The Lorax

The Lorax

by Dr. Seuss

The Lorax is the story about a environmental loving Lorax and the greedy once-ler as he figures out that he can cut down the beautiful Truffula Trees and use them to make Thneeds. After this the Once-ler realizes just how much money he can make he continues to make more and more Thneeds all while depleting more natural resources all because 'business is business! And business must grow.' The Lorax 'speaks for the trees, for the trees have no tounges' in an unsuccessful attempt to stop the greedy Once-ler. In the end, the last Truffula Tree is chopped down so everyone leaves the horribly polluted town. Dr. Seuss leaves the readers with the message to protect and care for the planet before it is too late. This is Dr. Seuss' most controversial book and was banned in parts of the United States for its political content. Specifically, it was banned in some schools and libraries in regions with timber economies for its anti-forest industry content on grounds that this book "criminalizes the forestry industry." I was extremely surprised to see that this book made so many controversial book lists because I thought this book carried such a wonderful message. While this book does take a strong stance against big business, it carries a stronger message for the protection of our environment. Rather than this book being banned from schools, it should definitely be promoted and used in the classroom to teach young readers about the responsibility of protecting the environment! Dr. Seuss does a wonderful job of using his charteristic rhyming story with the magical and bright illustrations that follow along to engage readers of all ages.

Intended Age 4-8