What is it? Under the Sunday Tree, by Eloise Greenfield, with paintings by Mr. Amos Ferguson
Who is it for? Perfect for kindergarten to adults
Why should I read it? This collection of poems is filled with both rhyming and free verse poems, and paintings that will make you feel like you’re in the Bahamas. Some of the poems in Under the Sunday Tree are funny, others are heartwarming, and many (like “HerDreams”) will inspire you no matter your age. A perfect collection of poetry for kindergarteners to adults.
What is it? Langston Hughes, Poetry for Young People, edited by David Roessel and Arnold Rampersad
Who is it for? This poetry collection has a Langston Hughes poem for every age.
Why should I read it? Even if you already have many collections of Langston Hughes’ poetry, you’ll want this one for the amazing illustrations by Benny Andrews (1930-2006). One of my favorites is the exuberant, joyful painting that accompanies the poem “I, Too”. A perfect painting for a perfect poem. (Coretta Scott King Honor Award)
What is it? Poetry for Young People- Maya Angelou (edited by Edwin Graves Wilson; illustrations by Jerome Lagarrigue)
Who is it for? another collection of poetry that has something for everyone, as well as beautiful paintings by Jerome Lagarrigue (Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award winner)
Why should I read it? If you’re feeling like you need some inspiration and encouragement, this poetry collection is a great place to start- and, yes, it does include Maya Angelou’s hopeful, fiercely determined, and inspirational poem “Still I Rise”:
“…Just like moons and like suns,
With the certainty of tides,
Just like hopes springing high,
Still I rise..”
What is it? Animal Ark: Celebrating our Wild World in Poetry and Pictures, by Kwame Alexander (poetry) and Joel Sartore (photographs)
Who is it for? pre-school through fifth grade. I happen to love the poetry in this book, so I think it’s actually a great book for pre-school to adult. However, National Geographic has also published The Photo Ark: One Man’s Quest to Document the World’s Animals, by Joel Sartore. For older elementary students and up I would recommend getting both books. (If you only get The Photo Ark you miss the poetry).
Why should I read it? The photographs in this book will take your breath away, and the poems that accompany them (by Kwame Alexander of Crossover fame) perfectly capture the absolute wonder displayed on every page. The middle of the book has fold out pages filled with photographs and a poem (“Chorus of Creatures”) you’ll want to read again and again.
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