Poetry by Kids

Poetry By Kids
Hope Through Heartstrings
By Mattie J. T. Stepanek

Bibliography
Stepanek, Mattie J. T. 2002. Hope Through Heartstrings. New York: Hyperion.
ISBN 0786869445

Book Review
An accomplished poet, Mattie J. T. Stepanek was a young child whose life was drastically cut short by a lifelong battle with a rare form of muscular dystrophy. In his third collection of heartwarming personal poems all written in free verse, Mattie shares his thoughts, trials, and tribulations while dealing with his daily health struggles, along with feelings of death and divorce. Some poems are happy and some are sad.

An advocate for world peace, Mattie successfully delivers this common theme throughout each poem. Those who read his poems will close this book and become a better person. Readers will hardly believe the talent that permeates throughout this book from such an extraordinary young man. After reading each poem in this collection, readers will see how writing poetry can be the perfect outlet for self-expression. As for further inspiration, special acknowledgments from Mattie himself are given to a number of “famous people” such as Jimmy Carter, Oprah Winfrey, Jerry Lewis, to name a few. Well-known spiritual author, Gary Zukov shares his words of wisdom in an elegantly written “Foreword.”

Beautiful finger painted illustrations accompany some of these poems and further add to the innocent childlike appeal uncovered in every single poem. A neatly arranged table of contents introduces three different chapters that separate the meanings behind his poems. Plus, an index organized like no other, is included at the end for a quick and easy reference when looking for poems. Each poem is arranged alphabetically by title, with a first line excerpt, and the page number. The book size itself is also something reminiscent of a small journal or diary for one to write and keep personal poetry.

The poem, “For Our World,” is one such poem that shows the outstanding quality found in Mattie’s poetry. Like many of his poems, this one delivers a feeling of calmness and serenity in trying to make this world a better place for all of us. It is a poem that makes you stop and think about the important things in life.

For Our World

We need to stop.
Just stop.
Stop for a moment...
Before anybody
Says or does anything
That may hurt anyone else.
We need to be silent.
Just silent.
Silent for a moment...
Before we forever lose
The blessing of songs
That grow in our hearts.
We need to notice.
Just notice.
Notice for a moment...
Before the future slips away
Into ashes and dust of humility.
Stop, be silent, and notice...
In so many ways, we are the same.
Our differences are unique treasures.
We have, we are, a mosaic of gifts
To nurture, to offer, to accept.
We need to be.
Just be.
Be for a moment...
Kind and gentle, innocent and trusting,
Like children and lambs,
Never judging or vengeful
Like the judging and vengeful.
And now, let us pray,
Differently, yet together,
Before there is no earth, no life,
No chance for peace.

September 2001

Extensions
After reading “For Our World,” or other poems found in this collection, children my feel inclined to begin their own poetry journals. Children can use this journal anyway they wish. They can write their own poetry or collect favorite poems in a special folder, notebook, or a diary. Encourage the use of colorful illustrations or simple sketches to further add a special touch to their personal collection.

For information on this wonderfully talented poet, visit his personal website:
http://www.mattieonline.com/

Enjoy other books written by Mattie J. T. Stepanek:
Celebrate Through Heartsongs - ISBN 9780786869459
Heartsongs - ISBN 9780786888092
Journey Through Heartsongs - ISBN 9780786869428
Loving Through Heartsongs - ISBN 9780786869466

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Janeczko Collection

Janeczko Collection
Dirty Laundry Pile: Poems in Different Voices
by Paul B. Janeczko and Illustrated by Melissa Sweet

Bibliography
Janeczko, Paul B. 2001. Dirty Laundry Pile: Poems in Different Voices. Ill. by Melissa Sweet. New York: HarperCollins Publishers.
ISBN: 0688162525

Book Review
In this collection of twenty-seven poems written in the voices of average ordinary objects, or that of animals, Paul Janeczko delivers true poetic brilliance with the inclusion of works from such accomplished poets as Douglas Florian, Kristine O’Connell George, Karla Kuskin and others. Along with great poems like “Dirty Laundry Pile” and “Grandpa Bear’s Lullaby,” readers will experience beautifully written verses describing the little peculiarities or details of the unnoticed aspects of those things we come in contact with throughout our lives. Janeczko supplies a variety of poems to hold the interest of different readers as well. Some poems are written in free verse, while others rhyme. Some poems are all over the page twisting and flowing, and a few are even written as lists. During the “Introduction” at the beginning of the book, Janeczko does an equally brilliant job in informing readers about the unique qualities of his collection. He encourages us to imagine ourselves as these objects, while also tapping into the feelings these objects may have. For example, what might it be like as a mosquito, a scarecrow, or a vacuum cleaner? Janeczko further explains to readers how these types of poems are also called, “persona or mask poems” when writing about commonplace objects or animals. Readers of these poems are also offered an element of surprise, as you never know what object or animal comes next in this splendid collection of poems.

An entertaining assortment of beautifully colored illustrations equally parallel the greatness of these poems. Melissa Sweet provides a stunning display of watercolor paintings detailing the different moods presented in each poem. Pictures that visually describe the wild and crazy antics of a ferocious vacuum cleaner sucking everything up in its sight, or the desperate plea of a cold and lonely horse standing in a freezing barn hungering for a carrot and a warm cozy blanket. Throughout her illustrations, Sweet offers a vast array of images with the tiniest of details to further entice the reader.

In the following poem, “The Vacuum Cleaner’s Revenge,” poet Patricia Hubbell hilariously depicts the characteristics of a vacuum cleaner. Readers can actually hear each sound of the crunching and munching made by this crazy electric floor sweeper sucking up everything in its sight. Children will further enjoy acting out the motions of the vacuum cleaner as it does its duty.

The Vacuum Cleaner’s Revenge
by Patricia Hubbell

I munch. I crunch.
I zoom. I roar.

I clatter-clack
Across the floor.

I swallow twigs.
I slurp dead bugs.

I suck the cat hair
From the rugs.

My stomach full
Of dirt and dust

I gulp another
Pizza crust.

A tiresome life-
All work, no play-

I think I’ll swallow you today!

Extensions
After reading this poem, children will surely be excited about writing a poem of an ordinary object. The entire writing process can be followed with children listing unique traits about their object, and then forming phrases and sentences into perky little verses. Expose children to different poetic forms so they can be encouraged to try writing these for themselves.

For a different twist from the poems found in Dirty Laundry Pile, try another Janeczko collection titled, Hey, You! In this book, poems are actually written to objects and animals, instead of written from their point of view.

