What's a poem? A poem can be many things. In this ideal way to get children thinking about literature join a group of friendly woodland animals as they introduce the wonder and magic of poetry. Each animal friend offers their own ideas about poetry, from a whisper to a shout to a laugh to a sigh, and then realizes that poetry is an everyday part of our lives. And yes, indeed, a poem can be a firefly upon the summer wind.
Charles Ghigna - Father Goose® lives in a treehouse in the middle of Alabama. He is the author of more than 100 books and has written more than 5,000 poems for children and adults that appear in anthologies, newspapers and magazines. He served as poet-in residence and chair of creative writing at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, instructor of creative writing at Samford University, poetry editor of English Journal for the National Council of Teachers of English, and as a nationally syndicated poetry feature writer for Tribune Media Services. He speaks at schools, conferences, libraries, and literary events throughout the U.S. For more information, visit his website at FatherGoose.com.
Michelle Hazelwood Hyde is a freelance illustrator and has illustrated nine books for the National Center for Youth Issues. She lives in Homewood, Alabama, with her husband, two children, and two very entertaining dogs. Visit her at michellehazelwood.com.
A charming ode for beginning young bards. (Picture book. 3-8) -- Kirkus Reviews
A cheerful woodland menagerie gathers around a little bear and his big red book to ask an important question: just what is a poem? Bear directs them to look around them: a poem can be anything, from the sound of an owls hoot to thoughts unspoken; its flowers in fields and the glow of the moon. His wide answer inspires greater attention to the rhythms of the world; the animals wide, smiling faces reflect the new wonder they feel. -- Foreword Reviews
So many sweet creatures help Bear open his imagination to all the things a poem can be, which will help young listeners open their own imaginations to poetry. Too many youngsters are afraid of poetry and feel it is something in which they cannot participate. This enchanting book will help little ones (and the adults reading to them) to maybe give poetry a try. Charles Ghignas spare, lyrical text is delightful to read and is a wonderful example to readers of the power and simplicity of poetry. The illustrations by Michelle Hazelwood Hyde are simply enchanting and will have the kiddies falling in love with all the forest animals, big and small. This is a lovely book that will be read over and over. -- Portland Book Review
This is a gentle read that is perfect for winding down at bedtime, but also ideal for introducing abstract concepts. Kids can be encouraged to form their own thoughts regarding how the book, a poem itself, makes them feel and may enjoy revisiting this over and over again. -- Youth Services Book Review
2021 Northern Lights Book Awards Winner, Poetry Category -- Northern Lights Book Awards
