gigantic in body and personality. He’s kind and lovable, and he teaches us to care for others, regardless of our differences.
Sam-I-Am
You do not like them. SO you say. Try them! Try them! And you may. Try them and you may I say.
Written with only 50 words, Green Eggs and Ham teaches us that persistence really can pay off. In addition to being a wonderful first book, as a child learns to read, it also pushes culinary bounds and introduces the idea of a colorful, and slightly disturbing, meal.
Why we love him: Sam-I-Am may be a pest, but he’s also cheerful and unfazed by a very grumpy and resistant grown-up. We love that he teaches kids to persevere in the face of adversity with a smile.
Mr. Brown
BOOM BOOM BOOM Mr. Brown is a wonder. BOOM BOOM BOOM Mr. Brown makes thunder!
Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You? is the ultimate first book for little learners. It’s fun for parents to read and chock-full of first words and sounds for any eager toddler.
Why we love him: What’s not to love? Mr. Brown can moo, he can make the sound of a goldfish kiss, and he can even make thunder, all while he introduces children to new words and entertains their ear drums with interesting sounds.
Tell us
Who is your favorite Dr. Seuss character? Share in the comments below!
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