Hey, You!: Poems to Skyscrapers, Mosquitoes, and Other Fun Things
ISBN 9780060523473

Enjoy other books written by Paul Janeczko:
A Foot in the Mouth: Poems to Speak, Sing and Shout - ISBN 9780763606633
A Kick in the Head: An Everyday Guide to Poetic Forms - ISBN 9780763641320
The Place My Words Are Looking For: What Poets Say About and Through Their Work
ISBN 9780027476712
A Poke in the I - ISBN 9780744589405
Poetry from A to Z: A Guide for Young Writers - ISBN 9780027476729

Image Source: LibraryThing

Serious Poetry

Serious Poetry
Amber Was Brave, Essie Was Smart
by Vera B. Williams

Bibliography
Williams, Vera. 2001. Amber Was Brave, Essie Was Smart. New York: Greenwillow Books.
ISBN: 006029461

Book Review
The sad and pathetic lives of Amber and Essie are poignantly summarized through a collection of twenty-eight poems written and illustrated by Vera Williams. Each poem describes the day to day struggles of two innocent little girls who try to maintain a decent life while their mother works all day long, and their father spends time in jail. Although young in age, incessant experience from this way of life has forced them to grow and mature much faster than young girls should. Every poem delivers a strong dose of realism that sadly many children face in today’s society, and this is eloquently accomplished by Williams’ poetic style. Above all, these tender free verse poems tell of the undying sisterly love between Amber and Essie, and how they look out for each other when they spend their days all alone, with hardly a bite to eat.

Williams further displays a lovely collection of simple black charcoal sketches to offer appealing visuals to readers. However, readers are first greeted with colorfully sketched pastel pictures of Amber and Essie in beautiful eye catching colors. Williams offers a surprise at the end as she includes a photo album presented with the same colorful pastels of the characters mentioned throughout each of these poems in the book. A picture of Amber’s braids falling to her feet, or the ever popular Sunday “girls only” routine titled, “Beauty Parlor Time,” are added to complete a happy ending to this book.

“Best Sandwich,” is one poem from this collection that shows the love and affection these two young sisters give each other when they spend many evenings all alone. Included in this special sandwich, is the beloved stuffed animal named, Wilson The Bear.

Best Sandwich

“Best sandwich” they called it
with Amber on one side
and Essie on the other
with one fat pillow close by Essie’s cheek
and one fat pillow by Amber’s
while Wilson The Bear
lay right in the middle
up against them both

“Best sandwich” they called it
and it filled them up
when peanut butter wouldn’t
and jelly couldn’t
(only crackers were on the shelf anyway)
when their Mama was at her job
and their Daddy was far away
and the house felt dark

When they did “Best Sandwich”
it turned the room friendly from strange
and they could breathe each other’s breath
in and out and in and out
till they heard at last
their mother’s key in the big front door

Extensions
After reading and sharing the poem, “Best Sandwich,” display this poem on large butcher paper or through a projector so children can read and view Williams’ poetic style firsthand. During different readings of this poem, draw attention to the absence of punctuation used throughout the poem. Mention how this is a writing technique commonly found within some poems. But, also notice that even with the absence of punctuation, this poem still flows and delivers a special meaning.

After reading and enjoying this poem, children can create a biopoem on either Amber or Essie by listing character traits gathered from this poem. As an alternative, children may also enjoy writing a biopoem about themselves describing a time they were brave or smart.

Image Source: HarperCollins Publishers

Free Choice

Free Choice
Once I Ate a Pie
By Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest and Illustrated by Katy Schneider

Bibliography
MacLachlan, Patricia and Emily MacLachlan Charest. 2006. Once I Ate a Pie. Ill. by Katy Schneider. New York: Joanna Cotler Books.
ISBN 9780060735319

Book Review
A collection of thirteen tenderly written poems, Patricia MacLachlan and Emily MacLachlan Charest base each poem from the point of view of a dog. Each fine furry friend has a sensual and compassionate story to tell in an eloquently created free verse style poem. Each poem is delivered as only a little doggy could know, with words written in large and small print, with wavy up and down staggered letters to represent the sincerity and feelings of each little canine. Since the poems are appropriately titled with a doggy’s name, readers are immediately introduced and acquainted with each puppy, and of course every puppy is excited and happy to tell you their very own story.

Both authors do an excellent job in portraying the unique characteristics of every single dog. Some pages are neatly organized, while others are messy in every which way in order to represent how the puppy truly is in real life. Plus, every reader can relate to the crazy antics and lifestyles of these little dogs. Some of us sleep with our dogs right in the middle of our beds, some of us search for missing items that our lovely little pooch has confiscated, or some of us are currently experiencing the true love and heartbreak of caring for an aging elderly dog like in the poem titled, “Luke.”

Illustrator Katy Schneider does an equally brilliant job in portraying the unique details and qualities of each dog. Beautifully painted pictures show the true realism which those of us as dog owners can relate to. For instance, how many of us have ever walked into a room only to see our just made pie turned upside down on the floor, and the evidence covered all over your little “Mr. Beefy?” It is also worth noting that you need to be prepared for the sad and loving puppy dog faces in the process. Who could ever get upset with poor little “Mr. Beefy” even after he destroyed your pie and a made a big mess all over your clean house? Schneider’s approach to illustrating matches the appeal of each canine, with images blended in and out of each poem, and throughout the two pages dedicated to each dog’s special little verse. Classic and colorful brush strokes of Schneider’s paintbrush brings out the best of each little pooch. Soft shadows and blended shades bring a soft and loving touch to each canine’s facial features and expressions, and healthy fur coats.

The authors appropriately end this collection of poems with a verse fittingly titled, “Luke.” Although readers are greeted with different breeds, varieties, and ages, “Luke” is an elderly dog who tells his story of younger days when he was a young buckeroo chasing snowflakes and running through the tall grass, just footloose and fancy free. Now, he sleeps all day as old doggies do to rest their weary bones and bask in all their glory under the bright shining sun.

Luke

The sun is warm
And I sleep.
I dream about when I was young.
I chased snowflakes in the winter.
And I ran through the grasses in spring.
I still bark when I want to.
And tonight I howl at the moon.
But now the sun is warm.
And I sleep.
And I dream.

Extensions
Pair the poem “Luke” with the book I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm
ISBN 0517572656

The poem “Luke” can be paired with a book titled, I’ll Always Love You by Hans Wilhelm. This book tells the story of a sweet little dog named Elfie and the life she spends with her little boy as they grow old together. A word of warning, be prepared to have tissues handy while reading this story. It is a tear jerker just like “Luke.”

Every child who has a pet always has a story to tell. Why not write a poem about their own beloved pet in free verse style? The process can be an exciting adventure as they add the fun format presented in Once I Ate a Pie. Children will love to integrate the fun wavy print presented throughout this book of doggy poems. Explain to children how to write from the point of view of their pet. They will definitely enjoy putting themselves in their pet’s shoes or paws. Use watercolor paints to mask the same effect of illustrations created by Schneider. Afterwards, allow children to share their work while reading the poem the way they think their pet would sound if it could really talk just like us.

Children will also enjoy acting out or performing the actions or activities of each dog.

