Joyce Sobel, the Board Chair of First Book-San Juan County submitted this story to the blog about the 50th birthday party the board threw for the Cat in the Hat in conjunction with other local partners.

“On Sunday, March 25th, The Cat in the Hat celebrated his 50th birthday party at the San Juan Island Family Resource Center in Friday Harbor, WA.

“The party, hosted by First Book-San Juan County and the San Juan Literacy Partnership, was a collaboration among several local organizations who distribute books from First Book and who are partners in promoting literacy. These partners are: San Juan Island Public Library, San Juan County Public Health, and the San Juan Community Theater.

“Those who attended the birthday party — over 85 young and old alike — have not yet decided what was the most fun. Maggie Gallivan, our music leader, wrote a song about the Cat and the Cat came running in when he heard it. Loud clapping and whistles and shouts filled the room, and children grinned from ear to ear.

“The Cat then read his book to the audience while Thing 1 and Thing 2 joined late and bounced around the room!

“Maggie led us in singing ‘Happy Birthday.’ The Cat shared his wish — that every child would clean his room without being asked! And cut his beautiful cake that was donated by his friend Carlene Balcomb-Bartok at Carlene’s Cakes.”

Thanks for submitting this story about your exciting event, Joyce! How did YOU celebrate the Cat in the Hat’s 50th birthday?