Books

First edition, first issue of Dr. Seuss’ classic work. Octavo, original illustrated unlaminated boards. All issue points present: price of 200/200 on the dust jacket, no mention of the Beginner Books series on the rear panel, and has four paragraphs of educators' reviews on the rear panel. Book contains a single signature and 61 pages with a message on final page before end paper contained in an outline of the cat's hat & head. Boldly signed by Dr. Seuss opposite the title page. Near fine in a near fine dust jacket with light wear. An exceptional example. "A person's a person, no matter how small," Theodor Seuss Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, would say. "Children want the same things we want. To laugh, to be challenged, to be entertained and delighted." "The Cat in the Hat was so successful that Random House, publisher of all the Dr. Seuss books since 1937, created a special division, Beginner Books, with the Cat in the Hat as the logo and Dr. Seuss as president of the division" (Dr. Seuss from Then to Now, 45). "This extraordinary writer has done more to foster literacy in children than most because he manages to combine lunacy with sanity, fun with learning, and quality with exuberant readability" (Joseph Connolly). It was the basis for the 2003 film starring Mike Myers in the title role of the Cat in the Hat, and Dakota Fanning as Sally.

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.