Being in high school comes with a lot of stress; it’s hard to believe that at one time children’s lives were stress free and they could explore the works of children’s authors: the classics of Dr. Seuss, PD Eastman, and the like allow children to learn and their imaginations to grow. But what are HB’s favorite children’s books?

Simon Blaisdell ‘17 shares a common favorite with many students. “Dr. Seuss’s assortment of children’s books is read by almost every little boy and girl,” said Blaisdell,  his favorite book being “The Cat in the Hat, of course…It had a certain vibe with all the cat’s mischief that really helped shape my imagination.” He went on to say that the book has still left an impact on him to this day and reminds him to keep simple humor in his life. When he sees the cover, stress leaves his body and he remembers the good times of his childhood. “How can you not like Cat in the Hat? It is about a Cat man that has two, tiny men that he keeps locked in a box– it’s crazy,” Blaisdell stated.

But it’s not only the seniors who feel a connection to Dr. Seuss. Ronnie Hillard ‘19 said that his favorite children’s book is Yertle the Turtle. He likes it because it was a “really funny book and that the name Yertle was very unique and memorable.” He liked the underlying message that kids shouldn’t let others control them or bully them into doing something:stand up like Mack, the bottom turtle.

Christian Moura ‘17 said he liked Dr. Seuss growing up as well, but the Arthur books had more of a practical use in his everyday life. His mom bought them  when he was really little. His mom would read them to him when he was young. Then as he grew up, he started reading them to her. It was one of these books that helped him learn to read,  which deepened his childhood connection to the series. Moura believes the lessons Arthur taught him have made him a better person in high school.

The school, as a whole, may not have a single favorite book, but the lessons that they teach, no matter the book, have a deep impact on the lives of students. As Dr Seuss wrote, “you have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.”