Published by Lee and Low Books
Summary: Fourteen poets have written childhood remembrances, with an emphasis on their cultural heritage and how it shaped them. Each poem is illustrated by a different artist, and every artist and poet has written a sentence or two about their art or writing. Some (“Grandpa” by Douglas Florian; “Amazing Auntie Anne” by Cynthia Leitich Smith) celebrate a person; others (“Route 66” by Marilyn Nelson; “Tepechapa River” by Jorge Tetl Argueta), a particular place; and still others (“Speak Up” by Janet S. Wong; “Pick One” by Nick Bruel) speak to the experience of growing up as an immigrant in America. Includes brief biographical information and photos of all the writers and illustrators. 56 pages; grades 3-7.
Pros: This beautiful and accessible collection of poetry and artwork shows readers the variety of experiences in America and may inspire them to find a way to express their own story through writing or art.
Cons: The cover and title didn’t really grab me (sorry, Sean Qualls, I generally love your work); I was pleasantly surprised once I dove in.
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