Image Source: HarperCollins Children’s Books

Hopkins Award Poetry

Hopkins Award Poetry
Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices
by Walter Dean Myers

Bibliography
Myers, Walter Dean. 2004. Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices. New York: Holiday House.
ISBN: 0823418537

Book Review
Through a classical collection of fifty-four poems, poet Walter Dean Myers introduces readers to his fascinating life while growing up in a well known place called Harlem. Each poem is written in a different voice to completely capture the essence of those who played a special role in Myers’ life. With Harlem having so much history, it is only fitting to include poems with such famous Harlem residents like Langston Hughes, Countee Cullen, and Duke Ellington.

Authentic black and white photos are randomly placed throughout the text to further provide a classical appeal that resonates the true heart of Harlem. The ivory colored pages with tattered edges further gives the reader a feeling of reading a personal journal or perusing a photo album of Walter Dean Myers’ childhood. In fact, the front and back covers immediately entice readers with a black and white photo of Duke Ellington on the front, and two well dressed young men on the back, one of which is Walter Dean Myers in the prime of his youth.

Reading each poem takes the reader on a rhythmical journey with inclusions of pure Harlem heritage and dialect flowing within the entire book. In her first of six testimonies found throughout Myers’ book, “Clara Brown” speaks of Harlem by stating, “Everybody’s asking me why I’m always talking about Harlem. Well, child, to me, Harlem is like an old friend.” Walter Dean Myers allows readers to enter a different way of life with “rice and collards” and “rent-due blues,” while every poem is aptly titled to represent a character from his past. These poems written by Myers are delivered in a variety of poetic forms like free-verse, rhythm and rhyme, gospel, and jazzy blues.

People of all ages can relate to those included throughout this book, with poems from Harlem residents ranging from twelve to eighty-seven years of age. A variety of citizens from veterans, to students, to a boxer, a hustler, and a nanny are all represented. All types of people with all types of stories brought together to educate others in a Harlem way of life. The organization of the book is genuinely thought out as well, with a complete table of contents provided at the beginning, and occasional testimonials included from the great “Clara Brown.” Readers find out at the very end who “Clara Brown” is, along with a page dedicated to the people, places, and terms to add further understanding to the poems that make up this beautifully written book.

The following poem shows Harlem culture at its finest.

Macon R. Allen, 38
Deacon

I love a shouting church!
Praises bounding off the ceiling
The rhythm catching up the feet
Tambourines that send the spirits reeling

Yes, give me a shouting church!

A big sister wiping at her face
Praising Jesus to a jump-up preacher
As he hollers gospel on the way to grace

Lord, give me a shouting church!
Where everybody knows the end is coming fast
And the righteous speak in tongues
Saying, “Sinner, don’t let this harvest pass”

Don’t give me no whispering church
Don’t be mumbling nothing to my Lord
You came in crying and you going out crying
So don’t be holding back the word

Oh, Lord, I love a shouting church!
Wake up Lazarus! Wake up Paul!
Wake up the congregation, and lift their hearts
If they don’t hear it now, they won’t hear at all
Oh, I love shouting church!
Can I get an A-man?

Extensions
After reading the poem, “Macon R. Allen, 38,” and other poems from Myers‘ book, children can bring copies of black and white photos of their own ancestors and write a poem based on their life from information collected from other family members. It is important to our own heritage that children learn these stories and utilize them in creative ways like writing poetry. These poems can be mounted along with the black and white photo to be displayed for others to learn the fascinating facts of different families. This would be a perfect tie in with lessons that focus on family trees and genealogy.

Older children may enjoy performing these poems to each other. Provide copies of these poems to allow children to select their favorite poem so they can practice becoming the character.

This book can be recognized and shared during the month of February during African American History Month and in recognition of Langston Hughes‘ birthday.

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Performance Poetry

Performance Poetry
Take Me Out of the Bathtub and Other Silly Dilly Songs
by Alan Katz and Illustrated by David Catrow

Bibliography
Katz, Alan. 2001. Take Me Out of the Bathtub and Other Silly Dilly Songs. Ill. by David Catrow. New York: Scholastic Inc.
ISBN: 0439434122

Book Review
Children of all ages will love the wild and crazy antics that appear throughout this hilarious collection of “silly dilly” songs and rhymes. Each nonsensical poem takes the reader on an amusing musical journey. Every poem is hard to predict with Katz providing just the right touch at making each poem a memorable event with a surprise snappy ending. Catchy rhyming words and easy to follow musical beats to familiar childhood tunes like “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” will allow each child to experience complete success and fun, while leaving the reader or listener begging for more.

Whimsical and wacky pictures perfectly accentuate each poem with busy full page spreads filled with zany details to match these crazy poems. Artist David Catrow delivers comic strip like illustrations with a blend of beautiful watercolors, colored pencils, and ink pen outlines. The colorful shades of paints add to the explosive quality of the entire book, which leads readers to side splitting laughter from start to finish. Children will fall over laughing at the sight of the innocent butt cheeks from a boy who roller blades in a bathtub, or the bulging yellow eyes from an irritable canine in the poem, “Cranky Poodle.” Katz successfully takes touchy subjects and situations, and turns them into laughable and memorable masterpieces. Smelly diapers, loose shoe laces, and overdue library books are just a few examples of what Katz and Catrow undertake as they lead children through a comical adventure of “silly dilly” outrageous songs.

“Cranky Poodle” is a poem that just about anyone can relate to, whether they are a pet owner, or someone who lives next door to a perturbed pooch or a cranky cat. Share this poem aloud at first, and then display the poem where children have the opportunity to sing along as a group. Have children march to the “Yankee Doodle Dandy” tune to encourage a deeper sense of rhythm. But, be prepared for a lot of laughter and silliness!

Cranky Poodle
(To the tune of “Yankee Doodle”)

Cranky Poodle in my home
Clawing, scratching, howling
Scaring people, scaring cats
Unrolling paper toweling.

Cranky Poodle drives me nuts
Most days I can’t bear it
Wish my folks would trade her for
A hamster or a parrot!

I took Cranky for a walk
Although I hate to mention
She pulled me halfway down the block
To chase a fire engine.

Cranky Poodle, you’re a pest
Wish you were a guppy
Oh no! Guess what mom told me
Our poodle just had puppies!

Extensions
Everybody has a story about someone they know who is cranky, and children love to share these kinds of stories. Why not create a silly poem about this situation or others covered in this book? Encourage children to create a poem about a cranky pet or other issues mentioned in this book and follow up with a watercolor illustration. These poems can be added to a cranky collection and shared with others. For extra fun, try matching these poems to familiar childhood tunes. Working in small groups would be an exciting experience for all children.

Enjoy other silly songs and ryhmes by Alan Katz:
Are You Quite Polite? Silly Dilly Manners Songs - ISBN 9780689869709
I’m Still Here in the Bathtub: Brand New Silly Dilly Songs - ISBN 9780689845512
On Top of the Potty: And Other Get-Up-and-Go Songs - ISBN 9780689862151
Smelly Locker: Silly Dilly School Songs - ISBN 9781416906957

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Biographical Poetry

Biographical Poetry
George Washington’s Teeth
By Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora and Illustrated by Brock Cole

Bibliography
Chandra, Deborah and Madeleine Comora. 2003. George Washington’s Teeth. Ill. by Brock Cole. New York: Farrar Strauss Giroux.
ISBN 0374325340

Book Review
Because George Washington is the Father of Our Country, many children are already acutely aware of his ongoing dental problems and false teeth. However, Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora approach this agonizing situation with humorous verve, while unlocking a few mysteries or rumors along the way. Through a lively and uplifting melodic beat in picture book format, readers are taken on a lifelong journey which eventually leads to complete and total “tooflessness.”

