Mayor Kevin Faulconer took a break on Monday from running the city to read a Dr. Seuss book to roughly 100 third-graders from Burbank and Hardy elementary schools.
The event at the San Diego History Center celebrated the birthday of Theodore Seuss Geisel, also known as Dr. Seuss. It was the 111th birthday of the beloved children's author who lived in La Jolla and died in 1991.
The children wore paper hats in the style of one of Seuss' most famous books, "The Cat in the Hat."
The mayor read "Oh, The Places You’ll Go!," a book being honored for 25 years in publication. He also encouraged students to enlist in a national contest called “Kid, You’ll Move Mountains.”
The event is hosted by Dr. Seuss Enterprises and recognizes children ages 5 to 18 years old who excel in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Contest participants will have a chance to win $10,000 toward college and a ride in the Goodyear blimp.
Geisel published 46 children's books during his lifetime, including "Green Eggs and Ham" and "How The Grinch Stole Christmas!" A new Dr. Seuss book called "What Pet Should I Get" will be released in July.
An exhibit currently on view a the San Diego History Center showcases some of Geisel's lesser known artwork, while another exhibit at UC San Diego features Geisel's personal collection of unique, historic hats.
