Books by Theme
Poems Don't Have to Rhyme
No matter if they rhyme or not, celebrate National Poetry Month in April — and throughout the year with these and other poems!
A Child's Garden of Verses
Though first written in the 19th century, Robert Louis Stevenson's poems still resonate with contemporary readers of all ages. Newly illustrated with a nod to earlier editions, gently hued and highly detailed illustrations add a fresh look to a classic collection.
Around the World on Eighty Legs
Silly poems introduce real animals from around the world. The lively language and accompanying comic illustrations help place animals — from the agoutis to the yak — on a map and concludes with a "menagerie of facts" — sure to delight readers of all ages!
At the Sea Floor Cafe: Odd Ocean Critter Poems
Poems introduce sea creatures and their habitats using different poetic forms (e.g., concrete, for two voices). Factual information is provided with each poem. This small, attractive collection concludes with where to find out more and a brief explanation of the poetic forms.
Baby Says "Moo"
While on their outing, baby always responds "moo" when asked by mom and dad what animals say. Slightly older children will see the humor in the predictable pattern and lighthearted illustrations — until baby gets it right when he sees a black and white cow!
Bring on the Birds
Stunning yet accurate illustrations accompany a gently rhyming, rhythmic text to introduce the behavior of a variety of birds. Brief information about the birds shown encourages young readers to want to learn more about these handsome creatures.
I Am the Book
Celebrate the wonders of books and what they hold in this collection of poems written by well-known children's poets. Semiabstract illustrations provide an imaginative look at those "…befriended again & again/by a well-loved book./…a wealth/we never lose."
Lemonade and Other Poems Squeezed from a Single Word
A short poem made from the word "Lemonade," is difficult to read with letters dropped from the first word. Turn the page, however, and the poem is easily readable: "made/one/ad/added/one/lemon/load/and/one/mom". Squeezing a poem out of one word is fun, playful, and downright clever.
Peaceful Pieces: Poems and Quilts about Peace
Textured, colorful quilts illuminate a collection of poems all focused on the notion of peace. Some speak to children's experiences, while others are more sophisticated and abstract. World peacemakers are briefly introduced in illustration for one poem and in back-matter.
Ten Little Puppies/Diez perritos
Count down with a child who starts with 10 dogs but winds up with only one lovable canine companion. This nursery rhyme is based on a popular Spanish counting ditty which is repetitive and rhythmic, and meant to be sung or recited. Music is included in this cheerily illustrated book.
The Great Migration: Journey to the North
"Between 1915 and 1930, more than a million African Americans…moved to the North" including the poet's family. Join the travelers as they seek a better life in a different part of the United States. Rhythmic but not rhyming verse is complemented by evocative illustrations.
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