Rhyming patterns will further grab the attention of younger readers while teaching the unfamiliar and unknown parts of George Washington’s life. The entire poem equally offers an illustrated timeline of major events of the George Washington era, with such milestones as crossing the Delaware and becoming the nation’s first president. Illustrator Brock Cole contributes whimsical watercolor paintings with hilarious details that are represented throughout this poem. Soft colors with foggy hues perfectly complement the facial expressions of George Washington and those who had a firsthand experience with his tooth troubles. Together, the authors and illustrator allow readers to forget about the pain and agony often attributed with tooth pulling, and roll with the punches, or the tooth pulling.

For readers who are begging for greater details of how these events unfold, the authors have furnished a dynamic timeline of George Washington events at the end of this book. It is here that readers can pull more information about Washington’s life through his own letters, diaries, and written accounts of those who served under his tutelage, while quelling a few rumors that have traveled throughout American history. Sources for this timeline are also offered for the avid history buffs, or for those wanting to continue research on this incredible man with no teeth.

Poem Excerpt

Poor George had two teeth in his mouth
The day the votes came in.
The people had a President,
But one afraid to grin.

The portrait artist came to George.
He said, “I know a trick!
I’ll pad your mouth with cotton balls
To puff your sunken lips.”

George stood up to have a look --
He fell back on his fanny.
“It doesn’t look like me!” he roared.
“It looks like Martha’s granny!”

He yanked the cotton from his mouth,
Then gasped, “What have I done?”
The cotton held a rotten tooth.
Now George had only one!

Extensions
After reading this picture poem book, take advantage of Washington’s birthday and Dental Health Awareness, which are recognized and celebrated during the month of February. Supply a variety of poetry books that contain poems about George and dental health. Have children journal their tooth events and dentist visits, and turn these into comical poems much like George Washington’s Teeth. Students can design a shape poem by copying their work around a pattern of a large molar and illustrate this funny event on the blank part in the middle of the tooth pattern. Invite children to share their tooth poem and then add it to a display with a portrait of George Washington in the center. This comical approach to teeth may quell the fears often attributed to dentist visits.

Read other books about George:
George Washington and the General’s Dog by Frank Murphy - ISBN 9780375810152
George Washington’s Breakfast by Jean Fritz - ISBN 9780698116115

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Social Studies Poetry

Social Studies Poetry
Lady Liberty: A Biography
by Doreen Rappaport and Illustrated by Matt Taveres

Bibliography
Rappaport, Doreen. 2008. Lady Liberty: A Biography. Ill. by Matt Taveres. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press.
ISBN: 9780763625306

Book Review
After just one reading experience with Doreen Rappaport’s, Lady Liberty: A Biography, readers will be left with the same sensation and inspiration as those who traveled for weeks, risking life and limb, and arriving completely penniless, all in the name of freedom. Many children are not aware of the events leading up to the final creation of the Statue of Liberty, which sits pristine in all her beauty and authority within the New York Harbor, greeting those who hunger for a new way of life in America. Through Rappaport’s unique and awe inspiring lyrical vignettes, readers are delicately and carefully led through the vital steps that are rarely mentioned about the creation and events which led to the construction of one of the most famous landmarks in the world.

This inspirational tone which Rappaport creates within each verse leaves the reader constantly craving for more of these beautiful words. The tranquil mood and aura of the poem continually flows and generates excitement throughout the book while describing even the most delicate of decisions, such as the choice of copper covering for Lady Liberty. Rappaport’s carefully chosen words allow readers to actually hear the “rapping and banging” of the workers as they pound away on the copper to cautiously, yet meticulously mold Lady Liberty into being. The illustrations prepared by Matt Tavares accommodate each step of the sculpting process precisely. These soft classical illustrations, which are reminiscent of that era, enable children to fully fathom the immeasurable task of creating something so vast and overbearing without present day technology or large equipment. Together, author and illustrator create these impeccable visuals for children to put into their own minds of how Lady Liberty came to be.

The beautiful words written in free verse style overlay soothing granite patterns representing engravings normally carved onto monuments. Important events and dimensions of Lady Liberty are listed in a museum like fashion to further set the tone of this monumental brilliance. Readers are offered extraordinary summaries from both Rappaport and Tavares about the creative process behind this beautiful and informative book. They additionally provide a list of resources which allow readers to research the greatness of this topic even further.

Poem Excerpt

The flag falls.
Lady Liberty is visible in all her glory.
Cheering and shouting rip the air.
Roaring cannons, belching foghorns,
drumrolls, trumpet flourishes.
Arise, ye sons of France, to glory...
O say can you see...

Every part of her shouts freedom.
In one hand she holds a tablet,
engraved with July 4, 1776.
In her other hand she holds a torch.
These flames do not destroy.
Mon Americaine does not conquer with weapons.
True liberty triumphs through Truth and Justice and Law.

She wears a flowing robe
like the ancient goddess Libertas.
Her right foot is raised.
Liberty walks.
Freedom never stands still.
A broken shackle and chain lie near her feet.
America broke the links of slavery
to fulfill its promise of equality for all.

Extensions
Lady Liberty acts as a perfect addition to any unit covering famous landmarks. Students can create shorter vignettes on a landmark of their choice after gathering facts through the research process. These poems can be adhered to granite printed paper and displayed along with a diorama or model of their landmark. When generating poems, be sure to discuss how words can relay different feelings like those experienced in this book.

Rappaprt also includes the official website of the Statue of Liberty:
www.nps.gov/stli/parkmgmt/index.html.

Image Source: Amazon.com

Science Poetry

Science Poetry
Swan Song: Poems of Extinction
by J. Patrick Lewis and Illustrated by Christopher Wormell

Bibliography
Lewis, J. Patrick. 2003. Swan Song: Poems of Extinction. Ill. by Christopher Wormell. Mankato, Minnesota: Creative Editions.
ISBN: 9781568461755

Book Review
The world can be a cruel and uncaring place for animals which inhabit the planet Earth alongside human beings. J. Patrick Lewis uncovers the dramatic and heart wrenching facts that have evoked some of the most beautiful and majestic animals to completely and literally disappear from the face of Earth forever. Through a collection of factual and thought provoking poems, Lewis presents just enough information for the reader to fully understand the serious repercussions of man’s ignorance concerning the animal kingdom which surrounds us. Learning the reasons behind these extinctions, will leave the reader feeling angry and bitter towards those who inflicted pain and eventual death on these innocent creatures. Lewis’ somber tone which pervades throughout every single poem will definitely ensure these feelings.

