School Library Journal Review
Gr 9 Up This is the first in-depth study of Dr. Seuss (Theodore Seuss Geisel), whose books have been read to more than one generation of children and who has left his mark on most of us. In addition to having illustrated two Caldecott Honor Books, he has also won the Pulitzer Prize, an Academy award, and other awards. His works are worthy of critical evaluation, and MacDonald has done a thorough job. Her book is organized chronologically and includes biographical information along with discussions about Dr. Seuss as author-illustrator, his books for beginning readers, his political message books, and his influence on other writers and illustrators. She concentrates on reasons for Dr. Seuss' popularity. In addition his enormously successful use of language is examined, along with the growth and changes in his style as years passed. Dorothy L. Lilly, Grosse Pointe North High School, Mich. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
``For all his notoriety and success, Dr. Seuss' work has received little critical discussion,'' claims MacDonald in her preface. To fill in this gap, she provides an in-depth study of the famous author, focusing primarily on Seuss' writings. Beginning with biographical information, the author then discusses Seuss' books in chronological order, closing with an examination of the influences on his work as well as his influence on others in the field. Worthwhile for older students doing biographical reports and for teachers of children's literature, who can combine this study with Dr. Seuss from Then to Now [BKL S 1 87], which concentrates more on the man's artistic efforts. Extensive notes and references and a bibliography appended. To be illustrated. BE.
