Dr. Seuss's Horse Museum
Classic Seuss Series
What’s inside...
A never-before-published Dr. Seuss book about creating and looking at art! Based on a manuscript and sketches discovered in 2013, this book is like a visit to a museum--with a horse as your guide! Explore how different artists--including Picasso, George Stubbs, Rosa Bonheur, Alexander Calder, Jacob Lawrence, Deborah Butterfield, Franz Marc, Jackson Pollock--have seen horses and maybe even find a new way of looking at them yourself. Young readers will find themselves delightfully transported by the engaging equines as they learn about the creative process and how to see art in new ways. Taking inspiration from Dr. Seuss's original sketches, acclaimed illustrator Andrew Joyner has created a look that is both subtly Seussian and wholly his own. His whimsical illustrations are combined throughout with 'real-life' art. Cameo appearances by classic Dr. Seuss characters (among them the Cat in the Hat, the Grinch, and Horton the Elephant) make this a playful picture book that is totally unique. Ideal for home or classroom use, it encourages critical thinking and makes a great gift for Seuss fans, artists, and horse lovers of all ages. Publisher's Notes at the end discuss the discovery of the manuscript and sketches, Dr. Seuss's interest in understanding modern art, the process of creating the book, and more.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
78 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Horse
Discussion points
What did you think about the different styles of art shown in the book?
How did the book make you feel about horses and art?
Why do you think Dr. Seuss included so many different artists in the story?
Which artwork was your favorite and why?
How do you think you can create your own art after reading this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they already know about art and horses, and after reading, revisit their answers to compare their thoughts.
Encourage your child to describe their favorite piece of art from the book, focusing on colors, shapes, and how it makes them feel.
Discuss the importance of creativity and how art can be seen in many different forms, just like in the book.
Create a simple art project inspired by one of the styles shown in the book to deepen their appreciation and understanding of art.
Use the book as a way to explore different art museums or galleries, virtually or in person, and relate experiences back to the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Diversity
Explanation: The book introduces a variety of different art styles showcased through horses, demonstrating how art can differ greatly in form and style yet all be valuable and beautiful.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diversity among people and their different backgrounds and perspectives.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: Dr. Seuss's Horse Museum encourages children to look at art creatively and understand that there isn't a right or wrong way to interpret it.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to express themselves creatively, whether through drawing, writing, or other forms of artistic expression.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: The book asks children to think about what makes art, art. They are urged to consider various viewpoints and engage in discussions about what they see.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop critical thinking skills as they learn to observe, analyze, and discuss various aspects of art and other subjects.
Example Lesson: Learning from Different Perspectives
Explanation: The narrative showcases different interpretations of art from well-known artists, teaching children that each person may see things uniquely.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in everyday life as children interact with peers who may see or understand things differently than they do, promoting empathy and understanding.
Example Lesson: History and Culture
Explanation: Art from various eras and cultures are presented in the museum setting, providing a glimpse into how different societies express themselves through art.
Real-World Application: Understanding the historical and cultural contexts of different artworks can help children appreciate the richness of human civilization and encourage interest in history and cultural studies.