Equally impressive, are the endnotes located at the end of the book which provide greater details of the reasons behind the pain and agony inflicted on these animals during a gradual process, which led to immanent extinction. Lewis’ inclusion of endnotes adds further details for readers to fully grasp the conditions and reasons for the deaths of these beloved creatures. The endnote covering the poem “Stellar’s Sea Cow,” tells of how these animals would surround a fellow harpooned cow for protection, and would usually end up succumbing to the massacre as well. Scientific information and extinction dates precede each poem to give readers additional proof of their existence. A helpful timeline located at the bottom of each page accompanies these poems to give readers a sample of actual events that happened as these animals met their doom.

Unique charcoaled colored illustrations accentuate each poem and equally adds to the essence of the entire book. The soft buttercream hues found within the timeline further gives the representation of pine wood after it has been freshly cut into strong robust boards. Thick sturdy pages give the reader a direct sensation of a woody feel to match the beautifully etched wood engravings of illustrator Christopher Wormell. This effect allows each picture to act as a memoriam for the now deceased species as it further carries Lewis‘ message of urgency through his poems.

Poem Excerpt

Scientific information and extinction date:
Hydrodamalis gigas Extinct c. 1767 Bering Sea

Steller’s Sea Cow
Big as a mastodon, a cow
Fed for a month three dozen men.
Three dozen men it took to hook
And haul the beast to land, and when

They’d hack with knives and bayonets
Great strips of blubber, there she’d lie
Unmoving on the ice, and let
Out something like a human sigh.

Discovered, 1741,
She dwarfed all creatures of the sea,
Except the whale, so let us toast
Sea cows in their enormity.

Timeline:
1800 - Italian physicist Alessandro Volta invents the voltaic cell, making electric batteries possible.
1800 - The armies of French emperor Napolean Bonaparte cross the Pennine Alps and conquer Italy.

Extensions
After listening and reading poems like “Steller’s Sea Cow” in Swan Song, children will feel compelled to ensure the protection of animals currently listed as endangered species. Students can research an endangered animal and write facts about its habitat and the reasons for possible extinction. These facts or statements can be transformed into poetry to be displayed during the month of April when special events like National Poetry Month and Earth Day are both recognized. Beautiful illustrations can accompany these poems much like those presented in Lewis’ book.

Introduce children to the actual meaning of “swan song.” Web sites like The Phrase Finder not only give the meaning of such phrases, but also the origin.
The Phrase Finder
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/swan-song.html

Check out other science poetry books by J. Patrick Lewis:
Earth Verses and Water Rhymes - ISBN 9780689316937
Earth & Me: Our Family Tree: Nature’s Creatures - ISBN 1584690313
Earth & Us: Continuous: Nature’s Past & Future - ISBN 1584690240
Earth & You: A Closer View: Nature’s Features - ISBN 158469016X
Galileo’s Universe - ISBN 9781568461830
God Made the Skunk - ISBN 9780972282017
Little Buggers: Insect and Spider Poems - ISBN 9780803717695
Scientrickery: Riddles in Science - ISBN 9780152166816

Image Source: Amazon.com

Free Verse

Free Verse
All the Small Poems and Fourteen More
By Valerie Worth and Illustrated by Natalie Babbitt

Bibliography
Worth, Valerie. 1994. All the Small Poems and Fourteen More. Ill. by Natalie Babbitt. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux. ISBN 0374302111

Book Review
Valerie Worth presents a light and delicate viewpoint of every day ordinary objects and brings life to each of these through a collection of ninety-nine brilliantly written poems. It is a collection of her greatest small poem masterpieces brought together for the sheer pleasure of experiencing the powerful aspects of Worth’s poetic genius. These thought provoking poems allow you to tap right into Worth’s most inner imagination. Although each poem is short in length and demeanor, the message is strong and completely clear, and long lasting to the mind. It leaves the reader with a calming and soothing effect that begs for more.

Natalie Babbitt’s carefully sketched illustrations add an equal charm to blend perfectly and evenly with each crafted poem. Babbitt’s illustrations not only draw in readers to the details of her clean sketches, but also to the tiniest details brought forth in Worth’s poetry. For instance, in her poem simply titled, “grass,” Worth presents new and fascinating aspects of grass in ways we have never thought previously. After reading this poem, readers will embrace the beauty and integrity of grass. Add to this, Babbitt’s beautifully sketched drawing of a small field mouse sitting in a grassy field. It is a masterfully written poem like this, which gently nudges those to be more in tune to nature and the world around us.

grass

Grass on the lawn
Says nothing:
Clipped, empty,
Quiet.

Grass in the fields
Whistles, slides,
Casts up a foam
Of seeds,

Tangles itself
With leaves: hides
Whole rustling schools
Of mice.

Extensions
After reading and experiencing the poem “grass,” take children on a nature walk and listen for these subtle sounds that are described by Worth. Chart the similarities and differences between grass found in a manicured lawn to grass flowing footloose and fancy free in a field. Children can act out these differences through full body movements. Encourage them to sketch an illustration similar to Babbitt’s and write a poem of their very own describing this pleasant experience.

Enjoy other books of poetry by Valerie Worth:
Animal Poems - ISBN 9780374380571
At Christmastime - ISBN 9780062050199
Peacock and Other Poems - ISBN 9780374357665

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Verse Novel

Verse Novel
Love That Dog
by Sharon Creech

Bibliography
Creech, Sharon. 2001. Love That Dog. New York: HarperCollins.
ISBN: 9780060292874

Book Review
Written in a journal format expanding an entire school year, this tenderly written novel in verse highlights the poetic transformation of a young student named Jack. The novel appropriately begins with a disgruntled Jack proclaiming, “I don’t want to because boys don’t write poetry. Girls do.” From there, an amazing adventure in poetry begins. Throughout his reluctance and genuine complaints, young Jack begins to accept and understand the true meaning of poems and incorporates these features within his own writing. Displaying outstanding instructional methods to poetry, Creech includes brilliant examples from some of the most famous poets to bring an authentic appeal throughout her entire novel. Poems from Robert Frost, Valerie Worth, and Walter Dean Myers are easily integrated throughout this poetry journal to enhance the process of appreciating this least understood of all genres. It is this kind of journal that will grab the attention of young readers and help them equally understand the power in poetry and the process of becoming an accomplished poet, while learning to appreciate poems in everyday life. Creech further grabs the attention of young audiences by displaying the relationships between poets and how they appreciate each others’ work. Her inclusion of Walter Dean Myers’ work from “Love That Boy” proves to be the inspiration of Jack’s most treasured poem titled, “Love That Dog.”

Readers will appreciate Creech’s simplistic style that permeates throughout the entire verse novel. The yellow colored book cover with the delicately sketched dog is continually referenced throughout Jack’s journal. Dates are included at the tops of pages to give this novel the true journalistic quality. The entire text appears in blue colored print to further add to the essence of a personal journal of a young boy. Creech ends her novel fittingly by including a section completely dedicated to recognizing the poems and the poets that are referred to throughout this verse novel.

