Democrat Kelli Dunaway was sworn in as a St. Louis County Council member using Dr. Seuss’ bestseller “Oh the Places You’ll Go!” instead of the Bible. The swearing-in ceremony took place on August 13. 

It’s not mandatory, but for incoming politicians, it is tradition to use the New Testament for the swearing-in ceremony. Dunaway had her two children by her side as she placed her hand on the Dr. Seuss book and promised to serve the people of Missouri’s 2nd congressional district.

Dunaway beat Republican Amy Poelker with nearly 60 percent of the vote in the special elections that were held to fill vacancies. Dunaway, a former field organizer for Obama for America, is the current director for learning and development for Bryan Cave law firm.