Dr Seuss: Universal theme park ‘evaluating’ attractions inspired by author’s work after books pulled from publication

Guests ‘can plan on continuing to be able to enjoy’ the area

Clémence Michallon
New York City
Wednesday 03 March 2021 22:00 GMT
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Two of the six Dr Seuss books that have been pulled from publication
Two of the six Dr Seuss books that have been pulled from publication
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A Universal theme park in Orlando, Florida is “evaluating” its section inspired by Dr Seuss after six of the author’s books were removed from publication.

Dr Seuss Enterprises, the company that manages the late author’s estate, announced on Tuesday it has decided to stop publishing and licensing six titles over “hurtful and wrong” imagery. Some of the work of Theodor Seuss Geisel has come under scrutiny for containing racist tropes and undertones.

Universal Orlando, a resort and theme park, contains an area known as Seuss Landing inspired by several of the author’s works.

Two elements in Seuss Landing refer to books that have been dropped from publication: one is a display bearing the title If I Ran the Zoo (one of the six volumes in question) and the other is a store known as the Mulberry Street Store, a reference to And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street (another one of the six books).

A Universal spokesperson contacted by News 13, a local network in Florida, said: “Seuss Landing continues to be very popular with our guests and we value our relationship with Seuss Enterprises.

“We’ve removed the books from our shelves as they have asked and we’ll be evaluating our in-park experience too. But our guests can plan on continuing to be able to enjoy their favorite experiences at Seuss Landing.”

Read more: Dr Seuss: Six books pulled from publication over ‘hurtful and wrong’ imagery

The Independent has contacted Universal Orlando for further comment.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Dr Seuss Enterprises said it will no longer publish And to Think That I Saw It on Mulberry Street, If I Ran the Zoo, McElligot’s Pool, On Beyond Zebra!, Scrambled Eggs Super!, and The Cat’s Quizzer.

“These books portray people in ways that are hurtful and wrong,” the statement adds.

“Ceasing sales of these books is only part of our commitment and our broader plan to ensure Dr Seuss Enterprises’ catalogue represents and supports all communities and families.”

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