Review: Dr. Seuss's Horse Museum

Dr Seuss was renowned for turning ideas upon their heads. Perhaps it is not so surprising then to discover that Dr. Seuss's Horse Museum, is not so much about horses but very much about art. This is an enticing and welcoming story about art in all its variety, individuality and non-conformity. The subject of choice happens to be horses - speedy horses, powerful horses, sculptural horses and wildly-imagined horses.

As the children in the book canter through a museum filled with horse-related artworks, the reader learns about artistic styles and history. Publisher's notes explain that a manuscript and sketches by Theodore Seuss Geisel (Dr Seuss) were discovered many years after his death, leading to the development of this book. Andrew Joyner's lively illustrations convey the whirlwind of discovery the children embark upon, whilst also doing justice to the original sketches by Dr Seuss.

The essential premise of this book is that art lies within the individual and the way in which each person sees, imagines, understands and portrays the world around them. Different artistic styles are explored, with each page detailing examples of various artists' depictions of horses. This book encourages thinking, talking and sharing different perspectives whilst also enjoying every aspect of art.

Title: Dr. Suess's Horse Museum
Author: Dr Seuss
Illustrator: Andrew Joyner
Publisher: Puffin, $27.99
Publication Date: 3 September 2019
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9780241425725
For ages: 7+
Type: Picture book