“Oh The Places You’ll Go” Dr. Seuss Teaching Life Lessons

Many children have fallen asleep listening to their parents reading the enlightened stories of Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss.  Dr. Seuss graduated from Dartmouth College in 1925 and then went on to Oxford University where he received a doctorate in literature. He wrote his first book in 1936 entitled, “And To Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street.” He was turned down by 43 publishers before a friend of his agreed to publish it for him. As you may expect, it turned out to be a best seller.

The magic of Dr. Seuss is that his stories, along with being great fun, also carry with them powerful and relevant messages and lessons for children and adults alike. This is true for most of his books, but it is especially for the last book he ever wrote, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (Classic Seuss)” published in 1990.

“Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (Classic Seuss)is a book that can teach all of us a thing or two about life. In fact, not only a popular gift for a new baby or 1st birthday, it has become a popular book to give for high school and college graduates. It begins with the expectation of great things to come, “Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to great places! You’re off and away!

It’s message is one of optimism and encouragement, while at the same time being realistic and pointing out that things may not always go your way. “I’m sorry to say so but, sadly, it’s true that hang-ups and bang-ups can happen to you.” The funny thing about the book is that although it is technically a children’s book and is extremely entertaining with its words and illustrations, it is a book that gains relevance as children grow older. A copy belongs on everyone’s bookshelf…not just young kids.

I read this book to my kids on a regular basis and will continue to do so for years to come in the hopes that the messages contained in its beautiful words become a part of my children’s value system and deeply held beliefs. I truly believe that if they can adopt even one of its lessons they will benefit from this book for their entire lives. It is by far my husband’s favourite book to read our kids.  In the immortal words of Dr. Seuss,

“Be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O’Shea, you’re of to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your way!”