Total Pageviews

Sunday, April 26, 2015

The Poem That Will Not End: Fun with Poetic Forms and Voices, written by Joan Bransfield Graham and illustrations by Kyrsten Brooker. two lions, 2014. $17.99 ages 8 and up

"BIKE
Step on -
I am wheels
and gears,
I am speed.
I will heed
your slightest
command.
I will take you
anywhere.
I am wind ... "

Have you ever experienced writer's block? There are days for me when sitting to think about and write a post for a new book just doesn't happen. Luckily, on other days, it seems that words come easily and posts are quickly written. But, I have NEVER known the kind of problem Ryan O'Brian is experiencing. Ryan can't STOP writing poetry; thankfully, that is what assures his story will be of real interest to this book's audience.

It is constructed as one poem that tells the whole story. Included in the story are 22 poems enveloped by Kyrsten Brooker's energetic, textured mixed media artwork. Ryan's poems are reflective of his days and experiences. He continuously scribbles words, on anything and with any medium ... all day and all night. Will he ever be able to stop?  What will it take?

In back matter readers will find pages from Ryan's notebook constructed as a glossary to describe the fifteen poetic forms used to tell his story, as well the five voices used to create them. Examples are provided, and all are sure to influence aspiring poets and writers.

It's a great ride, and a useful mentor text for middle years classrooms.                 

No comments:

Post a Comment