Themed Collections

Unlike adult poetry, children’s poetry books almost all consist of themed collections. Deciding which poems to include and how to arrange them is a complex issue.

As with many poetry matters, looking at successful examples is a great way to gain insight and direction for your own work.

I’ve looked at a baker’s dozen of terrific collections you might explore to see some of your options. I’m going to feature six this month and seven next month.

Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices, by Paul Fleischman – This collection is triple-tight. The poems share subject matter, form, and voice. Every poem is written for two speakers or groups of speakers. This form is not that common, but it’s terrific for classrooms. Kids who don’t like to speak in front of the class will find it easier to perform when they have a partner.

The subject of this collection is insects. From cicadas to book lice to mayflies, these 14 poems all feature bugs.