Cat in the Hat

Geared toward younger viewers, this Beginner Book Video is a static, nonmusical version of the classic Dr. Seuss tale The Cat in the Hat (1957). It should not be confused with the 1972 TV special. While actors voice original narration and dialogue, original illustrations are brought to life via cutouts, with the result that there is some activity, but characters' lips don't move when they speak. School-aged children and adults may find the effect off-putting. (On the plus side, the Cat in the Hat is voiced by the Late Show's Alan Kalter.) The second story, Maybe You Should Fly a Jet! Maybe You Should Be a Vet! (1980), was written by Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel) under the pseudonym Theo. LeSieg, and is animated in the same fashion. Dr. Seuss did not illustrate the original story. As in the Beginner Book original, Michael J. Smollin is credited with the artwork. --Kathleen C. Fennessy