With a little luck, this may become a semi regular feature, so I thought I would start with something a little familiar. (And I couldn’t find the book I was looking for on Pickle’s book shelves)
The Lorax, by Dr. Seuss
Originally printed in 1971. (My edition, much later)
I admit, I grew up with Dr. Seuss, but not The Lorax. Pickle brought it home after seeing the movie with a family friend and I read it for the first time only knowing about the movie marketing complaints. Pickle read it for the first time expecting a car chase. We were both happy with the outcome. (Although spoiler alert: there is no car chase)
I really liked that it was not overly cheery and sappy and demonstrates the importance of looking out for nature. The importance of the individual is a big focus. I like that the Onceler admits that he was wrong and did a foolish thing, and the protagonist is the one who can change the world for the better. I think that works in a children’s book. They can’t solve the problems of the world, but they have the power to be better themselves.
Pickle likes this book too. It has pleasant sound when read to him, and is not as tricky to read himself as some of the other Dr. Seuss books. The illustrations are nice and engaging, if not a little dark. (Pickle was raised on goth music, dark is not a problem in our house) The message is definitely getting through, Admittedly it’s a little heavy handed, but in this case, I’m okay with that.
I think it’s a good book for parents with an environmental lean, especially if your children like books with a rhyming feel. Probably not a great book if Sam Walton is your great-grandpa.
Tell me what you think. Do you like The Lorax? Hate it? Think my opinion is flawed?
Also, would you like to see more posts like this?
This one was a favourite from my children’s childhood. I always enjoyed reading Dr Seuss because he loved to play with language and invent words as well as outlandish characters. I think its fine that the message is a little blunt and in your face, there are plenty of people out there that still aren’t seeing the consequences of our society’s consumption habit. I did a whole series of children’s book reviews for my A to Z blog challenge back in April and really enjoyed reliving all our favourites.
I fell in love with this book pretty quickly when it showed up in our home. I admit to using the Onceler as a reminder as to why we cut back on things and treat the environment well. I certainly hope to raise a child who does’t feel that that he entitled to whatever he feels like taking.
Dr. Seuss always freaked me out because it looks like the characters are wearing their own skinned skins as pajamas.
I admit, I always liked that the characters were so different than your typical kids fare. But I can see your point.