Welcome to National Poetry Month! Many parents and children are not all that familiar with the poetry section of the library, so I'd like to start you off with two fantastic picture books with poetry themes. The first one is by one of my favorite authors. Check back for the second book on Friday, and next week for some essential math resources.
Happy April Fool's Day!
I've been waiting to introduce this author since I started this blog. Most of you know of him already, I suspect. If not, I have no doubt that you'll fall in love with the book, Frederick, and will seek out the rest of this author's many out-of-this-world picture books.
This fable, by Leo Lionni, is the story of a family of field mice that's preparing for the long winter ahead. As the mice gather supplies, they notice that Frederick appears to be sitting back and not helping. When they ask him why he doesn't work, he responds, "I gather sun rays for the cold, dark winter days." As they continue to question him as they travel back and forth, he replies that he's gathering "colors" and "words."
When winter sets in, and the supplies are finally gone, the mice ask Frederick about his "supplies." He then asks them to close their eyes, and uses mental imagery to help them to feel the warmth of the sun, and to imagine colorful flowers.
The story then concludes with Frederick reciting a beautiful poem about the four seasons. Now the mice understand that he was really working, only with his mind instead of his hands. It's truly an inspirational message, and everything about this book will spark your child's imagination and curiosity.
Even though I've just described most of the plot of this relatively short picture book, you can't truly appreciate this book's beauty unless you see the illustrations. Leo Lionni was originally a painter, and his illustrations are indescribably beautiful, just like the simple and carefully selected words he uses to write his fables. Just like in Thomas Locker's books about nature, Leo Lionni's artistic ability shines through in his work.
Frederick can be used as an introduction to poetry for children in preschool or the primary grades, although it will appeal to people of all ages.
If you like Frederick enough to buy it, you can find it with three more of his unforgettable stories (and audio cd) in Frederick and his Friends: Four Favorite Fables. Need I mention that 3 out of 4 of these stories are Caldecott Honor Books? It's a great gift idea, and certainly one that will be treasured always.
Leo Lionni has many other wonderful books. Each of them is unique and special. I hope you enjoy them!
This month, I will be focusing on poetry, math, and nature. If you like what you've seen so far, please feel free to subscribe for daily email updates. Comments are always appreciated, as well.
Let me know how you and your child enjoy reading Frederick! Here's Picture Books for Young Poets, Part 2.
