Read A Rhyme Write A Rhyme

"Prelutsky has invented a method he calls 'poemstarts' to help children get started in writing poetry. He provides several introductory lines of a simple poem and then offers some open-ended suggestions for its completion. In this thematically organized collection, Prelutsky offers ten poemstarts on different popular themes, complemented by three short poems on the same subject by different authors. . . . Though the volume's intent is as a springboard to writing poetry, the thoughtful selections and So's winning watercolors make this a successful poetry collection even without the writing prompts."-Kirkus Reviews, Starred Editorial Reviews From School Library Journal Grade 2-4-Prelutsky designed this collection to jumpstart children's creative juices. Three short poems were chosen for each theme: dogs, food, birthdays, bugs, cows, friends, snow, turtles, rain, and self. He also includes a poemstart: an unfinished verse, along with advice and lists of rhyming words, so that readers can complete the poem on their own. The compiler displays a fine sense for lighthearted, kid-friendly poetry; highlights include Alice Schertle's Moo, Myra Cohn Livingston's Birthday, and Karla Kuskin's Running Away. Readers will be drawn to the book's attractive design; So's watercolor-and-ink illustrations add playfully jumbled perspectives. This title is aimed at a younger audience than most poetry/creative writing guides; Janet S. Wong's You Have to Write (S & S, 2002) is for older primary-grade students. Both books are notable for their direct, practical approach and will be valued by teachers and young writers.-Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA Copyright å¨ Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition. From Booklist Gr. 3-5. Poetry becomes interactive in this attractive picture-book anthology, put together by the popular Prelutsky. The oversize format allows room for several poems on each spread, with each group of poems centered on a particular theme: snow, bugs, birthdays, different animals. The poems, from a variety of writers, are short and pithy, and they pave the way for the "poemstart" on each spread: Prelutsky starts a poem on the topic and invites readers to finish it. Accompanying each poemstart are some suggestions for writing poetry or a biographical anecdote. The watercolor artwork that enlivens each spread is deliciously varied: big and small dogs; a giant foot in a sneaker scattering bugs out of the way; a snowball fight, part of a whirling, snowy scene. This is a well-conceived package that will be especially useful in classrooms. A thoughtful introductory note beginning "READ THIS NOW!" reminds kids not to write in the book. Ilene Cooper Copyright å© American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.