cover image Reader's Digest Children's Book of Poetry

Reader's Digest Children's Book of Poetry

Beverly Mathias. Reader's Digest Association, $13 (44pp) ISBN 978-0-89577-442-2

In this zippy anthology, kids can enjoy the energetic cadences of 38 verses--most of which have previously been collected--from Shel Silverstein, Jack Prelutsky, Karla Kuskin and others. Snow's watercolor spot illustrations, heavily cross-hatched, provide exuberant counterpoint to the diverse goings-on. The joyous, carefree activities of childhood--jumping on the bed, splashing through puddles, kite-flying--are all here, their spirit of abandon reflected in an active, smiling cast of kids. The oversize picture-book format creates an airy feeling and packs extra punch as an excellent choice for group sharing. Ages 3-5. (Oct.)