The following poems play a special role throughout young Jack’s journal. As Jack gradually aspires to writing poetry, he realizes that Walter Dean Myers becomes his hero. It is Myers’ poem titled, “Love That Boy” that inspires Jack to write a poem about his beloved dog Sky. While Jack worries about borrowing words from his poem, a visit from Myers eases his tension. It shows how poets encourage young children to use their poetry for inspiration.

Love That Dog
(Inspired by Walter Dean Myers)
By Jack

Love that dog,
like a bird loves to fly
I said I love that dog
like a bird loves to fly
Love to call him in the morning
love to call him
“Hey there, Sky!”

Love That Boy*
By Walter Dean Myers

Love that boy,
like a rabbit loves to run
I said I love that boy
like a rabbit loves to run
Love to call him in the morning
love to call him
“Hey there, son!”

*First stanza

Extensions
After reading Love That Dog, children will look forward to making reference to each of the poems presented in this verse novel. Creech’s novel will act as a prime example for children wanting to begin their own poetry journals.

Learn more about Sharon Creech by visiting her web site. Visitors can also access resources for literacy activities related to her books through a link titled, Teach Creech!
http://www.sharoncreech.com/index.html

Children will enjoy the continuation of Love That Dog:
Hate the Cat - ISBN 9780061430923

Read other novels by Sharon Creech:
Heartbeat - ISBN 9780060540241
Pleasing the Ghost - ISBN 9780064406864
The Unfinished Angel - ISBN 9780061430954
Walk Two Moons (Newbery Award) - ISBN 9780064405171
The Wanderer (Newbery Honor Award) - ISBN 9780064410328

Image Source: HarperCollins Publishers

Poetic Form

Poetic Form
Technically, It’s Not My Fault: Concrete Poems
by John Grandits

Bibliography
Grandits. 2004. Technically, It’s Not My Fault: Concrete Poems. New York: Clarion Books.
ISBN: 9780618428335

Book Review
Through a laughable collection of concrete poems, Grandits tackles the usual middle school age issues which are experienced through the eyes of an eleven year old boy named Robert. It is through Robert, that readers are allowed to understand the calamities and frustrations which usually plague a middle schooler on a regular basis. Topics range from dealing with an annoying sister, to poisonous spiders, or to the infamous life cycle of a fart.

Written and illustrated by John Grandits, each poem is an illustration in itself by showing the unique nature and style of concrete poems. Every poem depicts the different elements that make up the art of concrete poems, which shows that anything goes in the production of a concrete poem. Readers will enjoy the comic strip sketches of black and red that contribute to the wild and crazy flow of each poem. The variety in fonts are equally amazing. Large grandiose fonts allow readers to integrate different voices and moods, while the tiny and minute fonts relay yet a softer ebb and flow to these poems. In addition, Grandits offers readers an explanation of how he formed these unique qualities through a special software program at the end of his book, because it is a sure bet readers will want to mock his concrete style and creativity.

Because of Grandits’ presentation of these poems, readers will enjoy an interactive flair while reading these poems. The construction of this book prevents it from being read in an idle position. Readers will be thoroughly engrossed in the interactive mechanics as it is meant to be read upside down, while turning around and around and around. Some poems twist and turn, while others are simply presented on tombstones as in, “Mom Says, ‘No to New Pets!’” Page after page is completely filled in with busy poetry. Each poem introduces a new surprise to the world of concrete poems.

Middle schoolers will definitely appreciate the poem, “The Thank-You Letter with Footnotes.” How many of us had to write a thank you letter for something we received that made entirely no sense at all to our lives? This frustration is outlined perfectly with supplied footnotes to make sure readers fully understand and are aware of young Robert’s sincerest feelings. Plus, it shows a comical approach to the function of footnotes.

The Thank-You Letter1

Dear Aunt Hildegard,

Thank you2 for the amazing gifts.3 It was terrific4 getting your package!5 I grabbed it immediately6. But when my parents saw it,7 they said8 I shouldn’t open it until my birthday. You can imagine how I felt when I found two gifts!9 The sweater was totally awesome.10 It’s amazing how well you know me.11

Then there was the poster you got for my room.12 You’re in luck; I don’t already have a Polka Hall of Fame poster.13 I’m putting it right under my World Wrestling Federation poster.14

Thanks,15 thanks,16 and thanks again.17 I’m already planning when to wear my new sweater.18

Your 11-year-old19 nephew,

Robert

1. with footnotes
2. for nothing
3. Do you have the slightest clue what an 11-year-old boy likes?
4. I almost croaked when I saw the package. I still remember last year’s gift. “Oh no! Not again!” I screamed.
5. I was in luck. Mom didn’t see the mailman.
6. I hid the package in the garage under the hose.
7. What were the chances that Dad would decide to wash the car that day?
8. What’s this? they said. “When did this come?”
9. You monster.
10. In the history of sweaters, there has never been an uglier waste of yarn.
11. Where did you ever find a sweater that not only has Barney on it but also is two sizes too big for me?
12. I’m old enough to decorate my own room.
13. Just what I need -- a picture of an old guy with an accordion.
14. And I do mean UNDER.
15. For trying to embarrass me in front of my friends.
16. For the lectures from my parents.
17. For making me waste an hour of my life writing this stupid thank-you letter.
18. I know they’ll make me wear it the next time you come to visit. I just hope nobody sees me.
19. I’m 11!!! Get it?!?
    

Extensions
Middle schoolers will look forward to imitating the unique variety of Grandits’ concrete poems. Children can pull apart these poems and simply list them to fully understand the process of creating a concrete poem. Adding footnotes to poems like the “The Thank-you Letter” will be a favorite addition to poems children write.

Enjoy other books of concrete poetry:
Blue Lipstick: Concrete Poems by John Grandits - ISBN 9780618851324
Doodle Dandies: Poems That Take Shape by J. Patrick Lewis - ISBN 9780689848896
A Kick in the Head: An Everyday Guide to Poetic Forms by Chris Raschka -
ISBN 9780763606626
A Poke in the I by Chris Raschka - ISBN 9780763606619

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Florian Poetry

Florian Poetry
Bow Wow Meow Meow: It’s Rhyming Cats and Dogs
By Douglas Florian

Bibliography
Florian, Douglas. 2003. Bow Wow Meow Meow: It’s Rhyming Cats and Dogs. New York: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 9780152163952

Book Review
As author and illustrator of his poetry books, readers will truly get a taste of the poetic style and artistic quality of Douglas Florian. This extremely talented poet delivers nonfictional themes of insects, mammals, reptiles, trees, and outer space in a poetic grace that ties in perfectly with any science related subject. Bow Wow Meow Meow is one such book that not only discusses the comical characteristics of our beloved pets, but also branches out to expose the unique habits and lifestyles of wolves, cheetahs, and panthers in a laughable fashion. It is apparent that Florian does his homework when writing about each animal, and makes an effort in delivering this quality of detail to his young readers. This is a fun and unique path to teaching valuable scientific facts about animals in their habitats.

