3/23/12

Book of the Week #12

Dr. Seuss: American Icon by Philip Nel (NY: Continuum, 2004)

Philip Nel (who as far as I know has no connection to NH), has written an in-depth study of the work of Dr. Seuss (who does have a connection to NH). If you are looking for a celebration of the Dr. Seuss you know and love, this is not your book. If you are looking for an in-depth study of the poetical structure, the political influence, and the artistic sensibilities of Theodore Seuss Geisel this is the place to begin. The extensive bibliography will point you to where you should go next as well.

"Published in time for the centenary of Seuss's birth in March 2004, Dr. Seuss: American Icon, celebrates one of the most influential authors and artists of the 20th century: Theodor Seuss Geisel, best known as 'Dr. Seuss'. Dr Seuss's ascendance from children's author to American icon confirms that his cultural significance rests not just with the beginning reader, but with the scholar, the artist, and the poet. Seuss's Beginner Books(starting with The Cat in the Hat in 1957) have obscured the enormous range of his contributions to American literature. Similarly his art, unfairly overlooked because it appears in children's books, cartoons, and commercials, actually covers a range of styles, including Surrealism, Art Nouveau, and Cubism. Bringing to light the adult perspective behind the children's writer, Philip Nel examines Seuss's lesser-known works, such as the 'adult book' The Seven Lady Godivas (1939), and the live-action musical The 5,000 Fingers of Dr. T (1953). The book also features the most comprehensive Seuss bibliography ever produced, documenting his prodigious output. As well as establishing Seuss's place among poets and artists, Dr. Seuss: American Icon links the Seuss people know and the Seuss people do not know." (publisher's blurb)

No comments: