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Oh, cuán lejos llegarás!

Name: Oh, cuán lejos llegarás!
ISBN: 9781880507056

by Dr. Seuss

8.74 / 10 452K ratings

Language: Spanish
Published: 1993
Publisher: Lectorum Publications
Pages: 44
ISBN: 9781880507056

This book addresses the journey of life, with its inherent possibilities and challenges. The story follows an unnamed protagonist, representing the reader, who is encouraged to move forward and decide their own path. It acknowledges that this journey involves both success and moments of difficulty, confusion, and stagnation in places like "The Waiting Place." The narrative does not shy away from the realities of setbacks, loneliness, and the unpredictable nature of existence.

Written in the second person, the book speaks directly to the reader, emphasizing their own autonomy and potential. It posits that you have the internal resources - "brains in your head" and "feet in your shoes" - to navigate the path you choose. Through its exploration of highs and lows, the story delivers a message about resilience, the power of choice, and the necessity of perseverance. It serves as an encouragement to embrace life's boundless opportunities and to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles encountered.

Original edition

Oh, the Places You'll Go!

Originally published in 1990 English Random House Children's Books

Other editions (15)

Listen to the summary Narrated summary

Congratulations! Today is your day. You're off to Great Places! You're off and away! You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go. You'll look up and down streets. Look 'em over with care. About some you will say, "I don't choose to go there." With your head full of brains and your shoes full of feet, you're too smart to go down any not-so-good street.

It's opener there, in the wide open air, where things can happen and frequently do to people as brainy and footsy as you. You'll be on your way up! You'll be seeing great sights! You'll join the high fliers who soar to high heights. You won't lag behind, because you'll have the speed. You'll pass the whole gang and you'll soon take the lead. Wherever you fly, you'll be best of the best.

But on you will go, though the weather be foul. On you will go, though your enemies prowl. On you will go, though the Hakken-Kraks howl! Onward up many a frightening creek, though your arms may get sore and your sneakers may leak. On and on you will hike, and I know you'll hike far and face up to your problems whatever they are. You'll get mixed up, of course, as you already know. You'll get mixed up with many strange birds as you go.

There will be times when you'll be left in a Lurch on a prickle-ly perch, feeling quite lonely and low. You might even find yourself in the dreaded Slump, where you'll be stuck, unable to actively put yourself back on a promising path. You'll come to a place called The Waiting Place, a most useless spot where people are just waiting. Waiting for a train to go or a bus to come, or a phone to ring, or the snow to snow. No, that's not for you!

You'll escape from the Waiting Place, I'm quite sure you will. For out there, things can happen, and they frequently do, to people as brainy and footsy as you. And when things start to happen, don't worry. Don't stew. Just go right along. You'll start happening too!

So be sure when you step, step with care and great tact and remember that Life's a Great Balancing Act. Just never forget to be dexterous and deft. And never mix up your right foot with your left. And will you succeed? Yes! You will indeed! (98 and ¾ percent guaranteed.) So, get on your way! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So get on your way!

What other readers say

Liked

The reviews consistently praise this book as a profoundly inspiring and deeply meaningful read. Many highlight its ability to convey strong, important messages about life's journey, resilience, and personal agency through simple, lyrical prose and engaging rhymes. Readers, both children and adults, are touched by its unflinching optimism and the wisdom it offers regarding the ups and downs of life. The book is celebrated for its ability to motivate, empower, and encourage self-belief, making it a beloved choice for those seeking guidance and a positive outlook. Its engaging style, including the whimsical illustrations and playful word-play, ensures that the story remains interesting and memorable across all age groups.

Disliked

Despite widespread acclaim, some reviewers express reservations. A few find the art style "not-so-great" or describe it as "cutsie" and "sugary-sweet," leading to a lack of personal connection. For some parents, the book's candid portrayal of life's inevitable challenges, such as loneliness and setbacks, can evoke strong emotional responses and anxiety about their children facing such difficulties. One reviewer explicitly states a general disinterest in Dr. Seuss's works, finding them to be "silly rhymes" without significant personal impact, preferring other types of rhythmic poetry.

In short

Overall, the book is considered a powerful and enduring classic, frequently described as one of Dr. Seuss's best works. It serves as an invaluable reminder that while life presents hardships and uncertainties, individuals possess the innate capacity to navigate them with determination and self-direction. This makes it an especially popular and fitting gift for graduations and other significant life transitions, appealing to anyone who is embarking on a new path or seeking renewed motivation. It is highly recommended for readers of all ages who appreciate a balanced, yet ultimately hopeful, perspective on embracing new adventures and overcoming obstacles.

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