Oh, the places you’ll go — all 50 of them.
It turns out the Cat in the Hat isn’t done exploring just yet. Thirty-four years after the death of Theodor Geisel — better known to the world as Dr. Seuss — a manuscript and cover sketch were discovered earlier this year in the archives of the Geisel Library at the University of California, San Diego.
The manuscript, titled “Sing the 50 United States!” will be brought to life by Random House Children’s Books, which plans to print 500,000 copies for its first edition, according to a statement. The book is set to hit shelves on June 2, 2026, just in time to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary.
“Finding an original Dr. Seuss story is something we dream of,” says Judith Haut, deputy publisher at Random House Children’s Books. “‘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."
The newly found work marks the first complete Dr. Seuss manuscript discovered since the posthumous publication of “What Pet Should I Get?” in 2015. True to Geisel’s playful style, the new story is said to feature his “signature rhymes, rhythm and wordplay,” as the Cat in the Hat helps readers learn all 50 states.
Geisel left behind a cover sketch and notes for the artwork. Illustrator Tom Brannon completed the new book in Seuss’s iconic style. Brannon is known for his work on books like “Sesame Street,” “Muppet Babies” and “Playhouse Disney.”
“Uncovering a new work from Ted is like finding a time capsule of his imagination,” said Susan Brandt, president and CEO of Dr. Seuss Enterprises.
“‘Sing the 50 United States!’ celebrates his boundless creativity, genius with words and enduring ability to inspire young readers everywhere,” she continued. “We’re honored to share this new Dr. Seuss treasure with readers across America during such a meaningful milestone year.”