The brilliant detail included in each of Florian’s illustrations also successfully accompanies each poem. His whimsical approach to his illustrations are reminiscent of pictures found in classical children’s books. The curvy torso of the hungry wolf with a fork in his hand and a napkin around his neck visually enhance the actual poem, “The Wolf.” This poem is the first of twenty-one within the collection that deviates from dogs and cats as our beloved pets, and ventures into the wild relatives that fit within this animal kingdom. It is with this poem, that children can compare the similarities and differences between a family dog and a wild wolf. Children can use Florian’s comparisons from this poem to start the brainstorming process.

The Wolf
The wolf is cousin to the dog -
Except the wolf eats like a hog.
It doesn’t use a bowl or dishes
But chews in any place it wishes.
Its table manners are quite rude:
The wolf will wolf down all its food.
And though a dog eats from a pan,
The wolf must feed catch-as-catch-can.

Extensions
A perfect supplement to any science lesson that covers animal habits and their environment.
After sharing this poetry book aloud to children, they will be encouraged to write their own poem about a cat, dog, or a favorite pet and illustrate their work with watercolors or crayons.

In the poem, “Dog Log,” Florian journals the daily events of a typical family dog. Children will equally enjoy writing a poem journaling the habits and events of their family pets or of a wild animal.

Read other poetry books by Douglas Florian:
Autumnblings - ISBN 9780060092795
Beast Feast - ISBN 9780152017378
Comets, Stars, the Moon, and Mars - ISBN 9780152053727
Dinothesaurus: Prehistoric Poems and Paintings - ISBN 9781416979784
In the Swim - ISBN 9780152024376
Insectlopedia - ISBN 978015263358
Lizards, Frogs, and Polliwogs - ISBN 9780152052485
Mammalabilia - ISBN 9780152021672
Omnibeasts: Animal Poems and Paintings - ISBN 9780152050382
On the Wing - ISBN 9780152023669
Poetrees (Available March 2010) - ISBN 9781416986720
Zoo’s Who: Poems and Paintings - ISBN 9780152046392

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

Multicultural Poetry

Multicultural Poetry
My Mexico-Mexico mio
by Tony Johnston and Illustrated by F. John Sierra

Bibliography
Johnston, Tony. 1996. My Mexico-Mexico mio. Ill. by F. John Sierra. New York: Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers.
ISBN: 9780698117570

Book Review
Tony Johnston introduces the culture and lifestyle of Mexico through eighteen poems written and shared in both English and Spanish. Not only are the poems splendidly written in both languages, but a carefully arranged table of contents lets readers know immediately of this unique paired language approach. Two separate tables of contents representing both languages parallel each other to set the tone of this wonderful Mexican adventure. A glossary accompanies these unique features by defining a number of Spanish terms like “tortilla” and “coyotl” in easy to read English terms for readers to better understand the complete meaning of each poem. Through these brilliantly created poems, readers are offered a chance of completely immersing themselves in Mexican culture and customs.

The subtle illustrations of F. John Sierra only amplify the beauty described in these poems. Each full colored picture shows Mexican citizens busily tending to their every day way of life. The entire book radiates the carefree nature of those who live in the hot dry desert known as Mexico. Both poet and illustrator equally display the serene beauty of Mexico through magnificently written words and visually appealing scenes.

One poem that truly depicts life in Mexico is titled, “Iguanas on the Taxco Road.” This animated poem describes young children in Taxco running through the streets trying to sell iguanas to everyone they meet. Readers can feel their anticipation and excitement as they maneuver these iguanas as if they were toys. While you feel sorry for the poor iguanas, you cannot help but laugh at such a sight, literally and visually.

Iguanas on the Taxco Road
“Iguanas! Iguanas! Iguanas to sell!”
Noisy Taxco children yell,
Running up the Taxco hills,
Swinging iguanas from their tails.
“Baratas! Baratas! Cheap!” they cry.
If the people do not buy,
They run all the way back down.
One girl wears an iguana-crown.

Iguanas en el camino a Taxco
“Iguanas! Iguanas! Se venden iguanas!”
gritan los ninos ruidosos de Taxco,
corriendo hacia la crima de los cerros,
meneando las iguanas por la cola.

“Baratas! Baratas! Baratas!” pregonan.
Si la gente no las compra,
regresan corriendo camino abajo.
Una nina lleva una iguana de corona.

Extensions
When sharing the poems in this book, have one person read the English version and another person share the Spanish version, particularly one who speaks it fluently. This will allow everyone to completely experience the full effect that Tony Johnston creates.

After reading “Iguanas on the Taxco Road” in both Spanish and English, have children make comparisons of what they would try to sell. For instance, many children in the United States sell lemonade at a stand in their neighborhoods, or sell their old toys in yard sales.

All the poems in My Mexico-Mexico mio discuss the lifestyles and customs of Mexican citizens. Compare these customs to those recognized in the United States. Encourage children to write poems about these customs and illustrate their work. Invite parents or older students to translate these poems in Spanish so children can see the difference in their work. These English/Spanish poems can be compiled in a class poetry book to share with others. This would be a perfect supplement to any social studies lesson covering customs and traditions.

Children will enjoy other books written by Tony Johnston:
Day of the Dead - ISBN 9780152024468
Desert Dog - ISBN 9781578051335
Desert Song (Available March 2010) - ISBN 9781578051717
My Abuelita - ISBN 9780152163303
P Is for Pinata: A Mexico Alphabet - ISBN 9781585361441
The Tale of Rabbit and Coyote - ISBN 9780698116306

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

NCTE Award Poetry

NCTE Award Poetry
I Can Draw a Weeposaur and Other Dinosaurs
by Eloise Greenfield and Illustrated by Jan Spivey Gilchrist

Bibliography
Greenfield. 2001. I Can Draw a Weeposaur and Other Dinosaurs. Ill. by Jan Spivey Gilchrist. New York: Greenwillow Books.
ISBN: 9780688176341

Book Review
Beautifully colored dinosaurs are created one after another by a little girl who describes her artistic process through eighteen eloquently written poems by the great Eloise Greenfield. Complete with a table of contents, Greenfield begins her picture book with a poem aptly titled, “Artist” which introduces the artistic impulses of a young girl that are just dying to get out and create the different types of dinosaurs represented throughout the book. Poems describing the little girl‘s feelings and experiences while drawing these hilarious dinosaurs are blended in between such poems as, “Smellasaurus,” “Shoppersaurus,” and “Babysaurus.” Young children will enjoy Greenfield’s poems because they are short in length and easy to understand. Children will equally enjoy the funny nonsense included within each poem. This is the perfect read aloud book for younger audiences.

