The Lorax is a fable written and illustrated by Dr. Seuss that deals with the themes of industrialization, and the negative effects it has on our environment. Published in 1971, the book created some controversy, particularly with people involved with the lumber industry. The story is narrated by the Once-ler, who tells a young boy about a business he ran with his family. The business grew rapidly despite warnings by the Lorax, a local creature who spoke for the forest and its creatures, and soon the forest became extremely polluted. One by one, the animals are forced to leave their once thriving environment. Finally, the business uses all the forest's resources, and the Lorax himself departs. The Once-ler then realizes the consequences of his greed, but offers hope to a young boy in the form of a tree seed that might help rebuild the once beautiful land.
The book was progressive for its time. Many people are just now turning to the notion of thinking green and protecting our land. Seuss does a great job of creating a story line that is easy for children to understand, while still delivering a message that resonates with adults. As the book progresses, the illustrations show the trees to grow scarcer, and the sky to turn black. On the last page though, Seuss brightens to sky, to show the reader that with change we can turn around our environment.
Geisel, Theodor Seuss. The Lorax.
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