Poetry: The concentrated expression of ideas and feelings through precise and imaginative words carefully selected for their sonorous and rhythmical effects.
Cajun Night Before Christmas Written by Howard Jacobs Illustrated by James Rice
Award: Clio Award Reading Level: 2nd and 3rd Grade Summary: This is a creative variation of the classic book, The Night Before Christmas. Through a narrative poem, it uses the Cajun dialect to tell the story of the night before Christmas on a bayou in Louisiana. It is a humorous book and holds insights to the culture and traditions of Louisiana. Interdisciplinary Uses: This is a great book that can be used in Social Studies to learn about various cultures and their traditions and beliefs in regards to Christmas. This book could be used in a unit on Christmas around the world. It could also be used in a math lesson using addition and subtraction.
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut Written by Derrick Barnes Illustrated by Gordon C. James
Award: Coretta Scott King, Caldecott and Newbery Award Reading Level: 5th Grade through 8th Grade Summary: This is a poem about a boy who takes a trip to the barber shop and is treated like royalty as he receives a fresh haircut. The boy speaks about his new haircut as if with it he could conquer the world. This book encourages self-affirmation and confidence in young people. Interdisciplinary Uses: This book could be used in a lesson that explores feelings and what makes one feel empowered. It could also be used in a geometry lesson in regards to hair cuts.
Paul Revere’s Ride Written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Illustrated by Ted Rand
Award: Christopher Book Award Reading Level: 5th and 6th Grade Summary: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous poem, Paul Revere’s Ride, is brought to life through the illustrations in this captivating book which is sure to engage the reader in a new and exciting way. Interdisciplinary Uses: This book could be used in a History lesson on the story of Paul Revere. It could also be used in a Geography lesson by examining the places and distances of Paul Revere's Ride.
A Visit to William Blake’s Inn
Written by Nancy Willard Illustrated by Alice and Martin Provensen
Award: Newbery Medal Award and Caldecott Award Reading Level: 3rd and 4th Summary: This book is about life at an imaginary inn where all sorts of fantastic events take place. It is packed full of poems written by Nancy Willard who writes about dragons that bake, the king of cats, and flying cars. She has dedicated this book to the famous poet, William Blake, who is also the owner of the inn in her story. Interdisciplinary Uses: This book could be used in History lesson on William Blake as well as in a social studies lesson on how people lived during his time.