StrawberryGirl started learning about poetry in 3rd grade, like most students in the USA. I had never really made a point of seeking out books relating to poetry, but when she received an assignment to pick a famous poem, recite it, and act it out with props, I started to develop an interest. She happened to have a fantastic teacher that year. Assignments like that are not forgotten by most students.
There are so many different types of poems that the subject can be intimidating for children and even adults. That's why, when I happened to stumble upon a beautiful picture book that introduced one specific type of poem, the haiku, I was excited.
Basho and the River Stones, by Tim Myers, is a fable about a famous Japanese poet and a mischievous fox. Matsuo Basho was a great writer of poetry in the haiku form. A haiku is a short poem which consists of only three lines and seventeen syllables. There are variations in format between English and Japanese versions, however.
There are so many things I love about this book. First, it introduces readers to the haiku in a subtle way, and one that will help them to appreciate poetry as a form of art. This fable also has an element of folklore to it, and reflects certain aspects of Japanese culture. In addition, there are many implied messages in this book, and morals to be learned. When you finish reading Basho and the River Stones, you're left with so much room for critical thinking and discussion, even if you're an adult! There's also a great author's note at the end, which describes the amazing life of this revered poet.
Even though this book does leave a lot of room for discussion with your children, you should follow their lead by simply asking what they thought of the book. You could even look back at the front and back covers to see what they think of them (sometimes before I read a book, I use the cover to make the students predict what might happen in the book). Don't make it seem like work for your child. If you're lucky, he or she will ask you to read it over on another day.
If your child likes to draw or paint (the illustrations in this book happen to be done in watercolor), you could see if he or she would like to draw a scene or character from the book. That way, they can then tell you about what's happening in their own artwork.
If you child wants to try to write a haiku, that's great, too! You can use the two in the book as examples. Some children have a difficult time figuring out syllables. You can find guidelines for this at phonicsontheweb.com.
This book will mainly appeal to children in grades 3 and 4. Younger children may enjoy the book, but may not understand all of it. I don't like to attach age ranges to picture books, because I truly believe that they apply to people of all ages. You know your child best, so use your judgment. I can tell you that yesterday's book, Frederick, will definitely be appreciated by younger children.
If your child has done any artwork or writing related to this book, or any book I have mentioned previously, please feel free to scan it and email it to me! I'd love to be able to share it with other readers.
Have a poetic day!
