Would you read it on a lake? Would you eat it in a cake?

Maya Kukes

MAGNOLIA PARK -- Students at Walt Disney Elementary School took a

break from the swings and games at recess on Thursday to greet an unusual

guest - the Cat in the Hat.

The cat's appearance kicked off Read Across America Day, which was

Friday, one day early. The purpose of the day is to promote schoolwide

reading. The day also honors Dr. Seuss, the author of many beloved

children's books including The Cat in the Hat.

Today marks the 98th birthday of Seuss, who died in 1991.

Students at Walt Disney also dined on a rainbow decorated birthday

cake during lunch in the school's cafeteria, in Seuss' honor.

"We're indebted to him," said Cris Watson, curriculum specialist at

Walt Disney. "Who hasn't learned to read from one of Dr. Suess' books?"