Shining a Spotlight on National Poetry Month

     A celebration founded by a diverse group of poets affiliated with the Academy of American Poets, the first National Poetry Month was held in April of 1996.  Schools, libraries, bookstores and literary clubs across the nation unite during this month-long celebration of the magic of poetry and the special place that it holds in our literary culture.
     I hope that you will find an insightful spotlight not only on some of the most beloved children's poets,  but an overview of some special collections that celebrate the wonders, the whimsy and the pure joy that poetry can  bring to your little ones.

A Family of Poems

     This absolutely exquisite collective anthology of over 100 thoughtfully chosen poems by former First Daughter, and now Ambassador of Japan, Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg, range from classics penned by Poet Laureate Robert Frost (who recited his poem, A Gift Outright, at Ms. Kennedy-Schlossberg's father's presidential inauguration on January 20, 1961), ee cummings and Emily Dickinson, to such contemporary works from Jack Prelutsky and Nikki Giovanni.  There is truly something for everyone to enjoy.  Categorized into seven distinct sections, with selections featured under such titles as, "About Me", "That's So Silly" "Animals" and "The Seashore", which features a hidden jewel of a poem penned by her mother (whose reflective words about the power of books leads and inspires my blog everyday) the late Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in her youth, this beautiful collection is accentuated by the stunning watercolor illustrations of artist John J. Muth, (whose own 2008 picture book, Zen Ties, is a must-read.  Look for a spotlight on this book shortly!) will hold a very special place at your home library or classroom reading corner.

A Family of Poems
Written by Caroline Kennedy & Illustrated by John J. Muth
Publisher:  Disney-Hyperion (2005)
For ages:  Preschool and up
ISBN: 078685112


Don't Bump The Glump! and Other Fantasies

     Don't Bump The Glump! and Other Fantasies marked beloved children's author/illustrator Shel Silverstein's first foray into the world of poetry publication.  Originally published in 1964, the same year that Silverstein debut his classic picture book, The Giving Tree, unlike most of Silverstein's future work, this was the first collection that he illustrated in full color instead of his trademark black and white artwork.  Additionally, and interestingly, much of the work featured in this book was featured in Playboy Magazine, where Silverstein worked as one of its leading cartoonists.
     While the creatures that are prominently featured throughout this collection are not quite so welcoming (especially the, "Glub Toothed Sline", who whenever he arrives at a house to dine, your certain to, "find me in Hamburg.  Or up in St. Paul.  In Kyoto, Kenosha or Nome.  But, one thing is sure, if you find me at all, you Never shall find me at home.") their names and stories are just so completely absurd and downright silly, your little ones (and you!) will truly be fascinated by the imaginative and appealing prose.

Don't Bump the Glump! and Other Fantasies
Written & Illustrated by Shel Silverstein
Publisher:  Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers (1964--Special 50th Anniversary Re-Issue in 2014)
Website:  www.harpercollinschildrens.com
Retails for $17.99
For ages: Kindergarten and up

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish 

   

A silly, entertaining flight of fancy, Dr. Seuss is at it again, with this celebration all of the imaginary things that are, "from here to there, funny things are everywhere."  Filled with Seuss' trademark simple yet playful rhymes and featuring a colorful cast of characters, including the boxing Gox and my favorite, the winking Yink who, "likes to drink ink."  Although this tale was published over 50 years ago, this great combination of humor, delightful word play, belies it's age, and will continue to leave little ones giggling for years to come.   They (and, well, let's admit it, who truly outgrows Dr. Seuss?) and you, will want to read it again and again!

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish
Written by Dr. Seuss
Publisher:  Random House Children's Books (1964)
Website:  www.seussville.com
For ages:  Preschool and up
ISBN: 978-0-394-80013-4
Accelerated Reader Book Level: 1.7
Accelerated Reader Points: 0.5