Today, March 2, is Dr. Seuss’ birthday.  Dr. Seuss remains popular for his whimsical illustrations and text that is irresistible to children and adults.  Parents feel nostalgic as they remember learning to read with books like [amazon_link id=”039480001X” target=”_blank” ]The Cat in the Hat[/amazon_link] and [amazon_link id=”039480029X” target=”_blank” ]Hop on Pop[/amazon_link]. 

It’s been 75 years since Dr. Seuss published his first children’s book.  In celebration of this anniversary, Pottery Barn Kids has released a line of products.  We were sent the following products to try that were made in India and China:

Dr. Seuss™ Bath Mat

Inspired by artwork from one of Dr. Seuss’s well-known stories, the design on this plush, cotton terry bath mat features a contented fish swimming in his bowl.

• 25″ wide x 27″ long
• Bath mats are made of plush ring-spun cotton.
• Fibers are yarn dyed for lasting, vibrant color.
• Cut pile has a plush, velvety feel.
• Backed with slip-resistant natural latex.
• Machine wash.
• Imported.

Dr. Seuss™ Bath Towels

Using original artwork from Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat, we created super soft towels that highlight his memorable characters.

• Looped cotton terry.
• Ultraplush 550-gram weight.
• Satin-stitch-embroidered design.
• Personalization is available for an additional $7.00.
• Machine wash.
• Imported

All of these products are on sale right now!

Yesterday, I wrote about the plethora of 70 product tie ins to the new Lorax movie.  I don’t feel the same outrage and disgust with these Dr. Seuss products. Why?

None of the Pottery Barn Kids products contradict the themes of the books they represent, like the Mazda/Lorax does.  Do they promote commercialism?  Yes, but I do think products can do so without harming children and actually promote literacy.  What’s wrong with using a Cat in the Hat towel after a bath and then reading the story before bed?

We live in a world where yes, marketing is directed at children.  Parents are huge consumers.  If you need something, then yes, buy it. If you don’t, then don’t.  That’s where I don’t have a problem with products like these if they are purchased on the basis of need and not desire.

The problem with the Lorax products is they contradict the message of conservation and environmentalism in the book.  Remember, you don’t NEED a Thneed!

Would I buy these products? Maybe. As mentioned above, the marketing doesn’t bother me, but I do wish the were organic. Pottery Barn Kids does make some products with organic cotton.

Disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.