Seuss, Dr. (1947). McElligot’s pool. New York, NY: Random House, Inc.

Genre: Poetry

Grades: Ages 4-8

McElligot’s Pool tells the story of a seemingly empty puddle that catches the attention of  a young boy. While he is told that the pool consists of nothing other than people’s junk, he remains hopeful that perhaps there is more to this puddle than meets the eye.  The story proceeds to bring the mind of the reader to an unimaginable underwater world where anything is possible. “I might catch a fish/ With a terrible grouch …/ Or an Australian fish/ With a kangaroo pouch!” (Seuss 28-29). Characteristic of nearly every Dr. Seuss book, McElligot’s Pool has easy rhyme schemes and compatible pictures that create hilarious images of colorful and bizarre fish. The story encourages its audience to use our imagination and hopefulness to develop creativity and enthusiasm for the unknown. Dr. Seuss perfects the art of children’s literature and illustrations with his candid flavor and ability to spark the fantasy world.

Author/Illustrator: Dr. Seuss

Theodor “Ted” Seuss Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, was not actually a professional doctor but “his prescription for fun has delighted readers for more than 60 years” (Seussville.com). His first and most popular children’s book, The Cat in the Hat, triggered his career and helped distinguish himself as a supreme author illustrator of children’s literature. He received the Lifetime of Contribution to Children’s Literature award from the Pulitzer Prize Committee in 1984. “As permanent reminder to the reading public, the final line in his book (Oh, The Place You’ll Go!) issues the following charge: ‘You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So … get on your way!’” (Seussville.com). Dr. Seuss died on September 24, 1991 at the age of 87 shortly after writing this book. His commitment to children’s literature revolutionized modern writing style and his legacy has left an unprecedented effect on the readers of his books.

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Sources:

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