A dozen years in, the Cat in the Hat Ball is still a boon to children, as it celebrates the joys of reading in general and Dr. Seuss in particular.

This year's festivities on Saturday at Mitchell College feature Connecticut children's author Janet Lawler, who reads and signs copies of her book "Snowzilla."

There's lots more to be had, too, with stories and games and activities. Ted Phillips provides music, and Bank Square Book holds a book fair.

As for the Seussian elements: kids can get a piece of a Dr. Seuss birthday cake and can meet two of Seuss' most famous characters - the Grinch and the Cat in the Hat himself.

The Cat in the Hat Ball is a project of the Mitchell College Education Club, and admission for a family is a new children's book or $5. Students and faculty members of the college will read those donated books Wednesday at area schools and then donate them to the schools.

- KRISTINA DORSEY

Cat in the Hat Ball, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Mitchell College, Clarke Center, Montauk Avenue, New London; admission for a family is one new children's book or $5.