Spotlight on Books About Writing Poetry

Fancy Nancy: Poet Extraordinaire! by Jane O'Connor

Fancy Nancy has a new interest--poetry. She's studying it in school and compiling an anthology. She learns that many things are poetic including nursery rhymes and song lyrics. Nancy's foray into poetry leads to an experience with writer's block. She just can't find a subject for her poem. Or can she? (Summary by Miss Bridget)

Pizza, Pigs, & Poetry: How to Write a Poem by Jack Prelutsky

In this charmingly hilarious book, the Children's Poet Laureate Jack Prelutsky, reminisces and shares both writing tips and examples of his poems with young poets. Always carry a notebook and few pens (just in case you kill one), make lists, write about what you know, and embrace rewriting as a fact. While Prelutsky is adamant that this is not a book about poetic form, he does share a few terms with readers including scansion, poetic license, and voice. Though he himself enjoys a good rhyme, Prelutsky does not think they are always necessary. Write a haiku instead. (Summary by Miss Bridget)

Immersed in Verse: An Informative, Slightly Irreverent & Totally Tremendous Guide to Living the Poet's Life by Allan Wolf

Cutting-edge, youthful forms such as rap, hip-hop, and slams have made poetry more popular and relevant than ever. Immersed in Verse nurtures the poet in every child with creative, awe-inspiring ideas: kids can rearrange their favorite poems; start their own poetry workshop; present “open mike night” in the basement; and even record their friends reciting! (Summary from publisher)