Story time was something many of us looked forward to every night as kids. Our vivid imaginations would picture characters bounding off the pages, no longer fictitious beings but instead real manifestations of childhood dreams. That heaping dose of nostalgia is a reality in Abilene, where sculptures of popular children’s book characters line the downtown streets. Check it out:

It all started when Abilene opened the National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature, the first museum of its kind in America.
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Soon after, sculptures of popular storybook characters began springing up all over downtown. Proudly hosting the annual Children's Art & Literacy Festival, Abilene earned the title of "Storybook Capital of Texas" in 2015.
"Man in the Moon" was sculpted by Pedro Rivera and installed in 2014.
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It tells the story of a little boy who became the first Guardian of Childhood, watching over little boys and girls while they dream. The realism of this piece is absolutely stunning.
Wander around long enough and you just might hear a Who.
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Little ones will delight in this novel's message to respect all beings regardless of their size. After all, "a person's a person, no matter how small."

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Other Dr. Seuss sculptures include The Lorax, Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, and The Grinch.
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Delve into your most cherished childhood memories as you admire all the figures. Kids and kids at heart alike will grow more enchanted with each sculpture viewed.
Who remembers good ol' Dino Bob? One of the project's first pieces, everyone's favorite prehistoric critter was installed in 2000.
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For those of us old enough to have read the book starring this lovable beast, seeing a life-sized version is nothing short of magical. Shout out to sculptor Bob Wade for providing a blast from the past!
This handy guide lists all 24 sculptures, with helpful information such as who built them, what book they come from, and the story's plot.
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There's also an app that leads you on a scavenger hunt to each character. Print out your map here or pick one up at the T&P Depot, which is located at 1101 N. 1st St.

Have you ever seen the storybook sculptures in Abilene? Which one is your favorite?

For more whimsical, childlike fun in Texas, check out This Alice In Wonderland Themed Tea Room In Texas Is Like Something From A Dream.

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