SuitabookA Child's Book of Poems
Gyo Fujikawa
- Reading
- Read selectively rather than cover-to-cover: invite the child to choose a picture, sound or topic, then alternate lively short pieces with a longer poem. Revisit favourites and pause when an image, mood or unfamiliar expression prompts discussion.
- Themes
- Many kinds of poetry: The anthology brings together poems, limericks, nursery rhymes, proverbs and folk songs by numerous writers. Its structure presents poetry as varied in form, voice and mood, rather than as one single style.
- Playfulness alongside reflection: Illustrations show children, animals and the natural world, while the selection includes both silly pieces and poems described as more serious. The collection appears to make room for delight and imagination as well as quieter or more reflective feelings.
- Worth knowing
- Some poems are described as more serious than typical young-children’s anthologies, and one named example explores sadness and longing. Seasonal, folk and older literary pieces may also invite brief explanation of unfamiliar words or references.