“These books portray people in ways that are hurtful and wrong,” Dr. Seuss Enterprises told The Associated Press in a statement that coincided with the late author and illustrator’s birthday. “Ceasing sales of these books is only part of our commitment and our broader plan to ensure Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ catalog represents and supports all communities and families,” it said. Books by Dr. Seuss -- who was born Theodor Seuss Geisel in Springfield, Massachusetts, on March 2, 1904 --- have been translated into dozens of languages as well as in braille and are sold in more than 100 countries. Ad“Research in recent years has revealed strong racial undertones in many books written/illustrated by Dr. Seuss,” the school district said in a statement. “The Cat in the Hat,” one of Seuss’ most popular books, has received criticism, too, but will continue to be published for now.