Today is National Read Across America Day, in celebration of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Schools and libraries across the country are celebrating the importance of reading and the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss.

Dr. Seuss wrote more than 44 children’s books, translated into more than 15 languages with over 200 million copies sold around the world.  His works motivated 11 children’s television specials, a Broadway musical and movies in theaters. His honors include two Academy awards, two Emmy awards, a Peabody award and the Pulitzer Prize.

That said, many of us had our childhoods touched by the inspirational words of Dr. Seuss .Though his books may be useful for young children learning how to read, the messages can teach all of us important life lessons.

Whether The Lorax (in theaters soon!)  is exposing the importance of taking care of our earth, or Horton is reminding you to stand up for yourself even when you’re small or ‘red fish and blue fish’ are telling you “funny things are everywhere,” his lighthearted tales can mean a lot more to us when we read these books to our children now.

One of his most popular books often given to college graduates, “Oh the Places You’ll Go” starts off with the confident message: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own.  And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.”  What an inspiring message-ONLY YOU are in charge of your own destiny!

We hope you can use this holiday to take some time to read with your kids. Which Dr. Seuss books were your favorite as a child? Which ones have messages that resonate with you as an adult? Please share your thoughts in the comments below!

Photos: dad, page, logo