Dr. Seuss Supporters Fuming Over Backlash to Racist Characters
03/04/2021 11:56 pm EST
As noted in the official statement, the books in question contain racist and insensitive imagery. If I Ran the Zoo, for example, depicts its narrator using "helpers who all wear their eyes as a slant" from "countries no one can spell" as servants. In the Cat's Quizzer, a Japanese character is "referred to as 'a Japanese,' has a bright yellow face, and is standing on what appears to be Mt. Fuji," according to a 2019 study that found 43 out of the 45 characters of colors in 50 of the author's books have "characteristics aligning with the definition of Orientalism," or the stereotypical, offensive portrayal of Asia.
According to Dr. Seuss' stepdaughter, Lark Grey Dimond-Cates, the late author's family learned of the decision Monday night. She told the New York Post she believes "in this day and age it's a wise decision" to cease publication, adding that, "I think this is a world that right now is in pain, and we've all got to be very gentle and thoughtful and kind with each other."
Dimond-Cates expressed hope that the six titles will one day be back in publication "because his body of work is unique." She said "there wasn't a racist bone in that man's body" and explained that several of his books, including Mulberry Street and If I Ran the Zoo grew out of the author's memories of his "very happy childhood" in Springfield, Massachuesetts.
Leagrey Dimond, another of the author's stepdaughters, expressed a similar desire. Speaking with TMZ, she suggested that rather than pulling the books entirely, a disclaimer be added to the beginning of the six titles. It is unclear if this is a suggestion that has been considered or will be considered in the future.
Since that Tuesday announcement, more than a dozen books from the author have climbed the best-seller's charts on Amazon. By Tuesday afternoon, just hours after the decision was announced, 13 of the best-selling books were among the Top 20 listed on Amazon U.S. were the author's, four of which were among the titles that will no longer be published.
As the decision continues to stir social media users, other repercussions to the content may be coming. Universal Orlando, which has already pulled the books from their shelves, announced they are "evaluating" the future of a play area in the park that is named after If I Ran the Zoo. As they undertake their evaluation, Universal Orlando confirmed the that Seuss Landing will still be around for their visitors to enjoy.
Dr. Seuss is the pen name for Theodor Seuss Geisel. His books are among the best-selling children's books in the world. His birthday is March 2, which is also when Reading Across America Day is held. The day is purposely tied to the author, though amid criticism of his earlier works, there have been efforts to distance the occasion from the author.
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