Books

New York: Random House, 1957. First edition. Near Fine/Near Fine. First issue. A Near Fine copy in like dust jacket. Octavo (8 15/16 x 6 3/8 inches; 227 x 163 mm.). [2], 61, [1] pp., color illustrations throughout. Bound in publisher's unglazed color pictorial boards with color pictorial endpapers. In the original first issue color pictorial dust jacket, with the price “200/200” (i.e. $2.00) on the front flap and with no mention of the “Beginner Books” series on the rear panel. The bare minimum of rubbing at extremities, dust jacket with slight rubbing at folds. Later editions/issues possessed glazed boards, and the original price of $2.00 was lowered to $1.95. Dr. Seuss’ renowned children’s classic. The book, which follows the visit of a clever top hat ensconced cat to a suburban home, was written by Dr. Seuss in response to John Hersey's challenge that he come up with a more entertaining and engaging basic reader. The book sold over a million copies in its first three…

The story revolves around two children, Sally and her brother, who are stuck inside on a rainy day with nothing to do. Suddenly, a tall, mischievous, and anthropomorphic cat wearing a tall striped hat appears at their doorstep. The Cat proposes to entertain the kids while their mother is away by performing various tricks and antics. Accompanying the Cat are Thing One and Thing Two, mischievous creatures who wreak havoc in the house, creating a whirlwind of chaos. The children become increasingly concerned about the mess and the potential trouble they might get into. However, before their mother returns, the Cat manages to clean up the house just in time, using a magical cleaning machine called the "Voom." The book is renowned for its lively rhymes, whimsical illustrations, and the memorable, eccentric characters created by Dr. Seuss. It's not only an entertaining story but also a book that encourages imagination, creativity, and the importance of responsible decision-making. "The Cat in the Hat" is often praised for its engaging storytelling and its ability to teach young readers valuable lessons while keeping them entertained. It has become a staple in children's literature and continues to captivate readers of all ages.

The copyright page will have the statement "Copyright 1957 by Dr. Seuss." The book may also include the Random House logo. The first edition was originally priced at $2.00. Later printings or editions may have different prices listed. The book's boards (covers) should have a young boy and girl, with the cat standing between them, all on a red background. The dust jacket should have the same design as the boards, with a scene of the Cat in the Hat standing between the children on the front cover and a list of other Dr. Seuss books on the back. The back flap of the dust jacket may have a brief author bio and a list of other books by Dr. Seuss. On the jacket, the words by Dr. Seuss is in orange.