Jan Spivey Gilchrist includes a lively blend of watercolors, markers, and black pen outlines that bring the poems further into being. The unique expressions included on each dinosaur further add to the positive and impulsive mood represented in these poems. Children will associate and react positively to the fully colored pages with the inclusion of added details mentioned in the poems. For instance, in the poem titled “Trickosaurus,” this dinosaur carries a tiny red umbrella while performing gymnastics stunts on a balancing beam. Then shows the outcome of this umbrella and the rest of the gymnastics team when his dismount was not what he initially expected. The sight of his flattened teammates and the floating umbrella add to the hilarious appeal of this determined, yet proud dinosaur.

Trickosaurus
He fell when he tried to do a handstand,
He fell when he walked the beam,
But he was the greatest at landing on top
Of his gymnastics team.

Extensions
This book will make the perfect partner with dinosaur units that are introduced to younger children. These poems can be read aloud and enjoyed by the class.

Children will enjoy creating their own comical make believe dinosaur complete with a poem to describe its hilarious antics. Pictures can be drawn with the same tools that Jan Spivey Gilchrist uses in this book (watercolors, markers, black pen outlines). The poems can be written with colorful markers that are present in each of Greenfield’s poems.

Enjoy other books by Eloise Greenfield:
Brother & Sisters: Family Poems - ISBN 9780060562847
For the Love of the Game: Michael Jordan and Me - ISBN 9780064435550
The Friendly Four - ISBN 9780060007591
Honey, I Love - ISBN 9780060091231
Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems - ISBN 9780064430975
In the Land of Words: New and Selected Poems - ISBN 9780060289935

Image Source: Barnes & Noble

African American Poetry

African American Poetry
Poetry for Young People: Langston Hughes
Edited by David Roessel & Arnold Rampersad and Illustrated by Benny Andrews

Bibliography
Hughes, Langston. 2006. Poetry for Young People: Langston Hughes. Ed. David Roessel and Arnold Rampersad. Ill. by Benny Andrews. New York: Sterling Publishing Co., Inc. ISBN: 9781402718458

Book Review
African American heritage resonates in this collection of twenty-six thought provoking poems by well-known poet, Langston Hughes. His poems speak of the Harlem Renaissance, African American heritage, and about segregation which was so prominent during his life time. Readers definitely feel the musical tones of jazz and blues permeating through his poems. This book is beautifully organized with a table contents and an index to help readers locate poems, or information related to these poems. Illustrator Benny Andrews presents his beautiful paintings with a nostalgic flair which integrates the true beauty of African American art. The bright and colorful pages with dusty hues give a classical finish that is reminiscent of the classical era in which Langston Hughes lived. It is also noticeable throughout his illustrations that Andrews is extremely knowledgeable of the different events that Hughes presents in his poems.

In an effort to make these poems understandable for children, Roessel and Rampersad add definitions to some of the words or events mentioned in Hughes‘ poems. For instance, in the poem, “Merry-Go-Round,” the term “Jim Crow” is identified for readers to fully understand the meaning and reason for the poem. The sad reality of segregation is experienced through the eyes of a child in this poem titled, “Merry-Go-Round.” This wonderfully sorrowful poem speaks of a child who anxiously watches and wonders if there will be an opportunity for a ride on the much anticipated merry-go-round. However, Jim Crow laws did not allow African Americans of any age to experience such joy with white folks. The painting by Andrews further rips at your heart strings as he shows a lonely bewildered child looking at the vibrant and enticing merry-go-round.

Merry-Go-Round
Colored Children At Carnival

Where is the Jim Crow section
On this merry-go-round,
Mister, cause I want to ride?
Down South where I come from
White and colored
Can’t sit side by side.
Down South on the train
There’s a Jim Crow car.
On the bus we’re put in the back-
But there ain’t no back
To a merry-go-round!
Where’s the horse
For a kid that’s black?

Definition excerpt from this book:
Jim Crow - refers to the Jim Crow Laws that enforced segregation of blacks and whites and were adopted in the Southern states after the U.S. Civil War. These laws were overturned or repealed after World War II.

Extensions
The poems presented in this book will complement lessons or units that teach about segregation and the reason for African American History month.

Children can write a sorrowful poem depicting the feelings of the young boy in the poem, “Merry-Go-Round.”

Read other Poetry for Young People series:
Poetry for Young People: Emily Dickinson - ISBN: 9781402754739
Poetry for Young People: Maya Angelou - ISBN: 9781402720239
Poetry for Young People: Robert Frost - ISBN: 9780806906331
Poetry for Young People: Walt Whitman - ISBN: 9780806995304 (It is interesting to note that Langston Hughes was quite fond of Mr. Whitman’s work)

Image Source: Amazon.com

Lee Bennett Hopkins Collection

Lee Bennett Hopkins Collection
Yummy! Eating Through the Day
Poems selected by Lee Bennett Hopkins and Illustrated by Renee Flower

Bibliography
Hopkins, Lee Bennett. 2000. Yummy! Eating Through the Day. Ill. by Renee Flower. New York: Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing.
ISBN: 9780689817557

Book Review
Once again, Lee Bennett Hopkins provides a delightful anthology of poems gathered for the sole purpose of recognizing a central theme. This time the theme reflects on the subtleties of different foods that are experienced at breakfast, lunch, snack time, dinner, and dessert. The poems are carefully arranged under a unique table of contents fittingly labeled “Today’s Menu.” Not only do his collection of comical poems reflect on the beauty and pleasure of food, but also on the frustrations. “Ode to a Cereal Box” by Fran Haraway is one such poem that describes in detail the common frustration of opening a brand new box of cereal. Illustrator, Renee Flower further adds to this frustration by portraying a boy trying diligently to open an enormous box of cereal. The intense facial features of the young boy visually describe his determination in overcoming the complicated and stubborn box of cereal. Bright colors and whimsical patterns play throughout each page of Flower’s intricate illustrations. Plus, every object, be it food or a cereal box, has facial features that add to the imagery of the poems.

Ode to a Cereal Box
by Fran Haraway

I strike,
I shred,
I smash,
I stab,

I rip,
I rend,
I grip,
I grab,

I jiggle,
Jostle,
Jolt,
And jab

But-

Cannot
Budge
The

“Lift this tab.”

Extensions
All children have a favorite food they enjoy. Take this opportunity to have children write a poem using the descriptive words that permeate throughout the collection of these poems. To add another element of fun, have them experiment using different poetic styles like a shape poem. Children can also illustrate their poem with the bright colors found in this anthology by using crayons and watercolors to compliment their piece.

The web site, ReadWriteThink has a fun interactive lesson that children can use to help them make a shape poem. The shape poem lesson is located at the following link:

ReadWriteThink Shape Poem Interactive

Enjoy other Lee Bennett Hopkins Anthologies:
A Pet For Me - ISBN: 9780064437165
Days to Celebrate - 9780060007652
Got Geography! - ISBN: 9780060556013
Hamsters, Shells, and Spelling Bees - ISBN: 9780060741129
Incredible Inventions - ISBN: 9780060872458
Oh, No! Where Are My Pants? and Other Disasters - ISBN: 9780688178604

Image Source: Amazon.com