Mary Oliver, Holding on to Wonder
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This lyrical picture-book biography traces the life of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Mary Oliver from her solitary childhood wanderings in rural Ohio to her later years roaming the shorelines of Cape Cod. Through spare, poetic prose and luminous illustrations, author Erin Frankel reveals how Oliver’s deep connection to nature and quiet observation of the world shaped her voice and inspired generations of readers to look closely, feel deeply, and celebrate the everyday miracles around them.
Age
7-10
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Mary Oliver
Discussion points
How does Mary use nature to feel safe and inspired?
What senses does she rely on when writing poems?
Why is it important to notice small details around us?
How can we turn our own observations into creative work?
Tip: Role play these questions
Keep a shared family nature journal for a week.
Read a short Mary Oliver poem together after finishing the book and compare imagery.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Mindful Observation
Explanation: Mary carefully watched birds and trees before writing.
Real-World Application: Pause during walks to notice sounds, colors, textures.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: She turned loneliness into creativity, writing poems.
Real-World Application: Use drawing or writing to handle big feelings.
Example Lesson: Self-Expression
Explanation: Poetry became Mary’s voice and gift to others.
Real-World Application: Share your own stories, drawings, or songs proudly.
Example Lesson: Love of Nature
Explanation: Mary protected and celebrated natural spaces in her work.
Real-World Application: Care for local parks, pick up litter, plant flowers.