Canadian Poems for Canadian Kids. Jen Hamilton, ed. Illustrated by Merrill Fearon. Vancouver, BC: Subway Books, 2005. 56 pp., pbk, $12.95. ISBN 0-9736675-0-8. Subject Headings: Children's poetry, Canadian (English). Canadian poetry (English)-20th century. Grades 3-6 / Ages 9-11. Review by Meredith MacKeen. **** /4

excerpt:

If my fast facts are correct, respectable psychologists claim that in order to develop the full powers of the mind, early exposure to metered verse is essential. Some go even further, suggesting that the reading of poetry develops pattern recognition, a sophisticated sense of time and timing and, more importantly, such positive emotions as peacefulness and love. (From the introduction by P.K. Page.)

This anthology for children contains 25 poems by a variety of Canadian poets. Some are well known figures, such as Linda Rogers and Patrick Lane, and some are just now finding their audience. Some poems are humourous with titles like “Emily's Backpack” by Diane Bawber, “Hiccups” by Alison Lohans, “Allergic to Numbers” by Linda Rogers, “Dallin's Pool” by Angie Mansen, and “'Tis the Season” by Gerry O'Brien. Some are descriptive and thought-provoking, and among these are “Stories” by Irene Watts, “Cloud Watching” by P.K. Page, and “Treasures” by Beryl Young. Others, such as “Only at Night” by Lynn Davies and “My Ice Cream Cone” by Jocelyn Shipley, are clever. All scan well, and many could be adapted for choral reading by a group of students.

     This small collection of poems is useful for teachers who like to have a little diversion while the class is waiting for the next activity. The poems delight the listeners. Brief biographies at the back focus on other books published by these poets. A few such as Patrick Lane, Allan Serafino and rob mclennan (sic) include their websites.

Highly Recommended.

Meredith MacKeen is a teacher-librarian at Glen Stewart School in Stratford, PE.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

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Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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