An original manuscript and cover sketch by Theodor Geisel, better known under his pen name Dr. Seuss, will be published by Random House Children’s Books, the company said in an Oct. 28 press release.
The book “Sing the 50 United States!” will be released next summer on June 2, 2026, with a first printing of 500,000 copies.
“Sing the 50 United States!” is the first full manuscript written by Dr. Seuss to be discovered since 2015’s “What Pet Should I Get?”
According to Random House Children’s Books, the manuscript was found earlier this year among archival materials preserved by DSE at the Geisel Library at UC San Diego.
Along with the manuscript, Dr. Seuss also left behind a cover sketch and notes on the overall art direction that he would like to have for the book. He also left behind illustrations to pair with the text.
The book was completed by children’s book artist Tom Brannon, who drew the book in Dr. Seuss’ style.
Dr Seuss sits in his California home office with a copy of his book, “The Cat in the Hat” on April 25, 1957. Gene Lester / Getty Images
Like the famous author’s previous works, “Sing the 50 United States!” will use exceptional wordplay to help young readers learn all about all 50 states.
The iconic “Cat in the Hat” and two “Little Cats” helpers will also be featured in the educational book, too. There will also be excerpts and sketches from Dr. Seuss’ original manuscript and a map of the U.S. beneath the book jacket.
To celebrate this launch, Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Random House Children’s Books have teamed up with First Book to give the playful read to students across the United States. Participating students will receive a backpack with “Sing the 50 United States!” as well as some school supplies and other Dr. Seuss books.
In a press release, Susan Brandt, the president and CEO of Dr. Seuss Enterprises, spoke to the significance of finding the manuscript.
“Uncovering a new work from Ted is like finding a time capsule of his imagination,” she said. “’Sing the 50 United States!’ celebrates his boundless creativity, genius with words, and enduring ability to inspire young readers everywhere. We’re honored to share this new Dr. Seuss treasure with readers across America during such a meaningful milestone year.”
Judith Haut, the executive vice president and deputy publisher of Random House Children’s Books, added, “Finding an original Dr. Seuss story is something we dream of.”
“’Sing the 50 United States!’ releasing in time for America’s 250th birthday makes for such a notable cultural and publishing moment, and we are so excited for young readers and their families to enjoy a special storytime together — a true hallmark of what makes Dr. Seuss books so enduring today,” Haut, who also oversees Dr. Seuss Publishing at Random House Children’s Books, said.
Grammy winner Victoria Monét is bringing her writing talents to children’s books with her story “Everywhere You Are.”
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