Janeczko, Paul B. 2002. Seeing the Blue Between: Advice and Inspiration for Young Poets. Massachusetts. Candlewick Press. ISBN 0763608815
1. Review of Book:
In Seeing the Blue Between, Paul Janeczko compiles a collection of letters and poems from thirty-two well-known poets in hopes of inspiring and motivating young or new poetry writers. Each poet's letter to the reader is followed by a few inspirational poems. Each letter discusses how the poet was inspired to begin writing, and they offer helpful advice for those wanting to begin writing their own poetry as well. Some of the poets featured are Douglas Florian, Kalli Dakos, Nikki Grimes, Lee Bennett Hopkins, Marilyn Singer, and J. Patrick Lewis, to name a few. Readers of all ages will appreciate this book if they have been exposed to any of these poets' works in advance or if they are currently reading poems by any of these well-known poets. The poems featured are a mix of all kinds of poetry, short and long, and on a variety of topics. The poems are geared to children of all ages. Some poems might be harder to understand than others, depending on the age group of the audience. However, many poems touch on familiar childhood experiences that children of any age will able to relate to. The main draw of this book is that children will be exposed to both new and familiar poets' personal thoughts about writing, a bit of their poetry, and a small excerpt about each contributing poet along with their picture. Children interested in learning more about the author behind the writing will be drawn to this book, as well as both eager and reluctant writers who are ready to get started or who need some inspiration.
2. Classroom/Library Connection:
This book would be useful to incorporate when doing an author study, as well as before or after sharing several poems by a particular author. A new author and their poems could be featured each week or during a time when poetry from any of the authors is shared or introduced. One poem that can be shared that most children will be able to relate to is called Pick Up Your Room by Mary Ann Hoberman.
Pick Up Your Room
Pick up your room, my mother says
(She says it every day);
My room's too heavy to pick up
(That's what I always say).
Drink up your milk, she says to me,
Don't bubble like a clown;
Of course she knows I'll answer that
I'd rather drink it down.
And when she says at eight o'clock,
You must go right to bed,
We both repeat my answer:
Why not go left instead?
After sharing this poem, share Mary Ann Hoberman's letter as well as her short biography and photo in the back of the book. Then continue studying about Mary Ann by reading and sharing other works of hers to give the children exposure to more of her poetry writing.
3. Review Excerpts:
Midwest Book Review (Children’s Bookwatch, August 2006)
Seeing The Blue Between: Advice And Inspiration For Young Poets compiled and edited by Paul B. Janeczko is an intriguing collection of letters of advice and support, poetry, and other writings from thirty-two renowned poets and authors. Captivating and consoling readers with an expansive plethora of content, Seeing The Blue Between is a unique compendium offering a diversity of perspectives on life, wisdom, experiences, beauty, philosophy, and so much more. Seeing The Blue Between is very highly recommended for all young readers and aspiring poets seeking inspiration for their own appreciation of what life has to offer -- and setting down their own thoughts, feelings, discoveries, observations, and insights in rhythmic poetry and lyrical prose.
No comments:
Post a Comment