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Classic Authors: Dr. Seuss

© Susan Jensen

In an effort to liven up children's books and help kids learn to read, Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, fired up his imagination and began producing his famous books. His creativity, evident in his lively illustrations and outrageous poetry, made him one of the most famous authors of children's literature. Although he died 8 years ago, Dr. Seuss still occupies a space on our bookshelves and a special place in our hearts.

Geisel began his upper-level education at Dartmouth College, graduating in 1925. He then spent a year at Oxford, studying literature. It was at Oxford that he met his first wife, Helen Palmer. Geisel returned to the U.S. in 1927 to marry Helen. He had hoped to begin a career as a novelist, but because of the Great Depression, resorted to writing two-line gags for popular humor magazines. According to one biography, it was during this time that Geisel began writing under the name Dr. Seuss. Reportedly, he added "Dr." to his name to sound more authoritative in a spoof he was writing on scientific developments. Another writer claimed Geisel adopted the title because his father wanted him to become a doctor. Whatever the cause, the name stuck and, as the cliche says, a legend was born.

Geisel began writing children's books in an effort to create more exciting literature for kids. Illiteracy in children abounded at the time, partly because of the dull primers of the period. Geisel's answer was a series of beginner's books, which became best sellers for Random House. The books told quirky tales, complete with bright, lively illustrations. Choppy sentences and easy rhyme schemes not only helped to stimulate the reader's imagination, but also helped children learn how to read.

It was while on vacation in Europe that Geisel began working on his first book, "And to Think That I Saw it on Mulberry Street" (1937). Reportedly, he began creating the story while listening to the rhythm of a ship's engine. Incredibly, the book was rejected by more than 40 publishers before a friend of Geisel's published it for him. His later books would enjoy more immediate success.

In 1960, Bennett Cerf bet Geisel $50 that he couldn't write a book using only 50 words. Geisel won the bet with the creation of "Green Eggs and Ham."

Theodor Geisel died on September 24, 1991, after months of illness. At the time of his death, he had written and illustrated over 40 books, won two Oscars, and become world famous.

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