Children’s Book Philosophy

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“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 one who'll decide where to go...”

One might say children’s books are not philosophical in nature; however, I beg to differ. I found that the story line of Oh, The Places You’ll Go! provides readers with a philosophical background. The author, Dr. Seuss, composed rhymes that provide readers with an insight of their future success. Although Seuss did not know the future every reader, he did know the philosophical background of life and success in general. Seuss’ philosophical knowledge can be observed all throughout his books; however, Oh, The Places You’ll Go! provides the greatest philosophical descriptions. While reading Oh, The Places You’ll Go! the reader is constantly asking themselves what does it mean to be successful. Oh, The Places You’ll Go! constantly reminds its readers that the possibility of being successful is possible. However, being successful is determined by the path that one might choose. In turn, reaching thus goal is not always easy. I chose Oh, The Places You’ll Go! because its text is so powerful. All throughout the book the reader is not only presented with thoughts and questions of success, but also with the powerful journey of life.
A successful teacher could use this book to promote philosophical thinking within her classroom. After reading aloud Oh, The Places You’ll Go! a discussion might form in hopes to formulate philosophical thinking. I have provided a list of philosophical questions that the teacher could use to facilitate discussions within her classroom.

 What does success mean?
 What does it take to be s...

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... His way with words and rhymes provides readers with the comfort and encouragement they need to pursue success. Oh, The Places You’ll Go! is a very useful tool for the classroom, because it facilitates philosophical thinking and encouragement. This is a very useful book with numerous connecting activities that I recommend to my fellow teaching peers. It is my passion produce successful students in my classroom; as a result I chose this book due to its successful nature.
“So be sure when you step, Step with care and great tact. And remember that life's A Great Balancing Act. And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.) KID, YOU'LL MOVE MOUNTAINS! So... be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O'Shea, you're off to Great Places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So...get on your way!”

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