Once Upon A Poem
on Goodreads (101)
What’s inside...
A beautifully illustrated anthology of classic and contemporary narrative poems, each introduced by bestselling author Kevin Crossley-Holland. This collection includes works from poets like William Wadsworth Longfellow, Lewis Carroll, W.H. Auden, and Roald Dahl, as well as contemporary poets like Tony Mitton and Kevin Crossley-Holland. Readers will explore a variety of themes and styles, from heroic verses to magical fables and humorous tongue-twisters, making this a captivating addition to any child's bookshelf.
Age
8-9
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What feelings did you experience while listening to the different poems? Can you describe why?
Which poem was your favorite and what do you think it teaches us?
How do the illustrations complement the poems? Do they change how you imagine the scenes?
If you could write a poem, what would it be about?
How do you think the poet feels about the world around him?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive tones and gestures while reading the poems to help convey the emotions and setting.
Discuss the moral or lesson of each poem and relate it to your child's personal experiences.
Encourage your child to draw or describe their favorite imagery from the book to deepen their connection to the text.
Create a small poetry reading event where each family member reads their chosen poem from the book.
Ask your child to think of their own ending or continuation to their favorite poem, fostering creativity and imagination.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Appreciation of cultural diversity
Explanation: Through the various poems that explore different cultural backgrounds and traditions, children get to learn about and appreciate the rich tapestry of world cultures.
Real-World Application: Children can show interest and respect towards peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity and friendship.
Example Lesson: Creative expression
Explanation: The book encourages children to explore poetry as a form of self-expression, illustrating how words can evoke emotions and tell stories.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to write their own poems, helping them to express their feelings and improve their language skills.
Example Lesson: Importance of storytelling
Explanation: Each poem in the book tells a story, highlighting the role of narrative in sharing experiences and lessons.
Real-World Application: Children can use storytelling as a means to connect with others, share their own experiences, and enhance their communication skills.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Several poems offer perspectives from different characters, providing insights into their thoughts and emotions, which helps foster empathy.
Real-World Application: Children learn to consider and understand the feelings and viewpoints of others, aiding in their social and emotional development.