A lost piece of American literary history has been uncovered at the University of California San Diego’s Geisel Library — a complete, never-before-seen manuscript by Theodor Seuss Geisel, known to generations as Dr. Seuss. The original work, titled Sing the 50 United States!, was discovered among archived materials maintained by Dr. Seuss Enterprises and will be published by Random House Children’s Books on June 2, 2026.
The manuscript, which includes Dr. Seuss’s handwritten text, rhymes, and a cover sketch, captures the spirit of his trademark rhythm and wordplay. The story features the Cat in the Hat and two of his Little Cat helpers guiding readers through all fifty states in a fun, lyrical celebration of America’s geography. The book will include excerpts and sketches from Geisel’s original notes, along with a United States map hidden beneath the jacket design.
This newly found work marks the first complete Dr. Seuss manuscript discovered since What Pet Should I Get? was published posthumously in 2015. The find, described as a full and ready manuscript rather than an unfinished concept, reveals Seuss’s enduring dedication to teaching through joy and creativity. Children’s illustrator Tom Brannon has completed new artwork for the book, staying true to the whimsical visual style that defines Seuss’s legacy. The first printing will include 500,000 copies, aligning perfectly with America’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026 — a fitting time for a story about national unity and learning.
To commemorate the release, Dr. Seuss Enterprises and Random House are partnering with the nonprofit First Book to deliver backpacks filled with Sing the 50 United States!, other classic Seuss titles, and essential school supplies to classrooms across all 50 states. A special celebration in Washington, D.C., will coincide with the 2026 back-to-school season, along with a new music video debuting on the official Dr. Seuss YouTube channel. The discovery reinforces Dr. Seuss’s lasting influence in children’s literature. His works continue to inspire new readers and remain among the most beloved titles worldwide. With upcoming projects including a new Cat in the Hat animated film set for release in November 2026, Seuss’s legacy continues to expand—reminding readers that imagination, learning, and play are timeless.
